Types of Acne Explained: Causes & Effective Treatments

What Is Acne?

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affects people of all ages — not just teenagers.

From small whiteheads to deep, painful cysts, acne can appear anywhere on the body and impact both your confidence and skin health.

 

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Types of Acne

1. Comedonal Acne (Mild)

Mild acne usually involves:

Whiteheads (closed clogged pores) – These occur when pores are blocked by oil and dead skin cells but remain sealed at the surface. This forms small white or flesh-colored bumps.

Blackheads (open clogged pores) – These form when the clogged pore stays open. The trapped oil and debris oxidize and turn dark — it’s not dirt, but a natural reaction to oxygen.

Tip: Mild acne can often be managed with gentle exfoliation and a consistent skincare routine using non-comedogenic products.

 

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2. Inflammatory Acne (Moderate)

Moderate acne includes:

Papules – Small, red, inflamed bumps that are tender to touch.
Pustules – Similar to papules but contain a white or yellow center of pus caused by bacterial infection.

At this stage, acne becomes more visible and may appear on multiple areas like the face, chest, back, or shoulders. There’s noticeable redness, and breakouts may occur more frequently.

Professional Tip: Moderate acne often benefits from medical-grade skincare, LED light therapy, or in-clinic acne facials to control bacteria and prevent scarring.

 

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3. Nodulocystic Acne (Severe)

Severe acne involves deeper, painful lesions such as:

Nodules – Large, hard, painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface. They form deep within the pore and can last for weeks or months.
Cysts – Soft, pus-filled bumps that can rupture and cause scarring if untreated.

These deep lesions indicate significant inflammation and infection.
Severe acne often requires prescription medication or advanced aesthetic treatments under professional care.

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Types of Acne Pimples

 

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Common Areas for Acne

Acne can appear anywhere, but it’s most common in areas with higher oil production:

• Face (especially the T-zone)
  
  

• Chest
  
  

• Back
  
  

• Shoulders
  
  

• Neck
  
  

Body acne is often caused by sweat, tight clothing, or friction combined with clogged pores.
To prevent body acne, use breathable fabrics and cleanse your skin after sweating.

 

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What Causes Acne?

Acne develops when:

• Excess sebum (oil) production increases
  
  

• Dead skin cells clog the hair follicles
  
  

• Bacteria multiply inside clogged pores
  
  

• Inflammation follows
  
  

Other aggravating factors include hormonal changes, stress, certain medications, and genetics.

 

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Foods That May Cause Acne

While diet isn’t the only cause, certain foods can trigger or worsen acne for some people:

• High-glycemic foods (sugar, white bread, processed snacks)
  
  

• Dairy products (milk, cheese, ice cream)
  
  

• Fried or oily foods
  
  

Tip: Eat a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and omega-3 fats to support clearer skin.

 

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Hormones, Stress, and Acne

Hormonal changes — during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or stress — can increase oil production and trigger breakouts.
Stress also releases cortisol, a hormone that worsens inflammation and acne severity.

 

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Who Treats Acne?

If your acne is persistent, painful, or causing scars, it’s time to seek professional help.

• Dermatologists – Diagnose and prescribe medical treatments.
  
  

• Aesthetic specialists – Offer in-clinic therapies such as acne facials, chemical peels, or laser treatments.
  
  

At Skin Renew Aesthetic & Wellness, we combine medical science with advanced skincare technology to treat acne from its root cause — helping you regain healthy, confident skin.

 

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Acne Management and Treatment

Topical Acne Medications

• Benzoyl Peroxide – Kills acne-causing bacteria.
  
  

• Retinoids – Unclog pores and speed up skin renewal.
  
  

• Salicylic Acid – Exfoliates and reduces excess oil.
  
  

• Antibiotic Creams – Reduce bacterial growth and inflammation.
  
  

Oral Acne Medications

• Antibiotics – Control bacterial infection.
  
  

• Birth Control Pills – Balance hormones in women.
  
  

• Isotretinoin (Accutane) – For severe or cystic acne (under medical supervision).
  
  

Additional Acne Therapies

• Acne Facials & Deep Cleansing Treatments – Clear pores and calm inflammation.
  
  

• Laser Treatments – Target acne scars and redness.
  
  

• Chemical Peels & Exfoliation – Remove dead skin and improve skin texture.
  
  

 

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Prevention: How to Prevent Acne

• Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser
  
  

• Avoid touching or squeezing pimples
  
  

• Remove makeup before sleeping
  
  

• Use non-comedogenic (oil-free) skincare
  
  

• Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water
  
  

• Manage stress and get enough rest
  
  

Consistent skincare and early treatment can greatly reduce future breakouts.

 

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A Note from Skin Renew Aesthetic & Wellness

At Skin Renew Aesthetic & Wellness, we understand that acne isn’t just a skin condition — it can affect your confidence and quality of life.

Our certified skin specialists offer personalized acne treatments that combine medical-grade technology, professional expertise, and holistic care.

Whether you’re struggling with mild pimples, moderate breakouts, or stubborn acne scars, we can help you achieve clearer, healthier, and more radiant skin — safely and effectively.

Book your skin consultation today and start your journey to acne-free confidence with Skin Renew Aesthetic & Wellness — Malaysia’s trusted name in professional skin renewal.