Acne is a very common skin problem, but because of its complex manifestations, many people are confused as to whether a red, swollen and painful pimple on the face is an indication of acne. Is a red and swollen pimple on the face acne? The severity of acne varies from one period to another, and it will behave differently. A red and swollen pimple is likely to be a type of acne. If acne is not treated, it will progress step by step from small pimples to large cysts. Acne changes from mild to severe Acne is the mildest form of acne, and is not red or swollen. When you touch your skin with your hands, you can feel small raised bumps, similar to the “goose bumps” you get when you are cold. When acne becomes inflamed, inflammatory papules will form. An inflammatory papule is usually a red, hemispherical or other shaped bumps. It does not have a white head on it and is a small, bare red bump. Inflammatory further inflammation worsens to form a pustule. The pustule contains yellowish pus, a product of increased inflammation and bacterial infection. The pustule is usually tipped with a white or yellowish protruding pus head. Further aggravation of the pustules will fuse to form cystic acne. Cystic acne consists of nodules and cysts of varying sizes. Nodules are harder in texture, less mobile, and appear red and swollen due to visible inflammation. Cysts are softer to the touch, with an intact envelope that can be felt and a liquid pus inside. They are usually larger in size, with multiple follicles fused together, and tend to leave acne pits if not treated properly. Acne is a chronic skin disease, and severe acne is a result of mild acne changes. Red and swollen pimple acne indicates that it is no longer at the acne stage, but deteriorating toward the papule, pustule, etc. stage. Depending on the severity of the acne, you need to adopt the corresponding treatment method, so that you can get a good treatment effect. Do not squeeze or use medication blindly.