Not all acne is the same. This visual guide helps you identify your type of acne, understand its severity, and find the right treatment path — guided by dermatologist Dr. Richa Chopra.
Mild
Mild-Moderate
Moderate
Severe
Very Severe
OTC treatment
See dermatologist
Urgent care needed
Clogged pores without redness or swelling — milder forms that respond well to topical treatments
Closed Comedones
Small, flesh-coloured bumps that form when a pore is completely blocked by oil and dead skin cells. The pore remains closed, trapping the contents beneath the surface.
Looks like: Tiny white or skin-coloured bump, not painful
Open Comedones
Open pores clogged with oil and dead skin that have oxidised, turning dark. Despite the colour, they are not dirt — the dark appearance is caused by melanin oxidation.
Looks like: Dark dot at the pore opening, flat, not painful
Red, swollen, and often painful — caused by bacteria and require more aggressive treatment
Inflamed Bumps
Small, red, tender bumps caused by bacteria invading a clogged pore. The wall of the pore breaks down, causing localised inflammation. They have no visible pus.
Looks like: Red, swollen, tender bump — no visible head
Pus-Filled Pimples
Similar to papules but with a visible white or yellow centre filled with pus. The surrounding area is red and inflamed. This is what most people call a 'pimple'.
Looks like: Red bump with white/yellow pus at the centre
Deep Hard Lumps
Large, hard, painful lumps deep beneath the skin surface. They form when clogged pores cause deep tissue damage. Nodular acne can persist for weeks and often causes scarring.
Looks like: Large, hard, painful lump deep under the skin
Severe Deep Infections
The most severe form of acne. Large, soft, painful, pus-filled lumps deep under the skin. They carry the highest risk of permanent scarring and require immediate professional treatment.
Looks like: Large, soft, painful, pus-filled deep lump
Your Treatment Path
Dr. Richa Chopra's acne treatment protocol follows a structured approach tailored to your specific acne type and severity.
Thorough examination to classify your acne type, identify underlying causes (hormonal, dietary, stress), and assess scarring risk.
30-minute consultationPersonalised protocol combining topical treatments, oral medication (if needed), and professional procedures based on your specific needs.
Tailored to your acne typeRegular clinic visits for professional treatments — chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy alongside your at-home routine.
4-12 weeks depending on severityOnce active acne is controlled, address any scarring with advanced treatments — PRP, dermaroller, laser resurfacing, or subcision.
3-6 sessions typicallyLong-term skin care routine to prevent recurrence, with periodic follow-ups and seasonal adjustments for Dehradun's climate.
Ongoing self-care + quarterly check-ups85%
of people aged 12-24 experience acne
40%
of adults still get acne after age 25
#1
most common skin condition worldwide
95%
of acne cases are treatable with proper care
Nodular and cystic acne require professional dermatological treatment. Attempting to pop, squeeze, or self-treat severe acne can lead to permanent scarring, secondary infections, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. If your acne is painful, deep, or not responding to over-the-counter products, please consult a dermatologist.
There are 6 main types: Whiteheads (closed comedones), Blackheads (open comedones), Papules (inflamed bumps), Pustules (pus-filled pimples), Nodules (deep hard lumps), and Cysts (severe deep infections). They range from mild non-inflammatory to severe inflammatory forms.
Cystic acne requires professional treatment. Options include oral isotretinoin, intralesional corticosteroid injections, hormonal therapy, and sometimes drainage. Never attempt to pop or squeeze cystic acne as it can cause permanent scarring.
Yes, research shows that high-glycaemic foods (sugary, processed), dairy products, and whey protein can worsen acne in some people. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids supports clearer skin.
Most acne treatments take 6-8 weeks to show visible improvement. Some treatments like isotretinoin may initially cause a brief worsening (purging) before improvement. Consistency is key — don't give up after just 2-3 weeks.
See a dermatologist if: your acne is moderate to severe, over-the-counter products haven't worked after 6-8 weeks, acne is leaving scars, acne is affecting your confidence, or you have painful cystic or nodular acne. Early treatment prevents long-term scarring.
Acne Treatment in Dehradun
Don't let acne control your life. Dr. Richa Chopra has treated over 10,000 patients with personalised acne protocols. Get expert diagnosis and a clear path to clear skin.