Types of Acne (What It Looks Like)

Acne can appear in different forms:

• Blackheads: Open pores with a black center caused by trapped oil and dead skin.
• Whiteheads: Closed bumps that stay under the skin, appearing white or yellowish.
• Papules: Small, red, tender bumps.
• Pustules: Pimples with pus at their tips, often surrounded by red skin.
• Nodules: Large, painful lumps beneath the skin.
• Cysts: Deep, painful bumps filled with thick fluid. These can cause scarring.

These lesions are most found on the face, back, chest, shoulders, and upper arms. In rare cases, acne can also appear on the scalp, armpits, buttocks, ears, eyelids, and external genitals.

 

Who Gets Acne?

• Most common among teenagers and young adults due to hormonal changes.
• Can also affect:
  • Babies (known as neonatal acne)
  • Adults in their 20s, 30s, and even later
• People with oily or combination skin types, which are common in hot, humid Sub-Saharan climates, may be more prone to acne.
• Family history also plays a role.

 

What Causes Acne?

• Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy
• Excess oil production
• Clogged pores from dead skin or makeup
• Bacteria on the skin
• Certain cosmetics or hair products, especially oil-based ones
• Stress
• Unbalanced diets high in processed foods or dairy

 

Warning Signs and Symptoms

• Painful or warm red bumps (papules)
• Black spots in open pores (blackheads)
• White or yellow bumps (whiteheads and pustules)
• Large painful lumps under the skin (nodules or cysts)
• Discoloration or dark marks (common in darker skin tones)

 

Psychosocial Impact

While acne doesn’t usually affect physical health, it can affect:

• Mental health (depression, anxiety, low self-esteem)
• Social confidence
• Quality of life, especially for young people in school or social settings

 

Myths and Facts in Our Communities

Myth	Fact
Acne is caused by dirt or not bathing	Acne is due to clogged pores, not lack of cleanliness
It is a spiritual issue or curse	Acne is a medical condition, not spiritual
Toothpaste or bleach clears pimples	These can damage the skin
Acne only affects teenagers	Adults and even babies can get acne

 

Self-Care Tips (At Home Management)

• Wash your face no more than twice a day with mild soap or cleanser and lukewarm water.
• Avoid scrubbing your face too hard.
• Do not pop or squeeze pimples – it can cause infection and scarring.
• Use non-comedogenic (non-pore-clogging) and water-based skin and hair products.
• Remove all makeup before bed.
• Wash your hair regularly and keep it away from your face.
• If you sweat, shower as soon as possible.
• Try natural products cautiously – e.g., aloe vera or diluted tea tree oil may help.
• Exercise regularly to improve mood and overall health but clean your skin afterward.

 

When to See a Health Worker

• Acne is painful, spreading, or leaving scars
• Over-the-counter treatments stop working
• It is affecting your mental health or confidence
• You notice nodules or cysts, which can lead to long-term scarring

Health workers may recommend:

• Prescription creams or gels (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, retinoids)
• Antibiotics for moderate to severe acne
• Oral medications for hormonal acne

 

How to Prevent Acne

• Wash your face regularly but gently
• Use skin products that match your skin type
• Stay hydrated
• Limit makeup use; choose oil-free products
• Avoid touching your face unnecessarily
• Protect your skin from excessive sun exposure
• Manage stress through yoga, journaling, prayer, meditation, or community support
• Eat a balanced diet, limiting processed food, refined sugar, dairy, and alcohol
• Consider natural options like French green clay masks, if available locally

 

Dark Spots and Scars in Darker Skin

In Sub-Saharan African skin, acne can leave dark patches (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) even after pimples heal. Prevent this by:

• Not picking or pressing pimples
• Using sun protection (hats, umbrella, sunscreen, or staying in the shade)
• Seeking treatment early

 

Areas for Improvement in Local Health Systems

• Increase public awareness through school and community education
• Train more health workers on safe acne treatment for African skin types
• Improve access to affordable and culturally appropriate skin products

Combat stigmas around acne through radio, religious groups, and youth forums