Alix Earle may be best known for her glam looks and effortless on-camera presence, but the influencer’s latest skincare statement is striking a deeper chord. In an effort to normalize acne and the emotional toll it can take, Earle recently spent a weekend in New York City completely makeup-free, documenting the experience—and her skin’s real-time recovery—on Instagram.
To tackle an active breakout, Earle sought treatment from Dr. Kiran Mian, board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery. With expert guidance, Earle opted for a professional extraction session, a decision that marked a pivotal shift in how she treats her skin—prioritizing healing over concealment.
Breaking the Stigma Around Acne—In Real Time
In a heartfelt caption, Earle opened up about the vulnerability behind the decision. “Makeup has always been a safe space for me,” she shared, referencing the security it once offered when dealing with persistent breakouts. But this time, she leaned into transparency and treatment, choosing to skip foundation altogether while navigating public spaces bare-faced.
Her post included photos of her visit at Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in New York City, with visible blemishes and inflammation—a powerful move for a social media figure so often seen polished and filtered.
Dr. Kiran Mian’s Acne Expertise in Action
To calm Earle’s inflamed skin, Dr. Mian recommended full extractions to thoroughly cleanse the pores—a critical step in managing active acne, especially in cases exacerbated by daily makeup wear. Extractions, when done professionally, can reduce inflammation and help prevent further breakouts without damaging the skin barrier.
Dr. Mian’s role in Earle’s journey underscores the importance of professional dermatologic care, especially for those dealing with recurrent or cystic acne. While over-the-counter products can offer mild relief, deeper or persistent breakouts often require in-office interventions like extractions, laser therapy, or prescription-strength treatments—tailored to the patient’s unique skin needs.
To tackle a stubborn breakout ahead of a makeup-free weekend in NYC, Alix Earle turned to Dr. Kiran Mian, board-certified dermatologist at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery, for expert care—and she brought her followers along for the journey.
Alix Earle has been under the care of Dr. Kiran Mian for a while now—and her skincare journey is a great reminder that clear skin doesn’t happen overnight.
From the beginning, Dr. Mian approached Alix’s concerns with a tailored plan—not just quick fixes. Whether it was calming perioral dermatitis, managing comedonal congestion, or navigating the flare-ups that can come with sensitive, acne-prone skin, each visit was about meeting her skin exactly where it was.
Together, they worked on simplifying her skincare routine, restoring her barrier, and adjusting treatments based on how her skin responded. At times that meant pulling back on actives. Other times, it meant introducing prescription support or professional extractions when needed.
It’s been a journey focused on progress, education, and patience—backed by real dermatologic care. Through it all, Alix has stayed transparent with her followers, helping to normalize the ups and downs of real skin.
Because at the end of the day, the goal isn’t just a perfect photo—it’s healthy skin that lasts.
A Personalized Approach to Acne
Alix’s treatment was carefully designed around her specific skin needs—balancing active acne management with barrier support. As Dr. Mian emphasizes:
“Not every case of acne requires extractions or prescriptions. Some conditions respond best to simple barrier-repair routines, while others need more intensive, in-office treatments. It’s never one-size-fits-all.”
Shifting the Conversation Around Skin Confidence
While going makeup-free may seem minor to some, Earle described the act as petrifying—a feeling many people with acne know well. “I felt like the only thing people were going to look at was my skin,” she wrote. But after three days of being out in public with no concealer, no foundation, no filters, she had a powerful realization: “No one cared or noticed.”
Her story, backed by the support of experts like Dr. Mian, reflects a growing movement toward realistic skin expectations and the idea that seeking treatment should be encouraged—not stigmatized.
For those dealing with acne, Alix Earle’s experience offers both hope and a reminder: with the right care and support, it’s possible to treat breakouts while embracing your skin in every phase.
Medical & Cosmetic dermatology in Hudson Yards
From advanced medical treatments to cutting-edge cosmetic procedures, Hudson Derm offers comprehensive care tailored to your skin’s needs—all in the heart of Hudson Yards.
