Holy Grail Skincare Products

Acne Prone Skin

The difference between American and East Asian methods at treating acne is the level at which they target the skin. American products treat the skin at a surface level to dry out pimples using ingredients such as benzol peroxide and salicylic acid, whereas East Asian products treat the skin at a deeper level to repair the damaged skin barrier by using products that have hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera and snail mucin.

So lets go back to basics to create a simple skincare rountine that will target both the suface and deeper level of your skin.

Disclaimer: These recommendations are not from a dermatologist, speak to your dermatologist if you have skin concerns.

Click here to learn about acne

☀️ AM Routine

Step 1: Cleanser

Use a gentle cleanser - CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser with Salicylic Acid.
Or a stronger cleanser - PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash (contains benzol peroxide).

Step 2: Serum

Here is the holy grail product - COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence.
Tip: apply on damp skin and this will help heal your moisture barrier.

Step 3: Moisturise

Use a hydrating moisturiser - Glow Recipe Watermelon Pink Juice.

Step 4: Sunscreen

Use a light weight sunscreen with no white cast - La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light Invisible Fluid Sun Cream SPF50 50ml.

🌙 PM Routine

Step 1: Double Cleanse

Cleanse your face twice especially if you've worn make up by first using an oil based cleanser - Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm.
Then use the same cleanser in the morning or a more gentle cleanser - CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser - if using retinol or tretinoin in your PM routine.

Step 2: Serum

Another holy grail product - Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum.
This contains tranexamic acid known to improve the appearance of acne marks left behind.
Skip this step on the nights you're using retinol or tretinoin.

Step 3: Moisturise

Use the same moisturiser in the AM routine or opt for a thicker moisturiser - Fresh Deep Rose Hydration Face Cream.

Step 4: Retinol or Tretinoin

Start off with a low percentage using Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum or Obagi Tretinoin Cream. Do not use both at the same time.
If it's your first time using retinol or tretinoin, reapply moisturiser after to reduce sensitivity and breakouts.
Use once a week until your skin builds tolerance and gradually increase usage and percentage.
It's normal to still experience some breakouts when using retinol or tretinoin since it is increasing cell turnover at a high speed to bring new skin to the surface.
Do not use retinol or tretinoin if using salicylic acid, tranexamic acid or any other acids in your skincare routine as this will irritate your skin.

I hope these products work wonders for you and you have acne free skin. Remember, patience and consistency is key.

Click below for some free samples.

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