As summer winds down and students begin getting ready for a new school year, many are also preparing to face something they didn’t ask for—acne.
Whether it’s a few breakouts before the first day of school or more persistent acne that’s been around for months, it’s one of the most common reasons I see teenagers in the office. What I want people to know is this: acne is incredibly common, and it is treatable. One of the biggest misconceptions about acne is that it’s caused by poor hygiene. In reality, acne develops because of a combination of hormones, increased oil production, clogged pores and inflammation. Washing your face too often or using harsh products won’t make it go away—in fact, it can make things worse by irritating your skin.
The start of a new school year can already bring enough stress, and stress alone can contribute to acne flare-ups. Add in sports helmets, sweaty practices, makeup, or simply the pressure of wanting to look your best, and it’s easy to see why breakouts often seem worse this time of year. Another habit I encourage patients to avoid is picking at pimples. I know it’s tempting, but squeezing or picking can increase inflammation, delay healing, and lead to permanent scarring or dark spots that last much longer than the blemish itself.
The good news is that clearer skin doesn’t always require an elaborate skincare routine. In fact, I often recommend keeping it simple. A gentle cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturizer, sunscreen every day, and using acne treatments consistently are often the foundation of healthy skin. One of the biggest mistakes I see is giving up too soon. Most acne treatments take several weeks to show improvement, so patience and consistency really do matter. If over-the-counter products aren’t helping, or if acne is painful, leaving scars, or affecting confidence, it’s time to seek medical advice. There are many effective treatment options available today, and treatment plans can be tailored to each person’s skin and goals.
As a dermatology provider, I’ve learned that acne isn’t just about what’s happening on the surface of the skin. It can affect confidence during some of the most important years of a person’s life. No one should feel embarrassed to ask questions or seek treatment.
As students head back to school this fall, remember that healthy skin isn’t about perfection. It’s about taking care of yourself, being patient with the process, and knowing that acne is a medical condition—not a reflection of who you are. Sometimes a little confidence starts with simply knowing you’re not alone.