There are four different types of acne depending on the type of inflammatory lesions they cause- 

• Comedones- one of the least painful forms and most common types of acne that comes out in the form of whiteheads and blackheads. Blackheads are caused when the pores stay open and the oxygen converts the unwanted elements black. Whiteheads turn up when the pores close over these deposits.

• Papules – there are small red bumps that are caused by the inflammation or infected hair follicles

• Pustules- these are small red bumps similar to papules except that they have some pus at the tips

• Nodules- these are solid and often painful bumps that are present under the surface of the skin

• Cyst- these are one of the most painful forms of acne that are characterized by large lumps under the skin surface.

Tips for Acne Free Skin

One of the best ways to tackle chronic acne is to take some preventive measure that can help you tackle the symptoms of chronic acne and prevent outbreaks by keeping the pores on your skin clean and helps you achieve acne free skin-

• Ensure you wash your face with warm water and a mild soap preferably something that is made especially for acne-prone skin

• Try not to touch or scrub the bumps and pimples. This will make the condition worse as it pushes the infection down further.

• Popping pills makes the scarring and inflammation worse. Avoid doing this.

• Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly before applying creams, lotions, or washing your face. This will help to avoid infections.

• Avoid greasy hair products and low-quality cosmetics. This increases your risk of an acne outbreak. Also, make sure you remove all makeup and cleanse your face before going to bed.

• Do not let oil and sweat accumulate on the skin. Take showers when you partake in strenuous activities like cycling or gymming.

Acne Treatment:

There are several over-the-counter medicines that can help relieve the inflammation an reduce the severity or the frequency of acne outbreaks. They are as follows-

• Benzoyl Peroxide is present in creams and gels and can help dry the pus present in acne and pimples. It can also help prevent a new outbreak as it helps kill the acne-causing bacteria.

• Sulfur is an ingredient used in many lotions, masks, and washes that helps clean the pores and fight the acne-causing bacteria.

• Salicylic acid is also one of the most commonly used ingredients in acne washes and soaps. This helps cleanse the pores and keeps them from getting clogged which helps prevent future outbreaks.

There are certain oral antibacterial pills that can help fight the root cause of the outbreak which is harmful bacteria that enters the skin pores. These are sued for short periods of time so that the body does not build resistance to these medicines.

Chronic acne is not only painful but the constant recurrence can be debilitating and lead to low self-esteem and lower confidence levels due to the embarrassment felt by all those who are affected by it. However, acne is nothing to be embarrassed about, as it a common occurrence. Getting treatment at the earliest may help reduce its effect and help you lead a happier life.

If your outbreaks are persistent and none of these home remedies or over-the-counter medicines help, visit a doctor and find the right acne treatment at the earliest.