Acne vulgaris can be classified as a mild, moderate or severe case of acne, and although severe forms of acne are rare, they can cause a great deal of problems to the person who has them. Each type of acne requires different types of treatment.

In this particular article we will review the three types of acne vulgaris. Nevertheless, if there is any reason that you suspect you may be suffering from severe acne, check with your dermatologist. Early detection and treatment can help reduce acne problems derived from this skin condition.

Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris

These types of acne are usually characterized by the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pustules. Whiteheads result when a pore is completely blocked oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Blackheads result when a pore is only partially blocked (the dark color is caused the skin's melanin reacting with the oxygen in the air).

Papules are inflamed, tender bumps while pustules are also inflamed and tender, but contain pus. Squeezing either type of blemish may lead to damage, so avoid any added pressure to the affected area.

Treating Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris

You can treat mild and moderate acne vulgaris by simply following a regular cleansing routine. Here's what a basic cleansing routine looks like:

Cleansing

When cleansing your skin, use a soapy cleanser that contains sulfur or salicylic acid. Both ingredients can help regulate the amount of sebum in the skin. As a matter of fact, salicylic acid can penetrate the pores and help unclog them from within.

Toning & Exfoliating

If the cleanser you are currently using isn't able to remove all of the debris on your skin you should use a toner (oil-free). However, if the cleanser is able to eliminate all the excess debris, you can skip the toner. Do, by all means, exfoliate at least once a week or more if you're over 40.

Moisturizing

Moisturize with an oil-free, non comedogenic product. Don't skip this step or your skin will increase its production of sebum. This will elevate your chances of acne breakouts and defeat the purpose of your cleansing routine.

Acne Creams

Use an acne treatment cream that contains salicylic acid or retinol for stubborn areas. Retinol can help increase cell turnover and reduce your chances of getting acne breakouts.

Severe Acne Vulgaris

This type of acne is also characterized by nodules and cysts. Since nodules develop underneath the skin's surface and can last for months on end, they are usually more painful than cysts.

Cysts are soft lesions similar to nodules that can also lead to lead to scarring. This type of acne is often referred to as cystic acne.

Severe Acne Treatment

If you suffer from cystic acne then you may require cystic acne treatment which involves intralesional cortisone shots to help dissolve nodules and cysts. It is also very important that you follow a basic cleansing routine if you want to treat this type of acne condition. Remember that finding the appropriate scar treatment routine to achieve scar removal is priority for people with this type of acne.