There isn’t a gene for acne , but if one or both of your parents had acne, you may be more likely to experience this condition. This is because certain genes that influence risk factors for acne, like your inflammatory response and the activity of oil-secreting glands, can be passed down from parent to child.[1] Research suggests that genetic factors are important in determining your susceptibility to facial acne and the ability of acne-prone hair follicles to evolve into acne-resistant follicles in adulthood.[2]
Is acne vulgaris an inherited condition?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Acne vulgaris is not directly inherited through a specific gene, but having one or both parents with acne may increase the likelihood of developing the condition due to inherited genetic factors that affect inflammation and oil gland activity. Research indicates that these genetic influences play a role in susceptibility to acne and the transition of hair follicles from acne prone to acne resistant in adulthood.