Dr. Pimple Popper's College Skincare Guide: Clear Skin Tips
You've got a glowing future — try these tips to keep you at the head of the class.Published:
4 minute read
College life can be stressful, with late-night study sessions, dorm life, and unpredictable schedules all taking a toll on your skin. But don’t worry — clearer skin is within reach, says dermatologist and SLMD Skincare founder Sandra Lee, MD (aka Dr. Pimple Popper). Here is her Do’s and Don’ts guide to creating a simple, effective skincare routine so you can work smarter, not harder.
Do know your skin type: customize your routine
Understanding your skin type is essential for choosing the right skincare products. Here’s a quick guide:
- Oily skin: Prone to excess oil with a higher likelihood of acne and blackheads. Focus on balancing oil production and keeping pores clear.
- Dry skin: Often feels tight or flaky, with a higher risk of irritation and fine lines. Prioritize hydration and protecting the skin barrier.
- Combination skin: Features both oily and dry areas, typically with an oily T-zone. Requires a balanced approach to manage oil and moisture.
- Sensitive skin: Easily irritated, with redness and reactions to certain products. Stick to gentle, soothing products that strengthen the skin barrier.
- Normal skin: Well-balanced, with no major issues. Maintain skin health with a regular cleansing and moisturizing routine.
Dr. Lee’s Tip: Knowing your skin type helps you choose the best products and treatments. Tailor your routine to your skin's needs for the best results.
Don't skip your routine: stay consistent
We know you’re focused on school and social life — but that face isn’t going to wash itself. The good news? Keeping your skin healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. The simpler your routine — and the more effective your products — the more likely you’ll be to stick with it.
According to Dr. Lee, it only takes three simple steps to get glowing: cleanse, treat, and moisturize. Choose your key ingredients based on your skin type, your goals, and your commitment level (more on that below).
Dr. Lee’s Tip: Consistency is the cornerstone of effective acne treatment. Sticking to your routine every day, even when you're busy, is crucial for seeing real results. Think of it like studying — the more regularly you do it, the better the outcome.
Dr. Pimple Popper's College Student Skincare Picks
Do add skincare products based on your goals and lifestyle
To help you decide how much time and effort you want to dedicate to your skincare routine, here’s a quick comparison between a basic routine and an advanced one that involves additional treatment products. Psst: for product layering tips, click here.
Do be prepared: top spot treatments for college acne
No matter how diligent you are with your skincare routine, pimples are going to pop up. Keep a variety of spot treatments in your bathroom caddy to shrink them fast. Here’s what to use and when, according to Dr. Lee:
- Salicylic acid: Best for clogged pores, blackheads, and whiteheads. Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Spot Treatment
- Benzoyl peroxide: Ideal for red, inflamed pimples with or without a white center. Try: SLMD BP Acne Spot Treatment
- Acne patches: Helps keep fingers off while pimples heal. Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Pimple Patches
Dr. Pimple Popper's Spot Treatments for Students
Do avoid all-nighters: get enough sleep when you can
We get it: this one’s a big ask. But as often as possible, get a good night's sleep. Not only will it show in your grades, but it will also show all over your face. That’s because night is prime time for your skin to regenerate and repair itself.
Even if you get home late, wash your face and apply some moisturizer—especially if you’re wearing makeup, or if you’ve had any alcohol. Drinking dries out your skin, making it look dull, accelerating the aging process, and increasing redness.
To help your skin rebound after a night out, try a face mask. Dr. Lee suggests a soothing, purifying mask to help unclog pores and refresh your skin.
Do wash your laundry regularly
Trust us: you don’t want to know what’s hanging out on your dirty sheets and towels. All the oil, dirt, dead cells, and microscopic critters that come in contact with your face and body can cause breakouts. So do yourself a favor and clean all of your linens (and that hoodie you’ve been sporting 24/7) on a weekly basis.
If you're experiencing some body acne, consider spraying your clothes and linens with an acne treatment spray in between washes to combat bacteria. Try: SLMD Salicylic Acid Body Spray
Dr. Pimple Popper answers college students’ skincare FAQ
Q: What’s the best way to deal with breakouts during exams?
A: Stress can trigger acne, so keep up with your acne skincare routine and consider adding a spot treatment to tackle breakouts as they appear.
Q: Can a busy college schedule affect my skin health?
A: Yes, irregular sleep and stress can lead to breakouts. Try to maintain a balanced lifestyle and stick to a simple skincare routine.
Q: How can I keep my skin clear if I can’t afford high-end products?
A: Focus on the basics: a good cleanser, treatment, and moisturizer. There are affordable, dermatologist-approved options available — like my SLMD line ;-)
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!
