How to build the perfect skin care routine for acne prone skin
By Sumaya Abdel-Motagaly
February 27, 2023
Image Credit: Sumaya Abdel-Motagaly for The Campus Trainer
Finding the right skin care routine can be challenging–especially for those struggling with acne. With the endless amount of products, deciding what products to use on your skin can be overwhelming.
“It [skincare] makes me feel good,” said Rimsha Qadir, a sophomore information science major.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, “choosing the right skincare” and sticking to a routine is one way to see the best results in your skin. The basic steps of a daily skincare routine should include a cleanser, a toner and a moisturizer, as advised by the New York Times Style Magazine,
The Cleanser: When it comes to choosing the right cleanser for your skin, it's important to understand what skin type you have to ensure you are giving your face the love it needs.
For those with oily skin, one of the best face washes to use is the Effaclar La Roche-Posay Gel Cleanser ($15.99).This cleanser has a 4.7 star review on Amazon, with over 22,000 ratings. It was even named Forbes best acne face wash for oily skin in 2022.
However, if your skin tends to be more on the dry side, using a gentle moisturizing cleanser will work best for you. Neutrogena’s Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser ($10.29) is a great choice for those with more dehydrated skin to give an extra boost.
Sophomore public health major Rameen Aamir said, “for my cleanser, I use CeraVe Facial Foaming.” After social media skin care influencer Hyram’s recommendation of the cleanser, Aamir has been using CeraVe ever since.
The Toner: The role of a toner, according to popular skincare brand Neutrogena, is to help remove “any last traces of dirt, grime and impurities stuck in your pores after you wash your face.”
Although toners are not imperative for the well-being of skin care, Dr. Zoe Draelos, a clinical and research dermatologist wrote, “toners are present in most commercial skin care regimens.”
According to Healthline, one of the best toners for acne prone skin is the Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner($18.00). This toner works to unclog pores while offering skin a smoother appearance.
The Moisturizer: A moisturizer is essential in hydrating your skin. “Moisturizing your face helps to protect the skin's barrier from irritation,” said Dr. Ellen Marmur–a dermatologist and founder of MMSkincare–in an interview with Healthline.
Keeping your skin properly hydrated is especially important for those struggling with acne. According to WebMd, it can help reduce the amount of sebum–excess oils in your skin–and soothe your skin.
Cetaphil’s Gentle Clear Mattifying Acne Moisturizer ($10.99) is suitable for acne-prone skin because it helps keep skin filled with moisture without causing breakouts. Another product to try is La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer with Niacinamide ($10.99), which helps build up your skin’s protective barrier.
While skincare is a great way to help treat your acne and keep your skin healthy, it also serves as an important destresser.
“You should treat your skincare routine as a way to breathe,” said Aamir. “As college students, we have a hard time treating ourselves. This [skincare] is our way of treating ourselves.”