No, you don’t always grow out of it. As many as 25 percent of men and up to 50 percent of women find that they’re still fighting pimples long into adulthood. Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged, resulting in pimples on the face, back, chest, or shoulders. Acne is often associated with hormonal changes during puberty and pregnancy, but can also be triggered by other factors. Studies show that a carbohydrate-heavy diet (think bread, bagels, and chips) may worsen acne. And while stress isn’t the root cause of skin breakouts, periods of high-stress may make your symptoms worse. When you’re battling congested skin, our gentle cleansers, moisturizers, and masks can help reduce your flare-ups.

Tips for Clearing Acne

Here are our tried-and-true tips for clearing acne at any age.

Cut back on junk food. A three-year study in Papua New Guinea found that acne was virtually non-existent, and anthropologists suggest that it’s due to the culture’s clean diet containing zero processed foods. A diet high in sugar and simple carbohydrates also raises blood sugar, which triggers the pancreas to secrete more insulin. An overload of insulin in the blood stream encourages the body to produce testosterone—and testosterone in turn encourages a spike of sebum production, causing skin to overproduce oil that ultimately clogs pores.
Increase protein. One small study found that a high-protein diet decreased pimples in the control group, likely because protein is converted to glucose more slowly than carbs, so eating foods like steak doesn’t spike blood sugar as quickly as a slice of bread does.
Cleanse gently. Harsh cleansers can irritate your skin. Instead, opt for ingredients like witch hazel and tea tree oil that help eliminate bacteria without clogging pores.

Top Acne & Blemishes Brands

Clear skin ahead! Treat your skin to these member-favorite picks.

Dr. Hauschka

For more than 50 years, Dr. Hauschka has been crafting skin care products made with organic, biodynamic, and ethically sourced ingredients.

Balancing Day Lotion

This soothing lotion uses botanical extracts like avocado and apricot oils to help moisturize combination skin, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and banish impurities. Thrive Market member Meg says she really likes “the consistency and the scent.”

How to Treat Blemishes Naturally

Forget the prescription medications with potentially unpleasant side effects. Our go-to tips use skin-loving ingredients to clear up any unwanted blemishes.

Can Probiotics Clear Acne?

Probiotics are known for supporting gut health, but they may also be a tool to achieve clear skin. One bacterial strain in particular—saccharomyces boulardii—is believed to help treat acne. In addition to supplements, this strain can also be found in kombucha and kefir.

What Is Skin Mapping?

When pimples pop up, the ancient practice of face mapping may help you get a clearer picture of your overall health. Based in ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and reflexology, this helpful blog post teaches you how to interpret your skin woes.

The Right Way to Pop a Zit

We know it can be super tempting to pick at your skin. But before you do, review these expert tips that’ll help address pimples while minimizing the scarring they can cause.