Oily, acne-prone skin keeps you on your toes because there is always the looming threat of an unexpected breakout. Using the skincare products is a cardinal skin you better avoid if you want to prevent waking up with a big, red, angry zit on your face.
But by simply checking your skincare product labels for certain ingredients, it is indeed possible to keep this pressing issue under control. Yes, really! Below are our top five skincare ingredients that prove to be totally god-sent when it comes to keeping acne-prone skin from acting up…
01. Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid, which is also known as Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), is an excellent skincare ingredient to help dry out existing acne as well as prevent the occurrence of future acne by eliminating dead skin cells, unclog your pores and keep your skin thoroughly clean. This is why it helps to prevent breakouts as far as possible. You can either use a salicylic-based cleanser or a spot treatment, both of which work really well for acne-prone skin.
BB picks: Dermalogica Oil Control Lotion
02. Activated charcoal
One of the main causes of breakouts is clogged pores. Our pores get clogged because of exposure to dirt, pollution, oil, sweat, makeup and other impurities, which then leads to breakouts. Using a face mask or cleanser with activated charcoal helps to draw out deep-set impurities from the pores and unclogs them, thereby preventing breakouts. It also helps regulate excess sebum production to keep your face matte all day long.
BB picks: Pond's Pure White Anti Pollution With Activated Charcoal Facewash
03. Niacinamide
Niacinamide aka vitamin B3, works like magic to brighten skin tone, reduce acne scars and to improvise skin texture. Using niacinamide-induced skincare products helps to reduce melanin production in post-inflammatory acne, and thereby reduces scarring. It also increases anti-inflammatory responses, which reduces and prevents the occurrence of acne.
BB picks: Pond's Super Light Gel Moisturiser
04. Retinol
If you have acne-prone skin and haven’t already started using retinol-based skincare products, then we suggest you do so RN! Retinol helps to reduce the chances of acne by deep cleansing your pores and exfoliating dead skin cells. Additionally, because it prevents the build-up of impurities and dead skin cells, retinol also helps your skincare products to absorb easily and work better.
BB picks: Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair
05. Clay
Another amazing skincare ingredient that people with oily, acne-prone skin need to use ASAP is clay. From multani mitti, bentonite clay or kaolin clay, you can take your own pick. Clay helps absorb excess oil and other impurities from your skin and prevents clogged pores, thereby reducing the chances of acne.
BB picks: Lakmé Absolute Perfect Radiance Mineral Clay Mask
Written by Urvi Dalal on Sep 16, 2020
Writer, avid reader and hardcore beauty enthusiast is the best way to describe Urvi Dalal. With over 5 years of writing experience in the beauty industry, you can trust her to have the latest skin, hair and makeup tidbits on her fingertips. In her time working as a beauty writer, she has had the opportunity to interact and work closely with a string of dermatologists, makeup artists and hairstylists. All that knowledge exchange, coupled with her flair and love for writing make it possible for her to bring you some authentic yet fun beauty content. When Urvi isn’t working, you’d usually catch her curled up with a big, fat book, drinking a cup of tea or practising her makeup skills; there is no in-between!