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

Dermatologists generally recommend it for people focused on facial aging, fine lines, redness, mild acne and overall tone. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 29 Sep. 2026

In addition to acting, Reinhart also launched her acne-safe skincare brand, Personal Day, in October 2024. — Giovana Gelhoren, InStyle, 28 Sep. 2026

My eyes immediately scan ingredient labels when shopping for products, and the First Aid Beauty Ultra-Gentle Cream-to-Foam Face Cleanser passes the acne-care check. — Dana Oliver, Parents, 23 Sep. 2026

Small bumps can also be blemishes caused by clogged or inflamed pores, particularly on acne-prone areas like the chest and back. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 19 Sep. 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