How To Simplify Your Acne Routine

Managing acne-prone skin requires a consistent skincare routine. But this routine doesn’t need to be overcomplicated. In fact, keeping it simple can benefit your skin. Using too many products may lead to irritation and can even worsen breakouts. One way to simplify your skincare routine for acne-prone skin is to use multi-tasking products, like CeraVe’s Acne Clay-to-Foam Cleanser. Ahead, we’ll share more about the formula and offer up other tips for curating an easy acne-prone skin regimen.

• Acne can affect the five main skin types: oily, dry, combination, normal, and sensitive. Which acne products will be most appropriate for you depends on your skin type.
• The basic components of a good acne routine include a cleanser, spot treatment, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
• Acne treatments don’t work immediately. Be patient and consistent—it can take six to eight weeks to start seeing results.

Caring for your skin properly requires understanding your skin. This includes identifying your skin type. Acne is often associated with oily skin, and the two can go hand in hand. The excess oil on the skin can clog pores and lead to increased breakouts. But acne isn’t unique to greasy complexions. It’s one of the most common skin conditions and can affect any of the five main skin types: oily skin, dry skin, combination skin, normal skin, and sensitive skin. Dry skin, for example, can be associated with a compromised moisture barrier, which can worsen acne. To determine your skin type, pay attention to your skin and how it responds to different products, environments, and lifestyle changes. For more information, read CeraVe’s guide to identifying your skin type.

Once identified, your skin type can help guide you on how to manage your acne. Certain acne products can be very drying and may not be suited to dry or sensitive skin, for instance. And a good skincare routine for oily acne-prone skin may not be the same as an appropriate skincare routine for acne-prone sensitive skin. That is to say, acne treatment is very much not one size fits all. For help finding a routine that complements your skin type and its specific needs, consult with a doctor. Who can help you find the right skincare routine for your acne-prone skin.

In addition to your skin type, understanding what causes your acne can be helpful for addressing it. The most basic answer to what causes acne is clogged hair follicles or pores. But there are quite a few factors that can contribute. Some include skincare products that are not non-comedogenic (pore-clogging), weather conditions like high humidity, stress, some medications, and picking at your skin. Hormones can also play an important role, which is why many people first experience breakouts as teenagers. If you’re unsure about the source of your blemishes, this is something else it can be helpful to discuss with a doctor.

Your acne skincare routine doesn’t need to include countless products or a slew of different steps. There are a few key essentials you can use to build a strong skincare routine for acne-prone skin.

• Gentle cleanser: Washing away excess sebum, dirt, and other potentially pore-clogging impurities is a must. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends choosing a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. One of our favorite options is the CeraVe Acne Clay-to-Foam Cleanser, which helps clear acne and soothe skin without disrupting the skin barrier.
• Targeted treatment: A targeted treatment, like a spot treatment, can be extremely beneficial for reducing the appearance of blemishes. Look for options with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
• Lightweight moisturizer: When your skin feels greasy and is marked with pimples, it’s easy to assume moisturizer is the last thing you need. However, acne treatments can be drying, and moisturizers can help combat those effects. Stick with hydrating yet lightweight formulas that are non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog your pores).
• Sunscreen: Last but not least, sunscreen is essential to any daytime skincare routine. Tanning can worsen acne, and some acne treatments may cause sun sensitivity, making sunscreen use extra important. For a lightweight moisturizer and sunscreen in one, try the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30.

In the name of a more straightforward skincare regimen, you may need to make some changes and cut certain products out. The AAD recommends against using alcohol-based toners and astringents, as well as abrasive exfoliants. These products can dry out your skin and make acne appear worse. You want to be mindful of heavy creams and oils that may clog your pores as well.

It’s also important to note that the right approach to using acne treatments isn’t “the more the merrier.” That is to say, you shouldn’t assume that layering every acne product you can get your hands on will be better than sticking with one treatment. The same applies to trying new products every week. This can irritate your skin and lead to more acne. Per the AAD, you should give a treatment six to eight weeks to work before trying something new.

One way to streamline your routine is to opt for a multi-tasking formula. Take the aforementioned Acne Clay-to-Foam Cleanser as an example. It not only can be used as your daily face wash, but it also works as an overnight spot treatment and weekly clay mask. So, if you’re already using the cleanser, you also have a treatment and mask at your disposal without needing to introduce any additional products or ingredients to your routine (which might not mesh with the rest of your regimen).

When it comes to skincare, consistency is key. If you build a good routine but regularly forget to wash your face or use your spot treatment, it likely won’t work as intended. Make taking care of your skin a habit so it becomes second nature. With a little time, it can become as instinctual as brushing your teeth or applying deodorant in the morning.

It’s also important not to become frustrated if your skin doesn’t immediately look clear. There are no magic acne solutions that instantly make spots disappear for good. It takes time for treatments to start to make a difference, and complete clearing typically takes three to four months. Practice patience, and if you’re concerned your regimen isn’t working or needs to be updated, speak to your dermatologist. Who can help you find the right solution for your skin.

For more help choosing the right products for your specific skin type and skin concerns, use our Find My Skincare Solution tool.