3 Different Types of Pimples and How to Treat Them

The Internet and skin care labels may call them different terms, imperfections, comedones, pimples—but anyone who has ever had skin care issues understands that there are different types. Therefore, that means there are different solutions. Treatments for blackheads is different for whiteheads, and treatment for acne is also completely different. If you often battle these concerns, making sure that the appropriate treatment going on the right problem areas is important. Read on for three of the most common types of pimples and what you need to look for to treat:

Whiteheads

WebMD defines whiteheads as closed comedones that are at the surface of skin. It can be very easy to differentiate them from blackheads, because as the name suggests, these are white. It is usually caused by oil and skin cells that prevent a clogged hair follicle from forming. Best treatments include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and witch hazel.

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Blackheads

These comedones, on the other hand, are open at the surface of the skin. These also appear to be black once you look closer, and it is filled with excess oil and dead skin cells. When dealing with blackheads, look for retinoids (but start with caution), salicylic acid, and enzyme exfoliants.

Is AHA or BHA better for blackheads, you ask? Here’s a simple guide:

Both alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) and beta hydroxyl acid (BHA) are exfoliants. However, AHA is water soluble, often preferred for normal to dry skin. BHA on the other hand is oil soluble so it is better for normal to oily skin. Combining AHA and BHA might be too much on your skin, however. Proceed with caution. One way to do it is by alternating days of usage rather than using both daily!

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Cystic Acne

This last type is perhaps the most painful of the three. Acne is a firm swelling under the surface of skin and it is inflamed and tender. Most of the time, acne is only a problem of teenagers and adolescents. But it can also haunt you in your adult years. Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil are also popular ingredients for treating acne. K-Beauty turns to centella asiatica.

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Written By: 

Ronna Bonifacio

BEAUTY CONTRIBUTOR

Ronna Capili Bonifacio is a writer, editor, and columnist covering beauty and lifestyle for over a decade. She now also tries to humorously write about motherhood as a mom of two. Apart from skin care and cosmetics, Ronna’s true weakness are books and coffee. You can follow her on Instagram @ronnabonifacio and her blog: www.ronnabonifacio.com.

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