Welcome to Acne Files, a month-long series where we get real about whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, and every bump or blemish in between. From skin-soothing products R29 editors swear by to exclusive deals on the most breakout-friendly beauty brands, we’re kissing the concept of “bad skin” goodbye and exploring why acne goes so much further than skin deep.
If you clicked on this article, I'm willing to bet (and I'm not a betting gal) that you've experienced acne at some point in your life. Acne is the most common skin condition in the U.S. (affecting up to 50 million Americans annually, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association) — so why do we still act like it’s something that only happens to teens? Last year, in our inaugural Acne Week, we focused on how the rhetoric around acne affects mental health — and spotlighted the brands who are doing it right, free of B.S., shame, and embarrassment. This year, we want to take the conversation further, demystifying certain types of acne that we *still* don’t really talk about (let’s fix that). Plus, we’re shouting out the best, brightest skin care formulations that are fueling innovation in this category. TL;DR, there’s way more out there than just salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.
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To anyone who thinks that acne is only skin deep, I hope the stories you'll see this week will help clear that up. The truth is that acne can have a very real effect in terms of how we move about the world and the way we feel about ourselves — I know it has on me.
From tried-and-true products that our editors rely on to keep their complexions clear to what it's like to work in beauty and have persistent acne, we hope this curated lineup empowers you with the knowledge to take care of your face and the kindness to meet your skin no matter where it's at.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.