What is Acne?

Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria. It leads to various types of breakouts, such as pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts. Acne can appear on the face, back, chest, and shoulders and affects people of all ages, though it is most common in teenagers and young adults.

Causes of Acne

Acne develops due to a combination of biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors:

• Excess Oil (Sebum) Production – Overactive oil glands clog pores.
• Clogged Hair Follicles – Dead skin cells accumulate, blocking pores.
• Bacterial Growth (Propionibacterium acnes) – Triggers inflammation and breakouts.
• Hormonal Changes – Androgens (male hormones) increase oil production (common in puberty, pregnancy, and stress).
• Diet & Lifestyle Factors – High sugar, dairy, and processed foods can trigger acne.
• Stress & Sleep Deprivation – Increases inflammation and oil production.

Symptoms of Acne

Acne appears in different forms, including:

• Blackheads (Open Comedones) – Small, dark bumps due to clogged pores.
• Whiteheads (Closed Comedones) – Small, white or flesh-colored bumps.
• Papules – Red, inflamed bumps without pus.
• Pustules (Pimples) – Red bumps filled with white or yellow pus.
• Nodules – Large, painful lumps under the skin.