Learn more about our editorial process. Acne is a common skin condition that causes pimples on your skin. These usually form on your face, chest and back. Treatment helps clear acne.

Acne is a skin disorder that involves the pilosebaceous unit (structure composed of the hair shaft surrounded by the sebaceous gland, erector pili smooth muscle and a sheath) and is characterized by the development of pustules in these structures. It can appear at any age and is related to lifestyle habits such as eating patterns, stress, insulin resistance and obesity. Currently, the available drug treatments are the use of antibiotics, topical agents, and the use of retinoids (which, apart from contraindications, are among the most effective drugs for the treatment of acne). It is important to emphasize that the expression of the lesion is not recommended, to avoid worsening of inflammation and the emergence of associated infection. In cases of severe acne, follow-up by a licensed dermatologist is strongly recommended.

And then there are the most severe forms of acne, nodular and cystic pimples, which form below the surface of the skin and are more likely to leave scars. But there are also plenty of environmental, behavioral, and internal factors that can make you more prone to breakouts in specific regions of your face.

In other words, acne is the skin condition that causes pimples. Acne is very common. In fact, research estimates that 9.4 percent of people worldwide have acne. In the United States, acne is the most common skin condition, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).