Dr. Pimple Popper’s College Skincare Routine for Clearer Skin
You've got a glowing future — try these tips to keep you at the head of the class.Published:
3 minute read
College is exciting — and stressful. Late-night study sessions, dorm life, and unpredictable schedules can all throw your skin off balance. But clearer skin really is possible, says dermatologist and SLMD Skincare founder Sandra Lee, MD (aka Dr. Pimple Popper).
Here’s her science-backed guide to keeping breakouts under control while you’re earning those credits.
College skincare 101: know your skin type
Before you start shopping, figure out what your skin actually needs. Your skin type determines which ingredients will help — and which could make things worse.
- Oily skin: Shiny, acne-prone; look for oil-controlling and pore-clearing ingredients
- Dry skin: Tight or flaky; focus on barrier-repairing hydration
- Combination skin: Oily T-zone, drier cheeks; you’ll need balance
- Sensitive skin: Easily red or reactive; stick with gentle, fragrance-free formulas
- Normal skin: Even tone and texture; maintain with consistent cleansing and moisturizing
Dr. Pimple Popper tip: “The best skincare routine is the one that fits your skin — not someone else’s TikTok routine.”
Why consistency is the secret to clear skin in college
Your GPA isn’t the only thing that benefits from discipline. Dr. Lee reminds students that skin improves with steady effort, not occasional cramming.
It doesn’t take an elaborate routine — just a few minutes, twice a day. A simple three step rhythm of cleanse, treat, moisturize is all you need for visible change. Over time, those small, consistent steps make the biggest difference.
Even if you get home late, take a minute to wash your face and apply moisturizer — especially if you’ve been wearing makeup or drinking. Both can leave your skin dehydrated and dull. Alcohol, in particular, can worsen redness and make skin look tired the next day, while also accelerating the aging process.
Dr. Pimple Popper tip: “Even on late nights, don’t skip your cleanser or treatment step. Think of it as daily homework for your skin — consistency equals results.”
Dr. Pimple Popper's College Student Skincare Picks
How to build a college skincare routine
Whether you’ve got five minutes or fifteen, tailor your routine to your lifestyle. Start with the basics, then level up when you can.
Dr. Pimple Popper tip: “You can always add steps later — but if you skip the basics, even the fanciest products won’t work.”
Best acne spot treatments for college breakouts
Even with a solid routine, breakouts happen — especially during exams or stress spikes. Keep a few dermatologist-approved spot treatments on hand:
- Salicylic acid: Clears clogged pores and helps reduce blackheads and whiteheads. Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Spot Treatment
- Benzoyl peroxide: Kills acne-causing bacteria and calms inflamed pimples. Try: SLMD BP Acne Spot Treatment
- Acne patches: Shield pimples from picking while they heal. Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Pimple Patches
Dr. Pimple Popper tip: “The sooner you treat a pimple, the less power it has. Think of it as extra-credit work for your skin.”
Dr. Pimple Popper's Spot Treatments for Students
Sleep, stress, and laundry: everyday habits that impact your skin
Clear skin isn’t only about products — it’s also about habits.
- Sleep: Skin repairs itself overnight. Aim for consistent rest whenever possible.
- Stress: Midterms? Deadlines? Cortisol spikes can trigger more oil production and breakouts.
- Laundry: Dirty pillowcases and towels collect oil, sweat, and bacteria. Wash weekly to prevent acne flare-ups.
And don’t forget about the rest of your skin: body breakouts are common when you’re busy and sweating more. Try using SLMD Salicylic Acid Body Spray between washes to help keep pores clear and smooth.
Dr. Pimple Popper answers college skincare FAQs
Q: What’s the best way to deal with breakouts during exams?
A: Stress hormones can make acne worse. Stay consistent with your routine and use a spot treatment as soon as you notice a bump.
Q: Can a busy college schedule really affect my skin?
A: Yes — lack of sleep and increased stress both impact skin’s oil production and barrier function. Try to keep your routine simple so it’s sustainable.
Q: How can I keep my skin clear on a student budget?
A: Focus on essentials: a gentle cleanser, an acne treatment, and a lightweight moisturizer. Dermatologist-formulated options like SLMD are affordable and effective.
Dr. Lee's Last Word
I get it — college students have a lot going on, and skincare isn’t always at the top of the list. But it only takes a few steps, and maybe two minutes, to take care of your skin. Your future self will thank you!
