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Not all acne spots look the same. Some appear as tiny bumps, while others become red, swollen, painful or filled with pus.
Understanding the different types of acne can help you recognise what is happening to your skin and choose appropriate first steps. It can also help you know when professional treatment may be needed.
Acne commonly develops when hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria and inflammation can contribute to more noticeable spots.
The main types include blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cyst-like acne lesions. Some people experience several types at the same time.
A reassuring note
Acne is common and can affect people of different ages. Having acne does not mean your skin is dirty or that you have poor hygiene. Most acne can be managed, and appropriate professional care is available when needed.
New to understanding acne?Start with our Complete Guide to Acne to learn about its causes, symptoms, different forms and available care options.
This guide explains how each type looks, what causes it and when to seek medical advice.
What Are the Different Types of Acne?
Acne spots are commonly grouped into two main categories: non-inflammatory and inflammatory acne.
1. Non-Inflammatory Acne
These spots develop when pores become blocked. They generally do not cause significant redness, swelling or pain.
The two main types are:
- Blackheads (open comedones).
- Whiteheads (closed comedones).
2. Inflammatory Acne
Inflammatory acne develops when blocked follicles become inflamed. These spots may appear red, swollen, tender or pus-filled.
The main types include:
- Papules.
- Pustules.
- Nodules.
- Cyst-like acne lesions.
Inflammatory acne can sometimes cause scarring, particularly when deeper lesions develop.
Quick guide: Six common types of acne
- Blackheads: Small dark spots caused by open blocked pores.
- Whiteheads: Small pale bumps caused by closed blocked pores.
- Papules: Small inflamed bumps without a visible pus-filled centre.
- Pustules: Inflamed pimples with a white or yellow centre.
- Nodules: Deep, firm and often painful lumps.
- Cyst-like lesions: Deep, swollen and sometimes soft inflammatory lesions.
1. Blackheads: Small Dark Spots on the Skin
Blackheads are small, dark spots that commonly appear on the nose, forehead and chin.
They develop when a pore becomes blocked with oil and dead skin cells. The opening remains exposed to air, causing the material inside to darken.
What do blackheads look like?
- Small dark or black dots.
- Usually flat or slightly raised.
- Commonly found on the nose and chin.
- Usually not painful or swollen.
The dark colour is not caused by dirt. Scrubbing the skin aggressively will not remove the underlying problem.
2. Whiteheads: Small Bumps Under the Skin
Whiteheads are small, pale or skin-coloured bumps that develop when a pore becomes blocked but remains closed at the surface.
Unlike blackheads, the contents of a whitehead are not exposed to air.
What do whiteheads look like?
- Small white or skin-coloured bumps.
- A slightly raised appearance.
- Often clustered on the forehead, cheeks and chin.
- Usually painless.
Whiteheads are common in teenagers and adults. They may occur alongside blackheads and other acne spots.
3. Papules: Small Red or Pink Acne Bumps
Papules are small, raised, inflamed acne spots. They usually appear red, pink or darker than the surrounding skin.
They develop when inflammation affects a blocked hair follicle.
What do papules look like?
- Small, solid raised bumps.
- Red, pink or darker-coloured areas.
- May feel tender when touched.
- Do not usually have a visible white or yellow centre.
Papules can appear on the face, chest, shoulders and back.
Helpful skin-care reminder
Avoid squeezing papules. Picking inflamed spots can worsen irritation and increase the risk of dark marks or scarring.
4. Pustules: Pimples With a White or Yellow Centre
Pustules are inflamed acne spots containing visible pus. They are commonly recognised as ordinary pimples.
They often have a red or darker surrounding area with a white or yellow centre.
What do pustules look like?
- Raised, inflamed spots.
- A white or yellow centre.
- Redness or darker surrounding skin.
- May feel sore or tender.
Pustules may develop when inflammation increases within an acne-affected follicle.
Although they may be tempting to squeeze, this can worsen inflammation and increase the possibility of scarring.
5. Nodules: Deep, Painful Acne Lumps
Nodules are larger, firm acne lumps that develop deeper within the skin.
They may feel painful or tender and can remain for weeks or longer.
What do acne nodules look like?
- Large, firm lumps beneath the skin.
- Often red, pink or darker than surrounding skin.
- May cause significant tenderness.
- Usually do not have an obvious surface opening.
Nodular acne is a more severe form of inflammatory acne. It can increase the risk of permanent scarring.
Professional medical assessment is important when deep, painful acne lumps develop.
6. Cyst-Like Acne Lesions: Deep and Inflamed Spots
Cyst-like acne lesions are deep, inflamed spots that may feel soft or fluctuant. They can contain pus and may be painful.
They often develop alongside nodules in more severe inflammatory acne.
What do cyst-like acne lesions look like?
- Deep, swollen bumps.
- May feel soft or tender.
- Can appear red, pink or darker than surrounding skin.
- May persist for an extended period.
The term cystic acne is commonly used to describe severe acne with deep cyst-like lesions. However, not every deep acne lump is a true cyst.
These lesions deserve medical attention because they may cause scarring and can be difficult to manage with home care alone.
For further information, read the
American Academy of Dermatology’s explanation of acne signs and symptoms.
How to Tell the Different Types of Acne Apart
The appearance, depth and level of inflammation can help distinguish common acne spots.
| Type of acne | Typical appearance | Inflammation |
|---|---|---|
| Blackheads | Small dark dots | Usually absent |
| Whiteheads | Small pale bumps | Usually absent |
| Papules | Small raised bumps | Present |
| Pustules | White or yellow centre | Present |
| Nodules | Large, firm lumps | Often significant |
| Cyst-like lesions | Deep, swollen bumps | Often significant |
Want to understand acne beyond the different types of spots? Explore our complete guide to acne for a broader overview of causes, severity, treatment and prevention.
Remember
These descriptions are educational. Other skin conditions can resemble acne, so appearance alone cannot always establish the cause.
What Causes Different Types of Acne?
Most acne begins when hair follicles become blocked. Several factors can contribute to this process.
- Excess oil production: Skin glands produce sebum, an oily substance that helps protect the skin. Excess production can contribute to blocked pores.
- Dead skin cells: Skin cells may accumulate inside hair follicles and contribute to blockages.
- Skin bacteria: Cutibacterium acnes can contribute to inflammation within blocked follicles.
- Hormonal changes: Puberty, menstrual cycles and other hormonal changes can influence oil production.
- Genetics: A family history of acne may increase the likelihood of developing it.
- Some products and medicines: Certain cosmetics, skin products and medicines can contribute to acne in some people.
Acne is not simply a result of poor hygiene. Washing your face excessively or scrubbing aggressively may irritate the skin without preventing acne.
What Can You Safely Do First?
Most mild acne can be approached with a gentle and consistent skincare routine.
Safe first steps for acne-prone skin
A simple routine can help protect your skin and reduce unnecessary irritation.
- Cleanse gently: Use a mild cleanser and avoid rough scrubbing.
- Moisturise: Choose a suitable non-comedogenic moisturiser.
- Protect: Use broad-spectrum sunscreen suitable for your skin.
- Keep hands away: Avoid squeezing or picking spots.
- Be consistent: Avoid frequently changing products or combining several harsh treatments.
1. Cleanse Your Skin Gently
Wash acne-prone areas gently using a mild cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps, rough scrubbing and frequent washing.
2. Choose Non-Comedogenic Products
Look for moisturisers and sunscreen labelled non-comedogenic. These products are designed to be less likely to block pores.
3. Avoid Picking or Squeezing Spots
Picking blackheads, whiteheads and inflamed pimples can worsen irritation. It may also increase the risk of scarring and dark marks.
4. Protect Your Skin From the Sun
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen suitable for your skin. Sun protection can help reduce the worsening of dark marks left after acne.
5. Be Patient With Your Skin
Acne improvement takes time. Frequently changing products or using several harsh treatments together may irritate your skin.
When to See a Doctor
Consider professional medical assessment if:
When professional medical advice is important
- You develop deep, painful nodules or cyst-like lesions.
- Acne is leaving scars or persistent dark marks.
- Spots are widespread or continue worsening.
- Acne affects your confidence, emotional wellbeing or daily activities.
- There is little improvement despite consistent basic skincare.
- You are unsure whether the spots are actually acne.
Seek prompt medical attention if an area becomes rapidly swollen, increasingly painful, hot or associated with fever. These features may suggest an infection or another condition rather than ordinary acne.
Can Different Types of Acne Cause Scarring?
Not every acne spot leaves a permanent mark. Blackheads and whiteheads generally have a lower risk of scarring.
However, deep inflammatory acne, particularly nodules and cyst-like lesions, can damage deeper skin structures.
Possible long-term effects include:
- Atrophic scars: Depressed areas or small indentations in the skin.
- Raised scars: Thickened areas that develop as part of the healing process.
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: Dark marks that remain after inflammation settles.
Early assessment of severe acne can help reduce the risk of lasting skin changes.
Conclusion: Understanding Your Acne Spots
Acne can appear in several forms, from small blackheads and whiteheads to deeper, painful nodules and cyst-like lesions.
Recognising these differences helps you understand why some spots need simple skincare while others require professional attention.
Gentle cleansing, appropriate skincare and avoiding picking are useful first steps. Seek medical advice when acne is painful, persistent, scarring or affecting your wellbeing.
If you are looking for a broader understanding of acne, visit our Complete Acne Guide for more information about managing acne and caring for your skin.
The important takeaway
Acne is common and manageable. You do not need to feel embarrassed about seeking help. Understanding your skin is a good first step towards appropriate care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the six main types of acne?
The six commonly described types are blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cyst-like acne lesions. They differ in appearance, depth and inflammation.
What is the difference between blackheads and whiteheads?
Blackheads are open blocked pores that appear dark when exposed to air. Whiteheads are closed blocked pores that appear as small pale bumps.
Which type of acne is the most severe?
Deep inflammatory acne involving nodules and cyst-like lesions is generally more severe. It carries a greater risk of permanent scarring.
Why do some pimples have a white or yellow centre?
These are usually pustules. Their white or yellow centre contains pus associated with inflammation in the affected follicle.
Can acne spots leave permanent scars?
Yes. Deep inflammatory acne can damage skin tissue and leave permanent scars. Picking or squeezing spots may increase the risk.