Which skin condition is often associated with blockages in hair follicles?

The skin condition that is often associated with blockages in hair follicles is acne. Acne occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and cysts. The primary factor causing blockage is the increased production of sebum by sebaceous glands, which can be influenced by hormonal changes, stress, and other factors.

In contrast, psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that results in the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to thick, red, scaly patches. Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin, where the primary issue is typically related to allergens or irritants rather than blockages in hair follicles. Vitiligo is a pigmentation disorder where skin loses its color due to the destruction of melanocytes, unrelated to hair follicle blockage. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why acne specifically is linked to the obstruction of hair follicles.