Acne can come in many forms. So how does a person distinguish between the many faces and forms of acne? Hopefully this article will help describe and define the different forms of acne as well as define some of the characteristics of each. There are minor forms of acne and some very serious acne conditions as well. The minor form of acne is much more common while the serious acne is the least common.

The most common form of acne is known as acne vulgaris. Several forms of pimples fall into this category. Acne lesions that are considered acne vulgaris are blackheads, whiteheads, papules and pustules. Whiteheads occur when a skin pore becomes clogged due to trapped oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. The clogged mixture of the three is what causes the white color on the skin surface. Typically whiteheads have the shortest 'lifespan' of all acne.

Blackheads occur when the pore is only partially blocked with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. The black color is the result of the skin's natural pigment reacting to the oxygen in the air. Blackheads can appear for a long time and take a long time to clear up. Papules are red, tender bumps that have become inflamed but do not have the white appearance on the tip. Papules should never be squeezed as this can result in infection. Pustules are like whiteheads but are inflamed and have a red circle surrounding the affected area.

Nodules and cystic acne are in the class of severe vulgaris. Acnes that form into nodules show up as spots that are larger and can be very painful. Nodules can even last for up to several months. Nodules are large, hard bumps under the skin's surface. Attempting to squeeze nodular acne will result in acne scars. Damage to the skin is also a result of the squeezing of nodular acne and doing so will also help prolong the life of the pimple.

A dermatologist will be able to perform a procedure or prescribe a treatment regime that will lessen the swelling and prevent scarring. Cystic acne, or acne cysts, can appear very similar to a nodule but a cyst is pus filled and usually gets much larger. Cystic acne is very painful and even if left alone can cause scarring. Squeezing acne cysts will probably cause infection and painful inflammation that will last much longer than if the pimple had been left alone. Leaving acne cysts and nodules alone is the next best treatment, second only to treatment by a dermatologist.

Acne Rosacea looks very similar to acne vulgaris and they are often confused for one another. Rosacea affects millions of people, most of who are over the age of thirty. Acne Rosacea is a red rash, which is found on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Bumps, pimples, and other skin blemishes accompany it. This form of acne also causes the blood vessels to become more visible on the skin. It is more common in women, but most cases on men are much more severe.

Acne Conglobata is the most severe form of acne and is more common in males. It is characterized by a lot of large lesions and widespread blackheads. It causes severe damage to the skin and scarring if left untreated. It is usually found on the face, chest, back, buttocks, upper arms, and thighs. The age acne conglobata begins to develop is usually between eighteen and thirty years and may linger for many years.

As with most acne, the cause of this form is also unknown. Treatment usually includes medication and is sometimes resistant to treatment. Strong and persistent treatment will conquer the acne in most cases. Acne Fulminans is an onset of acne conglobata with symptoms of severe nodule cysts. Extreme scarring is common and it is unique in that it also includes a fever and achy joints. Antibiotics do not typically work with this form of acne and oral steroids are normally the preferred method of treatment.