Skin condition
Acne
A plain-English guide from Dr. Auston Eckert — what acne actually is, what genuinely helps, and what's just noise.
What's actually going on
Acne happens when pores get clogged with oil and dead skin, then inflamed by normal skin bacteria and shifting hormones. It's incredibly common, it has nothing to do with being 'unclean,' and the kind you have — blackheads, deep cysts, hormonal flares — shapes what actually works.
What tends to help
- A gentle, consistent routine you'll actually stick to
- Proven active ingredients matched to your type of acne
- Patience — real change takes weeks, not days
- Keeping your hands off (I know, I know)
What I'd skip
- Scrubbing harder or washing more often
- Piling on every 'acne' product at once
- Toothpaste, lemon, and other internet 'hacks'
Breakouts that won't quit?
Start a visit and I'll look at your skin and your history, then build a plan for your specific type of acne — which may include prescription treatment, including formulations I compound when it'll help.
Start a visitA simple supporting routine
Gentle, cosmetic basics that complement your routine. These support healthy-looking skin — they aren't a treatment for acne. Treatment, where it's needed, comes from your visit.
Gentle Cleanser
Fragrance-free and non-stripping. Cleanses without the tight, squeaky feeling.
Oil-Free Moisturizer
Lightweight, non-greasy hydration that won't weigh skin down.