Understanding 3 Main Types of Acne

(And Why Knowing the Difference Matters)

Not all acne is the same — and treating it like it is can actually make things worse.

One of the biggest reasons acne doesn’t improve is because people are using products or treatments that don’t match their acne type. Let’s break down the three most common types we see in the treatment room.

1. Inflammatory Acne 🔥

Red, painful, swollen breakouts

What it looks like:

• Red bumps

• Tender or painful spots

• Pustules (whiteheads with inflammation)

• Cysts or deeper nodules

What’s happening:

Inflammatory acne occurs when pores become clogged and bacteria triggers an immune response. Your body sends inflammation to fight it — which is why these breakouts hurt and take longer to heal.

Common triggers:

• Hormonal shifts

• Stress

• Picking or over-exfoliating

• Using harsh or stripping products

How it’s treated:

• Calming inflammation first (this is key)

• Professional acne-safe peels

• Barrier repair + gentle home care

• Consistency over intensity

Aggressive treatments too early can worsen inflammation and increase the risk of pigmentation.

2. Non-Inflamed Acne

Clogged pores without redness

What it looks like:

• Blackheads

• Whiteheads

• Small skin-colored bumps

• Texture that feels rough or uneven

What’s happening:

This type of acne is caused by dead skin cells and oil building up inside the pore, but without infection or inflammation.

Common triggers:

• Inadequate exfoliation

• Heavy or pore-clogging products

• Inconsistent skincare routines

How it’s treated:

• Correct exfoliation (chemical, not harsh scrubs)

• Targeted professional peels

• Ingredient education (what your skin actually needs)

• Regular maintenance facials

This acne type responds very well to peels when treated correctly.

3. Fungal Acne (Often Misdiagnosed)

Uniform, itchy breakouts that don’t respond to acne products

What it looks like:

• Tiny bumps that all look the same

• Often itchy

• Common on the forehead, hairline, chest, or back

• Worsens with sweat or humidity

What’s happening:

Fungal acne isn’t technically acne — it’s an overgrowth of yeast that naturally lives on the skin. Traditional acne products often make it worse.

Common triggers:

• Heavy oils or occlusive products

• Excess sweating

• Warm, humid environments

• Overuse of antibiotics

How it’s treated:

• Eliminating triggering ingredients

• Antifungal protocols

• Simplifying skincare

• Cooling inflammation

Benzoyl peroxide and typical acne treatments usually do not help fungal acne.

Why This Matters

Using the wrong treatment for the wrong acne type can:

• Prolong breakouts

• Increase inflammation

• Cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

• Damage your skin barrier

Acne is not one-size-fits-all — and real results come from correct diagnosis, customized treatments, and consistency.

If your acne:

• Isn’t responding to products

• Keeps coming back

• Gets worse with “stronger” treatments

…it’s time to reassess what type of acne you’re actually dealing with.

Professional guidance can save you time, money, and frustration — and get your skin moving in the right direction.