As someone with sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin, this is a list of skincare products that have and haven't worked for me. (Free and affiliate links included.)
First use broke me out, but my skin got used to it. It didn't remove sebaceous filaments and pore gunk as the viral videos suggested, so I didn't purchase again. (Affiliate link)
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
An excellent moisturiser that provides deep hydration, but too heavy for my oily skin. It didn't break me out, but it was quite thick.
COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream
Definitely brightens the skin and dries with a distinct glow. I stopped using this because I now use alternative forms of hydration, and I found that applying any cream on top would cause the serum to pill. (Affiliate link)
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Serum
I've been using this since I first started getting pimples. It's good for white heads, but it dries the skin out so you'll need to use moisturiser the next day. Apply at night as it makes skin sun sensitive too, and it will bleach anything that isn't...
Benzac AC Mild Strength 2.5% Acne Gel
Swapped out my prescription tretinoin for this gentler serum. The results aren't as radical as prescription-grade/over-the-counter retinoids, but I use it more on my back and it has helped with acne reduction and fading blemishes. (Affiliate link)
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion Serum
Recently purchased the travel-sized version to test as it was recommended for fading dark spots. There's been little visible impact - however, this serum is better for soothing irritation and redness. (Affiliate link)
Anua Azelaic Acid 10+ Hyaluron Serum
Kept this in the fridge and it was fantastic for soothing my skin after a sweltering Aussie summer day. There's enough serum in the packet that I got two uses out of one mask.
Beauty of Joseon Centella Asiatica Calming Mask
Apply this foaming cleanser in the shower to wash away dirt and oil on your skin. It's also good for acne areas like the chest and back. (Affiliate link)
Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser
Follow your cleanser with this soothing toner to boost hydration and glow.
TIRTIR Milk Skin Toner
Cetaphil moisturisers have been a staple in my household since I was a kid. They're simple, gentle, and deeply hydrating. I find the creams to be thicker and more suitable for the body, while the lotion is lightweight and better for the face. (Affili...
Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion
Sun protection is a must if you plan on going out, especially if your routine includes actives that make your skin more sensitive. This one is lightweight and non-greasy - perfect for oily skin.
Clears clogged pores and refreshes skin. I use this on dry skin after cleansing, only once per week max to avoid over exfoliation.
Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Refreshing Pore Mask
Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. I've just started using this to help improve my post-acne marks. (Affiliate link)
CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser
An affordable, dermatologist-tested wash formulated for dry-to-normal, sensitive skin. (Affiliate link)
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
This thick cream is deeply nourishing, is suitable for all skin types, and can be used on the face and body. (Affiliate link)
Cetaphil Moisturising Cream
Suited to oily and acne-prone skin. Also works for back and chest acne. (Affiliate link)
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
There's a reason it's gone viral. Shaving bumps? Gone? Back acne? No more. Be careful not to pair with certain actives, and it'll sting if you apply it directly after shaving. (Affiliate link)
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
Affordable. Makes skin glow. Reduces the appearance of pores. Can be applied morning and night. (Affiliate link)