For oily, acne-prone skin, the goal is to control excess oil and breakouts without stripping or irritating your skin. Over-drying can actually make your routine harder to tolerate.
☀️ Morning
- Gentle cleanser — Wash with lukewarm water; avoid scrubbing.
- Acne treatment — Consider salicylic acid 0.5–2% for clogged pores or benzoyl peroxide 2.5% for inflamed pimples.
- Lightweight moisturizer — Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free or gel-cream formulas.
- SPF 30+ sunscreen — Choose a non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum sunscreen.
🌙 Night
- Cleanser — Especially important for removing sunscreen and makeup.
- Acne treatment — Adapalene 0.1% can help prevent clogged pores and recurring acne. Start a few nights per week rather than every night if you’re sensitive.
- Moisturizer — Don’t skip this even if your skin feels oily.
🚫 Things to avoid
- Harsh scrubs and cleansing brushes
- Alcohol-heavy toners
- Picking or squeezing pimples
- Washing your face repeatedly throughout the day
- Using several strong acne treatments simultaneously
- Heavy, pore-clogging products
💡 A good rule
Cleanse → treat → moisturize → protect.
If your acne is painful, cystic, leaving scars/dark marks, or not improving after about 8–12 weeks, seeing a dermatologist is worthwhile.
