A hair follicle is a tiny tunnel-like structure in the skin from which a hair grows.
Each hair follicle is connected to a sebaceous gland that releases sebum into the follicle. Acne develops when the follicle becomes blocked with excess sebum and dead skin cells.
Quick fact
Although people often say “pores,” acne actually begins within hair follicles.
Commonly confused with
Pore
See also