Definition

Noun: A common, chronic skin condition characterized by the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules, and/or cysts. It typically occurs on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders and is most prevalent during adolescence and young adulthood due to hormonal changes.

Usage

This is a medical term used in dermatology and general healthcare contexts to specify the most common type of acne. It is often simply called "acne" in everyday conversation.

Examples

• The dermatologist diagnosed the patient with acne vulgaris.
• Acne vulgaris is often triggered by hormonal fluctuations during puberty.
• Many over-the-counter treatments are available for mild cases of acne vulgaris.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used to distinguish this common form from other types of acne, such as or .
• In medical literature, it is often discussed in relation to its pathogenesis, which involves factors like follicular hyperkeratinization, increased sebum production, bacterial colonization (), and inflammation.

Variants and Related Words

• Acne (n): The general, more common term for the skin condition. is a specific type of acne.
• Comedo (n): The primary lesion of acne vulgaris; a clogged hair follicle. An open comedo is a blackhead; a closed comedo is a whitehead.
• Papule (n): A small, solid, inflamed bump on the skin.
• Pustule (n): A small blister or pimple on the skin containing pus.

Synonyms

• Common acne
• (Simply) Acne

Antonyms

• Clear skin
• Unblemished complexion

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To have a breakout / to break out: A common, informal way to describe the sudden appearance of acne lesions.
  • She tends to break out before important events.
• To treat acne: The standard phrase for managing the condition.
  • He is using a new cream to treat his acne.

Noun

1. the most common form of acne; usually affects people from puberty to young adulthood