: a disorder of the skin that is marked by blemishes (such as whiteheads, blackheads, or pustules) especially on the face, chest, and shoulders and is caused by inflammation of sebaceous glands and hair follicles
especially
: a form found chiefly in adolescents
Examples of acne in a Sentence
a teenager with bad acne
Recent Examples on the Web
This year, Select editors got ahead of any surprise pimples by investigating the difference between skin purging and breakouts, researching the best over-the-counter topicals for teen acne, and asking dermatologists the best blackhead treatments for acne-prone skin.
—
David Hickey, NBC news, 17 Mar. 2026
Fast-absorbing with a breezy, gel-like texture, the oil- and fragrance-free formula suits all skin types, including those with dry, acne-prone, and sensitive complexions.
—Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 11 Mar. 2026
Opt for formulas catered to oily and acne-prone skin and be consistent with your routine.
—Hannah Coates, Vogue, 9 Mar. 2026
Some women have postpartum hair loss, acne, dehydration, sleep deprivation and complications such as postpartum preeclampsia.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 9 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for acne
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David Hickey, NBC news, 17 Mar. 2026
Fast-absorbing with a breezy, gel-like texture, the oil- and fragrance-free formula suits all skin types, including those with dry, acne-prone, and sensitive complexions.
—Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 11 Mar. 2026
Opt for formulas catered to oily and acne-prone skin and be consistent with your routine.
—Hannah Coates, Vogue, 9 Mar. 2026
Some women have postpartum hair loss, acne, dehydration, sleep deprivation and complications such as postpartum preeclampsia.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 9 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for acne
Cite this Entry
“Acne.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acne. Accessed 18 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
acne
noun
ac·ne
ˈak-nē 
: a disorder of the skin caused by inflammation of skin glands and hair follicles and marked by pimples especially on the face
Medical Definition
acne
noun
ac·ne
ˈak-nē
: a disorder of the skin that is marked by blemishes (such as whiteheads, blackheads, or pustules) especially on the face, chest, and shoulders and is caused by inflammation of sebaceous glands and hair follicles
especially
: a form found chiefly in adolescents : acne vulgaris
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