Often, the acne that you have may sometimes be just a pimple that contains a bit of trapped pus consisting of sebum, dead skin cells and white blood cells. But, it can be a lot more serious. By knowing what type you have is the key to finding a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

There are different signs to be on the lookout for, and determine what type of acne you have. It begins with a bump and can get much worse. If the bump becomes filled with pus, contains a mixture of bacteria, white blood cells and dead skin cells, it is called a “pustule.” It can change where you have a generous amount of papules or pustules that are red and inflamed. It can get even worse where the acne has become nodules or cysts. These will spread all other the body, not just the face.

An even more severe type is known as acne congoblata. An amusing name, but the condition is definitely not. This type also contains acne that runs deeper into the skin, with heavy inflammation and deep abscesses. As a result there is often scarring of other types of serious skin damage.

Inflamed nodules will form around comedones – a general term for blackheads, whiteheads and milia. These nodules will grow until eventually they start to discharge pus. Also, they are unsightly as well as painful. Keliod-type scars are usually left behind.

Another type is known as acne fulminans. This type is usually associated with ulcerative acne, which leads to recurrent acne. A person may also have a fever along with aching joints. You may also need treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. And this doesn’t take care of what causes the problem, just the symptoms.

Finally, the last severe form is called nodulocystic acne. Red bumps (cysts) form and the bumps can become close enough together to even form a more inflamed area. As the acne progresses, it can form small tunnels under the skin, which allow the infection to spread like wildfire. Accutane and a treatment of antibiotics can be used when the problem is this severe.

Its always good practice to visit a doctor along with a dermatologist to determine what treatment will meet your needs.