There are several different, common types of acne. Among the more severe types are pustules. To make matters worse, this acne is often found in clusters on the skin, and can affect your entire body, from the face, neck, or even the back. These pustules can be painful, embarrassing, and hard to eradicate.

Pustules are medium-sized, round bumps on the body that are characterized by the white or yellow dot in the middle. This signals that there is pus in the pimple. Most of the times there are red areas around the pimple due to the pus infection that is under the skin. Essentially, if you imagine a huge, stereotypical zit, it is probably some form of a pustule.

Most people find it difficult to get rid of pustules on their own. The condition is very hard to treat. Popping the pustules, the initial reaction and desire of most people who suffer from acne, is not the proper way to go about things. It will merely leave an open wound on the face which can easily become infected with bacteria, leading to a continuation of the problem and scarring. It can also push the puss farther down under the skin, leading to more pustules. As you can imagine, it can quickly get out of hand.

If your pustules are a consistent and serious problem, visiting a dermatologist can help in finding a solution. Even using over-the-counter products may not completely cure the pustules. The most useful treatments against this type of acne are benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, so look for treatments that contain these ingredients. However, over-the-counter products rarely have the strength that is needed to completely clear up the problem. Instead, a dermatologist can come up with a combination of products to not only remove the pustules, but also help make the skin soft and moisturized.

Whatever you do, do not pop a pustule, as you can easily make one pustule turn into three. Try not to touch your face, and make sure to wash your face daily with a doctor-recommended cleanser. Stop being embarrassed and see your dermatologist sooner rather than later.