Acne routine: the right steps for blemish-prone skin

Acne is more than just the occasional breakout: blackheads, clogged pores, and inflammatory blemishes can coexist, and an overly aggressive routine risks further irritating the skin. The goal is to maintain a regular, easy-to-follow regimen while knowing when to seek professional advice. Here is a facial routine for acne-prone skin built around products available at Espanova.

What steps should you take if you have blemish-prone skin?

Cleanse your face gently up to twice a day, without scrubbing or overusing exfoliants. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a mild cleanser, hydration according to your skin’s needs, and products specifically suited for acne-prone skin. A skincare routine can support your skin, but it cannot replace a prescribed treatment if your acne is severe.

Morning: cleanse, hydrate, protect

1. Gentle cleansing

Apply the Deliplus Oil-Free Facial Cleansing Mousse to damp skin, then rinse with lukewarm water. The product label describes it as an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula intended for oily or acne-prone skin. Do not rub irritated areas.

2. Appropriate hydration

Shiny skin also needs hydration. The Deliplus Oil-Free Mattifying Facial Gel Cream offers a lightweight texture; its formula contains niacinamide and salicylic acid. Start gradually if your skin is sensitive. If it feels tight, opt for simpler hydration, such as the BYPHASSE cream with jojoba esters and hyaluronic acid, which the product page describes as having a lightweight texture.

3. Daily sun protection

Finish with the Deliplus SPF 50+ Facial Sun Fluid. Apply a generous amount to your face and neck, then reapply according to sun exposure and product instructions. Sun protection is particularly useful when your routine includes exfoliating treatments and helps limit the darkening of acne marks caused by the sun.

Evening: a short routine, without over-exfoliation

Cleanse your face again with the gentle mousse, especially after a day of wearing sun protection or makeup. Follow up with your preferred moisturizer. If you wish to test an exfoliating treatment, the Deliplus Salicylic Acid Purifying and Sebum-Regulating Discs should be used after cleansing, avoiding the eye area. Start with one to two evenings per week, then adjust according to your skin's tolerance.

On the same evening, avoid layering the discs with the Deliplus gel cream, which also contains salicylic acid. Instead, opt for a moisturizer without this active ingredient. In case of persistent tingling, redness, or dryness, space out or discontinue the treatment and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

An isolated breakout?

The Biovene Salicylic Acid Pimple Patches can serve as a targeted treatment to avoid picking at a blemish. Apply them to clean, dry skin according to the instructions. They are not a substitute for medical care in the case of deep or painful lesions.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Stripping the skin: washing several times a day or scrubbing vigorously can worsen irritation.
• Adding too many active ingredients at once: introduce one new product at a time to gauge your skin's tolerance.
• Popping pimples: this increases the risk of irritation and scarring.
• Giving up too soon: consistency is key; acne treatments often require several weeks before results can be evaluated.

FAQ: acne routine and sensitive skin

Should you hydrate oily, acne-prone skin?

Yes, especially if it feels tight after cleansing or using an exfoliating product. Choose a comfortable texture and adjust the frequency according to your skin's needs.

Can salicylic acid be used every day?

Tolerance varies depending on the formula and the individual. For this routine, start gradually and avoid combining multiple exfoliating products in the same evening. Always follow the instructions for each product.

When should you seek medical advice?

Consult a doctor or dermatologist if breakouts are deep, painful, leave scars, if the acne is moderate to severe, or if a standard routine and pharmacy advice are not enough. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, seek advice before using any anti-acne treatment.

In short: a gentle cleanser, appropriate hydration, and SPF in the morning; in the evening, a simple routine with a targeted treatment introduced cautiously. Explore the products above and adapt the steps to how your skin reacts.

Sources and dermatological advice

• American Academy of Dermatology — tips for acne-prone skin
• American Academy of Dermatology — habits to break
• NHS — treatments and situations requiring medical advice

This content is for informational purposes and does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. Editorial illustration: the bottles shown are not the cited products.