Best Skincare Ingredients For Breakouts

WHAT ARE BREAKOUTS?

Breakouts, which can present as pimples, blackheads, and inflamed skin, often stems from hormonal changes, stress, diet, and lifestyle habits. If you are struggling with breakouts, don’t worry. We have rounded up some of our favourite products to held get them under control.


Salicylic Acid

What It Does

Delivers deep pore cleansing and reduces inflammation, offering relief to those battling with acne.

Combination Therapies

Best paired with hydrating elements to nurture and balance the skin.

Product Recommendation

Paula's Choice | Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Benzoyl Peroxide

What It Does

Actively targets acne-causing bacteria, helping to decongest pores and clear the skin.

Combination Therapies

Advisable to alternate with retinoids, allowing your skin to adjust.

Product Recommendation

PanOxyl | Creamy Acne Wash Daily Control 4% Benzoyl Peroxide

Retinoids

What They Do

Promote skin cell renewal, aiding in the prevention of blocked pores and the reduction of acne scars, offering a glimpse of hope for those seeking skin rejuvenation.

Combination Therapies

Incorporate moisturisers to soothe and protect the skin.

Product Recommendation

La Roche-Posay | Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Retinoid Acne Treatment

Niacinamide

What It Does

Acts as a calming agent, reducing inflammation and regulating oil production, contributing to a more harmonious skin texture.

Combination Therapies

Compatible with most acne treatments, enhancing overall skin health without causing irritation.

Product Recommendation

Naturium | Niacinamide Serum 12% Plus Zinc 2%


FAQs

  • For effective skincare, especially when addressing acne, apply products in increasing order of thickness. Start with a cleanser, followed by moisturiser and sunscreen in the morning. In the evening, use a cleanser and moisturiser. For acne-prone skin, consider adding a retinoid or acne treatment​​.

  • Skincare is quite personal, but for acne-prone skin, begin with a gentle cleanser and moisturiser. It often requires trial and error to find what works best for your skin​​.

  • During pregnancy, avoid retinol/retinoids, hydroquinone, and certain chemical sunscreens. Safe options include azelaic acid, glycolic acid (in low concentrations), benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, and mineral sunscreens​​.

  • An effective nighttime routine includes a cleanser, a weekly treatment, a serum, and a moisturiser. This regimen can help manage acne effectively​​.

  • Cleansing after a shower is recommended, as the steam opens up pores, making them more receptive to skincare products​​.

  • Yes, AHA and retinol can be used together, but at different times for enhanced effects​​.

  • BHAs exfoliate the skin from the top down, helping with acne, while AHAs exfoliate the top layer of skin, providing anti-aging benefits and smoother skin​​.

  • Yes, AHA and BHA can be used together as they offer different benefits and target different skin layers​​.

  • Retinol and vitamin C can be mixed but should be used at different times – vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night​​.

  • To prevent maskne, use a washable cloth mask, cleanse your skin before and after wearing the mask, and consider using gentle keratolytic ingredients to keep pores unclogged​​.

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