Acne Awareness Month: Breaking the Stigma, Spreading the Facts

We live in a society where acne is often seen as something ugly or undesirable. From an early age, we are surrounded by unsolicited advice, outdated beliefs, and countless superficial “facts” like “only dirty people get acne,” or “gaining more weight is a result of it.” And many of us have always been made to believe that a clear skin is better than acne skin or blemishes. Thus, in order to raise awareness about acne and break the myths around it, June is globally recognized as Acne Awareness Month. 

We are so into trying natural ways or olden days treatments that we have completely dismissed the fact that acne is a huge skin condition affecting millions of people. Globally over 633 million people are estimated to suffer from acne, making it the eight most common skin disease in the world, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). About 80-90% of teenagers are affected by this problem. 

Many people even in their 30s, 40s, and beyond suffer from acne silently. They try to hide their blemishes from the world by applying makeup, so they cannot be bullied, laughed at or called names. Therefore, Acne Awareness Month serves as a reminder that acne is not just about appearance but it’s more than that. 

One of the examples of this is of Fixderma, the top dermat-backed skincare brand in India, has created a new logo for the month of June that reflects its focus on Acne Awareness Month and demonstrates its strong dedication to skin health and concern-led care.

Therefore, it is important to see it as a sign of skin health, self-confidence and above all awareness.  

What is Acne & Blemishes?

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles get clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When you are travelling dust and other particles stay on your skin causing them to get trapped and create oil secretions. It leads to whiteheads, blackheads or even pimples also known as acne or a severe and painful cystic acne. 

The most common types of acne include:

• Blackheads: Open clogged pores
• Whiteheads: Closed clogged pores
• Pimples: Small red bumps, often with pus
• Nodules and Cysts: Painful, deep lumps under the skin, often leading to scarring

What causes acne?

While acne bumps can heal slowly and while one begins to go away, sometimes sudden breakouts can appear. These acne are triggered by many factors like:

Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones, especially androgens, can increase the skin’s oil (sebum) production, clogging pores and leading to breakouts. This is one of the common reasons little girls and women tend to get acne during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and even menopause. If someone is dealing with hormonal imbalance like PCOS this could also be a reason through which acne can worsen.

Genetics: Your family history plays a significant role. If your parents struggled with acne, you’re more likely to experience it too, regardless of how well you care for your skin.

Lifestyle: Diet, lack of sleep, and inconsistent hygiene habits can aggravate acne. Consuming high-glycemic foods (like sugary snacks and processed carbs) or dairy products may trigger flare-ups in some individuals.

Stress: While stress doesn’t directly cause acne, it can worsen existing breakouts by increasing inflammation and encouraging hormonal fluctuations that stimulate oil production.

Using wrong cosmetics or skincare products: Using harsh products, comedogenic (pore-clogging) makeup, or constantly switching skincare routines can irritate the skin and worsen acne. It’s essential to choose gentle, non-comedogenic products suitable for your skin type.

A few people tend to believe that acne is caused by poor hygiene. Although this is a common misconception. While the truth is that poor hygiene is not the root cause of acne and many is a combination of the factors above.

The Emotional and Social Impact

For many, acne is more than just a skin issue — it affects how they see themselves and how others perceive them. Studies show that individuals with moderate to severe acne often experience:

• Low self-esteem and body image issues
• Social withdrawal and isolation
• Bullying and teasing, especially among teenagers
• Anxiety and, in some cases, depression

In fact, research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology highlights a clear link between acne and mental health struggles, emphasizing the need for compassion, education, and early intervention.

Acne Awareness Month: Purpose and Importance

Acne Awareness Month aims to educate people, challenge stereotypes, and promote accurate information about acne and skincare. By sparking conversations, this month encourages individuals to seek proper treatment, stop self-blame, and embrace a more positive, informed approach to skin health.

The key goals of Acne Awareness Month include:
– Breaking myths and misinformation
– Encouraging people to consult dermatologists rather than rely solely on home remedies
– Normalizing acne — it’s common, it’s treatable, and it doesn’t define your worth
– Promoting skin positivity and mental well-being

Several organizations, including the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and skin health advocacy groups worldwide, use this month to host campaigns, share resources, and amplify real stories under hashtags like #AcneAwarenessMonth, #SkinPositivity, and #AcneIsNormal.

Myths vs. Facts: Busting Common Misconceptions

✔ Myth: Only teenagers get acne
Fact: Acne can affect adults of all ages

✔ Myth: Acne is caused by poor hygiene
Fact: Over-washing or harsh scrubbing can actually make acne worse

✔ Myth: Eating chocolate or oily foods causes acne
Fact: Diet may influence acne, but no single food directly causes it

✔ Myth: Sun exposure helps clear acne
Fact: While tanning may temporarily mask acne, sun exposure can worsen breakouts and cause long-term skin damage

✔ Myth: Popping pimples helps them go away
Fact: Picking or popping can lead to scarring and infection

Treatment and Management: What Really Works

The good news is that with the right approach, acne is highly manageable. Treatment depends on the severity and type of acne and may include:

Over-the-Counter Options:

• Benzoyl peroxide (kills bacteria, reduces inflammation)
• Salicylic acid (exfoliates, unclogs pores)
• Gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturizers

Prescription Treatments:

• Topical retinoids (prevent clogged pores)
• Antibiotics (reduce bacteria and inflammation)
• Hormonal treatments (such as birth control pills for women)
• Oral isotretinoin (for severe cystic acne, under medical supervision)

Other Approaches:

• Maintaining a gentle skincare routine
• Managing stress
• Consulting a certified dermatologist for personalized care

It’s important to remember: acne treatment takes time, consistency, and patience. Quick fixes often do more harm than good.

Acne Awareness Month is a call to action — for education, empathy, and empowerment. It reminds us that acne is a common, treatable condition that does not diminish a person’s value or beauty.

If you or someone you know struggles with acne, seek professional advice, avoid harsh self-judgment, and know that you are not alone. Let’s replace stigma with understanding, and silence with supportive conversations.

This June, join the movement — share your story, support others, and help normalize real skin.