What is Acne?

Acne is a very common skin condition that causes pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and sometimes deeper bumps like cysts.

It usually shows up on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. While it often starts during teenage years, it can affect people of all ages.

What Causes Acne? More Than Just Dirt

Acne happens when hair follicles (tiny pores in your skin where hair grows) get clogged. Several things can contribute to this:

Excess Oil

Our skin naturally makes oil to keep it moisturized, but sometimes it makes too much, especially during hormonal changes

Inflammation

The clogged pores and bacteria lead to redness, swelling, and pus – the classic signs of a pimple.

Medication

Certain medications can cause acne by altering hormones, increasing oil, or irritating the skin

Dead Skin Cells

These can stick together and block the pores.

Hormones

Changes in hormones, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and stress, can make acne worse.

Skincare

Heavy, oily, or irritating skincare products can clog pores and cause breakouts.

Bacteria

A type of bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) normally lives on our skin. When pores get clogged, these bacteria can multiply and cause inflammation

Genetics

If your parents had acne, you're more likely to get it too.

Pressure against your skin

Friction or pressure from helmets, masks, or tight clothing can trap sweat, oil, and bacteria against the skin, leading to breakouts known as acne mechanica.

Different types of Acne Bumps

Blackheads

Open clogged pores where the top looks black because the oil and dead skin react with the air.

Pustules

Papules with pus at the top (what many people think of as a typical "pimple").

Whiteheads

Closed clogged pores where the top looks white or flesh-colored.

Nodules

Large, solid, painful lumps deep under the skin.

Papules

Small, red, raised bumps that can feel tender.

Cysts

Deep, painful, pus-filled lumps that can often lead to scarring.