How is acne classified?
Acne is classified according to the severity and the types of lesions that are present.
There are specific tools for assessing acne severity, such as the Leeds acne scale, however in practice a global assessment of mild, moderate or severe is often used. Understanding the severity of your acne helps determine the right treatment.
Mild acne is predominantly associated with whiteheads and blackheads, although you occasionally experience papules and pustules. Mild acne is not typically associated with pustules, nodules or scarring.
Moderate acne is characterized by widespread whiteheads and blackheads with numerous papules and pustules. Whilst there may be some mild scarring, it is not generally associated with nodules or severe scarring.
Severe acne is associated with multiple painful papules, pustules and nodules and can result in significant scarring.
When the majority of acne lesions (see our post on the types of lesions) are either whiteheads or blackheads, acne is described as comedomal. Papules, pustules, nodules or cysts reflect inflammatory acne.
How can I help
I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.
Related Articles
- How does the severity of your acne determine what treatment is suitable?
- What are the different types of acne lesions?
- When do I need tablet treatments for my acne?
- What is acne conglobata?
