Acne Is Human: Why Breakouts Are Normal and Manageable
Dr. Pimple Popper explains why breakouts happen to practically everyone.
Published:
2 minute read
Acne is the most common skin condition in America — so why does stigma still surround it?
Time for some straight talk from dermatologist Sandra Lee, MD (aka Dr. Pimple Popper): there’s no such thing as perfect skin. For the vast majority of people, breakouts are simply part of life…which means it’s time we start normalizing acne.
Why only humans get acne
Scientists believe acne is uniquely human. One theory suggests that as our prehistoric ancestors lost their body hair, sebaceous (oil) glands didn’t fully adapt, leaving our skin prone to clogged pores and inflammation. This helps explain why acne vulgaris, the form most people experience, doesn’t occur in other species in the same way.
Today, acne is nearly universal: more than 85% of people will deal with it at some point in their lives. From blackheads and whiteheads to papules, pustules, and cysts, acne shows up in many different forms — but it remains a condition that unites us across age, gender, and background.
Dr. Pimple Popper's Acne Solutions
Acne is normal
At its core, acne is a natural part of skin biology. When pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes Cutibacterium acnes bacteria, the immune system responds with inflammation. That’s what causes the redness and swelling we recognize as pimples.
Acne is also influenced by fluctuating hormone levels, genetics, environment and lifestyle — factors that affect everyone to varying degrees. In other words, acne is your skin’s normal defense response, not a sign that something is “wrong.”
In today’s world of filters and airbrushed images, it’s easy to forget that visible skin texture (including breakouts) is part of being human.
How to manage acne with proven ingredients
While there’s no cure for acne, it is highly treatable. Dermatologists often recommend a few gold-standard ingredients that address different parts of the process:
- Benzoyl peroxide: kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.
- Sulfur: a natural antimicrobial that helps control oil, making it a good choice for sensitive skin.
- Salicylic acid: exfoliates inside pores, clearing oil and debris.
- Retinol: speeds up cell turnover to keep pores unclogged.
Used consistently, these ingredients can make a significant difference in keeping skin clear.
Try: SLMD Acne System, Body Acne System
Acne FAQs: What’s normal and how to manage it
Q: Is acne normal?
A: Yes. Acne is the most common skin condition, affecting about 85% of people at some point. It’s a normal part of skin biology.
Q: Why do humans get acne?
A: Human sebaceous glands respond strongly to hormones. When excess oil combines with dead skin cells and bacteria, pores clog and inflammation develops.
Q: Can adults get acne?
A: Absolutely. Adult acne is common, especially with hormone shifts, stress, or certain lifestyle factors.
Q: Is there a cure for acne?
A: There’s no permanent cure, but acne can be managed with consistent care and dermatologist-recommended treatments.
Q: What’s the best way to manage acne?
A: Using ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, or sulfur regularly helps control breakouts and prevent new ones.
Dr. Lee's Last Word
As a dermatologist, I want people to remember that acne isn’t a flaw, it’s your skin responding to change. Some experience it more, some less, but it doesn’t define who you are. And while it’s normal, the good news is that acne can be managed with the right care.
