Acne is a common skin condition caused by a buildup of oil and dead skin cells in the hair follicles. This can lead to inflammation and the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads, appearing on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders. Acne is mostly common in teenagers, however affects people of all ages.

The symptoms of acne can vary from person to person, but they may include:

• Pimples: the most common symptom of acne. They are small, red bumps that may contain pus.
• Blackheads: small, black bumps that form when oil and dead skin cells clog the hair follicles.
• Whiteheads: small, white bumps that form when oil and dead skin cells clog the hair follicles.
• Cysts: large, painful bumps that form when acne becomes severe.

The exact cause of acne is not known, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: Acne is more common in people with a family history of the condition.
• Hormones: Acne is more common in teenagers and people who are pregnant.
• Oil production: People with acne tend to produce more oil than people who do not have acne.
• Dead skin cells: People with acne tend to shed dead skin cells more slowly than people who do not have acne.
• Bacteria: The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) plays a role in the development of acne.