Summer is around the corner and for our skin, it means releasing more oils than usual. When it’s hot and humid, our skin’s sebaceous glands produce more sebum, the natural oil that moisturizes and protects our skin. The rise in sebum production during summer can lead to a few skincare challenges. For people with acne-prone skin, the excess oil can contribute to clogged pores and breakouts. But we’re here to help! Here is a simple skincare routine for acne-prone skin.
What is Acne-Prone Skin?
La Roche Possay describes acne-prone skin as skin that has persistent and recurring pimples, usually accompanied by larger, deeper lesions including papules, pustules, cysts or nodules that occur deep within the dermal and subcutaneous layers of the skin.
People with this skin type tend to produce excess oil (sebum) and may have clogged pores, making it easier for acne-causing bacteria to thrive. Acne-prone skin can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, hormones, and external triggers like skincare products or environmental conditions.
The Simple Skincare Routine:
Below is a very simple routine you can follow. To understand each step, you can read How to Build A Skincare Routine where I describe different skin types and explain each skincare step. Below are product recommendations to help keep your skin from breaking out more than it is, and/or they can help treat your acne too.
1. Cleanser (AM & PM)
Start your day with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser to remove excess oil and impurities without stripping or drying out your skin. After cleansing your face for at least 60 seconds, pat your face dry with a clean towel, avoiding vigorous rubbing.
- Nature’s Nourishment Gentle Skin Cleanser – N$ 40
- CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser – N$ 212*
2. Moisturizer (AM & PM)
After cleaning, use an oil-free or non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. An oil-free moisturiser will not clog your pores. Even acne-prone skin needs some moisture to be healthy.
- CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion – N$ 156*
- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream – N$ 236*
3. Serum/Treatment (PM)
Apply an acne treatment product at night. A few ingredients to look out for are Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide and Niacinamide. PLEASE DO NOT USE THEM ALL AT THE SAME TIME. Only use one active at a time because you will damage your skin barrier and may make your acne worse!
- Salicylic Acid: This beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) is great for acne-prone skin because it can penetrate oil-filled pores, exfoliate dead skin cells, and help unclog them. Salicylic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce redness and irritation.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide is an antimicrobial agent that kills the bacteria responsible for acne. Benzoyl peroxide can be found in cleansers, gels, creams, and spot treatments. It can be drying, so it’s important to moisturize well when using it.
- Niacinamide: This is a versatile ingredient for acne-prone skin. It helps regulate sebum production, which can reduce excess oiliness, and it has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm redness and irritation. Niacinamide is normally tolerated well and can be found in serums, moisturizers, and spot treatments.
4. Sunscreen (AM)
To finish up your morning routine, use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Preferably use one that’s labelled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic.”
- Eucerin Sun Gel Creme Oil Control 50ml Dry Touch – N$ 360
- La Roche Posay Anthelios Dry Touch Fluid Spf50 30ml – N$ 276*
All products are available in Dischem. *Prices are subject to change. To confirm prices, visit the Dischem Website.
