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

But after 15 years of studying, testing, and curating Korean skin care—as an esthetician and cofounder of Soko Glam—I’ve learned that Korean skin care has a much more nuanced approach to acne. —Charlotte Cho, Allure, 1 Mar. 2026

Thanks to its skin-friendly ingredients, the cream is suitable for all skin types, including those with dry, oily, acne-prone, combination, and sensitive skin, so everyone can reap its benefits. —Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026

Warren praises this skincare for increasing cellular turnover, inhibiting pigment production and fighting acne. —Pamela Brill, Parents, 27 Feb. 2026

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), retinoids are vitamin A–derived ingredients used in skincare to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture and acne. —Allison Palmer updated February 25, Miami Herald, 25 Feb. 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