How to Take Care of Acne-Prone Skin: Beyond the Basics

Breakouts can feel like a never-ending cycle, but with the right care, consistency, and mindset, clearer skin is possible. Here’s how to support acne-prone skin through skincare, lifestyle, and wellbeing habits that actually make a difference.

1. Understand the Ingredients That Work

The first step in managing acne-prone skin is knowing which ingredients actually help. Salicylic acid is a go-to for many, it’s a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into pores to break down excess oil and prevent congestion. Niacinamide is another favourite: it helps regulate sebum production, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier, all without irritating your skin. Retinoids (like retinol) are especially effective over time, as they increase cell turnover and help prevent clogged pores. Azelaic acid is a gentle multitasker that not only calms inflammation but also fades pigmentation left behind by previous breakouts.

A treatment worth considering alongside your at-home skincare is a Hydrafacial. This gentle yet powerful facial exfoliates, extracts, and deeply hydrates the skin – all in one treatment. It can help unclog pores, reduce surface congestion, and leave your skin calm, clean, and visibly brighter. With regular sessions, Hydrafacials can become a valuable part of your acne-healing

2. Keep Your Routine Calm and Consistent

Less is often more when it comes to acne-prone skin. Overloading your routine with too many actives or constantly switching products can actually cause more harm than good. Start with the basics: a gentle, non-stripping cleanser to remove dirt and oil without disrupting your skin barrier. Follow with a treatment step that includes one or two key ingredients tailored to your skin’s needs, whether that’s a salicylic acid serum, a retinoid, or niacinamide.

Even oily skin types need hydration – so don’t skip moisturiser. Look lightweight options that lock in moisture without clogging pores. And of course, daily SPF is non-negotiable. Sun exposure can worsen pigmentation and delay healing, so protect your skin every day, rain or shine.

3. Focus on Whole-Body Support

Clear skin doesn’t just come from what you put on your face – your body and lifestyle play a huge role, too. Prioritise good sleep, aiming for 7–9 hours a night, as your skin does most of its repair work while you rest. Chronic stress can spike cortisol levels, which in turn triggers oil production and breakouts – so finding ways to regulate your nervous system, whether through gentle movement, journaling, or even short walks outside, can be powerful.

Diet is another factor. While everyone’s skin responds differently, reducing high-sugar and processed foods, and being mindful of dairy, can be helpful for some. Increasing your intake of whole foods, healthy fats, and plenty of water supports your skin from the inside out. Don’t forget about gut health, either – the gut-skin connection is real. A balanced microbiome, supported by fibre-rich foods and possibly probiotics, can often translate into calmer, clearer skin.

When your inner health is in balance, your skin can reflect that.

4. Make Small, Supportive Lifestyle Shifts

Sometimes it’s the smallest habits that make the biggest difference. Start by switching to a silk pillowcase and washing it every few days – it reduces friction (which can cause breakage and irritation) and doesn’t trap oil like cotton does. Keep your phone screen clean, especially if you tend to rest it against your face during calls. And try to become more aware of how often you touch your face without thinking – while working, scrolling, or even adjusting your hair. These subtle moments can spread bacteria and worsen breakouts.