The Skin Games live series continues to spotlight some of the industry’s most inspiring voices, and this week featured a special guest: Maddie, better known as Acne Maddie. Director Stephen sat down with her to talk about her personal journey with acne, her experience as a judge at The Skin Games, and the creation of her brand, Mixi Skincare.
Discovering The Skin Games
Maddie’s first Skin Games experience was in 2024, when she joined as a judge in the Acne category. Having only seen the event on Instagram before, she admitted she didn’t know what to expect. But once she arrived, she was blown away by the diversity of approaches:
“Everybody was so different in their styles and how they worked their cases. It was really eye-opening, and I loved seeing approaches that I wouldn’t normally get to in my own treatment room.”
That experience not only left a lasting impression—it inspired Maddie to return in 2025 as both a familiar face and a sponsor.
From Personal Battles to Professional Passion
Maddie’s journey in esthetics started right after high school. With her mother as an esthetician, she jumped into the field quickly—but it was her own struggles with cystic acne that shaped her career path.
Facing criticism in esthetics school for trying to become a skin professional while battling her own acne, Maddie doubled down on her determination.
“I knew if I couldn’t figure out my own skin, I wouldn’t feel right treating others. Clearing my acne became my priority, and once I did, I knew this was my calling.”
She soon shifted her business to acne-only clients, gained results-driven experience, and eventually built her Instagram presence, where her before-and-after transformations caught fire and earned her the name “Acne Maddie.”
Creating Mixi Skincare
That same drive led to the creation of Mixi Skincare (M-I-X-I).
The Meaning: Every client’s skin needs are unique. The name Mixi reflects the way each routine is “mixed” and customized for the individual.
The First Products: Maddie launched with Dew Drop, a hydration-focused serum, and Hydroxy, an alternative for those allergic to benzoyl peroxide.
The Difference: With free training, no buy-ins, and no minimums, Mixi was built to support estheticians first.
“I just wanted to create the support I wished I had when I was starting out. Estheticians should have access to tools and training without investing thousands upfront.”
Insights as a Judge
Judging gave Maddie a fresh perspective. She was especially surprised to see one competitor achieve incredible results by focusing solely on barrier repair, without using any actives.
“It reminded me that not every case needs the strongest actives. Sometimes just healing the barrier is enough.”
Sponsorship & Support
This year, Mixi is sponsoring several Skin Games players. Maddie is thrilled to provide both products and mentorship:
“It’s surreal to see Mixi in case studies. We want to give estheticians not just product, but also guidance and support.”
Players interested in working with Mixi can connect via Instagram (@AcneMaddie or @MixiSkincare) or email [email protected].
More Than Acne
Although Mixi is marketed as acne-focused, many of its products have multi-use benefits. Mandelic acid, for example, is great for both acne and anti-aging. The sunscreen has become a favorite for clients without acne because of its texture and mineral base.
What’s Next for Mixi
- Backbar Products are in development, including cleansers, toners, and peels.
- New Launches: At least five new formulas are on the way, expanding exfoliation and hydration options.
- Events: Maddie will be speaking at The Aesthetic Experience in Scottsdale, AZ, in February 2026 and will be at The Skin Games X: Rhinestone Rodeo, March 19–22, 2026 in Dallas, TX.
Closing Thoughts
Maddie’s journey—from struggling with cystic acne, to becoming a sought-after acne expert, to launching her own line—is a powerful reminder that challenges often shape the best professionals. Her story embodies the spirit of The Skin Games: resilience, innovation, and community.
Learn more at mixipros.com or follow @AcneMaddie and @MixiSkincare on Instagram.