Acne-prone skin requires a specialized approach that balances effective treatment with gentle care. Here's what you need to know.

Key steps for acne-prone skin

1. Gentle cleansing

Start with a pH-balanced cleanser twice daily. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate your skin and trigger more breakouts.

2. Targeted treatments

Use products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to target acne-causing bacteria. Start with lower concentrations and build up tolerance.

3. Hydration is essential

Contrary to popular belief, acne-prone skin needs hydration. Use oil-free moisturizers to maintain your skin barrier.

4. Sun protection

Always use SPF 30+ to protect your skin from UV damage and prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Products to avoid

• Heavy oils and comedogenic products
• Harsh physical scrubs
• Alcohol-based products that strip the skin

Building a consistent routine is key to seeing improvements in your acne. Results typically appear within 4-6 weeks of consistent use.