FAQ: About Acne

Acne is a chronic, often inherited skin condition that develops when pores shed dead skin cells faster than normal. These excess cells mix with oil and create blockages that can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, cysts, and nodules. While oil production and skin cell turnover vary from person to person, acne-prone skin sheds up to five layers of dead skin cells daily — far more than pores can expel. This creates the perfect environment for acne bacteria to multiply. Although bacteria play a role, they are a result of clogged pores, not the root cause.

Why acne treatments matter: No drug can cure acne. Prescription and over-the-counter acne drugs like benzoyl peroxide may temporarily improve breakouts, but they often cause irritation, dryness, thinning of the skin, and recurring flare-ups once you stop using them. That’s why for over 38 years, dermatologists and customers have trusted our clinically proven, plant-based LEROSETT® Organic Acne Kits — each built around our drug-free All-Natural  Spot Treatment & Clay Mask, plus our aloe-based Botanical Acne Cleanser and other drug-free essentials — to clear and prevent breakouts naturally without harsh chemicals.

Adult acne is more common than many think. Women in their 30s and beyond often develop breakouts for the first time due to hormonal changes from birth control, pregnancy, nursing, perimenopause, or stress. Men can also experience adult acne, though it’s less common, and sweat or poor cleansing after sports can make it worse. Not all breakouts are true acne—occasional monthly pimples may be hormonal—so a consistent, gentle routine is key to preventing scarring and keeping skin balanced.

Why acne treatments matter: Many acne products—whether $4 or $40—rely on the same few harsh drug ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, synthetic salicylic acid, or sulfur, usually in a water base. Water offers no nutrients, can dry skin, and doesn’t penetrate deeply. These drugs can temporarily reduce breakouts but often cause irritation and thinning skin, and the acne usually returns when you stop using them. That’s why many dermatologists recommend drug-free, plant-based options like our LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask or complete Organic Acne Kits—formulated to clear and prevent breakouts while keeping skin hydrated and healthy.

Yes. While acne can affect anyone, the underlying triggers often differ between men and women. In women, hormonal fluctuations related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, or birth control use can lead to flare-ups. In men, acne is often linked to higher and more consistent levels of testosterone, which can increase oil production and the risk of clogged pores. Environmental factors—like sweat, skincare habits, and diet—can also play a role for both.

Some people notice temporary improvement in breakouts after sun exposure, but research shows there’s no consistent or proven benefit. In fact, ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can increase the risk of skin cancer, speed up skin aging, and trigger irritation—especially if your skin is already sensitive from acne treatments.

Harsh chemical acne products like benzoyl peroxide or strong acids can make skin more sun-sensitive, leading to redness, peeling, or burns in sunny climates like California, Florida, or Texas. That’s why many dermatologists recommend plant-based, nutrient-rich treatments, such as the LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask or LEROSETT® Organic Acne Kits—gentle enough for daily use, even in sunny environments.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ—it deserves gentle, effective care. Over-cleansing, scrubbing, or using harsh chemicals can strip the skin’s natural barrier, leading to more oil production, irritation, and breakouts. Instead, aim for a routine that keeps pores clear while maintaining healthy hydration.

The Ideal Acne Solution: The best treatment should absorb excess oil, help regulate oil production, and unclog pores—without causing irritation or long-term damage. Many drug-based treatments like benzoyl peroxide, strong salicylic acid, or sulfur can over-dry the skin, thin its surface, and cause sensitivity. That’s why many dermatologists recommend plant-based alternatives like the LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask, which infuses zinc to help reduce oil production while drawing out impurities. Used daily as a thin mask, it can help clear skin over time—without drug-related risks.

Daily Tips for Acne-Prone Skin:
• Cleanse Gently: Wash twice daily with a mild, non-drying cleanser. Massage in circular motions for at least two minutes to allow ingredients to work.
• Moisturize: Use an oil-free moisturizer to prevent dryness, which can trigger excess oil production.
• Hands Off: Avoid touching, picking, or squeezing blemishes to reduce scarring and dark spots.
• Protect from Sun Damage: Sun exposure doesn’t heal acne and can accelerate aging. Always protect skin from UV rays.
• Choose Cosmetics Carefully: Select non-comedogenic, oil-free makeup and hair products to help prevent clogged pores.

Yes—you can, but it must be done carefully. Telling people never to pop a pimple or to see a doctor for one is unrealistic. The real issue is that most people squeeze too aggressively or too early, which can cause scarring or push the infection deeper.

Wait until it’s ready: A pimple should only be extracted when it has a visible white or yellow head. This means it’s close to the surface and can be removed with minimal damage. LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask helps speed this process by drawing the infection to the surface.

After extraction: Gently absorb any fluid with a cotton ball, then reapply LEROSETT® several times or leave it on overnight. As the clay dries, it absorbs remaining infection, tightens the opening, and reduces the risk of scarring. You may need to repeat spot treatments 5–10 times over the next 24–48 hours until the area closes.

Be gentle: Avoid squeezing developing pimples without a head—this can worsen inflammation and cause deeper scars. Done correctly on a mature pustule, extraction can speed healing and minimize long-term marks.

Many people use the word “acne” to describe any breakout, but medically, acne is very different from the occasional pimple. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right skincare and avoid unnecessary worry. Acne is classified as a skin disease

Occasional pimples: Almost everyone gets them, especially teenagers and young adults. A pimple is simply a clogged pore that may become inflamed and form a small bump or whitehead. These are usually mild, short-lived, and often linked to temporary factors like stress, diet changes, makeup, or not washing your face after sweating. This is considered problem skin, not a chronic skin disease.

Acne: Acne Vulgaris is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition affecting the oil glands and hair follicles. It’s often triggered by genetics, hormones, excess oil production, and bacteria. Acne can involve frequent, multiple breakouts—sometimes cystic and painful—that can last for weeks, cause significant redness, and lead to long-term scarring if untreated. While acne has no permanent “cure,” it can be effectively managed with proper care.

Cystic acne: This severe form of acne occurs when deep infections form under the skin, creating large, tender, sometimes painful cysts. These are more likely to scar and often require consistent, targeted treatment.

Choosing the right treatment: If you only get a few pimples now and then, you may just need a gentle, plant-based skincare routine that keeps pores clear and reduces oil—such as the LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask. This 100% natural, nutrient-rich clay absorbs excess oil, draws out impurities, and can be used daily to help prevent and heal breakouts. For more frequent or moderate acne, a complete plant-based LEROSETT® Organic Acne Kit can manage oil production and help keep skin consistently clear without the side effects of harsh chemicals.

Bottom line: Not all breakouts mean you have acne. Occasional pimples are common and manageable, while acne is a long-term condition that requires ongoing treatment. Understanding which one you have can save you time and stress and help you choose the best care for your skin.

If you’re researching safe, effective acne treatments for your teen, look no further than our LEROSETT® Smarter, Safer, Proven Acne Kits. Formulated without benzoyl peroxide, these plant-based kits offer professional-grade results while being gentle on young skin.

Benzoyl peroxide—a common acne drug that has been shown to decompose into benzene, a known human carcinogen. Research published in March 2024 confirms that when acne products containing benzoyl peroxide are exposed to high heat (such as a delivery truck in summer), benzene formation can occur. Benzene is toxic even at very low levels and is linked to cancer.

Possible Side Effects

Benzoyl peroxide can cause unwanted side effects, which may require medical attention:

• Pain, burning, blistering, color changes, redness, scaling, or swelling at the application site
• Dryness, peeling, or itching of the skin after a few days
• Mild stinging or a temporary feeling of warmth
• Hives, skin rash, or severe swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• Increased skin sensitivity to sunlight, risk of severe sunburn

Potential Skin and Health Concerns

• Hyperpigmentation risk: The American Academy of Dermatology notes that benzoyl peroxide may prolong acne-induced dark spots, especially in darker skin tones.
• Premature aging: Because it works by reducing bacteria in the pores, benzoyl peroxide can dehydrate the skin’s surface—making it look older and feel less elastic.
• Possible tumor promotion: Studies have linked benzoyl peroxide exposure to tumor growth in laboratory animals under UV light (source).

Long History, Serious Questions

Benzoyl peroxide has been used for acne for over 70 years. While it can reduce breakouts, many people dislike the irritation, dryness, and long-term risks. For example, studies show it should not be applied near the eyes, nose, mouth, mucous membranes, or broken skin due to irritation risk. If accidental contact occurs, flushing the area with water for at least 15 minutes is recommended.

A Safer Alternative

Why use a chemical that can cause dryness and potential harm when LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask has been clinically proven to clear skin naturally? Our 100% natural, heat-treated clay absorbs excess oil, removes impurities, and promotes healthier skin—without the side effects of benzoyl peroxide. For those concerned about parabens, benzoyl peroxide should raise equal or greater concern.

Professional Perspective

“My sister and I are both licensed estheticians and have been in professional skincare for nine years. We chose LEROSETT® for our clients because we wanted an acne solution without benzoyl peroxide. Many clients who had used it experienced hyperpigmentation and thinning skin. Transitioning them to LEROSETT® has brought lasting improvement—even with stubborn adult cystic acne—and built strong trust with our clients.”

— Heather Ramsey & Jennifer Neves, Sacramento, CA

Acne can affect anyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or age. It is caused by a backup of oil and dead skin cells in the pores. However, genetics, stress, diet, and products you put on your skin, like makeup, can increase breakouts.

Eliminating stress in our lives is easier said than done, but finding ways to relax will help your skin and your overall health in the long run. Limiting the amount of sugary/processed foods and dairy in your diet can also improve breakouts, as many of these types of foods can cause inflammation and aggravate acne. When choosing cosmetics, look for products that are considered non-comedogenic. You can also check the ingredients in the product. Common pore-clogging elements include Oils, Hexadecyl Alcohol, Isocetyl Stearate, Myristyl Myristate, Sodium Chloride, and others.

Avoid acne treatments containing oils or sulfur 
Believe in yourself and work towards making your dreams come true. Avoid acne products containing oil, even tea tree oil, and trust the power of LEROSETT® Spot Treatment, which can provide over 650 individual pimple spot treatments at only $0.03 each. In less than an hour, you can stop a new pimple from forming, significantly flatten larger pimples, and feel more confident in your own skin.

Our general recommendation for LEROSETT® products is age 12 and up.

That said, the LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask contains only 100% natural clay and water—no added chemicals—so when used topically and with proper care, it’s not harmful at any age. For children under 12, we still recommend consulting your doctor before use, especially for ongoing treatment.

No. Makeup alone cannot cause acne, which is a chronic skin disease, but it can contribute to clogged pores that may trigger pimples. If makeup could directly cause acne, it would be removed from retail shelves. The real issue is that some makeup can block follicles, trapping oil and dead skin cells inside.

Using non-comedogenic makeup may reduce the chance of clogs, but it’s not a guarantee. Always remove makeup thoroughly before bed and cleanse with an aloe-based face wash to keep pores clear.

Many drug-based acne products lose effectiveness over time because your body adapts to their synthetic ingredients, requiring stronger doses for results. Natural, non-drug formulas are less likely to cause this resistance and can continue working effectively for years.

LEROSETT® Organic Acne Kits are different — the main clearing product, the LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clay Mask, is 100% natural and drug-free, so it won’t lose effectiveness. In fact, it works better over time as pores stay clear and skin health improves. The only medicated product in the line is our gentle Botanical Acne Cleanser with 2% salicylic acid in an aloe vera base, making it far less irritating than conventional cleansers.

Yes—diet can influence breakouts. A balanced diet, steady hydration, and key nutrients help regulate oil, calm inflammation, and support skin repair.

• Vitamin A (carrots, yams, spinach) — supports healthy cell turnover
• Vitamin E (almonds, sunflower seeds, broccoli) — antioxidant for skin recovery
• B vitamins — B2 helps with stress; B3 supports circulation (whole grains, eggs, avocado)
• Zinc (nuts, whole grains, mushrooms) — aids healing and helps regulate oil

For targeted acne support, consider LEROSETT® ClearPoint® Acne Supplements (zinc-rich) alongside a gentle routine with the
Botanical Acne Cleanser and Spot Treatment & Clay Mask to help keep pores clear.

No—dirt and surface oils alone do not cause acne. The dark color in blackheads is oxidized keratin, not dirt. Acne forms when blockages develop deep inside the follicle, where washing cannot reach. These plugs result from excess oil and dead skin cells, not surface grime.

Washing twice daily with a gentle cleanser helps remove excess oil and surface debris, but over-scrubbing can irritate skin and worsen breakouts. Avoid bar soaps—they are too alkaline and can trigger more oil production.

For best results, use an aloe-based cleanser such as the LEROSETT® Clear Skin Face Wash or LEROSETT® Botanical Acne Cleanser. You’ll feel the difference instantly—skin that’s cleaner, softer, and soothed, without the dryness or irritation of harsh chemicals.

Anyone can get acne. While it’s most common in teens and young adults, about 80% of people between ages 11 and 30 will experience breakouts at some point. Many outgrow it in their 30s, but others deal with it for decades—or develop it for the first time later in life.

Hormonal changes, such as those during menstruation or pregnancy, can trigger flare-ups, and genetics also play a role—if your parents had acne, your risk increases.

No matter your age, a consistent routine with natural, effective products like the
LEROSETT® Organic Acne Kits can help keep skin clear and balanced without the side effects of harsh chemicals.

With acne, the medicine can sometimes be worse than the acne itself. Many oral or topical prescription treatments carry risks and side effects that can outweigh the benefits—especially when safer, natural alternatives are available.

Oral or topical antibiotics are among the most common dermatologist-prescribed acne treatments. However, overuse of antibiotics can lead to resistant bacteria, disrupt healthy gut flora, and cause side effects such as nausea, yeast infections, tooth staining, and even an increased risk of certain cancers. Even if antibiotics eliminated bacteria entirely, clogged pores from dead skin cells—the main cause of acne—would remain.

Another frequently used oral prescription is isotreti__n✛, commonly known as Accut__ne✛. Originally developed as a cancer medication, it was later found to reduce severe acne as a side effect. Because it is not an acne-specific drug, its potency carries significant risks. FDA warnings cite serious potential dangers, including birth defects, liver and skeletal damage, severe depression, and inflammatory bowel diseases. The manufacturer has even issued recalls related to these risks.

Before turning to strong prescription drugs, consider starting with a clinically proven, all-natural option. LEROSETT® Spot Treatment & Clearing Clay Mask clears skin without chemicals or drugs, and All-Natural ClearPoint® Acne Supplements significantly reduce oil production, clearing blemishes at their source. Combined, they offer the best all-natural topical and internal approach to clear skin.

✛ This icon marks terms where brand or drug names have been partially hidden to comply with advertising policies and avoid trademark use. The full names are well-known prescription acne medications.

Yes. People of all ethnic backgrounds can experience acne. Genetics still plays a major role—if one or both parents struggled with acne, the likelihood is higher. Factors like skin type, oil production, and skin thickness influence how severe acne may be. Lighter complexions, such as those with blue eyes, often have thinner, drier skin and may experience fewer breakouts, while those with thicker or oilier skin may be more prone. Environmental influences such as sun exposure, makeup, and skincare products also matter.

Choosing the right skincare can help manage acne regardless of ethnicity. Gentle aloe-based cleansers and LEROSETT® Clay Masks help control oil production, clearing pimples, blackheads, blemishes, pores, and reducing inflammation without harsh chemicals, making them effective for all skin types and tones.

Because there’s no drug that can truly cure acne, many people end up trying one product line after another in search of lasting results. Most companies know your skin will eventually adapt to benzoyl peroxide and similar medications. When you switch, you’re often just moving from one benzoyl peroxide formula to another—something your skin is already accustomed to—making it less effective right away. In nearly every case, the first and main ingredient is water. That’s not good—water provides no nutrients or healing properties and can even dry the skin. In contrast, our first ingredient is always plant-based, such as nutrient-rich aloe vera or natural clay, to nourish skin while addressing breakouts.

Most acne brands won’t show you a full page of dermatologist or acne expert testimonials, or a dedicated page of clinical before-and-after results. We do—because our plant-based formulas are designed for results you can maintain, not just a quick fix.

Yes — stress can trigger hormonal changes that overstimulate the sebaceous (oil) glands, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. While stress alone may not directly cause acne, it can make existing acne worse or increase the frequency of flare-ups.

For those dealing with stress-related breakouts, ClearPoint® Clear Skin Supplements can help. These all-natural, vegetarian supplements work on a hormonal level to help balance oil production and reduce inflammation from the inside out.

For best results, pair ClearPoint® with one of our Organic Acne Kits to clear skin without harsh chemicals or unnecessary fillers.