At KLS Aesthetics, we believe skin care should be honest, educational, and rooted in real experience. Many people assume that estheticians have perfect skin—but the reality is far more relatable.
We recently sat down with one of our estheticians to talk about her personal journey with acne, the challenges she still faces, and what she’s learned about treating acne both professionally and personally.
Here’s what she shared.
Acne Doesn’t Disappear Just Because You Become an Esthetician
When asked about her experience with acne, she shared that her journey didn’t magically end when she entered the skincare industry.
“If there’s one thing I want you to know, it’s this—you are not alone in your skin struggles. I’m 25 and have been an esthetician for about 2 ½ years. I’ve spent years learning how to care for skin, yet I still struggle with breakouts, inflammation, and one of the hardest habits to break… picking.”
Like many people who pursue careers in skin care, she originally believed professional training might finally “solve” her acne.
“Before I entered this field, I felt frustrated, overwhelmed, and honestly, a little defeated by my skin. I thought becoming an esthetician would ‘fix’ everything, but the truth is, skin doesn’t work that way.”
Instead, her understanding of acne became deeper and more nuanced.
“Acne is complex, and it doesn’t discriminate. Even with knowledge, access to treatments, and professional products, I still experience flare-ups—especially in the same areas over and over again.”
She also explains that recurring breakouts are common.
“Acne often resurfaces in the same spots due to deeper congestion, hormones, or habitual picking that prevents the skin from fully healing.”
The Biggest Acne Myths She Wishes Clients Would Stop Believing
Working closely with clients at KLS Aesthetics, she sees the same misconceptions about acne again and again.
One of the most common myths?
“One of the biggest misconceptions about acne is that it’s caused by being ‘dirty’ or not washing your face enough.”
In reality, overdoing skincare can actually worsen breakouts.
“Over-cleansing and over-treating can make things worse.”
Another frequent mistake she sees is at-home extractions.
“Another myth? That you should extract everything at home. I get it—it’s tempting.”
But she explains that this habit often leads to long-term damage.
“Picking and extracting on your own is one of the fastest ways to create prolonged inflammation, scarring, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which can linger far longer than the breakout itself.”
What Actually Helped Her Manage Acne
Through both professional training and personal trial and error, she discovered that acne improvement rarely comes from a single product or treatment.
Instead, consistency is key.
“Over time, I’ve learned that consistency and restraint are just as important as treatments.”
Professional treatments have made a noticeable difference in maintaining clearer skin.
“Routine facials and chemical peels have made a huge difference in keeping my skin clear and supporting healthy cell turnover.”
For severe or inflamed breakouts, she notes that medical treatments can sometimes help accelerate healing.
“When needed, more advanced treatments—like targeted injections to quickly calm deep, inflamed breakouts—can also be incredibly helpful.”
She also emphasizes the importance of professional-grade skincare.
“Medical-grade skincare and prescription products have played a key role in managing my acne in a way over-the-counter products never could.”
Unexpected Treatments That Helped Her Skin
Some improvements came from treatments she didn’t initially expect to impact her acne.
One example was addressing hyperhidrosis.
“Managing my hyperhidrosis (excess sweating) with Botox has been life-changing.”
The benefits went beyond comfort.
“Not just for comfort, but for my confidence and my skin too. I’m way less stressed about how I smell, and I’ve actually been breaking out less because of it.”
She also credits regular exfoliation and professional peels.
“Incorporating regular chemical peels and routine exfoliation has really supported my skin’s healing process and helped me maintain a clearer, smoother complexion.”
The Truth About Being an Esthetician with Acne
Despite her expertise, she emphasizes that the journey is ongoing.
“Even with all of this, I’m still on my journey. My skin isn’t perfect—and I’ve learned to be okay with that.”
Her perspective on the profession has evolved.
“Being an esthetician isn’t about flawless skin; it’s about having the knowledge, tools, and empathy to help others through theirs.”
And the message she wants clients to remember most is simple.
“So if you’re struggling, feeling frustrated, or wondering why your skin isn’t ‘perfect’—please know this: you are not alone.”
“Skin is not about perfection. It’s about progress, patience, and showing up for yourself consistently.”
“We’re all in this together, and I’m right there with you.”
Ready to Start Your Own Skin Journey?
If you’re struggling with acne, inflammation, or recurring breakouts, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Working with a trained professional can help you better understand your skin, identify underlying triggers, and create a plan that actually works.
At KLS Aesthetics, our approach focuses on education, customized treatment plans, and long-term skin health—not quick fixes.
Book a Customized Facial with Skin Care Analysis with Taylor to address not only your acne concerns, but your overall skin health as well. During your appointment, Taylor will evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and create a personalized plan to support clearer, healthier skin.
In addition to acne treatments and customized facials, Taylor also offers lash services and sugaring hair removal, making it easy to care for your skin and beauty needs all in one place.
Your skin journey starts with understanding your skin.
