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

The former helps to destroy acne-causing bacteria and reduce sebum production, while the latter rejuvenates and soothes, making for a comprehensive three-minute treatment to calm and clarify skin. —Emily Orofino, Vogue, 26 Nov. 2025

Best gifts for the 2025 holiday season This cordless LED skincare mask utilizes clinically proven light therapy to help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, treat acne, and firm the skin. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 21 Nov. 2025

Industry experts also posit that often topical-first brands include high levels of biotin in their supplements, which consumers are increasingly avoiding due to its connection to acne flareups. —Emily Burns, Footwear News, 19 Nov. 2025

At least 50 million Americans are affected by acne and nearly 1 in 10 have the most common form of eczema, atopic dermatitis, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. —Gabrielle Fonrouge, CNBC, 18 Nov. 2025

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