Acne, also called zits or breaking out, usually consists of different types of bumps on the skin. The most common are pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads.
Severe acne can cause deeper bumps, called cysts or nodules.
Acne can appear on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and upper back. Acne ranges from mild to very severe. Severe cases of acne can cause permanent scars. Acne is a common condition affecting about 17 million Americans. Acne occurs most often among teenagers nearly 4 out of every 5 teens have acne.