Acne is not caused by dirty skin

A skin affected by acne is not dirty skin. The correct approach is not to scrub, but to gently clean without rubbing to avoid exacerbating irritation and skin lesions.

Instagram video challenges common belief

In a video published on Instagram on October 27, 2026, the account Dr Sermed Mezher revisits a persistent idea: pimples would be linked to dirty skin. This is false. Acne is not a hygiene issue, and overwashing or rubbing too hard can especially irritate already inflamed skin.

Historical comparison in the video

The video starts with a humorous question: why do old portraits so rarely show pimples? The account drsermedmezher recalls that many portraits were commissioned by wealthy people, so they were made to show their "best side." It compares this practice to an ancient form of retouching, but "with a real brush."

Acne has a long history

Another useful reminder from the video: acne is not a modern condition. The account cites ancient references to acne, particularly among teenagers, long before our current cosmetic routines. Most importantly, it warns against the implication that having acne means having dirty skin.

Medical explanation of acne formation

Medically speaking, the message is clear: acne pimples form in the pilosebaceous follicles, that is, at the level of the pores associated with sebaceous glands. They involve, among other things, sebum production, follicle blockage, inflammation, and the possible involvement of Cutibacterium acnes, a bacteria naturally present on the skin.

Cleaning does not clear pores

In other words, cleaning the surface of the face does not "mechanically empty" the deeply blocked pores. This does not mean that one should not wash their face, but that further information can be found on the website Doctissimo.