How Acne is Formed?

Basically, acne is formed by a collection of sebum (oil), bacteria and dead cells trapped in the lining of the hair follicle (skin pore). Normally the lining of the hair follicle sheds a layer of dead skin cells at regular intervals. Secretions from the sebaceous gland in the skin push the dead skin cells to the surface. When excessive oil is being produced however, the dead cells will clump together, forming a block at the opening of the hair follicle.

Note: 1. Cross section of the skin in normal conditions, 2. Excessive oil production causes blockage at the opening of the hair follicle. 3. Skin becomes sore and swollen due to bacteria infections

When bacteria, which naturally occurs within the hair follicle, starts to break down the material accumulated within the clogged pore, irritating fatty acids are produced. This will cause pressure to build up within the pore, and the pore will be swollen. Redness and inflammation also occur in response to the infection.

DIFFERENT FORMS OF ACNE

It was a common misconception that acne is simply a swollen and reddish postulate. In fact, acne manifest in few different forms depending on the condition at the skin pore. The diagram below shows different forms of acne.