Conditions 2 min

Last Updated Nov 14, 2023

Does having acne mean I am not cleaning my face enough?

Author
|
Board-Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Muneeb Shah

No, having acne does not necessarily mean that you are not cleaning your face enough.

Acne is a common skin condition and can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, genetics, stress, diet and lifestyle. While it is important to maintain good hygiene habits in order to keep your skin healthy and reduce the risk of breakouts, acne is not necessarily caused by having dirty skin. In fact, over-cleansing your face can worsen breakouts by irritating and drying out the skin. Instead of focusing on scrubbing away dirt and grime, it is best to find an acne cleanser that targets the root cause of acne. And don’t forget to follow up with a moisturizer!

Key ingredients to look for in an acne cleanser:

  • Salicylic acid
  • Benzoyl peroxide (4% for the face)
  • Sulfur

Doctor's Note

Acne does not mean you have poor hygiene

Simply cleanse your face twice a day

Look for acne cleansers with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and sulfur

The Research

Goodman G. Cleansing and moisturizing in acne patients.

Am J Clin Dermatol. 2009;10 Suppl 1:1-6. doi: 10.2165/0128071-200910001-00001.

PMID: 19209947.

Dr. Muneeb Shah

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Dr. Muneeb Shah headshot

Dr. Muneeb Shah

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Dr. Muneeb Shah is a double Board-Certified Dermatologist and Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon in Hudson Yards, New York. He is passionate about educating the public on common skin issues and has accrued a following of 21+ million across his social media platforms on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.

Location: New York City, NY

Doctor's Note

Acne does not mean you have poor hygiene

Simply cleanse your face twice a day

Look for acne cleansers with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and sulfur

The Research

Goodman G. Cleansing and moisturizing in acne patients.

Am J Clin Dermatol. 2009;10 Suppl 1:1-6. doi: 10.2165/0128071-200910001-00001.

PMID: 19209947.

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