Types of acne
Also known as: acne types, acne grades, breakouts
Acne falls into 4 grades of severity: mild (comedones), moderate (inflammatory), severe (nodular) and cystic. Each grade is treated differently.
Types of acne describe the different forms a breakout can take — comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. At Estonian beauty salons and with beauty therapists, the type of acne is assessed before treatment is chosen: mild comedonal acne and moderate inflammatory acne can be handled with a beauty therapist's help, while more severe nodular or cystic acne means the client is referred to a dermatologist.
How do the types of acne differ?
Comedones (non-inflammatory acne) come as blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones) — they form when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked with keratin and oil. Papules and pustules (inflammatory acne) are red or pus-filled bumps that appear when the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes enters a blocked pore and triggers inflammation.
Nodular and cystic acne, or acne nodulocystica, is the most severe form — painful nodules or fluid-filled cysts sitting deep under the skin, which often leave scars once healed. This form of acne requires a dermatologist's consultation and often a systemic prescription medicine.
Types of acne in Estonia
Mild to moderate acne is cared for by a beauty therapist at an Estonian beauty studio — facials, chemical peels (BHA, AHA), microdermabrasion and serum courses are on offer. A single facial usually costs €50–80. Moderate inflammatory or cystic acne is treated by a dermatologist at a practice holding a Health Board (Terviseamet) operating licence, who may prescribe medication (for example tretinoin, isotretinoin, antibiotics).
Frequently asked questions
What are the types of acne?
The main types of acne are comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules and pustules (inflammatory bumps), and nodular and cystic acne (the deep, painful form). The type determines whether a beauty therapist's care is enough or a dermatologist is needed.
Can the types of acne be treated safely in Estonia?
Yes — mild acne is cared for by a beauty therapist, more severe forms are treated by a dermatologist. Both require a professional assessment; popping spots yourself and randomly buying prescription-strength treatments are unsafe and can leave scars.
Where can I learn more about the types of acne?
See a beauty therapist or dermatologist, who will examine your skin and classify the severity of the acne. Estonian beauty salons carry out a thorough skin assessment, based on which either salon treatment or referral to a doctor is chosen.
Related pages
This service in Estonia
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