Dealing with acne-prone skin can be frustrating, but with the correct skincare routine, you can effectively manage breakouts and improve your skin’s overall health.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through evidence-based morning and evening skincare routines specifically designed for acne-prone skin, with expert tips to help you achieve calmer and clearer skin.
Understanding Acne Before Building Your Routine
It’s important to note that acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria can trigger inflammation, resulting in those familiar pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Acne-prone skin typically produces excess sebum, has irregular cell turnover, and may be more susceptible to bacterial growth and inflammation.
Your skincare routine should focus on:
- Gentle cleansing without stripping the skin.
- Controlling excess oil.
- Exfoliating to prevent clogged pores.
- Fighting bacteria.
- Reducing inflammation.
- Hydrating appropriately.
- Protecting from environmental damage.
Your Morning Skincare Routine for Acne-prone Skin
Morning skincare sets the foundation for managing acne throughout the day. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
1. Gentle Cleanser
Begin with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that removes overnight oil buildup without harsh scrubbing. Look for ingredients like
- Salicylic acid (1 – 2%) to penetrate oil and clear pores.
- Benzoyl peroxide (2.5 – 5%) to fight acne-causing bacteria.
- Glycolic acid to gently exfoliate.
Product Recommendations: CeraVe Blemish Control Face Cleanser, Neutrogena Clear and Defend+ Facial Wash
2. Alcohol-free Toner (Optional)
If your skin benefits from toning, choose an alcohol-free formula with:
- Witch hazel to control oil without over-drying.
- Niacinamide reduces inflammation and redness.
- Green tea extract for antioxidant properties.
Product Recommendations: Thayer’s Facial Toner with Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera, Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner
3. Treatment Serum
This is where you can introduce targeted active ingredients:
- Niacinamide (4 – 10%) to regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation.
- Azelaic acid (10%) to fight bacteria and fade post-acne marks.
- Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid 10 – 15%) to brighten and provide antioxidant protection.
Product Recommendations: Revolution Skincare 10% Niacinamide + 1% Zinc, Paula’s Choice 10% Azelaic Acid Booster, Revolution Skincare 12.5% Vitamin C Serum
4. Oil-free Moisturiser
Even acne-prone skin needs hydration. Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser containing:
- Hyaluronic acid for lightweight hydration.
- Ceramides to support your skin barrier.
- Aloe vera to soothe inflammation.
Product Recommendations: CeraVe Moisturising Lotion, Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Moist Cream
5. Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
This is non-negotiable, especially if using acne treatments that increase sun sensitivity. Look for:
- Oil-free, lightweight formulas labelled “non-comedogenic”.
- Zinc oxide-based options have the added benefit of being slightly anti-inflammatory.
- Silicone-based or “matte finish” sunscreens for oily skin types.
Product Recommendations: Versed Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen, Cosrx Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen
Your Evening Routine for Acne-prone Skin
The ideal opportunity for more intensive treatments is nighttime, as your skin repairs and regenerates during sleep.
1. Double Cleanser
Start with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to remove make-up and sunscreen, then follow with your regular cleanser.
Product Recommendations: Bioderma Sebium H20 Micellar Water, Bioderma Sensibio Cleansing Micellar Oil.
2. Active Cleanser
The evening is ideal for a more treatment-focused cleanser:
- Benzoyl peroxide (2.5 – 5%) to kill acne-causing bacteria.
- Salicylic acid (2%) to exfoliate inside pores.
- Sulfur reduces inflammation and absorbs excess oil.
Product Recommendations: Proactiv Gentle Mineral Sulfur Cleanser, CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser with 4% Benzoyl Peroxide
3. Exfoliation (2 – 3 Times Weekly)
Regular exfoliation prevents dead skin cell buildup that contributes to acne. Choose between:
- BHA (Salicylic acid 1 – 2%) for deep pore cleansing.
- AHA (Glycolic acid or Lactic acid 5 – 10%) for surface exfoliation.
- PHA products for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
- Physical exfoliants (to be used with caution) only if very gentle and fine-textured. Never use on active, inflamed acne.
Product Recommendations: Revolution Skincare 2% Salicylic Acid Targeted Blemish Serum, Neutrogena Clear and Defend+ Serum, Neutrogena Clear and Defend+ Serum, Neutrogena Visibly Clear Spot Stress Control.
4. Treatment Serum or Prescription Medication
This is where to incorporate your most effective acne-fighting ingredients:
- Retinoids (Adapalene, Tretinoin) to normalise cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.
- Benzoyl peroxide for antibacterial action.
- Azelaic acid (15 – 20%) for inflammation and post-acne marks.
- Other prescription medications as directed by your dermatologists.
Product Recommendations: Cosrx The Retinol 0.3 Cream, First Aid Beauty 0.3% Retinol Complex Serum
5. Hydrating Toner or Essence (Optional)
Adding hydration before moisturiser can help counteract the drying effects of acne treatment:
- Products with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and panthenol.
- Centella Asiatica to reduce inflammation.
- Snail mucin for healing and hydration.
Product Recommendations: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence Gel, Mixsoon Centella Asiatica Toner
6. Moisturiser
Evening moisturisers can be slightly thicker than daytime formulas but should still be non-comedogenic.
- Look for ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, and peptides.
- Consider gel creams that provide hydration without heaviness.
Product Recommendations: CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion, Byoma Moisturing Gel-cream
Additional Tips for Managing Acne-Prone Skin
Beyond your daily skincare routine, these practices can significantly improve acne management.
Lifestyle Factors
- Change pillowcases frequently (at least weekly) to prevent bacterial buildup.
- Disinfect your phone screen daily to reduce transferring bacteria to your face.
- Be mindful of hair products that may contact your face and contain pore-clogging ingredients.
- Avoid touching your face throughout the day.
- Cleanse after sweating heavily, ideally within 30 minutes of completing the exercise.
Diet and Hydration
- Stay well hydrated with at least 8 glasses of water daily.
- Consider a food journal to identify potential acne triggers – common culprits include certain dairy products, whey protein, and foods with high glycemic index.
- Incorporate Omega-3 fatty acids through fish, flaxseeds, or supplements, which may help reduce inflammation.
When to See a Dermatologist
If your acne doesn’t improve after 2 – 3 months of consistent over-the-counter treatment, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. They can prescribe:
- Stronger topical treatments
- Oral medications like antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or Isotretinoin
- Procedural treatments such as chemical peels, extractions, or light therapy
Professional guidance is vital, particularly for cystic acne that leaves scars, or if your acne is causing significant emotional distress.
Related Articles:
[How Long Skincare Ingredients Take to Work]
[9 Skincare Actives You Really Should Not Use Together]
Remember that effectively addressing acne often involves some trial and error, but with persistence, you’ll discover what works best for your unique skin.
