Bye Bye, Breakouts: The Best Skincare Products for Acne

Here are our go-to gentle yet effective cleansers, exfoliators, masks, toners, treatments, moisturisers, SPFs, and foundations for acne—whether triggered by hormones or genetics, or from wearing a mask (aka “maskne”). Smooth-sailing skin this way …

What causes acne?

Comedones. Pustules. Papules. Cysts. No matter what type of acne you’re dealing with, pimples of all types have the same starting point: a blockage of the hair follicle. Basically, breakouts occur when excess oil and dead skin cells clog your pores, which leads to the growth of zit-forming bacteria (referred to in the scientific world as P. acnes). While there’s a genetic link to your chances of developing acne, dermatologists agree that certain triggers may exacerbate blemish-prone skin. We’re talking the usual suspects like not getting enough sleep, eating the wrong foods, stress, and using the wrong ingredients in your skincare products. Thanks to recent events, we can all add wearing protective face masks to the long list of acne causes.

How to Identify the Best Skincare Products for Acne

OK, now that we’re all on the same page as to what causes acne, let’s dive into what you should be looking for in products that get rid of pimples. The best products for treating spots all have one superpower in common: they tackle blemishes *without* stripping your skin. Our number one trick is to look for products that contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and non-comedogenic (non-acne forming) hydrators to help balance out acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Our go-to’s are as soothing as they are powerful.

Best Cleansers for Acne

Cleansers are crucial because they kill bacteria. These washes will leave your skin feeling clean, without making your face feel tight.

Best Exfoliators for Acne

These chemical exfoliators will remove dead skin cells and encourage cellular turnover—so you’re left with a more radiant complexion.

Best Masks for Acne

Give your blemishes the boot and prevent future breakouts with these anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial face masks.

Best Toners for Acne with Sensitive Skin

These alcohol-free toners will correct your skin’s pH balance and reduce inflammation. Because balanced skin equals happy skin.

Best Specific Treatments for Acne

These spot treatments have pimple-banishing powers and calming ingredients, so they won’t irritate your skin and cause more breakouts.

Best Moisturisers for Acne

Lightweight textures are acne-prone skin’s best friend. These moisturisers balance out oil production while keeping skin nourished.

Best SPFs for Acne

Since acne-prone skin can be finicky, keep reading for mineral sunscreens which provide protection without leaving behind greasy residue.

Best Foundations for Acne

We recommend sticking to non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog your pores. These foundations provide coverage without contributing to the problem.

The Rules of Skin Care

We recommend sticking to non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog your pores. These foundations provide coverage without contributing to the problem.

Rule 1:

Go Get a Skin Assessment

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to acne. Before you start experimenting, consult a dermatologist to learn what treatments will be the most beneficial.

Rule 2:

Consistency Is Key

As with everything in life, the more consistent you are with your skincare routine, the better results you’ll see.

Rule 3:

Don’t Overdo It

Mixing too many skincare products can leave your skin irritated which is exactly what we’re trying to avoid. Also, if you try it all at once, how will you know what’s working and what’s not?

Rule 4:

Good Things Come to Those Who Wait

Topical treatments can take six to twelve weeks to start working. Be patient and stick with a new skincare product. But if it hurts stop using it immediately.

Here’s to clear skin!

Yours in skin,

Dr Alek and the SkinMiles Team