Abstract
Acne is a chronic hormonal–genetic disorder; the genetic basis is characterized by numerous transmission patterns, probably related to its wide spectrum of variation. The main factors involved in its etiopathogenesis are hyperkeratinization of the upper portion of the hair follicle, increase in sebaceous production, bacterial colonization of the follicles, and inflammatory processes in the follicles and the surrounding areas. This paper presents an updated review of these etiopathogenetic factors.