By Dr. Hope Mitchell, MD
The Truth Contributor
If you have ever felt overwhelmed standing in the skincare aisle trying to figure out what actually works for acne, you are not alone. Between social media trends and products promising overnight results, many people end up frustrated and still breaking out.
As a board-certified dermatologist, I want people to understand that acne is a medical condition, not a reflection of poor hygiene or “bad skin.” And for many patients, especially those with deeper skin tones, acne can leave behind dark marks and discoloration that remain long after the breakout itself improves.
One of the biggest mistakes I see is people trying to completely dry their acne out. If your skin feels tight, irritated or starts burning and peeling, that does not mean your products are working better. In many cases, overusing harsh scrubs, acids and drying treatments can damage the skin barrier and increase inflammation.
Your skin needs balance, not harsh treatment.
A smarter approach to acne often starts with simplifying your routine. Gentle cleansing twice daily, using noncomedogenic products, moisturizing regularly, and wearing sunscreen every day can make a noticeable difference over time. Constantly changing products often creates more irritation and confusion.
Ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids can also be very effective when used correctly.
I also remind patients that acne is not the same for everyone. Hormones, stress, genetics, medications, diet, and skincare habits can all play a role. Some people struggle with clogged pores and blackheads, while others experience painful cystic acne or lingering discoloration after breakouts heal.
For many patients with deeper skin tones, those dark marks, known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, can sometimes become more frustrating than the acne itself. This is one reason why early treatment matters. Picking at blemishes or experimenting with aggressive home treatments can increase the risk of long-term discoloration and scarring.
Social media has also created unrealistic expectations around skin. Filters and heavily edited images often leave people comparing themselves to skin that is simply not real. Real skin has texture, pores, and occasional breakouts.
I also encourage patients to pay attention to lifestyle habits that affect the skin. Stress, sleep, hydration, and daily habits can all affect inflammation and acne flare ups.
Most importantly, do not lose hope if over the counter products have not worked for you. There are more treatment options available today than ever before, including prescription medications, chemical peels, laser treatments, and therapies designed specifically for acne and discoloration in skin of color.
Acne treatment takes time, and improvement rarely happens overnight. With the right treatment plan and consistency, most acne can be managed very successfully.
Dr. Hope Mitchell
Board Certified Dermatologist with Over 25 Years of Experience!
419.872.HOPE
MitchellDermatology.com
815 Commerce Drive | Perrysburg
Healthy Skin Begins with HOPE!