Since the follicular lining in the pilo-sebaceous unit is untouched before puberty, it has been theorized that if colonization of Proprionibacterium acnes happens in sufficient quantities they create antigenic molecules that stimulate the initiation of inflammation. Proprionibacterium acnes can produce proteinases, lipase, and hyaluronate lyase all of which may serve as the accelerators or initiators of the inflammatory infiltrate which is made of neutrophils and lymphocytes.

Hormonal Cause of Acne

The key player in the cause of acne in adolescence is hormones. At this phase androgens interact with receptors on the sebaceous glands and cause activation of the sebaceous gland to hypertrophy and hence induce more sebaceous synthesis of lipids and free fatty acids which distend the follicular canal. More specifically, there is evidence for enhanced peripheral metabolic conversion of the androgen testosterone to dihydrotestosterone at the level of the skin in persons having acne.

How Acne Forms

The first lesion in this condition called acne vulgaris is the comedo. When in contact with oxygen the comedo becomes dark and forms what you know as a blackhead. The comedo is made by retention of layers of devitalized skin known as keratin in the lining of the follicles. In addition to hyperkeratosis (which is thickening or trapped layers of keratin), there is an aggregation of sebum. The combination of the keratin and the sebum produces a blocking of the opening of the follicular canal, and papules are made by inflammation around the comedones. Depending upon the degree of inflammation, pustules, granulomatous reactions, nodules, cars, cysts, and keloids may appear.

Development of Acne

Inflammatory Response

Airborne contamination and other harmful elements further exacerbate the inflammatory reaction. As bacteria begin to grow inside the clogged pore your immune system responds by releasing granulocytes and macrophages, which are groups of white blood cells that eliminate the bacteria. The inflammation process is needed to eliminate the continuing effects of excess bacteria and signal the body to repair the harm to tissues. Often times the immune response system can't stop the reproduction of acne bacteria due to lack of white blood cells or an impaired system.

Activity of the Sebaceous Gland

When a comedo is blocking the exit of the sebum ducts, the sebaceous glands continue to form sebum, which accumulates in the sebum canal increasing the comedo in size. The expansion in size produces pressure and leads to a further intense inflammation response in the surrounding skin and creates discomfort, swelling, redness, and a mass (pimple, redhead, acne papule).

Growth of Acne Bacteria

The above conditions encourage the growth of bacteria and result in infection inside the canal, the sebaceous gland, and surrounding tissue. The commencement of the infection produces further inflammatory alterations, therefore beginning a cycle of accentuated blockage of the outflow of sebum which produces even more pressure, inflammation, and progressing infection making cysts and pustules to occur. The consequence on skin tissues caused by these infections is very damaging and the healing process usually results in a scar.

Treatments For Acne

To find a good pimple remedy, you must keep in mind that all individuals have different needs. Try a variety of acne products, beginning with the milder one, until you find what works for you. A good skin treatment can be the end of your acne.