Acne, the complex skin condition it is, comes in many forms. While each pimple is technically formed the same way—dead skin, oil, and debris stick together and block the pores—but from there, it can develop into various types of blemishes. Some are large, red, and tender to the touch (like cysts); others are speckled across your skin, causing textural concerns (blackheads and whiteheads).

Here, we dive into the seven types of acne, the causes, and how to best treat each spot. In terms of remedies, the tips we provide here only scratch the surface, as treating acne requires a holistic view—diet, stress, and sleep can all affect the condition, but this article will focus on specific ingredients for each blemish.