Listed below are the various types of acne caused lesions. It is useful to know the difference in the various kinds of lesions as this can be helpful in determining the most appropriate treatment.

Papules: A papule is a red and inflamed lesion on the skin's surface. It contains no pus or whitehead. Papules result from a high break in the hair follicle wall. This allows cellular debris (dead skin) and bacteria to spill into the dermis. This break occurs when a pore becomes filled with debris and oil, when it is squeezed or otherwise irritated. A papule often progresses to a pustule.

Pustules: A pustule is a typical pimple. It is red and inflamed and also has a white head. Sometimes the brownish comedonal core can be seen as a cap on the pus head. Pustules follow papules after white blood cells invade. The white cap on a pustule is pus, sebaceous matter (oil) and cellular debris.

Nodules: A nodule is a large inflamed lesion that occurs deep within the dermis (skin). They feel like a hard, painful lump under the skin. Where papules occur at the skin's surface, nodules occur deep within the skin. A nodule forms when the follicle wall ruptures deep within the skin. Contaminated debris from the follicle empties into the dermis and infects the adjoining follicles. A nodule is a severe form of an acne lesion. Never squeeze or pick at a nodule. The infection is deep and the risk of scarring is high. If you are prone to nodular breakouts, see your dermatologist.

Cysts: A cyst is a very large, inflamed lesion. They feel like soft, fluid filled lumps under the surface of the skin. The most severe form of a pimple, cysts are very painful. like nodules, cysts begin as a deep break in the follicle wall. A membrane develops around the infection in the dermis. As a cyst works its way to the surface, it damages healthy skin, destroying the follicle. The likelihood of scarring is very high. Anyone who is prone to cystic breakouts needs to visit their dermatologist