Acne-prone skin is one of the most misunderstood skin types. The instinct is to scrub harder and use stronger products — but that almost always makes things worse. Here's what actually works.
The problem with most acne advice
Harsh cleansers and over-drying treatments damage your skin barrier. When your barrier is compromised, your skin overproduces oil to compensate — which leads to more breakouts. The key to managing acne-prone skin is being gentle, consistent and strategic.
Morning routine
Step 1 — Gentle cleanser. Start with a mild, non-stripping cleanser. Try our Purifying Daily Cleanser or Gentle Cleansing Foam — both are formulated to cleanse thoroughly without disrupting your barrier.
Step 2 — Niacinamide. Niacinamide at 5% reduces sebum, minimises pores and helps fade post-acne marks. Our Niacinamide Gel Moisturiser is the most important product in a blemish-prone routine.
Step 3 — Lightweight moisturiser. Even oily skin needs hydration. Try our Oil-Free Hydrating Gel or Balancing Moisturiser for Blemish-Prone Skin.
Step 4 — SPF. Non-negotiable. UV exposure worsens post-acne hyperpigmentation significantly. Our Mineral SPF50 Stick is lightweight and non-comedogenic.
Evening routine
Step 1 — Double cleanse. Start with our BiPhasic Make-up Remover to dissolve SPF and makeup, followed by your regular cleanser.
Step 2 — Exfoliant (2-3 times per week). Our Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Toner or AHA Peeling Concentrate helps unclog pores and speed up skin cell turnover. Don't use every day — 2 to 3 times per week is enough.
Step 3 — Spot treatment. Apply our Clarifying Spot Gel directly to active blemishes to calm and clear them faster.
Step 4 — Moisturiser. Finish with your lightweight moisturiser.
Ingredients to look for
Salicylic acid for active breakouts. Niacinamide for oil control and post-acne marks. Glycolic or lactic acid for texture. Prebiotics and ceramides for barrier support.