What Type of Acne Do I Have? (Quick Kenya Guide & Self-Check)

March 20, 2026 • 7 min read

Figuring out your acne type is the first step to treating it effectively — especially in Kenya where humidity makes oil production higher and our skin tones can turn healed pimples into long-lasting dark marks. This simple self-check guide helps you identify what you're dealing with and points you toward the right starting treatments.

Step-by-Step Self-Check: Answer These Questions

1. Do you mostly see small dark dots or tiny white bumps, but no redness or pain?
   → Likely non-inflammatory acne (blackheads & whiteheads).
   These are clogged pores. Blackheads = open pores (dark from air exposure). Whiteheads = closed pores (white bumps). Very common on oily T-zone in humid Nairobi/Mombasa weather.
2. Are there red, swollen bumps or pus-filled spots that hurt when touched?
   → Likely inflammatory acne (papules & pustules).
   Papules = red, tender, no pus. Pustules = red with white/yellow head. These flare up from bacteria + inflammation — often worse during humid/rainy seasons.
3. Do you have large, hard, deep, painful lumps under the skin that last weeks?
   → Likely nodular or cystic acne.
   Nodules = hard deep bumps. Cysts = softer, pus-filled, very painful. These cause the worst scarring and dark marks on Kenyan skin — need professional help fast.
4. Do you get dark brown/purple spots after pimples heal?
   → This is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — very common on melanin-rich skin.
   Not active acne, but a result of inflammation. Needs sunscreen + brightening ingredients to fade.

Quick Treatment Matches for Each Type (Kenya-Friendly)

• Blackheads & Whiteheads → Salicylic acid (The Ordinary 2% or CeraVe SA Cleanser) to unclog pores. Use 2–3× week. Gentle exfoliation + daily matte SPF.
• Papules & Pustules → Benzoyl peroxide (PanOxyl 4% or CeraVe Acne Cleanser) to kill bacteria. Niacinamide (The Ordinary 10% + Zinc) to calm redness. Start slow to avoid dryness in heat.
• Nodules & Cysts → See a dermatologist ASAP (Avané Clinic, Este Medical in Nairobi). OTC won’t cut it — may need oral meds or isotretinoin to prevent deep scars and long-lasting dark spots.
• Dark Marks (PIH) → Sunscreen every morning (La Roche-Posay Anthelios Oil Control or Eucerin Oil Control). Add niacinamide or vitamin C serum to fade marks over 3–6 months.

Kenya-Specific Reminders

• Humidity makes pores clog faster — lightweight, non-comedogenic products are key.
• Don’t pick or squeeze — it worsens dark marks on our skin tones.
• Always moisturize (even oily skin) to prevent rebound oiliness.
• If painful, deep, or scarring — don’t wait months. Early derm visit saves skin.

Still not sure which type fits you best, or want product suggestions? Message us — we’ll help you narrow it down and build a routine that works for your skin and lifestyle.

Next read: Natural Acne Remedies That Work in Kenya →