Unlike other forms of acne, nodular acne is a severe skin condition that can lead to major scarring without proper treatment. Patients with this form of acne must see a dermatologist, who can recommend medication and other treatments to provide relief.
Most people have experience with acne papules (small red bumps) and pustules (small red bumps with a white/yellow centre of pus). Nodular acne forms deep within the skin, which causes firm, often painful bumps to form. These bumps may remain flesh-coloured, or they may be red. Acne nodules most often develop on the chest, back, chin, face, and jawline.
Like other types of inflammatory acne, nodules result from clogged pores. Once a pore is clogged, a strain of bacteria can become trapped within, which leads to inflammation and discomfort. In addition to clogged pores, the following can also cause nodules to develop:
Nodular acne also has a genetic link. That means people with a family history of the skin condition are more likely to develop it themselves.
Unlike other types of inflammatory acne, nodules always require the attention of a dermatologist. Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following: