Acne

Types of Acne Lesions: From Blackheads to Severe Cystic Breakouts

Acne is the most common skin disease in the U.S., affecting over 40–50 million Americans annually and up to 85% of teenagers each year. It occurs when excess oil, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation interact, producing visible breakouts that vary in depth, severity, and risk of scarring. Understanding the different types of acne lesions is critical for selecting the right treatment and preventing long-term damage.

Blackheads and Whiteheads (Comedones):

These form when pores are clogged by oil and dead skin. Blackheads remain open, appearing dark, while whiteheads are closed bumps. Treatments include medical-grade cleansers, salicylic acid, and topical retinoids.

Papules (Inflamed Pimples): When pores become blocked deeper in the skin, tender red bumps develop. Topical antibiotics and oral medications help reduce bacteria and inflammation.

Pustules (Pus-Filled Pimples): These occur when inflammation worsens, creating pus-filled lesions. Combination therapy with topical antibiotics, retinoids, and targeted cleansers helps reduce recurrence.

Cysts and Nodules (Severe Acne): Deep, painful, swollen lumps signal the most advanced form of acne. Treatments include oral antibiotics, isotretinoin, and sometimes hormonal therapy. Early intervention prevents scarring.

At Legacy Dermatology, we provide evidence-based acne treatments, from topical solutions to isotretinoin and laser therapies, ensuring patients achieve clear, healthy skin with lasting results.

  • Most common U.S. skin disease
  • Over 50 million affected yearly
  • 85% of teens develop acne
  • Four root causes identified
  • Oil and clogged pores key drivers
  • Inflammation determines acne severity
  • Blackheads and whiteheads are comedones
  • Severe cysts cause scarring risk
  • Multiple treatment levels available
  • Personalized care ensures best outcomes
OTHER SKIN GROWTHS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT

Comprehensive Acne Treatment Options at Legacy Dermatology

At Legacy Dermatology, we address acne at every level with science-driven care.
From medical-grade cleansers and prescription retinoids to oral medications and advanced laser therapies, our personalized plans target root causes, reduce scarring, and restore long-term skin clarity with lasting confidence.

Schedule your personalized acne consultation at Legacy Dermatology

Holistic Skin Health

Comprehensive care addressing acne, scars, and prevention.

Advanced Diagnostic

State-of-the-art tools to identify hidden acne triggers.

Long-Term Prevention

Tailored plans minimizing flare-ups and future risks.

Most Popular Questions

Here we address the most frequent, real-life questions with detailed, professional answers, helping patients make informed and confident choices.

Adult acne often results from hormonal changes, stress, or genetics. Unlike teenage acne, it requires customized treatments like hormonal therapy, isotretinoin, or laser-based solutions for long-term control.

Deep cysts and nodules carry the highest scarring risk. Early intervention, combined with treatments like retinoids or isotretinoin, reduces scar formation. Legacy Dermatology also offers advanced scar-reduction therapies if damage has occurred.

Mild acne may improve with OTC cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, but moderate-to-severe cases require prescription medications and dermatologist-directed treatment for effective, lasting results.

Isotretinoin is highly effective for severe, resistant acne but requires close monitoring due to possible side effects. Legacy Dermatology ensures safety through careful screening, lab testing, and ongoing supervision.

Yes. By reducing androgen effects, certain oral contraceptives regulate sebum production. However, they carry risks. Dermatologists weigh medical history, hormonal profile, and skin condition before recommending this treatment.

Research shows high-glycemic diets and excessive dairy may worsen acne in some patients. Legacy Dermatology provides tailored guidance on dietary modifications alongside medical treatment for optimal results.

While acne cannot always be permanently eliminated, most patients achieve long-term control with the right therapies. Maintenance plans at Legacy Dermatology ensure clear skin and reduced risk of recurrence.

Topicals may take 6–8 weeks, while oral therapies and isotretinoin can show improvements within 2–3 months. Regular monitoring ensures adjustments for maximum effectiveness and minimal side effects.

Consistent skin care, avoiding pore-clogging products, managing stress, and regular dermatologist visits significantly reduce flare-ups. Preventive strategies are integrated into every treatment plan at Legacy Dermatology.

Yes. Advanced lasers reduce inflammation, target bacteria, and improve acne scars. Legacy Dermatology combines laser therapies with medical treatment for comprehensive acne and scar management, maximizing both health and aesthetics.