Skincare Routine for Teenage Acne (Oily/Combination Skin)

For teenagers experiencing hormonal acne, clogged pores, and inflammation, a consistent skincare routine focusing on gentle cleansing, managing oiliness, dissolving clogged pores, and reducing inflammation is crucial. While cosmetic products cannot cure hormonal acne, they can significantly help manage symptoms and prevent new breakouts.

Here are recommendations for a skincare routine:

1. Acne Treatment (Focus on Dissolving Clogged Pores and Reducing Inflammation)

Managing clogged pores is key to preventing inflamed acne. A BHA (Salicylic Acid) toner is highly recommended for this purpose.

• BHA Toner: Use a toner containing Salicylic Acid, such as Encapsulated Salicylic Acid (Liquid, Timed-Release, Wash-Off). This type is designed to be gentle and effective for wash-off products like toners used before cleansing or as a short-contact treatment. Apply to the face, leave for 15 minutes, then wash off. Use twice daily.
• Oil Control and Anti-Acne Actives: Consider incorporating ingredients that help regulate oil production and have anti-acne properties in a serum or light lotion. Examples include Sebum-Reg™ (Capryloyl Glycine) to reduce oiliness and inhibit acne-causing bacteria, and Actin AC (5-in-1 Anti-Acne) which helps regulate sebum, reduce inflammation, minimize PIH, normalize keratinization, and reduce bacteria. Licorice Extract (Licochalcone A) can also help reduce inflammation and redness associated with acne.

2. Nourishing and Scar Reduction (Light Moisturizing)

For oily/combination skin, focus on lightweight, oil-free hydration and ingredients that help with post-acne marks.

• Light Moisturizer: Choose water-soluble moisturizing ingredients to avoid clogging pores. VersaMoist™ is a versatile moisturizer that helps improve skin texture and reduce stickiness. Advanced Moisture Complex provides immediate and long-lasting hydration without being heavy. Use these in a light serum or gel formula.
• Scar/PIH Reduction: Ingredients like Actin AC (mentioned above for acne) also help reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) which causes dark marks after acne heals. Licorice Extract can also help reduce redness that contributes to PIH.

3. Cleansing

Gentle cleansing is essential to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin, which can worsen oiliness and irritation.

• Gentle Cleanser: Use mild, amphoteric detergents like Mild-Wash L™ (Sodium Lauroamphoacetate) or Mild-Wash C™ (Sodium Cocoamphoacetate). These are very gentle and biodegradable, suitable for daily facial cleansing. Ensure the final product pH is adjusted to 5-6 to be skin-friendly.

Remember to introduce new products gradually and observe how the skin reacts. Consistency is key in managing acne-prone skin.