Final answer:
Comedones, or follicular hyperkeratosis, result from the clogging of hair follicles with sebum and keratin, forming whiteheads or blackheads. Infection by bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes can lead to inflammatory acne lesions. Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, can exacerbate acne by increasing sebum production.
Step-by-step explanation:
The level of response of comedones, or follicular hyperkeratosis, in the skin involves the clogging of hair follicles leading to the formation of non-inflammatory lesions. These lesions come in two primary forms: whiteheads and blackheads. Whiteheads occur when the plug of sebum and keratin is covered by the skin, while blackheads are exposed to air, which leads to the oxidation of sebum and the characteristic black coloration.
When hair follicles become clogged, Acne-causing bacteria, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, can infect the area. This can result in inflammation and the formation of various lesions like papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. In conditions such as acne, hormonal changes can stimulate excess sebum production, further contributing to comedone formation and skin disturbances.