Teenagers are not the only ones who suffer from breakouts; many women in the 20—30 age bracket experience severe acne in their post-adolescent years. Unsightly and sometimes painful, adult acne can be the result of the wrong lifestyle (irregular sleeping), incorrect makeup products, and even hormones. While we cannot change your genes or alter your lifestyle habits (though we’ll try), we can advise you on the proper products to keep breakouts at bay. Click through our roundup of beauty essentials for acne-prone skin to add to your arsenal.
9 Beauty Essentials for Acne-Prone Skin
CLEANSER
For those who suffer from breakouts, any old facial wash will not do. Those prone to acne often apply more creams, lotions, treatments, and makeup to treat and cover their blemishes than those with flawless complexions; cleansing should be done religiously to avoid clogged pores and further breakouts. Use a facial cleanser that comprises ingredients which deep clean and help prevent blemishes, such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and glycerin. Star Product Murad Time Release Acne Cleanser US $32; AED/SAR 118 www.sephora.com This double-duty product is ideal for those who want to banish breakouts and address premature aging. The formula includes salicylic acid to provide effective acne treatment and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin and make it more supple. The low-foaming product is ideal for sensitive skin types as foaming cleansers can be too aggressive and ultimately lead to more acne.
EXFOLIATOR
Acne-prone skin produces more dead skin cells (which lead to more breakouts) than other skin types, so exfoliating regularly is important. It is best to skip reusable devices, such as brushes and clothes, since they can harbor bacteria that make acne even worse. Instead, opt for a disposable, gentle oil-free exfoliator. Star Product Tatcha Polished Deep Rice Enzyme Powder US $65; AED/SAR 239 www.sephora.com Unlike other exfoliating treatments, this product comprises very fine grit that isn’t abrasive or harsh on the skin. Once washed off, it leaves the visage instantly smoother and softer. Formulated with rice bran and papaya extracts, it helps prevent breakouts by effectively buffing away dead skin cells.
TONER
Many people dismiss toner from their skincare routine, even though it is a useful step with multiple benefits. Toners are meant to be used after cleansing to maintain your skin’s natural pH balance. When shopping for a toner, those with oily and acne-prone skin should avoid products that contain irritants, like alcohol or menthol, as they aggravate the skin and worsen blemishes. Toners also help remove any leftover makeup that your cleanser may have missed. Star Product Origins Zero Oil Pore Purifying Toner US $22; AED/SAR 81 www.sephora.com This natural multi-tasking formula not only restores the skin's pH balance, but also absorbs excess oil and shine without drying the skin. Those with extra oily skin and large pores—both acne-causing factors—will benefit the most from this product.
SERUM
Serums are a beauty essential for every skin type; they may be light, but they comprise a multitude of beauty-boosting ingredients. These formulas are especially beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types since they are oil-free and fast absorbing. Those prone to acne should consider a serum with glycerin or retinol to help prevent breakouts. Star Product Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum US $79; AED/SAR 290 www.sephora.com I don’t like to use the term “miracle product” in general, but the results of this serum are phenomenal. Acne often leaves behind unappealing dark spots, but this product, enriched with glycerin and grapevine shoot extract, works to lighten even the most stubborn and old facial hyperpigmentation for a radiant and brighter complexion.
MOISTURIZER
Moisturizing oily acne-prone skin can seem counterintuitive, but the truth is that avoiding this step might be the reason for your breakouts. When skin is being deprived of moisture, oil production goes into overdrive and leads to extra oil secretion, which results in acne. A moisturizer balances oil production to ensure that the skin is kept hydrated. Star Product Clarins Lotus Face Treatment Oil US $54; AED/SAR 198 www.sephora.com This isn’t your traditional cream or lotion moisturizer; this facial oil is formulated for oily and combination skin. If the thought of slathering oil on your face makes you shudder, note that this product is extremely lightweight and doesn’t clog your pores.
PRIMER
Makeup, dirt, and other airborne bacteria seek shelter in our pores, but a good primer works as a barrier between our skin and these elements. Star Product Clinique Superprimer Face Primer US $27; AED/SAR 99 www.sephora.com This long-lasting primer prevents the skin from becoming oily and your makeup from sliding off by lunch time. When applied, it glides on smoothly and leaves a silky finish. It also reduces redness and evens out the complexion so that you don’t have to put on too much foundation and concealer for a flawless visage.
FOUNDATION
In a perfect world, we would be able to wake up, slather on our moisturizer and sunscreen, and head out. But in reality, when you have acne-prone skin, breakouts leave jarring dark marks and scars that call for a layer of heavy-duty, pore-clogging foundation before we leave our homes. Star Product Chanel Vitalumière Loose Powder Foundation with mini kabuki brush US $85; AED/SAR 312 www.harrods.com Heavy-duty liquid foundations comprise an array of pore-clogging ingredients that often worsen acne breakouts. Enter the Chanel Vitalumiére loose powder foundation; this star product looks like a loose powder but has the high coverage and staying power of a liquid foundation. Once applied, the finely milled powder transforms into a flawless, airbrushed finish. The formula comes in a strategic, spillage-free jar so that you don’t have to worry about making a mess in your makeup bag.
FACEMASK
Facemasks are arguably the most relaxing and soothing way to combat pesky breakouts. Opt for a clay facial mask to magnetically draw out all of the dirt and acne-causing grime from your pores while you unwind on the sofa or the spa bed. Star Product GlamGlow Supermud Clearing Treatment US $69; AED/SAR 253 www.dermstore.com The reason so many people rave about this cult-favorite product is because it works. The facemask penetrates deep into the pores to eradicate bacteria. Aptly named Supermud, the formula leaves your skin instantly brighter and radiating after being washed off. Use twice a week for 20 minutes for best results.
MAKEUP BRUSH CLEANSER
Makeup brushes are a breeding ground for all sorts of bacteria. They pick up dead skin cells, dirt, and oil, and transfer it back to our faces. I personally try to use my fingers for makeup application, but on the occasion that a brush is necessary, I make sure that it is thoroughly cleansed before letting it contact my face. Star Product Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner US $24; AED/SAR 88 www.sephora.com Soap and water can remove excess makeup from your brushes, but the process is time consuming. This makeup brush cleaner is rinse-free and fast drying, so you can resume your makeup application in no time.
