Why do we get pimples?

Each hair follicle is attached to a sebaceous gland that releases sebum, an oil that keeps skin and hair moisturised. During puberty, rising androgen hormones make these glands enlarge and produce more sebum. When excess oil mixes with dead skin cells it can plug the follicle, forming a blackhead or whitehead. Bacteria called Cutibacterium acnes thrive in this oily, low-oxygen environment, and the immune response to them creates red, swollen pimples. Acne affects around 85 percent of people between the ages of 12 and 24, making it one of the most common skin conditions in the world.