What is the primary cause of inflammatory acne?

The primary cause of inflammatory acne is linked to bacterial infection, particularly the presence of a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) within the hair follicles. When hair follicles become clogged due to excess sebum, dead skin cells, and other debris, it creates an environment conducive to bacterial growth. The inflammation arises when the immune system responds to the overgrowth of bacteria, resulting in redness, swelling, and in more severe cases, pustules or cysts.

While clogged pores, hormonal changes, and excessive sebum production all contribute to the development of acne, they create the conditions that allow for the bacterial infection to occur. Without the presence of bacteria, the inflammatory response would be less prominent, and it is the interplay of these factors that leads to the manifestation of inflammatory acne.