Acne

You're not the only one whose skin suffers from freak - outs - 85 per cent of teens suffer from acne. "Acne is not an infection, it's not caused by poor hygiene and it's not contagious." But not all zits are created equal - they're actually quite different.

Acne Trigger

Overactive sebaceous glands, which produce excess oil. A build - up of dead cells, which leads to congested follicles. Bacteria, which helps  cause the inflamed breakout. Inflammation, which causes the redness, pain and any scarring.

What are they?

Known as "open comedo", they're the black spots that often appear on your nose and chin.

What causes them?

Overactive glands that get clogged with oil, dead skin cells, tiny hairs and bacteria, which form a plug. When the surface comes in contact with light and air, it turns the plug black." They're also stimulated by hormones, poor skin, make-up and hair - care products."

What are they?

Known as "closed comedo", these are the small bumps usually found where the skin is finer - around the eyes and tops of the cheek.

What causes them?

Dead skin and oil form a plug, which hardens and leaves behind a cap of dead skin cells to grow over the opening so it doesn't come into contact with light. They can be caused by dehydration, incorrect products use and skin neglect.

What are they?

These are the pimples full of pus. They're clearly visible on the surface of the skin.

What causes them?

The white blood cells are engaged, producing pus. This is why the tip of the pimple is a yellowy/white colour. They usually last five to six days.

What are they?

These are the small, solid, rounded bumps,usually pink in colour, that rise from the skin. Sometimes they're called "blind" pimples.

What causes them?

When the congested plug causes too much pressure, the follicle then empties into the skin, and the body responds by alerting the immune system. White blood cells attach and a sore red lesion is felt." They usually last between five to 10 days.

What are they?

They're similar to blind pimples, but are larger.

What cases them?

A nodule extends into the deeper layers of the skin and may tissue destruction that results in scarring. A nodule is a severe acne lesion, which normally occur because of your hormones.

What are they?

A cyst consists of white blood cells, dead cells and bacteria, and are painful.

What causes them?

A cyst usually extends into the deeper layers of the skin, and often occurs at the same time as nodules. This is a severe form of acne so if you suffer from cysts, see your dermatologist for advice.