Writing about my acne is, in the best way I can describe it, a freeing, but cruel act. Not only is it a reminder that I?m still struggling to achieve clear skin, but I?m also disclosing my seven-year odyssey (yes, I chose this word purposefully) to strangers.
However, the two things that make this experience feel cruel are also the things that also make it freeing. In talking about my skin, in releasing society?s and my own personal stigma surrounding how my looks, I?m also able to release myself from the idea that clear skin equates “better.” Period. Not just better skin, but a better life, better looks?better everything.
I release myself from the idea that clear skin equates ‘better.’ Period.

I?ve read op-ed pieces about people who have acne and always found myself disappointed in the end. I read along thinking, There are people just like me! but then the final paragraph transitions to their ?success story.? It usually goes like this: They cut out dairy, their skin is instantly blemish-free, and they?ve never felt more beautiful. And if it’s not that scenario, they simply bit the bullet and opted for Accutane. The list goes on, with home remedies and clinical treatments like aspirin paste or more sleep, but, without fail, each ends with clear skin. Courtesy of Author
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Regardless of the ?solution,” with it came the expected exchange of tireless trial-and-error for a improved level of sel...