Matthew McConaughey Recalls Severe Acne Battle as Teen

The actor opened up about his struggle with a facial product that caused 'blistering geysers of pus' on his skin.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Matthew McConaughey revealed he suffered from severe acne as a teenager after using a facial product called Oil of Mink that his mother was selling. Despite his concerns, McConaughey continued using the product on his doctor's advice, which led to his face becoming swollen with large cysts and pus-filled blemishes. He was eventually prescribed Accutane to treat the acne, which came with its own side effects. McConaughey's father wanted to sue the company behind Oil of Mink, but the case was dropped after the defense attorney found a yearbook photo of McConaughey being named 'Most Handsome'.

Why it matters

This story highlights the struggles many teenagers face with acne and the importance of seeking professional medical advice, especially when using new skincare products. It also touches on the impact acne can have on one's self-confidence and the lengths some will go to in pursuit of clear skin.

The details

When McConaughey started using the Oil of Mink product at his mother's recommendation, he initially saw an increase in pimples. Despite expressing concerns, he continued using it for 12 days, at which point his face became severely swollen and covered in large, pus-filled blemishes. McConaughey's dermatologist diagnosed him with severe nodular acne and warned he was 10 days away from developing permanent scarring. The doctor prescribed Accutane, which came with its own side effects like dry skin, joint pain, and hair loss.

  • McConaughey started using the Oil of Mink product as a teenager.
  • After 12 days of using the product, McConaughey's face became severely swollen and covered in large, pus-filled blemishes.
  • McConaughey's dermatologist diagnosed him with severe nodular acne and prescribed Accutane.
  • Two years later, McConaughey's father wanted to sue the company behind Oil of Mink, but the case was dropped after the defense attorney found a yearbook photo of McConaughey being named 'Most Handsome'.

The players

Matthew McConaughey

An Oscar-winning actor who opened up about his struggle with severe acne as a teenager.

Mary Kathleen 'Kay' McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey's mother, who was selling the Oil of Mink product that caused her son's acne breakout.

Elaine

The boss of Mary Kathleen 'Kay' McConaughey, who claimed the Oil of Mink product was 'bringing out all the impurities' in Matthew's skin.

James Donald McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey's father, who wanted to sue the company behind Oil of Mink for the suffering his son experienced.

Matthew McConaughey's dermatologist

The doctor who diagnosed Matthew with severe nodular acne and prescribed him Accutane.

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What they’re saying

“This product has completely blocked your pores. You have severe nodular acne. You are 10 days away from having ice-pick scars in your cheeks for the rest of your life.”

— Matthew McConaughey's dermatologist

“Goddamn you, boy! Here I am, I got a chance to make $35 to 50 thousand dollars on a lawsuit that we coulda won! And you gotta go off and win 'Most Handsome'! You screwed up the whole lawsuit, son!”

— James Donald McConaughey, Matthew McConaughey's father

The takeaway

This story serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of carefully researching and consulting medical professionals before using new skincare products, especially for teenagers dealing with the hormonal changes of puberty. It also highlights the lasting impact acne can have on one's self-confidence and the lengths some will go to in pursuit of clear skin.