What Causes Acne: How It Works, Explained Simply

Video Transcript

Acne is the most common skin condition, and it begins inside the pore. A cross-section shows what a pore really is: a hair follicle with an oil gland attached to its side. Normally that gland makes oil which travels up the follicle and spreads across the surface of the skin. In acne, dead skin cells and extra oil collect inside the follicle and plug the opening. A plugged pore that stays closed forms a whitehead. One that opens at the surface darkens into a blackhead, from pigment reacting with air, not from dirt. Bacteria that normally live on the skin multiply in the trapped oil below. The body responds with inflammation, and the follicle becomes red and swollen. That is a pimple, or a pustule once pus forms. Deeper, larger, tender lumps beneath the skin are nodules and cysts. These are the most likely to leave scars. Acne is not caused by poor hygiene, and scrubbing harder tends to make it worse rather than better. This video is for general education only. It is not medical advice. Ask your doctor what's right for you.