Stages of Acne

Acne is a skin condition that can be frustrating. You don’t get to choose when it shows up, and sometimes it takes too long to go away. When discussing acne, it’s important to know there are different levels of severity. In total, there are four stages of acne.

What exactly is acne? Acne is sebum or oil that’s become clogged in the skin. The sebum mixes with debris and is trapped. During this process, bacteria can form. When the pores of your skin get clogged a blemish forms. When this happens, it ends up applying pressure on a hair follicle.

A Dermatologist or skin care specialist classifies acne base on grades. Each grade progresses onto the next. The mildest form of acne is called Grade 1 acne, while cystic acne is called Grade 4 acne.

Grade 1 acne may present with a mild breakout with just a few blemishes.
Grade 2 is the next level of acne. This means there are more pimples, but there is no inflammation.
Grade 3 acne has become more severe. While there is a greater number of pimples and blemishes, what really identifies Grade 3 acne is the inflammation that goes along with the breakouts.
Grade 4 is also called Cystic Acne. Cystic acne is much deeper than the superficial pimples you’ll see on Grade 1 acne. Cystic acne can be painful, inflamed and the skin will present with many blemishes.

Cystic acne can make people very uncomfortable with their skin. When it gets to this point, it’s important to go to a dermatologist so that you can get help with your skin care. It’s very important not to puncture or break the blemishes open.

Whether you have mild acne, or severe acne, the social impact can be difficult, especially on teenagers who are developing. There is help for this. There are creams and medications that can help you control your acne.

Once you get your acne under control, it’s vitally important you follow a preventative program to prevent future breakouts, whether mild or severe.