Acne is a common skin condition that can appear with varying degrees of severity in people of all ages. It generally takes the form of plugged pores, pimples and deeper lumps that appear on the face, back, neck, chest and sometimes upper arms. Acne is the most common skin disorder in the United States, and various statistical sources say it occurs in anywhere from 40 million to 90 million people.
Acne most often affects young men and women between the ages of 12 and 25 beginning with the onset of puberty, and statistics show that about 80 in 100 people aged 11-30 experience some form of acne. However, acne is not just for the young; some sufferers can experience the condition into their 30s, 40s, and even through and past their 50s.
The most common form of acne is acne vulgaris. This form of acne is what people refer to when they talk about acne, and it’s what we mean when we mention acne elsewhere on this site.
Acne vulgaris is usually characterized as either “mild to moderate” or “severe.”
Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris
The skin problems associated with acne vulgaris are common, and you may notice these kinds of blemishes on your skin even if you haven’t been diagnosed with acne or do not experience them regularly. The blemishes associated with mild to moderate acne are:
Non-Inflammatory Acne
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Whiteheads
Whiteheads appear when a pore is completely blocked and dead skin cells, bacteria, and oil (or sebum) are trapped beneath the surface. This causes a white appearance on the skin’s surface—hence the name whiteheads.
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Blackheads
Like whiteheads, blackheads form when dead skin cells, bacteria, and oil (sebum) are trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Unlike a whitehead, however, a blackhead’s pore is not completely blocked, and some of the trapped material makes its way to the skin’s surface. There, the skin’s pigment (melanin) interacts with the oxygen in the air, causing the black appearance. |
Inflammatory Acne
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Papules
A papule is inflamed, red, and tender, but there is no head. It looks like a small, red or pink bump on the skin. Do not attempt to pop papules, as scarring may be more severe than with other types of mild to moderate acne. |
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Pustules
Pustules are similar to whiteheads, but the pore has become inflamed. A red circle with a white or yellow center appears on the skin’s surface. Pustules are often referred to as “zits,” and many people are tempted to pop or pick them. You should avoid this habit, as it could spread bacteria and possibly result in scarring. |
Pimples
Papules and pustules are more commonly known as “pimples.” They might also be called blemishes, breakouts or zits. On this site, we typically call them pimples.
Using ThermaClear for Mild to Moderate Acne Vulgaris
The ThermaClear acne treatment device should be used for mild to moderate inflammatory acne vulgaris. It is not indicated for use on any other type of acne or skin condition.
An FDA-reviewed clinical study proved that ThermaClear speeds the healing time of pimples when they occur. To prevent the onset of new blemishes associated with mild acne vulgaris and to help gently, but effectively, cleanse and nourish your skin, use our ThermaClear Essentials products every day. (Remember, the ThermaClear device will not work on whiteheads or blackheads, but our ThermaClear Essentials regimen can help prevent them.)
Some forms of acne are more severe, difficult to clear and can have long-lasting effects. If you think your acne is severe, we recommend you see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment for your condition.
There are several varieties of acne and degrees of severity. The most common forms of severe acne include the following:
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Nodules
Nodules are large, hard bumps under the skin’s surface. These nodules can be very painful, and they may last for months. Nodules are much larger than the papules described above, and should under no circumstances be squeezed. |
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Cyst
A cyst is much like a nodule, but it is pus-filled. Although similar to pustules, described above, cysts are much larger (up to 5mm in diameter), and can be extremely painful. ThermaClear is not recommended for the treatment of severe acne vulgaris. If you are experiencing more severe forms of acne, we recommend you visit a dermatologist for professional medical advice.
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The ThermaClear acne treatment device is not recommended for the treatment of severe acne vulgaris. If you are experiencing more severe forms of acne,we recommend you visit a dermatologist for professional medical advice.
There are several other forms of acne that require professional diagnosis, advice and treament.
Acne Rosacea
Sometimes confused with acne vulgaris, acne rosacea typically appears as a red rash over the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Bumps, pimples and other skin blemishes may accompany the redness, and can cause confusion between this condition and acne.
Acne Conglobata
The most severe form of acne vulgaris, acne conglobata appears as numerous large lesions, which may be connected. Extensive blackheads appear as well. This condition can cause irreparable damage to the skin, and typically requires aggressive treatment with isotretinoin (Accutane).
Acne Fulminans
When acne conglobata appears suddenly and is accompanied by fever and aching joints, it is known as acne fulminans. This type of severe acne does not respond well to antibiotics; isotretinoin (Accutane) and oral steroids are usually prescribed to treat it.
Gram-Negative Folliculitis
Pustules and cysts characterize this rare bacterial infection, which may be caused by complications from long-term treatment of acne vulgaris with antibiotics.
Pyoderma Faciale
This severe form of facial acne, which includes large, painful nodules and pustules, affects only women, usually between the ages of 20 and 40. It starts suddenly, and can affect even those who’ve never had acne before. It usually lasts no more than a year, but it can cause lasting damage.
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