Acne is a common skin condition that affects most people at some point in their lives. It is 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.

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

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