No one likes waking up with a pimple—but they’re nothing to be ashamed of! If you’ve dealt with acne, you can count yourself in good company. Countless celebrities have been there, too, and many have been open about how they’ve figured out the right skincare solutions to get clearer skin. After all, everyone’s skin is unique, which means that what works for one person won’t necessarily work for the other. Although celebs might have pro makeup artists to help them conceal breakouts, many don’t shy away from sharing their skincare journeys from the world. After all, having acne is completely normal. 

If you deal with breakouts, knowing that major stars have been there can make you feel a little less alone. And learning about how celebrities found the best ways to take care of their skin—often through trial and error—may inspire you on your own path to a clearer complexion. You might even follow their lead.

Here are a few celebrities who have been vocal about their breakouts—and proven the power of effective skincare. 

Celebrities who’ve spoken out about their acne

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 50 million Americans report dealing with acne each year, including 85 percent of people between the ages of 12 and 24.¹ So you can rest assured that your favorite celeb has likely also dealt with annoying pimples or even persistent acne. We’ve all been there.

Kendall Jenner

Kendall Jenner has been on a journey to fight acne since she was a young teen. In January 2019, she joined the #10YearChallenge on Instagram and shared photos of her younger self with a full-blown breakout. She opened up about the impact acne had on her mental health, with breakouts often bringing her to tears. As a top model, Kendall has shown that fancy photo shoots in magazines and on social media never tell the full story—and that airbrushed perfection is an illusion. There’s no need to compare yourself to it.

Mindy Kaling

Acne doesn’t always end when you graduate high school or college, as Mindy Kaling can attest. The star occasionally posts about her acne-prone skin, which has helped normalize an experience that many adults can relate to. In one Instagram post, she joked, “That zit cream in your 30’s life. At least I’m not going on the Tonight Show later today.”²

Justin Bieber

Pop star Justin Bieber and his wife Hailey have both talked about acne on their Facebook show, “The Biebers On Watch.” In one video, Bieber describes acne as the “worst for self confidence.”³ While he doesn’t get overly focused on his acne, he does call out people who criticize him for it and discusses the challenges of dealing with acne with his fans. After all, another person’s skin is something best discussed between them and their own dermatology provider, as they figure out what may work best for them. No judgmental comments necessary.

How do celebrities get rid of acne? 

Ultimately, the best way to treat acne varies by person and by the cause of their acne. Personalized prescription treatments, like Curology, can efficiently help people reach their skincare goals, as can lifestyle changes, and a solid skincare routine (which we believe should be relatively simple). Celebrities get rid of their acne through a combination of these tactics. Here at Curology, we have licensed dermatology providers who will assess your skin, answer any questions you may have, and offer personalized skincare solutions for your needs. 

Daily skincare

Most celebrities treat acne the way everyone else does by finding a skincare routine and products that work for their skin type and specific acne issues. A basic skincare routine usually includes a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sun protection in the morning or a treatment at night. However, there’s a great variety of products within each of those categories. Someone with oily, acne-prone skin may need a different cleanser and moisturizer than someone with dry skin.

That’s where Curology can help. Our team of licensed dermatology providers work with you to prescribe a personalized formula for your unique skin concerns. You can complete your routine with our dermatologist-designed cleansers, moisturizers, and other skincare products. 

Once you’ve got your products, consistency is key. Keep your skin clean and moisturized, and don’t forget the sun protection!

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Start your skin quiz

If you want to try a personalized prescription formula and professional care you get with Curology, you just need to answer some questions about your skin and take a few selfies to start your trial.*

P.S. We did the homework, so you don’t have to:

1. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Skin Conditions by the Numbers. (n.d.).

2. Instagram. Mindy Kaling. (2015, Dec 3).

3. Access Hollywood. Justin Bieber gets real about adult acne: “It’s the worst.” YouTube. (2020, May 14).

Melissa Hunter is a board certified family nurse practitioner at Curology. She received her MSN from George Washington University in Washington, DC.

*Cancel anytime. Subject to consultation. Results may vary.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Melissa Hunter, NP-C