3 Main Types of Acne
Most of us grow out of many of the things that define our teenage years, including acne. But the reality is that acne can be a problem for people of any age. Adult acne is becoming increasingly common, a problem that appears to be exacerbated by shifting hormones, increased stress, pollution and poor habits.
Acne can manifest itself in a number of different ways and types, but it is never welcome and can make those who are dealing with breakouts feel embarrassed and uncomfortable. Acne breakouts are caused by the sebaceous glands in your skin, which unsurprisingly are found in the greatest number on the face and scalp. These glands secrete an oily or waxy matter, called sebum, which lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hair.
But sometimes things go wrong. Acne can occur when sebum is unable to leave the skin because a hair follicle is blocked. This can cause bacterial growth below the skin surface which can in turn lead to blemishes and breakouts, all of which fall under the unpleasant umbrella of acne.
There are three main types of acne:
- Whiteheads. Appropriately named, these small blemishes are distinguished by their white appearance. Whiteheads are a type of acne called comedonal acne, which is distinguished by a “comedone” of substances like sebum, dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria right beneath the surface as a result of clogged pores. In whiteheads, these comedones are completely clogged and closed at the surface.
- Blackheads. Blackheads are a form of comedonal acne like their whitehead cousins, the main difference between the two being that blackheads have open comedones. They appear black because of the oxidization that occurs to the debris inside the pore once it is exposed to the ai
- Pimples. Often used as shorthand for acne, pimples are actually a distinct form of acne like whiteheads or blackheads. A pimple is an inflamed sore that usually develops after a blackhead or whitehead becomes infected.
The Ellipse Laser Acne Treatment Can Accelerate Acne Healing
The good news about all of these forms of acne is that the scars and inflammation that accompany acne can be effectively treated. One of the most effective techniques for minimizing the appearance of acne scars is the Ellipse Laser acne treatment, available at Dr. Mariano Busso’s Miami aesthetic dermatology clinic.
The Ellipse Laser treatment directs carefully controlled pulses of light into the epidermis. The duration and frequency of the pulses are calibrated to reduce acne without damaging the surrounding tissue. Laser light is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood vessels that feed the sebaceous glands. The hemoglobin then converts the light energy into heat, which damages the walls of the vessels supplying blood to the sebaceous glands. This slows sebum production and has been clinically proven to accelerate the healing of acne.
Call Dr. Busso Today to Schedule a Consultation
Dr. Mariano Busso has coached physicians all over the country on his innovative techniques and quality of care, including the treatment and healing of acne. Call our Miami clinic today at 305-857-0144 to schedule your consultation.