What Your Acne Means
Whether you’re a teenager in the dredges of puberty or well into adulthood, acne is a persistent problem that can plague anyone. Acne surfaces with carrying levels of severity, and depending on the type and position, it could signal if that zit if a temporary annoyance or something you need to see a doctor about.
Types of Acne
Whiteheads: Like their name suggests, whiteheads are small blemishes with whitish “heads.” When your pores get clogged with excess sebum (the oil your skin produces) and dead skin cells, it can result in these small, but annoying blemishes.
Blackheads: Like whiteheads, blackheads are caused when pores get clogged by excess sebum and dead skin cells. The black color results because blackheads are open, causing the debris in the pore to oxidize.
Papules: When whiteheads get worse, they become papules. The bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells cause inflammation, making these blemishes appear red and swollen.
Nodules, Cysts, and Acne Conglobate: If you have large, red inflamed blemishes that never seem to totally go away. You might have the most severe type of acne. This acne can leave your skin permanently damaged if left untreated. If you think you might have acne conglobate, it’s time to see a dermatologist.
Pimple Placement
Hairline: Little pimples around your hairline could be due to your hair products. Try changing products and be sure to use a clarifying shampoo to clear away any built-up product.
Cheeks and nose: Cheek acne doesn’t generally have a specific cause other than oil clogging your pores. If you get the occasional pimple on your cheek, it may be time to change your pillowcase.
Chin/jawline: Most dermatologists agree that zits centered around your chin and jawline are cause by your hormones—specifically an excess of the male hormone, androgen, which can overstimulate oil glands and clog pores.
