Expert Advice

From Popping to Preventing Pimples: The Story of SLMD Skincare

We’re celebrating here at SLMD: it’s been 5 years since Dr. Sandra Lee (aka Dr. Pimple Popper) introduced her dermatological skincare to the world. To honor this major milestone, we’re taking a trip down memory lane, chronicling her journey from popping to preventing pimples — and beyond.

Published: August 15, 2022

3 minute read

Dr. Sandra Lee aka Dr. Pimple Popper and SLMD Acne System

3 minute read

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01.Part one: the early years
02.Part two: Dr. Pimple Popper is born
03.Part three: from pimple popping to skincare products

04.Part four: the new face of SLMD
05.SLMD timeline
06.Shop the article

Part one: the early years

From a young age, Sandra Lee knew she wanted to be a dermatologist — just like her father. She grew up helping out around the office, and was fascinated by the world of dermatology.

Dr. Lee graduated from Drexel University medical school, then matched into Southern Illinois University for residency. But she always knew she’d end up back in Southern California working with her father.

At the family dermatology practice in Upland, California, Dr. Lee began treating all kinds of skin concerns, from acne to psoriasis to rosacea, and much more. She also honed her cosmetic dermatology skills, working with lasers and injectables, and became an expert in mohs surgery to remove skin cancer.

Part two: Dr. Pimple Popper is born

In 2014, Dr. Lee began posting videos on YouTube to give viewers a glimpse into the world of dermatology. Things like wart removal, keloid scar repair, Botox injections — anything and everything that was going on in the office on a daily basis.

When she posted a blackhead extraction one day, Dr. Lee observed something curious: a noticeable spike in engagement. Thinking it might be a fluke, she posted another — and saw an additional increase.

After doing some investigating online, Dr. Lee discovered an entire community of extraction enthusiasts. With their help, she honed her video skills, and took on a new online moniker: Dr. Pimple Popper.

SLMD Acne System

Part three: from pimple popping to skincare products

In just two short years, Dr. Pimple Popper reached one million subscribers. Dr. Lee understood early on that social media was an incredible resource for sharing her knowledge and expertise with people who otherwise may not be able to seek out a doctor for advice.

Dr. Lee saw a true need not only for accurate information about skin health, but for skincare products that effectively treat real skin concerns. So in 2017, she introduced SLMD, launching her 3-step Acne System. A year later, she followed with the award-winning Body Acne System. By 2020, SLMD’s innovative Salicylic Acid Body Spray went viral on TikTok, selling out online.

@drpimplepopper When you need to wear your mask but it keeps giving you MASKNE! 😫#wearamask #drpimplepopper @slmdskincare ♬ original sound - Sandra Lee, MD

Part four: the new face of SLMD

As SLMD was taking off, so was the popularity of Dr. Pimple Popper: in 2018, TLC introduced a television series starring Dr. Lee that’s now 9 seasons and counting. The YouTube channel has exceeded 2 billion views.

Keeping in step with an evolving, growing community, Dr. Lee has expanded her SLMD range to address skin concerns like keratosis pilaris, hyperpigmentation, photoaging, and more.

In 2022, SLMD began debuting a brand-new look, redesigning the website to deliver an optimized, all-in-one skincare resource. Soon, SLMD fans will experience streamlined, updated packaging, as well. It’s the same effective skincare approved and recommended by Dr. Lee, with a fresh, clean face.