What is a common cause of acne?

Excess oil production and clogged pores are a primary cause of acne because they create an optimal environment for the development of acne lesions. The sebaceous glands in the skin produce oil, or sebum, which is necessary for keeping the skin moisturized and protected. However, when there is an overproduction of sebum, and it combines with dead skin cells, it can clog hair follicles. This obstruction leads to an environment where bacteria can thrive, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, which contributes to inflammation and the development of acne.

Preventive measures often involve managing oil levels and ensuring proper exfoliation to prevent pore blockage. Understanding how oil production interacts with skin cells is vital for both treatment and prevention strategies in skincare.

Other factors, such as genetics and hormonal changes, can exacerbate the condition, but the core issue revolves around the combination of excess oil and clogged pores.