acne

American  

[ak-nee] / ˈæk ni /

noun

Pathology.

1. an inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands, characterized by comedones and pimples, especially on the face, back, and chest, and, in severe cases, by cysts and nodules resulting in scarring.

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acne British  

/ ˈæknɪ /

noun

1. Also called: acne vulgaris.  a chronic skin disease common in adolescence, involving inflammation of the sebaceous glands and characterized by pustules on the face, neck, and upper trunk See also rosacea

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acne Scientific  

/ ăk′nē /

1. An inflammatory disease of the skin in which the sebaceous glands become clogged and infected, often causing the formation of pimples, especially on the face. It is most common during adolescence, but also occurs in infants and adults.

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Usage

What is acne? Acne is a skin condition in which the skin’s sebaceous glands become clogged, infected, and inflamed. A more technical name for it is acne vulgaris.Acne commonly results in pimples—small inflammations or swellings of the skin that may or may not be filled with pus. More severe cases of acne can result in cysts and nodules that can leave scars.Acne most commonly affects the face, neck, and back. It is most common among teens and preteens due to changes in body chemistry during the period of development known as puberty, but adults can also get acne.Example: My skin is naturally oily, so I have to buy a specific face wash to help keep my acne under control.

Other Word Forms

• acned adjective

Etymology

Origin of acne

1820–30; < New Latin < Late Greek aknás, a manuscript error for akmás, accusative plural of akmḗ facial eruption, probably to be identified with Greek akmḗ acme

Example Sentences

He lifted his hair, showing his teenage acne to make her laugh.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

A few years later, I was managing an autoimmune condition and some stubborn cystic acne when my doctor suggested I try reducing dairy — just to see what happened.

From Salon • Mar. 25, 2026

She has shared a before-and-after with her 59,000 followers: Her face, once splotchy with some acne scarring, is now clear, bronzed and glowing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026

Hoping to cover dark patches on his skin that had been caused by acne, Daniel relied on an unmarked product given to him by a friend.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026

The pill was by far my favorite acne treatment.

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi