Easy 5-Step Regimen
A good acne skin care routine is essential when you’re prone to breakouts.
But your daily skin care routine for acne doesn’t need to be complex to be effective.
You’ll need just a few minutes twice a day.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
Often, you’ll already have everything you need on hand.
Cleanse Gently but Well
Using only your fingertips or a soft washcloth, thoroughly cleanse your face.
Be sure to wash your jawline, neck, and in front of and behind the ears.
There’s no need to use rough pads or scrub aggressively; this won’t get your skin cleaner.
see to it you’re using the right cleanser for your skin.
This extra cleanse ensures you wash away all traces of makeup, sweat, and dirt every night.
Don’t use harsh bar soaps orantibacterial hand washeson your face.
Harsh soaps won’t clear your acne, but they will irritate your skin.
Use Toner or Astringent
This step is optional.
Doing so will help remove any leftover makeup, cleanser residue, and oil.
Regardless, if toners or astringents over-dry or irritate your skin, don’t use them.
Ditto if you’re using prescription acne medications that are super drying (like isotretinoin ortopical retinoids).
You aren’t going to harm your skin by not using toner.
Need help choosing an acne treatment medication?
Give yourdermatologistor healthcare provider a call.
Acne medications can dry out skin, leaving it thirsty for moisture.
To reduce dry and peeling skin, apply a light moisturizer twice daily.
Your moisturizer doesn’t have to leave you feeling slick and greasy.
There are many moisturizers for oily skin types that absorb fully and won’t aggravate acne.
Moisturizing gels and lotions are generally lighter than creams.
Either way, choose one that is labeled oil-free andnoncomedogenic.
This means it won’t clog your pores.
You may need to try a few different brands to find one that you like.
Many moisturizers already contain SPF, giving you sun protection while you moisturize.
If your moisturizer doesn’t contain SPF, then you should consider a separate sunscreen product.
Look for a product that is for the face rather than an all-over sunscreen product.
For example, facial sunscreens tend to be less oily and don’t have that sunscreen aroma.
If the toner is too drying, you could simply skip that step.
If you’re using prescription acne medications, verify to use gentle cleansers and other products.
Moisturizers that include sun protection can save you time.
The most critical step is consistency.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Face washing 101.
2016;74(5):945-73.e33.
doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2015.12.037
American Academy of Dermatology Association.10 skin care habits that can worsen acne.
