Dermatologist Answers "What’s the Best Skincare Routine for Acne-Prone Skin?"
Answer: For acne-prone skin, use a gentle cleanser, targeted Actives that balance oil and encourage turnover, plus hydration and sun protection—and finish with skin-supportive moisturization to avoid irritation.
Why This Approach Works
I always emphasize "quality over quantity" and recommend minimal yet powerful routines tailored to individual skin needs—including acne-prone skin. Hydration and barrier repair are equally essential to prevent over-drying or exacerbating breakouts.
Sensitive or Dry, Acne-Prone Skin: A Gentle Path
For dry and acne-prone skin, the focus is on unclogging pores without stripping the skin.
Recommended Treatments:
- Doctor Rogers Night Repair Treatment (bakuchiol + glycolic acid + PHSs): Gentle, retinol-free formula ideal for clearing pores, calming inflammation, and supporting turnover.
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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1%: Low-dose adapalene for mild, topical acne control.
- Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth Salicylic + AHA Serum: BHA + AHA blend to smooth texture and minimize breakouts.
Pro tip: Always pair Actives with a soothing moisturizer like my Face Cream to lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier.
Oily, Acne-Prone Skin: Control and Clarity
For oily or severely acne-prone skin, Actives aimed at excess oil and texture can be more potent.
Top Picks:
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Skinceuticals Retinol 1.0: Potent daily retinol for seasoned users
- The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane: Affordable, effective retinol that helps manage oil and breakouts.
- Prescription Tretinoin (0.025%–0.1%): Dermatologist-grade choice for persistent acne.
Hydration pairing: Use Doctor Rogers Face Lotion after treatment to ensure hydration and lessen dryness.
Full Routine Breakdown
Morning
- Gentle Cleanse: Clear away overnight oils and prep skin.
- Optional Antioxidant: Use a vitamin C serum if your skin tolerates it; otherwise, skip.
- Moisturizer: Apply Face Lotion for barrier support.
- Sunscreen: Always finish with broad-spectrum SPF; prevention is key.
Evening
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Cleanser: Start fresh for nighttime treatment.
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Targeted Active
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Dry/Sensitive: Night Repair Treatment
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Targeted Active
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Oily: Retinol-based options (Skinceuticals, The Ordinary, or prescription)
- Moisturizer: Reapply Face Lotion to calm and hydrate.
If Irritation Occurs
Pause Actives and return to just cleanse + moisturizer until your skin settles.
FAQ — Acne-Prone Skin Realities
Q: Don’t moisturizers cause breakouts?
A: No—choosing a non-comedogenic, barrier-supportive product like Face Lotion actually prevents irritation and reduces acne risk.
Q: Can my skin handle vitamin C?
A: If acne-prone skin is tolerant, a morning antioxidant can support brightening and defense. If sensitive, skip it or choose a mild formula.
Q: When to use retinoids?
A: Start conservatively—like every other night—and always follow with moisturizer.
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