Treating acne: what you need to know
Acne occurs when the pores and hair follicles of the skin become blocked due to excess oil, called sebum, and debris buildup, such as dead skin cells. In the skin are bacteria like C. acnes and P. acnes, which feed on sebum and skin cells, and an overpopulation of bacteria can cause inflammation. The skin then reacts by forming pimples, zits, or blemishes. It is most commonly associated with the face, but it can also develop on the back and the chest.
