Three processes in the skin can lead to the formation of acne:
- Dead skin cells collect and clog your pores
- Sebaceous glands produce too much oil in the follicles
- Bacteria builds up in your pores, leading to breakouts
Acne is not an infection of the skin, but an inflammatory condition. Factors that can increase your likelihood of a breakout include:
- Genetics
- Hormones
- Stress
- Mechanical causes such as makeup or dirt accumulated during a workout
- Diet (studies have suggested foods such as milk and refined, processed foods that contribute to a high glycemic diet may result in acne)
Acne can develop almost anywhere on the body and most commonly appears on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. While
blackheads and whiteheads (also known as comedones) are the most common acne lesions, other types can develop as well. Inflammatory lesions like these are the most likely to leave scarring behind:
- Papules – small, red, and raised bumps, may be tender but often are not
- Pustules – small, red pimples containing white or yellow pus, can be tender
- Nodules – solid, inflamed, often painful lumps beneath the skin’s surface
- Cysts – large, soft, usually painful lumps containing pus deep beneath the skin’s surface
