>>18569971>>18569986>>18570002Thought I could add some information that you neckbeards may find useful. My profession is in microbiology and I've spent a few years now studying interactions between bacteria and your skin.
Along with your normal biota of Staph, misc. other bacteria and some fungi, there's this species of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes. Usually, it lives in harmony with its host (you), but sometimes it will enter and breed like fucking crazy in your hair follicles. These pores often become clogged & enflamed, and pus forms, creating what is commonly known as a "whitehead". These can form anywhere, but usually in places where oily secretions are common, such as your face, upper chest and mid-upper back/shoulders.
Currently, there isn't any established link between genetics, diet or hygene and acne: the only factors affecting acne appear to be stress and just bad luck.
A topical treatment of 2.5-10% benzoyl peroxide is usually the preferred treatment, as 1) P. acnes does not build up a resistance to benzoyl peroxide, 2) it is available cheaply and usually without prescription and 3) when applied diligently, acne disappears in most cases. It can cause temporary irritation and causes real bad sunburns, but I think most would agree that if it works for you, those side effects are pretty darn mild.
Pic related, benzoyl peroxide's structure. Pretty cool.
