Acne · 6 min read ·
The best skincare routine for acne-prone skin
A simple morning and evening routine for breakouts, and the ingredients that actually make a difference.
Quick answer: Cleanse gently twice a day, use a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide treatment, add a retinoid at night, moisturise with an oil-free product and wear SPF every morning. Give it at least 8 weeks.
Morning
Start with a gentle foaming or gel cleanser. Harsh, squeaky-clean washes strip the skin barrier and can make oil production worse.
Follow with a targeted treatment such as salicylic acid, a light oil-free moisturiser and a non-comedogenic SPF.
Evening
Cleanse again, then use a retinoid. Retinoids keep pores clear by regulating how skin cells shed, and they also fade marks and improve texture over time.
Introduce retinoids slowly, two or three nights a week at first, to avoid irritation.
Ingredients that help
Salicylic acid unclogs pores, benzoyl peroxide reduces acne bacteria, azelaic acid calms redness and marks, and niacinamide supports the barrier and controls shine.
Medical-grade systems such as Obagi Clenziderm or the ZO acne programme combine these in the right order.
When to see a professional
If you have painful cysts, scarring, or no improvement after three months of a good routine, it is time for a consultation. In-clinic facials, peels and LED can speed things up considerably.
Common questions
Should I moisturise oily skin?
Yes. Dehydrated skin can overproduce oil. Choose a light, oil-free moisturiser.
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Written by the Skin Deep Aesthetics clinical team, 6 Carlisle Road, Derry. This article is general information, not medical advice. Book a consultation for advice about your own skin.
