Acne appears when natural skin bacteria combine with sebum, or oil secreted by the sebaceous glands. This occurs within a pilosebaceous unit, which consists of the glands and hair follicles in the dermis layer of the skin, asserts the Acne Resource Center. The units concentrate mostly in the facial region, where acne generally appears; although acne can develop on the neck, back and chest regions as well. The presence of this bacterium attributes greatly to breakouts and unsightly blemishes associated with the skin condition.
Propionibacterium acnes
Propionibacterium acnes, or P. acnes, thrives on the lipid-rich, or fatty, oil within a clogged pore caused by a whitehead or blackhead, states the American Academy of Dermatology. This bacteria consistently grows and secretes chemicals that deteriorate pore walls, allowing other bacteria to form acne lesions. P. acnes is common to acne vulgaris where inflammation, swelling and irritation develop around the clogged pore. Generally, topical agents are responsible for the multiplication of P. acnes by continuously clogging pores and increasing sebum secretions.
Staphylococcus aureus
When the chemicals produced by P. acnes destroy the cellular structure of skin cells, Staphylococcus aureus, or S. aureus, grows causing acne lesions, reports the American Academy of Dermatology. This bacterium is also responsible for staph infections, which can also appear as acne. Common skin infections that occur when acne pimples are popped or squeezed include folliculitis, in which the hair follicle swells causing pustules and/or papules characteristic of acne. Topical prevention of these bacteria includes wearing loose-fitting clothing and exfoliating in-grown hairs.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Acne appears when you’re exposed to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, or P. aeruginosa, from a water source contaminated by the microorganism. Although this bacterium is less common, it causes an advanced type of folliculitis that requires antibacterial and antifungal topical treatments, reports the American Academy of Dermatology. Exposure usually results from public pools, hot tubs or saunas where water can easily absorb into the skin. Avoiding these areas or using the proper topical preventatives helps to eliminate acne associated with P. aeruginosa.
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