Acne is a skin condition caused by the over activity of the glands that secrete oily substances (sebum) on to the skin. When there is an increase of sebum, the area around the hair follicles gets clogged up. (See Fig 1.1)

A bacterium, called Propionobacterium Acnes that normally lives on the skin thrives within the blocked pores. This infection causes inflammation of the skin, which is responsible for the redness and swelling of a spot resulting in Acne. (See Fig 1.2)

Acne lesions include:
Papules -- Inflamed lesions that are small, pink bumps on the skin and can be tender to the touch.
Pustules (pimples) -- inflamed, pus-filled lesions that can be red at the base.
Nodules -- large, painful, solid lesions that are lodged deep within the skin.
Cysts -- Deep, inflammed, pus-filled lesions that can cause pain and scarring.

Source : Medline Plus / US National Library of Medicine

There are multiple ways to address acne concerns.

i. Target and destroy the acne bacteria directly.
ii. Regulate the over activity of the sebaceous glands, minimizing production.
iii. Continuously clean the pores, preventing clogging from occurring.

A list of MD Dermatics solutions can be found on the right column to this article.