Different Types Of Acne And Their Fixes

Acne can be a real pain, and with so many solutions out there things can get a little confusing.

If you know what type of acne you’ve got though, it’s a lot easier to find the best solution.

That’s why we’re taking a look at the different types of acne and their fixes.

Whether you’re dealing with whiteheads, blackheads, congestion, pustules, cysts and more, let’s ID that pimple and get treating!

Whiteheads

Quick, think of a pimple. Chances are it looks like a whitehead. These pimples sound just like what they’re called – the result of pores becoming clogged with dead skin cells, oil, sebum or bacteria.

Best solution: Pimple Patches (like our Subi Perfect Pimple Patch!) help to drain whiteheads and protect skin from outer bacteria. For best results, leave patches on until all fluid is drained (you’ll know when you see white spots on the patch).

Blackheads

Blackheads are much like whiteheads, except the clogged pore doesn’t close up and makes the gunk inside oxidise and turn a darker colour.

Best solution: AHAs, BHAs and clay masks, which can help to clear out congestion in the skin.

Pustules

Pustules are pretty much how they sound – a pocket of skin full of pus. You can get pustules when you’ve got an infection and your body is pumping out more white blood cells. A consequence of this is a mix of liquid from the infection and dead white blood cells. This is pus, and when it builds up under your skin, it can cause pustules.

Be careful when treating pustules – unlike the pimples above, they involve infections.

Best solution: Medicated patches or products designed to dry out and heal the pustule. If the pustule pops though, it’s worth keeping it covered with a pimple patch to protect it while it heals.

Cysts

Ugh, cystic acne! These pimples lie deep within your skin and can be super painful. Often caused by hormones, cystic acne occurs when pores become blocked and infected.

Best solution: If you can, seek the advice of a doctor or dermatologist because cystic acne is unlikely to fully heal without medical help. Cortisol injections can be relieving, and often products like Vitamin A and/or retinoids can help. If using Vitamin A/retinoid, your skin may dry out easily, so be sure to keep your skin moisturised and nourished.

Nodules

Nodules feel a lot like cysts, except without the pus and infection. Nodules will form a hard bump deep within the skin and feel painful (just like cysts).

Best solution: Seeking a doctor or dermatologist’s advice is the most effective way of getting rid of nodules because these rarely go away without treatment. Doctors will often prescribe antibiotics. In the meantime, keep the spot iced to help relieve inflammation.

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