Acne
Acne is a condition where the follicles in the skin become clogged, forming spots, white heads, blackheads and sometimes cysts. An increase in sebaceous activity causes excess oil production which mixes with dead skin cells and form a plug in the follicle. If the plugged follicle lies close to the surface of the skin it can create whiteheads and blackheads. If bacteria on the skin contaminates and infects the plugged follicle, it can cause papules, pustules, nodules or cysts.
There are a range of causes, including: hormones, certain skincare products, genetics, stress, and diet.
There are also different severities of acne:
Grade 1 is mild. Mostly whiteheads and blackheads with minimal breakouts.
Grade 2 is moderate. Mostly papules and pustules with mild inflammation on certain areas of the skin.
Grade 3 is severe. Significant breakouts on the skin comprising of pustules, papules, nodules or cysts. Scarring, significant inflammation and redness are likely.