Acne vulgaris ( or simply acne ) is a long-term skin disease that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and oil from the skin .1 Acne is characterized by areas of blackheads , whiteheads , pimples , and greasy skin , and may result in scarring .234 The resulting appearance can lead to anxiety , reduced self-esteem and , in extreme cases , depression or thoughts of suicide .56