Acne is common and is usually treatable. Also called Pimples A skin condition that occurs when hair follicles plug with oil and dead skin cells. Symptoms range from uninflamed blackheads to pus-filled pimples or large, red and tender bumps. Acne is a disorder resulting from the action of hormones and other substances on the skinââ¬â¢s oil glands (sebaceous glands) and hair follicles. These factors lead to plugged pores and outbreaks of lesions commonly called pimples or zits.