Acne Skin Care Routine

[Anonymous]

So I've struggled with acne since I was about eight. I have always had very oily, sensitive skin. My acne is at its worst point right now, despite seeing my third dermatologist who I thought might help. I have been doing SO much research trying to develop a good skin care routine as well as trying to eat healthier to improve my skin. I haven't bought any products yet since there are so many options. I wanted to get some advice from people who have struggled with the same things I have. What worked for you? Any suggestions will be helpful.

[quspork]

@Anonymous 

Some things that really helped me get control of my oily/dehydrated skin involved incorporating Korean beauty skincare steps and products. I'm a big believer in the double cleanse- using an oil-based cleanser to take off sunscreen and makeup and following that with a gentle non-foaming cleanser to wash the skin. For this, I love Shiseido's Perfect Oil and then for the second cleanse either Philosophy Purity or First Aid Beauty Facial Cleanser. 

Next, adding several light, hydrating layers of toners, essences, serums, and masks to help with hydration. For this, I love products like Benton essences, Maycoop raw sauce, and Erborian's Ginseng Milk as serums to layer before moisturizer. A moisturizing oil added to your cream moisturizer might be a good idea. My favorite is Fresh's Seaberry. 

Also consistent exfoliation. I love Sunday Riley's Good Genes, but sometimes my skin reacts better to a little physical exfoliation, like a light scrub. Products that contain salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and snail mucin have all been really beneficial for my acne issues. Clay-based masks are great for oil issues as well. I love Caudalie's Instant Detox and Pixi's Glow Mud Mask. 

Ending my routine with a good moisturizer (and sunscreen in the mornings) helps to keep my skin hydrated, meaning less oil production. My favorite moisturizers are CosRx Oil-Free Moisturizing Lotion (in the a.m.), Belif Aqua (and Moisturizing in the winter) Bomb (in the p.m.), and Caudalie's Vinosource Sorbet Cream (also p.m.). Building that type of routine has really had a major impact on the quality of my skin over the last several years. 

[ab0s]

@Anonymous  Not sure if its too late to help but here are my recommendations from things I as well as many others have tried.

Ole henriksen's oil balance control line (the green one) is superb at controlling oil and sebum production which in turn will lessen acne. I recommend the cleanser and toner. It also has AHA's which is a chemical but very gentle way of exfoliating the skin to prevent build up and clogged pores.

mario badescu has a great drying lotion for spot treatment.

Drunk elephant protini moisturizer or cerave pm are great moisturizers the latter being cheapest.

In terms of weekly masks Go for either Glamglow's supermud (The silver one) mask or drunk elephants sukari babyfacial mask. These are the only ones that have worked for me,and i swear its worth the price.

I think the key here or at least what worked for my acne which was a combo of cystic acne and blackheads, is cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. I would go for chemical exfoliants such as AHA's and BHA's which are gentler on the skin and wont cause micro tears. Also try to stay away from fragrances and irritating substances based on your skin. Remember products take about one to three months to really show substantial results dont rush the process and be gentle on your skin. Above are the products that were most effective and worked the fastest for me.