What type of acne is commonly seen in adolescents?

The type of acne commonly seen in adolescents is hormonal acne. This form of acne arises due to fluctuations in hormones during puberty, leading to increased oil production and a rise in the number of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. As adolescents experience hormonal changes, it often results in breakouts on the face, back, and shoulders, where the sebaceous glands are most active.

Hormonal acne typically presents as a mix of different types of lesions, including papules, pustules, and cysts, and it can also be influenced by factors such as diet, stress, and genetics. Understanding that adolescents are undergoing significant hormonal changes helps clarify why this specific type of acne is prevalent in this age group.

Comedonal acne, while also a possibility in adolescents, primarily consists of blackheads and whiteheads, and may not encompass the broader spectrum of inflammatory lesions seen with hormonal acne. Cystic acne is a severe form that can occur, but it is less common among adolescents compared to the typical hormonal fluctuations leading to general acne. Adult acne refers specifically to those who experience acne later in life, often due to different hormonal or lifestyle factors, making it less relevant to the adolescent age group.