How to Identify Your Acne Type and Choose the Right Treatment

Acne isn’t just one condition. Dermatologists recognize several different types of acne, each behaving differently and requiring a different treatment approach.

Some acne is caused by clogged pores, while other forms are driven by inflammation, hormones, or even yeast on the skin. Understanding which type of acne you have can help you choose the right skincare products or medications to clear your skin faster.

At Allme Health, we treat every form of acne, from the mildest blackheads to deep cystic flares.

Comedonal Acne (Blackheads and Whiteheads)

Comedonal acne is caused by clogged pores filled with oil and dead skin cells. It includes blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones).

Common characteristics:

• Small bumps under the skin

• Most common on the forehead, nose, and chin

• Usually not painful

• Often worsens with pore-clogging products

Comedonal acne typically responds well to retinoids, exfoliating acids, and consistent cleansing routines.

Inflammatory Acne

Inflammatory acne occurs when clogged pores become irritated and infected with bacteria. This leads to red, swollen, tender bumps on the skin.

Common forms include:

• Papules (small red bumps)

• Pustules (pimples containing pus)

Inflammatory acne can worsen due to hormonal changes, stress, diet, or excess oil production. Treatment often includes benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or prescription medications.

Nodulocystic Acne (Severe Acne)

Nodulocystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne and carries a high risk of scarring.

This type of acne includes:

• Nodules (large, deep bumps under the skin)

• Cysts (painful, inflamed lesions filled with fluid)

Because the inflammation occurs deep in the skin, nodulocystic acne usually requires prescription treatments, such as oral medications or targeted topical therapy.

Hormonal Acne

Hormonal acne is especially common in adult women and is often linked to fluctuations in androgen hormones.

Signs of hormonal acne include:

• Breakouts before your menstrual cycle

• Deep, painful cysts

• Acne concentrated on the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks

Hormonal acne may be treated with medications, such as spironolactone, hormonal birth control, or targeted prescription topicals.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia Folliculitis)

Fungal acne is not technically acne. It is caused by an overgrowth of yeast called Malassezia in hair follicles.

Common signs include:

• Small, uniform bumps

• Itching

• Breakouts that worsen with heat, sweat, or humidity

Unlike bacterial acne, fungal acne does not respond to typical acne treatments and instead requires antifungal medications.

Body Acne

Body acne affects areas with more oil glands, such as the chest, back, shoulders, and buttocks.

Common triggers include:

• Sweat

• Tight clothing

• Friction from sports gear

• Post-workout bacteria buildup

Treatments often include medicated body washes, exfoliating products, and lifestyle adjustments.

At Allme Health, we help patients identify their acne type and create personalized treatment plans designed to prevent breakouts and protect long-term skin health.