Acne is a skin condition that causes pimples, usually on the face, chest, or back. It happens when tiny openings in your skin called pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells, creating red bumps or whiteheads that can be sore or itchy.

Acne is extremely common during the teenage years because of changes happening in growing bodies, though younger kids and adults can get it too. Some people get just a few pimples now and then, while others deal with more serious breakouts that cover larger areas of skin.

Many things can trigger acne: hormones, stress, certain foods, or genetics (if your parents had acne, you're more likely to get it). While it's not dangerous, acne can be frustrating and sometimes embarrassing. The good news is that dermatologists (doctors who specialize in skin) have many effective treatments, from special creams to medications that can help clear it up.

You might hear someone dismissively call a problem “just acne,” but it's worth taking seriously. Treating acne properly can help prevent scarring and help people feel more confident during a time when they're already dealing with lots of changes.