Skincare Rituals for Acne Prone Skin

Clean skin is healthy skin. We have all used dozens of skin care products to fight our acne including cleansers, masks, spot treatments, and concealers, to no avail. In searching for the one magic product that will aid our acne can be exhausting when really the root of our problems is not having clean skin.

Adopting a skincare routine is important for healthy skin and essential for acne prone or sensitive skin. We asked skincare professional and master esthetician, Ciara Miramontes, about what practices are most useful for people with acne prone skin. Ciara Miramontes explains why having a skincare routine is important, “Just as eating a healthy diet with good nutrition fuels your body and mind, your skin deserves the same effort of care.”  Ciara advocates being proactive rather than reactive. “A simple cleansing skincare regime alone will aid in preventing unwanted blemishes and future breakouts.” 

Finding a skincare routine specific to your skin type can be a daunting task. For those struggling with acne, below is a simple step by step routine for clean, healthy skin.

MORNING

Our skin is subject to environmental factors and debris most during the day.

“In the morning, the routine is all about protection and prevention,” Ciara explains.

1. Cleanse. As we sleep, we toss and turn on our pillows where bacteria spreads. Wash your face first thing in the morning for a clean slate. “It is important to wash your face twice daily for the removal of dead skin cells and excessive oils. This is especially important with acne prone skin to cleanse away dirt and any impurities that can cause breakouts.” Use a water-based cleanse with a low PH that is oil free. Don’t use anything too harsh or drying that can irritate your skin, causing unwanted redness first thing in the morning! Cleansing brushes can spread bacteria so it’s best to just use your clean fingers to wash your face.

2. Exfoliate. Exfoliation cleans out your pores, removes dead skin cells, promotes rapid cellular turnover, and reduces the formation of comedones. Don’t exfoliate every day. Do it once or twice a week as it can irritate your skin. “You can use an exfoliator that has granules in them if you have extra flaky skin, otherwise chemical exfoliators work best for acne-prone skin. Apply chin up in small circular motions.” Exfoliating in the morning leaves your face smooth and primed for your makeup application.

3. Tone. Tone your skin for added cleanliness. Toners leave the skin feeling fresh because they remove excess oils and dirt. Some toners for acne have Salicylic Acid which helps kill the bacteria. “Be careful if your skin is really sensitive or dry when using an astringent as it may irritate sensitive skin. Choose a toner that is right for your skin type or doesn’t use one at all. Apply the toner on a cotton ball and dab in the areas you have acne. To avoid cross-contamination use a fresh cotton ball for the rest of your face.”

4. Moisturize. Many with acne avoid moisturizing, but this is vital to balance and protect the skin. Use a light moisturizer, as some acne treatments can dry out your skin. Choose a moisturizer that is oil-free and noncomedogenic like Oxygenetix Hydro Matrix. The Aloe Vera base in Hydro Matrix has a cooling and soothing effect while keeping your skin hydrated all day long.

5. Conceal with breathable Foundation. “When using products over blemishes, make sure to use ones that will aid in protection and prevention - not make things worse.” Oxygenetix Oxygenating Acne Control Foundation contains clean ingredients including 2% Salicylic Acid to fight exfoliate, combatting acne causing bacteria all day. The foundation acts as a second skin, keeping unwanted debris and bacteria out while helping clear pores for a smooth complexion.

THROUGHOUT THE DAY

1. Blot. “Use blotting pads to remove excess oil throughout the day.” Acne prone skin tends to produce oil throughout the day, especially in the “T” zone on the nose and cheeks. Blotting excess oils away is a great way to keep oil production at bay.

2. Eat Healthily. “Avoid oily foods such as fast food, chips, and pizza. The grease will come out of your pores causing even more breakouts.”

3. Keep your Oxygenetix Acne Control close by for touch-ups as needed. Oxygenetix Foundation is water resistant up to 90 minutes and transfer resistant. However, with oil production from acne prone skin, you may need to touch up throughout the day.

NIGHT

The skin repairs itself at night as we sleep. This is a good time to use acne treatments, masks, and serums.

1. Cleanse. “I recommend washing your face twice at night because the first time you are removing your makeup and the second time the lather is really able to cleanse the skin and remove bacteria.” Cleanse for 30 seconds using your gentle cleanser.

2. Steam. “Steam your face every few days by taking a hot shower or putting your face over hot water. This opens your pores and allows for a deeper cleanse.”

3. Tone if necessary. Use a toner for added cleanliness, but be careful not to overdo it.

4. Apply Serum. ”It is good to also add a serum into your daily routine. Make sure it isn’t too heavy or greasy for your skin. Find the right serum to help absorb oils. Acne fighting serums can contain Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acids which are also used in spot treatments and chemical peels.”

5. Moisturize. Use your Hydro Matrix to hydrate your skin before bed. As you sleep and your skin starts to repair itself, the Ceravitae® in Hydro Matrix supports oxygen uptake needed to maintain healthy-looking skin.

Dealing with acne can be challenging but adopting this skincare routine will help your skin begin the process clearing and maintaining a smooth complexion.

Remember, you’re not alone and we here at Oxygenetix are dedicated to providing helpful content and breathable products for all manners of skin conditions.

Special Thank You 

Ciara Miramontes is a master esthetician and beauty therapist, originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, specializing in micro-blading, micro-dermabrasion, lashes, and facials. Ciara is passionate about making her clients feel comfortable and beautiful. She is currently taking appointments in Long Beach, California. Visit her website beautybyci.com for more information.