A consistent skincare routine supports your acne treatment, protects your skin barrier, and reduces irritation from active ingredients. The key is to keep things simple — more products do not mean better results.
Morning Routine
Step 1: Gentle Cleanser
Use a fragrance-free, non-foaming or low-foaming cleanser with a pH around 5.5. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser and La Roche-Posay Toleriane are widely available in the UK and well suited for acne-prone skin. Avoid harsh scrubs and exfoliating beads.
Step 2: Treatment (If Applicable)
If your prescriber recommends a morning treatment — such as benzoyl peroxide or azelaic acid — apply it to clean, dry skin and allow a few minutes for absorption.
Step 3: Moisturiser
Even oily skin needs moisture. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser. Look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide, which support the skin barrier without clogging pores.
Step 4: Sunscreen
SPF 30 or higher is essential, especially if you are using retinoids or antibiotics. Choose a mattifying or fluid-texture sunscreen to avoid greasiness. La Roche-Posay Anthelios and Altruist SPF 50 are affordable UK favourites.
Evening Routine
Step 1: Double Cleanse (If Wearing SPF or Makeup)
Start with a micellar water or oil-based cleanser to remove sunscreen and makeup, then follow with your regular gentle cleanser.
Step 2: Active Treatment
Apply your prescribed treatment — typically a retinoid (adapalene or tretinoin) or Duac gel. Apply to clean, dry skin. If irritation is an issue, try the sandwich method: moisturiser, treatment, moisturiser.
Step 3: Moisturiser
A slightly richer moisturiser than your morning one can help offset dryness from active treatments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-cleansing: Washing your face more than twice daily strips the skin barrier and worsens acne.
- Too many actives: Do not layer multiple acids, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide in a single routine. Follow your prescriber's guidance.
- Skipping moisturiser: Dehydrated skin produces more oil, which can worsen breakouts.
- Picking and squeezing: This spreads bacteria, causes scarring, and delays healing.
Patience Is Key
Most acne treatments take 8–12 weeks to show results. Resist the urge to switch products too soon. Take progress photos monthly — daily mirror checks can be misleading. A simple, consistent routine is the foundation of effective acne management.