If your acne isn’t improving—or it clears and then comes back—use this checklist to identify what may be holding your skin back. Acne doesn’t stall randomly. There is always a reason, and most are fixable.

✔ Be honest with yourself.
✔ One “yes” can be enough to keep acne active.

1. Product Usage & Routine Consistency

☐ I am using my skincare products every day, exactly as prescribed
☐ I am not skipping steps or rushing my routine
☐ I replace products before I run out
☐ I check in regularly so my routine can be adjusted
☐ I have not changed my routine without consulting my acne specialist
☐ I am not using any extra products my specialist doesn’t know about
☐ My makeup is acne-safe
☐ My haircare products are acne-safe
☐ I am taking only the supplements recommended for me

2. Laundry, Bedding & Clothing

☐ I do not use fabric softener or dryer sheets
☐ I use fragrance-free laundry detergent
☐ I change or flip my pillowcase frequently
☐ I sleep in clean clothing
☐ I wash hats, helmets, and workout gear regularly

3. Diet & Supplements

☐ I avoid dairy, whey, and soy (including protein powders)
☐ I avoid iodized salt, seaweed, sushi, peanuts, and peanut butter
☐ I check labels for iodine, iodides, biotin, and high-dose B12
☐ I am mindful of hidden acne triggers in processed foods
☐ I have reviewed my supplements with my acne specialist

4. Medications, Hormones & Substances

☐ I have disclosed all medications and medical conditions
☐ I understand how birth control may be affecting my skin
☐ I recently started or stopped hormonal birth control
☐ I use marijuana (including smoking, edibles, or vaping)
☐ I smoke cigarettes or vape
☐ I have discussed hormonal patterns (jawline, chin, neck acne)

5. Stress, Sleep & Recovery

☐ I consistently get 7–8 hours of sleep
☐ I manage stress proactively
☐ I limit caffeine or drink it with meals
☐ I give my skin time to heal between flares

6. Physical & Environmental Triggers

☐ I wear hats, helmets, or shoulder pads regularly
☐ I shave correctly using acne-safe methods
☐ I avoid touching or picking my skin
☐ I clean my phone and tools regularly
☐ I use daily acne-safe sunscreen

If You Checked “Yes” to Any of These…

That’s not a failure—it’s information.

Most acne setbacks come from:

• One missing habit

• One hidden trigger

• A routine that needs updating

Next Step: Don’t Guess

If your skin isn’t responding the way it should:

• Reach out to your acne specialist

• Share this checklist

• Let us help you identify what needs adjusting

You are not doing this alone.
Clear skin is possible—and often closer than you think.