Health Corner

1. Are all acne the same? Are there different types?

The most common types of acne are as follows:

Whiteheads: Raised bumps on the skin with white or yellow pus inside.

• Blackheads: Open comedones with a darker surface.
• Papules: Small, red rashes without pus.
• Pustules: Usually red with a white pus-filled surface, generally considered moderately inflamed.
• Nodules: Large, firm, and buried deep in the skin.
• Cysts: Larger than nodules and filled with pus, generally more painful.

If the skin is already red, indicating inflammation, it is generally not recommended to pop it yourself. This is because popping it can worsen the inflammation and may even cause scarring.

2. What are some effective ways to prevent acne?

In addition to maintaining a positive mood, you can also try the following to prevent acne:

• Face cleansing habits: Use gentle cleansing products both morning and evening, avoiding over-cleansing. Avoid frequent contact with your face.
• Dietary habits: Avoid consuming high-sugar, high-fat foods, and dairy products.
• Lifestyle habits: Exercise regularly and avoid staying up late.

3. When should you see a doctor? What treatments are available?

Acne typically develops during adolescence. Hormonal factors can trigger acne growth, and many adults also develop acne due to excessive stress or an unbalanced diet.

Most acne breakouts gradually subside after adolescence. If an adult experiences persistent breakouts for more than two months without improvement, it's recommended to seek medical attention. Your doctor will prescribe topical and oral medications, such as isotretinoin and antibiotics, based on your skin condition. In severe cases, steroids or laser treatments may be recommended to reduce inflammation and scarring, and promote skin repair.