National Acne Positivity Day

National Acne Positivity Day, observed each year on September 1, is a gentle reminder that acne—a common skin condition affecting people of all ages—is nothing to be ashamed of. This day encourages embracing our skin’s journey with kindness, self-love, and acceptance.

History of National Acne Positivity Day

National Acne Positivity Day was established in 2020 by the skincare brand La Roche‑Posay, aiming to challenge the stigma around acne and promote healthier, more compassionate relationships with one’s skin. Since then, it has been observed annually on September 1.

Acne has been recognized throughout history: ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Greeks, acknowledged skin blemishes, while sulfur—used as a treatment—dates back to Cleopatra’s time. Over the centuries, medical understanding advanced—from François Boissier de Sauvages de Lacroix coining “psydracia achne” in the 16th century to more formal classifications and treatments emerging in later eras.

Why is National Acne Positivity Day important?

Think about that moment when you’re self-conscious, covering up your face, only to see flawless skin all around you. National Acne Positivity Day offers a much-needed reminder that those perfect images don’t reflect everyone’s reality—and that’s absolutely okay. It nudges us to rethink beauty norms and invites empathy over judgment.

Acne can take an emotional toll, often stirring up feelings of isolation or diminished self-worth. This day seeks to soften that burden by fostering empathy, community, and open conversation about something so many experience—yet few admit openly. It’s really about saying, “I see you. I understand you.”

Here are a few down-to-earth reflections on why the day matters:

• reminding yourself you’re not defined by your skin
• realizing how common acne really is—so you’re not alone
• allowing yourself to show up without hiding
• normalizing real, unfiltered appearance
• supporting others just by being open and honest

How to Celebrate National Acne Positivity Day

Celebrating National Acne Positivity Day is simple, meaningful, and rooted in kindness. You might just take a moment to look in the mirror and say something gentle to yourself—like acknowledging, “I’m working through this, and that’s okay.” Or perhaps reach out to a friend with your skin journey, opening space for shared vulnerability and support.

Social media can be a powerful tool as well. Use hashtags like #AcnePositivityDay or #NationalAcnePositivityDay to share your journey honestly. Whether that means posting an unfiltered selfie, writing about what acne has taught you, or expressing tenderness to yourself or others—these gestures weave threads of connection in a noisy world.

Here are some thoughtful but everyday ways people might observe the day:

• posting a real photo—no filters, no edits
• sharing how acne affected you and what helps you cope
• reading or learning to question common myths about acne
• simply being gentle with yourself when your skin feels hard to love
• sending a note to someone who might need a boost

National Acne Positivity Day Dates Table