Which type of acne is characterized by painful, swollen lumps beneath the skin?

Cystic acne is characterized by painful, swollen lumps beneath the skin due to the formation of deep, inflamed cysts. This type of acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria, leading to a severe inflammatory response. The cysts can be very tender and are often larger than other types of acne lesions, such as pustules or papules, which may not penetrate as deeply into the skin. The painful nature and swelling of cystic acne can make it particularly problematic and distressing for those who experience it, highlighting the need for specialized treatment options.

In contrast, comedonal acne typically refers to non-inflammatory acne, such as blackheads and whiteheads, which do not present the same level of pain or swelling. Papular acne involves small, raised bumps that may be red but are not necessarily painful or swollen, while "milky acne" is not a recognized term in dermatology and is likely a misleading option.