This is an inflammatory skin condition or a disease that is caused when the sebum secreted by the glands builds up under the skin. As the follicles carrying the sebum are blocked, the sebum cannot come to the skin surface leading to its buildup and resulting in formation of the acne.

Formation of Pimples When the sebum carrying skin cells and hair is unable to reach the skin surface owing to the blocked follicles, it leads to the development of a plug. This plug breaks down and causes the development of pimples. 

Types of Acne: 

• Blackheads: These are black in colour and they appear on the surface of the skin.
• Papules: These are pink bumps appearing on the skin.
• Pustules: Pustules are red coloured at the base and have pus at the top.
• Nobules: Nobules are large, painful and solid pimples that protrude out of the skin surface.

They are embedded deep in the skin.

• Cysts: These are painful type of acne that are filled with pus. They cause scars.
• Whiteheads: Whiteheads are acne that are small in size and they remain under the surface of the skin.

Classification: Acne are classified into mild, moderate and severe depending upon the severity and persistence. Chief reasons for Acne formation: Rise in androgen levels is considered to be the chief cause amongst the various causative factors for acne. During the adolescence, the level of Androgen (estrogen in women) increases and thus give rise to the acne. The sebaceous glands get activated during puberty and acne most commonly occur at this age. However, acne can occur at any age. Some other causes for acne formation: 

• Using greasy or oil-based cosmetics
• Squeezing pimples
• Changes in hormones
• Stress
• Menstruation
• Hot and Humid climate
• Medications that contain androgen and lithium, etc. Why treating the Acne is important?

1. Acne affect the look of your face and skin and thus cause anxiety, low self-esteem and depression.
2. If left untreated, Acne become painful and infected with pus because of the presence of bacteria on the skin.
3. They may cause temporary or permanent scars on the skin.