Acne is one of the most common frustrations clients bring into the treatment room—but what many don’t realize is that breakouts aren’t all the same. Hormones, acne-causing bacteria, and even gut health can each play a role, often overlapping to make skin concerns more complex than they seem on the surface. As estheticians, understanding these different drivers is key to building trust, setting realistic expectations, and guiding clients toward care that goes beyond “quick fixes.” In this post, we’ll break down the differences between hormonal, bacterial, and gut-related acne—why they happen, how they show up, and how to support clients with a combination of education, topical care, and lifestyle coaching.

If you have a darker or African American skin tone, we are here to provide a few tips and tricks on what skincare ingredients to avoid, what to incorporate, and how to avoid pigmentation and promote an even and healthy glow!