Not all acne looks the same. You might have a few blackheads around your nose, small white bumps on your forehead, or deeper, painful breakouts along your jawline. While they’re all considered acne, they can develop differently and may need different treatments.
If you’ve been trying to figure out what type of acne you’re dealing with, understanding the differences is a good place to start. And if your breakouts aren’t improving, seeking acne treatment in Fairfax, VA can help you figure out what’s causing them and what treatment makes sense for your skin.
What Causes Acne?
Acne starts when a hair follicle becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Once the pore is clogged, bacteria and inflammation can contribute to a breakout.
Hormones are a common factor, especially during the teenage years, but acne doesn’t necessarily disappear once you become an adult. Genetics, stress, certain medications, and some skincare and haircare products can also play a role.
The Most Common Types of Acne
Blackheads
Blackheads form when a clogged pore stays open. The material inside the pore reacts with air, giving the spot its dark appearance.
They often show up around the nose, forehead, and chin. Despite how they look, blackheads aren’t caused by dirt, so scrubbing your skin harder isn’t the answer.
Whiteheads
Whiteheads are also clogged pores, but the opening is closed. They usually look like small white or flesh-colored bumps.
Because they’re not typically inflamed, whiteheads may respond to products that help keep pores from becoming clogged.
Papules
Papules are small, raised bumps that are usually red or pink. They form when a clogged pore becomes inflamed.
Unlike blackheads and whiteheads, papules can be tender to the touch and are considered a type of inflammatory acne.
Pustules
Pustules are what many people picture when they think of a typical “pimple.” They’re red and inflamed with a white or yellow center caused by pus.
It can be tempting to squeeze them, but picking at breakouts can make inflammation worse and increase the risk of scarring.
Nodules and Cysts
Nodules and cysts are deeper, more severe forms of acne. They can feel painful and may remain under the skin for quite some time.
These types of breakouts are more likely to cause scarring and often don’t respond well to over-the-counter products alone. If you’re regularly experiencing deep or painful acne, it’s worth talking with a dermatologist.
What Can You Do About Acne?
The best treatment depends on the type of acne you have and how severe it is. For mild breakouts, over-the-counter ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may help.
If those products aren’t working, a dermatologist can recommend other options, including prescription topical medications and treatments for more persistent or severe acne.
The goal is to treat the breakouts you’re dealing with now while also preventing new ones from developing. Treating acne early can also help reduce the chance of long-term scarring.
When Should You See a Dermatologist for Acne?
You don’t have to wait until your acne becomes severe before making an appointment. Consider seeing a dermatologist if your breakouts are painful, keep coming back, are leaving dark marks or scars, or haven’t improved after trying over-the-counter products.
A dermatologist can identify the type of acne you’re dealing with and help you find a treatment plan that’s appropriate for your skin.
Acne Treatment in Fairfax, VA
Acne can be frustrating, especially when it seems like you’ve tried everything and nothing is working. Getting the right diagnosis can help you stop guessing and start treating the problem more effectively.
At ACS Dermatology, our team provides acne treatment for patients throughout Northern Virginia. Whether you’re dealing with occasional breakouts, persistent adult acne, or deeper cystic or nodular acne, we’re here to help.
If you’re looking for acne treatment in Fairfax, VA, schedule an appointment with us today to talk about your skin and treatment options.