Acne vulgaris can be classified as either mild, moderate or severe acne. And even though severe forms of acne are rare, they can cause a great deal of problems to the acne sufferer. Each type of acne has different characteristics and requires different treatments.

In this particular moment we will review the three classes of acne vulgaris. Nevertheless, if there is any reason that you suspect you may be suffering from severe acne, check with your dermatologist. Don't forget that early detection and treatment can help you reduce the problems derived from this type of acne.

Mild & Moderate Acne Vulgaris

These types of acne are usually characterized by the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pustules. Whiteheads result from a blocked pore while blackheads result from a pore that is only partially blocked.

Papules are inflamed, tender bumps. Pustules are also inflamed and tender, but they contain pus. Neither one of these should be squeezed as this action could lead to more damage.

Treating Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris

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

Cleansing

Use a soapy cleanser that contains sulfur or salicylic acid. Both of these ingredients will regulate the amount of sebum in the skin. In fact, salicylic acid can help penetrate the pores and unclog them from within.

Tone and Exfoliate

You should use an oil-free toner after cleansing to help remove debris that the cleansing product is not able to eliminate. However, if it does eliminate all the debris, you won't need to use a toner. Do however, exfoliate at least once week.

Moisturizing

When moisturizing use an oil-free, non comedogenic product. Don't skip this step as dehydrated skin will elevate the production of sebum. If your sebum production increases, so will your chances of experiencing acne breakouts.

Acne Creams

Use an acne treatment cream that is made with salicylic acid or retinol for stubborn areas. Retinol improves cell turnover and reduces your chances of getting acne breakouts.

Severe Acne Vulgaris

This type of acne condition is characterized by the appearance of cysts and nodules. 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. Just like nodules, cysts usually lead to scarring. This type of acne lesion is usually referred to as cystic acne.

Severe Acne Treatment

Cystic acne treatment usually requires intralesional cortisone shots to dissolve nodules and cysts. A basic cleansing routine is also very important with this type of acne. Remember that finding the appropriate scar treatment routine to achieve scar removal is priority for people with this type of acne.