Acne is a common skin condition that is caused by hair follicles beneath the surface of the skin being unable to expel oil (sebum) and dead skin cells through the pores. As such, the oil and cells held beneath the skin's surface begin to grow bacteria within the follicle. This causes inflammation, resulting in redness, swelling, heat and pain. When the walls of the follicle break down, it expels the bacteria, cells and oil onto the skin's surface, creating lesions and pimples. Acne is most common in teens and young adults, but it can affect anyone, of any age.
