the acne cycle
Acne is a continuous cycle: (1) excess oil and dead skin cells clog pores; (2) acne bacteria grow and multiply behind the blocked pore; (3) inflammation and swelling result. That's your breakout. The acne cycle starts two to three weeks before a breakout is visible, and it can be happening in any of the thousands of pores on your face.
Types of Acne
Whiteheads: When the comedo (the oil and skin-cell plug) stays below the skin's surface, it is called a whitehead. This non-inflammatory acne pimple is also called a closed comedo.
Blackheads: When the comedo (plug that blocks the hair follicle) widens the pore and is exposed to the air, it is called a blackhead. This non-inflammatory acne is also called an open comedo. The darker color is not dirt; rather, it is the affect of oxidation and light refraction.
Papules: Inflammatory acne that appear as small, firm, pink bumps that may be tender to the touch. They often turn into other types of acne.
Pustules: Inflammatory acne that appear as small, round bumps that are usually reddish at the base with whitish or yellowish pus visible at the center.
Cystic Acne or Nodules:Inflammatory acne that is usually large, inflamed, pus-filled and painful. It is characterized by a cyst-like nodule of inflammation.
Acne Conglobata:A rare but serious form of inflammatory acne that develops mainly on the back, buttocks and chest, and is characterized by interconnecting lesions with the potential for significant scarring.
There is no cure, but there is Proactiv
Proactiv is a medicated daily skin-care regimen that delivers what your skin needs to control the acne cycle.
