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

People with deeper skin tones, or anyone who develops dark spots after acne, burns or bug bites, should skip aggressive methods that can worsen pigmentation. — Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Nov. 2026

This sink-free system is gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin, and slips easily into a pocket, purse or carry-on. — David Dickstein, Oc Register, 11 Nov. 2026

Best gift for kids or grandkids with acne CLN Hypochlorous Spray is a nonirritating facial mist that helps control the bacteria and yeast that cause breakouts, including fungal acne. — Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 11 Nov. 2026

The duo inaugurated their second clinic in September, adding two exclusive offerings, a Vbeam laser that targets red marks and a Fraxel laser that helps reduce indented acne scars, to its service menu. — Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 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