Which skin condition is characterized by excessive oil and dead skin cells blocking hair follicles?

The skin condition characterized by excessive oil and dead skin cells blocking hair follicles is acne. Acne occurs when the sebaceous glands produce an excessive amount of sebum, which can mix with dead skin cells. This combination can clog hair follicles, leading to the formation of pimples, blackheads, and cysts. The blocked follicles create an environment where bacteria can thrive, further exacerbating the condition and contributing to inflammation and irritation. This is why understanding the process of how oil and dead skin contribute to acne is crucial for both prevention and treatment.

The other conditions mentioned, such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis, have distinct characteristics that do not involve the blocking of hair follicles due to oil and dead skin cells. Eczema is primarily associated with dry, itchy skin and inflammation. Psoriasis is characterized by rapid skin cell turnover, leading to thick, scaly patches, while dermatitis describes inflammation of the skin often due to allergic reactions or irritants.