What are the different types of acne lesions?

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Acne is a disease of the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. The sebaceous gland produces an oily substance that drains into the hair follicle. When the neck of the follicle becomes blocked this is the first stage of an acne lesion. Different types of acne lesions reflect the severity of inflammation and the presence of secondary infection. It is important to recognise which types of acne lesions are present as this can help to guide treatment and is an important component of assessing the severity.

Blockage of the hair follicle leads to a collection of keratin (dead skin cells) beneath the opening. When the follicle remains plugged with keratin this is referred to as a whitehead; a blackhead is where the keratin falls out leaving a tiny hole.

Blockage of the hair follicle can lead to inflammation which appears a red spot ‘papule’. This is the classic acne lesion and signifies the presence of inflammatory acne.

More severe inflammation can lead to a tiny collection of pus at the tip of the acne spot. This is a pustule and appears as a tiny white spot.

Persistent inflammation and infection of blocked follicles can lead to the formation of acne nodules and cysts. These are large, red and painful and can result in permanent scarring.

Related Articles

• How is acne classified?
• Are different types of acne treated differently?
• Why does acne cause scarring?
• What is acne?

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital and is focused on Mohs micrographic surgery and the treatment of complex skin cancers. My private practice additionally focuses on laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, rosacea, acne, pigmentation and scarring. I have particular expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, including minimally-invasive techniques, Mohs micrographic surgery, and facial reconstructive surgery. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.