ACNE/PIMPLES

Acne occurs when tiny holes on the surface of the skin become clogged. These holes are called pores.

• Each pore opens to a follicle. A follicle contains a hair and an oil gland. The oil released by the gland helps remove old skin cells and keeps your skin soft.
• The glands can become blocked with a mixture of oil and skin cells. The blockage is called a plug or comedone. If the top of the plug is white, it is called a whitehead. It is called a blackhead if the top of the plug is dark.
• If bacteria become trapped in the plug, the body’s immune system may react to it, causing pimples.
• Acne that is deep in your skin can cause hard, painful cysts. This is called nodulocystic acne.