Which skin condition is primarily characterized by excessive sebum production?

The skin condition primarily characterized by excessive sebum production is acne. This condition occurs when the sebaceous glands in the skin produce an excess amount of sebum, leading to clogged pores. The clogged pores can become inflamed or infected, resulting in the formation of pimples, blackheads, and cysts. This overproduction of sebum is often influenced by hormones, especially androgens, which increase during puberty and can continue into adulthood.

Acne is commonly associated with other changes in the skin, such as comedonal lesions, inflammatory papules, and pustules. Effective management of acne often involves treatments aimed at reducing sebum production, unclogging pores, and addressing inflammation.

In contrast, conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea have different underlying mechanisms and presentations. Psoriasis is characterized by rapid skin cell turnover leading to thick, scaly patches; eczema involves inflammation and is often linked to allergens or irritants; and rosacea features persistent facial redness and visible blood vessels, typically without the primary issue of excessive sebum production.