What is the primary cause of acne?

• A. Bacterial infections
• B. Clogging of hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells
• C. Excessive sweating
• D. Allergic reactions

Answer: (B)

The primary cause of acne is the clogging of hair follicles with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. This process typically begins when excess oil production occurs, often driven by hormonal changes such as those experienced during puberty. The excess sebum can attract bacteria to the hair follicle, leading to inflammation and contributing to the formation of acne lesions such as pimples and cysts.

The other factors, while they can influence the severity or presence of acne, do not fundamentally cause it. For instance, bacterial infections can exacerbate acne by causing inflammatory responses, but they are not the initial cause of the condition. Excessive sweating and allergic reactions can also lead to skin irritations, but they are not directly connected to the primary mechanisms that lead to acne. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the root cause that initiates the acne process, emphasizing the importance of oil and dead skin cell accumulation in hair follicles.