I’m breaking out—here’s everything I’m adding to my routine
Breaking out as an adult hits different. For someone who dealt with acne-prone skin back in high school, the sudden appearance of new pimples still causes instant stress. Recently, hormonal changes from stopping the pill have brought a few unwelcome flare-ups back into my life. Instead of panicking, I’ve been slowly tweaking my routine, bringing back products I trust and seeing what actually works now.
I’m trying not to overwhelm my skin, so I keep actives to a minimum and use them on alternating days or at different times of the day. The goal is to treat breakouts while still protecting my skin barrier.
PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash
The PanOxyl Acne Creamy Wash contains four percent benzoyl peroxide, an ingredient known for effectively targeting acne-causing bacteria that lead to active breakouts. It also comes in a stronger 10 percent formula, but that option can be noticeably more drying and may not be suitable for everyone, especially if your skin is sensitive or just on the drier side.
If you’re new to benzoyl peroxide, it’s best to start slowly by using the wash once a day for the first few weeks and paying close attention to how your skin responds. This helps minimize irritation, dryness, and potential barrier disruption.
If your skin tolerates it well over time, you can gradually increase usage to twice a day, concentrating application only on areas that are prone to breakouts rather than the entire face. This cleanser can be a reliable foundation for managing hormonal and acne-related flare-ups without overwhelming the skin.
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
This is one of the first products I reach for the moment my skin starts feeling congested or slightly out of balance. I usually add it back into my nighttime routine, especially when I sense breakouts coming on. It’s a product I’ve used before with good results, which makes it feel like a safe place to return to when my skin is acting up.
Because it contains exfoliating acids, I’m mindful about how often I use it and what I pair it with. I avoid layering it with other strong actives on the same night and stick to using it a few times a week rather than daily. Used this way, it helps keep pores clear and prevents small breakouts from turning into something bigger.
Even when my pimples are long gone, this is a product I continue to use. Beyond helping prevent breakouts, it noticeably improves skin texture, making my skin feel smoother and more refined overall.
La Roche‑Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
This is very much a long game product in my routine. Adapalene isn’t something I reach for to fix a single pimple overnight. It’s more of a behind-the-scenes step that helps keep blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, and breakouts from forming in the first place. I apply a thin layer across my face and let consistency do the work rather than expecting instant results.
It can be drying and slightly irritating at first, so I’m careful not to rush it. I stick to a pea-sized amount, wait until my skin is completely dry before applying, and always follow with a good moisturizer. On nights I use it, I skip other exfoliating or active products and keep the rest of my routine simple. Sunscreen during the day is also non-negotiable for me, since retinoids can make skin more sensitive.
The results aren’t immediate. It takes weeks, not days. But with patience and steady use, it helps me manage acne at its source so I’m not constantly reacting to every new breakout.
Anua Heartleaf 70 Soothing Collagen Mask
When my skin feels irritated, inflamed, or just worn down from too many active days, this is the step I turn to. The Anua Heartleaf 70 Soothing Collagen Mask is especially helpful after using treatments like benzoyl peroxide, exfoliating acids, or adapalene, when my skin needs moisture and calming rather than more correction.
It’s a great option for oily or acne-prone skin types who still want hydration without anything heavy or greasy. The heartleaf extract helps soothe redness and sensitivity, while the collagen-focused formula puts moisture back into the skin and helps it feel more comfortable again. I like to use this as a reset mask, especially after a few active, heavy days, and keeping it in the fridge makes it even more calming on stressed or inflamed skin.
Acne Pimple Master Patch
For larger pimples that come to a head, these are a non-negotiable step. I usually apply one at night and leave it on overnight, letting the hydrocolloid patch absorb everything it needs to. By morning, the breakout is noticeably flatter and less inflamed.
They’re not glamorous, but they’re incredibly effective at protecting the pimple from being touched while helping it heal faster. When used early enough, they can also prevent a breakout from lingering longer than it needs to.
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