Skin Care
The ABCs of AcneEverything you need to know about the causes of and treatments for acne, your most mystifying skin issue |
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Your acne is considered mild if you have comedones, aka blackheads and whiteheads. Blackheads are blemishes that aren't under the skin and look like tiny, dark-colored spots. Whiteheads are closed blemishes that appear as small bumps in the skin.
Papules, a sign of moderate acne, are slightly larger bumps that occur when bacteria infects the hair follicle. They may become filled with pus.
Hard, swollen bumps that are painful to the touch are known as nodules, and these are a sign that your acne is severe. Cysts are like nodules -- large, painful bumps -- that are filled with pus.
Your Rx: If you have comedones, that's a sign that drugstore products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid will clear them. If you have papules or nodules, you might need a dermatologist's help.
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