Acne vulgaris (acne) is a common skin condition that occurs when
oil and dead skin cells clog the skin's pores. Pimples, whiteheads, and
blackheads are forms of acne.
Skin glands can produce more oil than the skin needs to stay
moist. Too much oil can mix with dead skin cells and can clog pores. This
sometimes results in bacterial infection. Acne most often develops on a
person's face, neck, chest, shoulders, or back.
Acne is most common in teens and young adults, but it can also
affect children. It may begin at any time and persist throughout a person's
life. How much acne and where it appears vary from person to person. Some
people only have a pimple from time to time. Others may have a lot of pimples
most of the time.
Treatment may reduce or stop outbreaks and prevent scarring. Most
cases of acne are treated with nonprescription medications at home. Severe acne
may require prescription medications.
