What hereditary condition leads to the retention of dead cells in the follicle, causing blockage?

The term "retention hyperkeratosis" specifically refers to a hereditary condition where there is an abnormal accumulation of keratin, the primary protein in skin cells, within the hair follicles. This leads to a blockage because the dead cells do not shed effectively and build up in the follicle, creating a favorable environment for acne and other skin conditions.

This condition is often associated with acne, particularly in those who have a genetic predisposition to it. The retention of these dead cells hampers normal skin cell turnover, which can exacerbate other skin issues, including inflammation and infection.

In contrast, hyperkeratosis is a broader term that refers to thickening of the outer layer of the skin due to an increase in keratin, but it does not specifically address the hereditary aspect or the blockage in the follicles. Papular acne refers to a specific form of acne that includes small, raised bumps but does not directly explain the mechanism of blockage. Excessive sebum production is often a contributing factor in acne, but it alone does not account for the blockage caused by the retention of dead cells in the follicle, which is the primary focus of this question. Thus, retention hyperkeratosis accurately captures the essence of the condition leading to the