I spent most of my early to mid 20s struggling with acne prone skin, so I've gone through A LOT of products and want to share the ones that worked along with some great options
Sections
5
Cleansers
Toners
Serums and ampoule
Moisturisers
Sunscreens
Cleansers
Bestest non acid cleanser I've used for my oily skin so far. It has that "strength" you'd want from a cleaner but it's also so hydrating and non stripping
beplain Greenful pH-Balanced Face Wash
Another great salicylic acid cleanser option. Really can't go wrong with the Inkey List
INKEY List 2% Salicylic Acid Cleanser 150ml
As always salicylic acid + niacinamide will always be a go-to acne fighting combo. Plus, the cleanser is non drying!
CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser 236ml
Yes, it says dry skin BUT I used it years back and it worked really well on my oily skin especially for dealing with whiteheads
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser 236ml
Another non acid cleanser that was so good for the summer months! A little goes a long way, so it will last!
Senka Perfect Whip 120g - Japan Health
Toners
I've tried and loved both versions of this milk toner but for oily acne prone skin, the light version will be my first option
TIRTIR Milk Skin Rice Toner 5.07 Fl Oz
This one is actually on my wish list to try. I've seen great reviews especially if you want a gentle exfoliation for sensitive skin
EQQUALBERRY Swimming Pool Toner 300ml
A simple everyday toner cos if you decide to use salicylic acid cleansers, over time they do get drying, so following up with a toner like this after is best
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Toner 10.1 fl.oz
Serums and ampoule
This was so loved online and for go reasons! It's hydrating and lightweight, the right consistency that oily skin would love. Plus it's really soothing
celimax Noni Energy Ampoule 30ml - Hydrating
My top serum/ampoule so far. Why I love it is cos after trying and using many acids and activities, this just helps maintain my skin barrier, so no random breakouts nor irritation
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule 100ml
I finally gave retinol a try and boy am I glad. This is such a beginner friendly option and my skin texture has looked so good since I started using it.
HARUHARU Black Rice Night Retinol Serum 20ml
What I love about azelaic acid is how many things I helped treat. From acne, to hyperpigmentation, to skin texture. A 10% like this is a good starting point. I literally used 4 bottles!
Q+A Azelaic Acid Serum with Zinc PCA, 30ml
Personally I found 15% to work faster but it's definitely not for everyone especially cos it does itch a bit, but I doubt I will go back to a lower percentage after the results I had with this!
Dermatica Azelaic Acid 15% Cream - 50ml
Moisturisers
VERY UNDERRATED brand and great product. I've used 4 bottles of this and love it. Although I will say it will more loved during cooler months for most me
ONGREDIENTS Calming Lotion for Sensitive Skin
One of the first if not the first oil free moisturisers I got at the start of my journey. It was especially good cos I lived in a really hot country at the time
COSRX Oil Free Birch Sap Acne Moisturizer
Another really good oil free light weight moisturizer! The inkey list strikes again
The INKEY List Omega Water Cream 50ml
Sunscreens
Lightweight and good for sensitive skin. I tried it first during summer and *chef's kiss*.
numbuzin No.1 Sunscreen | Clear Sun Essence
This is for anyone that wants a sunscreen with a natural nongreasy finish. It's the most affordable one I've tried as well. What I will say is that you have to blend it in really well