Acne is a skin disorder that is often influenced by hormones and an overproduction of sebum. According to Joel Gerson's book, "Milady's Standard Textbook for Professional Estheticians," studies revealed acne to be a skin disorder that is inherited and intensifies when a person is put under stress. Acne symptoms should be recognized and treated as soon as possible to prevent the condition from worsening and to prevent permanent damage to the skin.

Clogged Follicles

The first sign of acne formation is clogged hair follicles. What happens is the follicle becomes plugged with oil and keratinocytes (cells) that stop the release of sebum. Bacteria then forms and results in symptoms such as inflammation, elevated skin temperature in the area of backup, swelling and discomfort. The buildup of bacteria, sebum, and cells eventually causes the follicle wall to rupture, which then results in the development of pimples.

Pimples

Pimples are a major symptom of acne. Acne pimples usually appear as warm red or blue swollen lumps. If they are fully developed, they have a yellowish/white cap of pus on them. When the follicle rupture, which leads to the outbreak of pimples, occurs deep within the skin, the problem is often more serious. Healing may be prolonged and scars may form as a result.

Pustules

Pustules are larger than pimples and are pimples that are inflamed. They are another symptom of acne.

Papules

Papules are small lumps in the skin that can be painful if touched. They are inflamed and pink in color, and they have no fluid inside them.

Nodules

Nodules are raised lumps, but they go deep inside the skin. They cause pain and can leave scars.

Acne Cysts

Acne cysts are raised lumps in the skin, and they penetrate deep into the skin. They are large in size and can cause pain. Cysts are a more serious type of pimple that take longer to surface, and they kill healthy cells and lead to the development of scars. Acne cysts may sometimes require a visit to a dermatologist for treatment.

Blackheads

Blackheads, also referred to as comedones, are plugs of sebum that fill up hair follicles and turn black when the air hits them. A professional skin care specialist should extract them if they are a major problem.

Milia

Milia are sometimes referred to as whiteheads. They are blocked hair follicles that never reach the surface of the skin to turn into blackheads. A milia resembles a grain of salt beneath the skin's surface.