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

acned

ˈak-nēd 

adjective

an acned teenager

acned skin

Examples of acne in a Sentence

a teenager with bad acne

Recent Examples on the Web

Pairing chemical and physical UV filters, this is designed to be safe on all skin types, prevent acne, and reduce inflammation with consistent use. — Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2026

It’s best known as an acne brand, with products available online and in-store at Target, Walmart, CVS Pharmacy and Amazon. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 27 Oct. 2026

Newport Beach dermatologist Zenovia Gabriel, MD, warned New Beauty against harsh scrubs and abrasive cleansing tools, which strip the barrier and can worsen acne. — Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2026

Lauren Jones, a photographer from Savannah, Georgia, told Glamour that after acne-like rashes appeared on her cheeks, her esthetician instructed her to wash only with cold water and her hands for four weeks. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin acnē, acna, borrowed from Late Greek aknḗ "eruption on the face," manuscript variant of akmḗ, literally, "point" — more at acme

First Known Use

1743, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing acne

• acne rosacea
• anti-acne
• mask acne

Kids 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

acned

-nēd 

adjective