For many, having acne is a normal occurrence. Whether you experience the odd breakout or are struggling chronically, Sukoshi Mart is here to help! No matter the situation, one thing for certain is that we are all trying to clear and improve our skin. With various methods out there, it is important to educate yourself to find the perfect fit for your skin. Clearing acne-prone skin takes time and patience, so it's best to be diligent with a routine. Here is a simple yet effective way to tackle your acne concerns instead of an intimidating 10-step regimen. 

Western Vs. Eastern Approach

Did you know that Western and Eastern skincare have very different philosophies when dealing with acne-prone skin?

In Western skincare, acne concerns are treated with a fast problem-solving approach. Skincare products contain high concentrations of active ingredients to deliver quicker results – but may cause dryness and irritation in the long run.

For example, benzyl peroxide is an ingredient commonly found in Western acne products that treat acne by extensively exfoliating the skin. While this delivers faster results, the skin’s barrier is dried out in the process. 

In contrast, Eastern skincare tackles acne concerns through a longer but gentler approach. Eastern skincare philosophy sees pimples as a sign of disruption in the skin’s barrier. To combat this, Eastern skincare focuses on skin barrier repair through hydration and gentle ingredients. 

Rather than high concentrations of active ingredients such as benzyl peroxide, Eastern skincare products feature derivatives such as salicylate, paired with high concentrations of soothing ingredients. These ingredients provide the same results as Western acne skin care products, but are gentler and more stable.

If you find that the Western approach to acne-prone skin does not work for you, this is your sign to try the Eastern approach to acne. 

A Simple, Yet Effective Acne Skincare Routine

Don't know where to begin your acne skincare journey? Not sure which products are the ones for you? No worries. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite skincare products to help you tackle acne.

Step 1. Cleanser: SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Foam

The first step in any skincare routine is having a clean base. Start by cleansing the face to remove dead skin cells, control sebum, and calm the skin. The key is to gently wash the face without irritating it any further. The 30 Days Miracle Acne Clear Foam nourishes, protects and rejuvenates the skin for optimal healing. 

Shop SOME BY MI Acne Clear Foam

Step 2. Skin Toner: Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner

The next step is to tone the face to restore the skin’s natural pH levels and protect against environmental contaminants. The Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner exfoliates the skin while adding essential nutrients for optimal hydration. Packed with ingredients such as aloe, snail mucin, and salicylic acid, this toner soothes irritation and smooths uneven skin textures caused by blemishes. 

Shop Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner

Step 3. Spot Serum: COSRX AC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum

Next is to nourish stubborn breakouts with a spot-clearing serum. Here is where Western and Eastern approaches differ. The trick here is to hydrate the blemishes rather than dry out and irritate the skin further. This serum contains a combination of soothing ingredients such as Centella Asiatica, NMF, and 4% Niacinamide that calm, balance and reduce hyperpigmentation caused by scarring. 

Shop COSRX Blemish Serum

Step 4. Acne Cream: Pyunkang Yul ACNE Cream

After targeting the skin, it is essential to lock in hydration as it is a crucial component of acne treatment. Hydrating the skin prevents water loss and reduces the chances of blemishes by adding a protective layer. Formulated for acne-prone skin, the Pyunkang Yul Acne cream is made with Centella Asiatica and willow bark which soothe and hydrate clogged pores.  

Shop Pyunkang Yul ACNE Cream

Step 5. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is crucial for any skin type, especially for acne-prone skin—for a number of reasons. With a compromised skin barrier, acne causes the skin to be prone to dark spots and sun damage when exposed to the sun. Infrared heat from the sun causes acne to flare up even more. 

Prevention is protection, and the extra sensitivity of irritated skin means another layer of defence is crucial for healing. 

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Before You Go

Good things come to those who wait, and your skin's barrier is no exception! This skincare routine (or any routine for that matter) won't magically give you clear glass skin overnight. With consistent use, a healthy diet, and time, your skin’s barrier will be hydrated and restored to its best.