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

For women, the most common effects are excess hair growth, acne and weight gain, which are usually reversible with reduction in dosage or discontinuation.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

Some light therapies are used in hospitals for eczema, psoriasis and acne, but those are very different, delivering precisely targeted UV rays under strict medical supervision.

From BBC • Feb. 11, 2026

If approved and launched by 2030, he thinks the drug’s sales as a first line treatment for acne could surpass a billion dollars.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

Buying in — the right lip gloss, the right sneakers, the right acne medication — was all that was required.

From Salon • Jan. 17, 2026

They'd used my school photo from last year, when I'd had the worst acne breakout imaginable.

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda