Acne comes from a combination of factors that affect the skin’s hair follicles and oil glands. Here’s a breakdown of the main causes: Excess Oil (Sebum) Production – Your skin naturally produces oil to stay hydrated, but too much oil can clog pores. Clogged Hair Follicles – Dead skin cells and oil can build up in the hair follicles, forming a plug. This can result in blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples. Bacteria – The clogged pore can become infected with bacteria (especially Cutibacterium acnes), leading to inflammation and pus-filled pimples. Hormonal Changes – Hormones, especially androgens, increase oil production. This is common during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or with hormonal disorders. Diet and Lifestyle – Some people may find that high-sugar or dairy-heavy diets, stress, or poor skincare habits contribute to breakouts. Genetics – If your parents had acne, you’re more likely to have it too.
What is acne come from?
Blackhead nose strips can be helpful, but they have some pros and cons. Here’s a quick breakdown:
✅ Pros: Instant results – They can remove the top layer of blackheads and gunk in one use. Leaves skin feeling smoother and cleaner temporarily. Satisfying for some people to see what comes out!
⚠️ Cons: Only remove surface-level blackheads, not deep ones. Can irritate or damage skin, especially if used too often or on sensitive skin. May cause pores to appear larger over time if not followed up with proper care (like toner or cold water rinse). Doesn’t treat the root cause—oil overproduction and clogged pores.
🔄 Better alternatives: Salicylic acid: Penetrates deep into pores and dissolves oil. Clay masks: Absorb excess oil and tighten pores. Retinoids: Help prevent new clogs from forming.
A comedo and a blackhead are closely related, but not exactly the same. Here’s the difference: Comedo (plural: comedones): A comedo is a clogged hair follicle (pore) filled with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. It’s a general term used in dermatology to describe early acne lesions. There are two main types of comedones: open and closed. Blackhead (open comedo): A blackhead is a type of comedo where the pore remains open. The dark color is not dirt—it’s the result of the oil and dead skin oxidizing when exposed to air. Appears flat with a black or dark brown top. Whitehead (closed comedo): The pore is closed, trapping the contents inside. Appears as a small, flesh-colored or white bump.