Serum zinc levels in acne patients and in matched healthy controls of both sexes and within the same age group (16-20 years age) were estimated. Women, whether diseased or healthy, have shown a significantly lower mean serum zinc level than the corresponding men. In advanced grades of acne, both men and women have a significantly lower level than the corresponding control groups. Within the same sex group, those with advanced grades have revealed a significantly lower level than those with slight grades.