Acne vulgaris can be classified as mild, moderate or severe. Severe forms of acne are rare, but can cause a great deal of problems to the person who has them. Each type of acne is different and requires a different type of treatment.

In this case we will review the three classes of acne vulgaris. If you suspect that you have severe acne, check with your dermatologist. Early detection and treatment can help reduce any type of problem that may have derived from this type of acne.

Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris

These types of acne are usually characterized by the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads, papules, and pustules. Whiteheads result when a pore is completely blocked oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells. Blackheads result when a pore is only partially blocked (the dark color is caused the skin's melanin reacting with the oxygen in the air).

Papules and pustules are similar except for the fact that pustules contain pus. Neither one of these should be squeezed as this action could lead to more damage.

How to Treatment Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris

You can treat mild and moderate acne vulgaris by simply following a regular cleansing routine. Here's what a basic cleansing routine looks like:

Cleansing

Use a soapy cleanser that contains sulfur or salicylic acid. Both of these ingredients will regulate the amount of sebum in the skin. Salicylic acid can penetrate the pores and unclog them from within.

Toning & Exfoliating

You should use an oil-free toner after cleansing to help remove debris that the cleansing product is not able to eliminate. However, if the cleanser is able to eliminate all the excess debris, you can skip the toner. Do however, exfoliate at least once week.

Moisturizing

Use an oil-free, non comedogenic product when moisturizing. Don't skip this step or your skin will increase its production of sebum. If your sebum production increases, so will your chances of experiencing acne breakouts.

Acne Creams

Use an acne treatment cream that contains salicylic acid or retinol for stubborn areas. Retinol improves cell turnover and reduces your chances of getting acne breakouts.

Severe Acne Vulgaris

This type of acne is also characterized by nodules and cysts. Nodules are larger and more painful than cysts because they develop underneath the skin's surface and can last for months.

Cysts are soft lesions similar to nodules that can also lead to lead to scarring. This type of acne is often referred to as cystic acne.

Severe Acne Treatment

Cystic acne treatment usually requires intralesional cortisone shots to dissolve nodules and cysts. Basic cleansing is also important with this type of acne. Remember that finding the right scar treatment routine can help you achieve scar removal.