It can be annoying to discover an ugly, disgusting pimple on the night before a big event, and doomscrolling on TikTok for quick tricks often doesn’t provide the necessary information to get rid of the pus-filled monster on your forehead. But don’t worry! This article will provide you with all the causes, types, treatments to get rid of your acne.

The Internal Causes of Acne

Acne affects 50 million people in the United States, making it the most common skin condition. Acne usually starts during puberty and affects most adolescents, but it can continue into adulthood. The four main causes of acne are hair follicles getting clogged by oil and dead skin cells, various bacteria, inflammation and too much sebum— or oil— production. Sebaceous glands, or the glands in your skin that make oil, are most present on your upper back, face, forehead and chest, which is why acne is most present in those areas of the body. 

The External Causes of Acne

One cause of clogged pores is touching your face too much. When you touch your face, you transfer the germs and dirt on your hands onto the skin, leading to clogged pores. It can also be caused by stress. When you’re going through a stressful period in your life, whether that’s the days before a big test or a school presentation, your endocrine system releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol causes the sebaceous glands to release more oil, which can also contribute to acne since excess sebum can clog pores more easily. 

Types of Acne

There are many different types of acne that differ in size, looks and severity. Blackheads and whiteheads are the more common types. Blackheads form in areas with very large pores, and when they become clogged, the skin over the bump that forms stays open. This causes oxidation, resulting in the black color. 

Whiteheads are another very common type of acne. Whiteheads form through a similar process to blackheads. The main difference between the two is that whiteheads are completely clogged, therefore not letting air in. 

Another type of acne is cystic acne. Cystic acne is one of the more severe forms of acne, and often requires medical visits for proper treatment. Cystic acne forms when skin pores get clogged with bacteria as well as sebum. The bacteria causes severe inflammation on the skin, resulting in a red color. 

Treatment for Acne

Acne treatment is different depending on the type and severity. Medications such as benzoyl peroxide and topical antibiotics can be used to treat the more serious types of acne. Other skincare ingredients, such as salicylic acid, and skincare treatments like chemical peels can reduce acne. 

Now, the next time you find a little pimple on your forehead or some blackheads on your nose, you’ll be completely informed on how it formed, how you can treat it, and how you can prevent it from coming back!