If you have acne-prone skin, you would know that there are tons of products out there to choose from when it comes to fighting acne. Sometimes, it can get overwhelming to pick one. While there are several things you can do before deciding on a product: read reviews, ask a friend or read up on it, but you should know that no two skin types are similar. What worked for someone may not necessarily work for you too.
Educating yourself about the ingredients that work for your skin type is what will genuinely help you in the long run. Here are some of the best skincare ingredients that work effectively on acne-prone skin.
Salicylic acid
Some skincare acids are known to work wonders for acne-prone skin; one such acid is salicylic acid. It is a BHA that removes the top layer of the skin and gently exfoliates the skin. It unclogs pores, reduces the size of blackheads and whiteheads and inhibits excess oil production. Using a product with salicylic acid will eliminate dirt, oil and bacteria to reduce breakouts.
BB picks: Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliant
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a versatile skincare ingredient that tackles several skin concerns. It is one gentle skincare ingredient that works for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Just like salicylic acid, niacinamide, too, helps in keeping the pores clean. But that’s not all that it does. Adding a product with this ingredient in your routine will also strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, lighten acne spots and scarring to give you healthy and clear skin.
BB picks: Lakme Youth Infinity Skin Sculpting Day Creme SPF 15 PA ++
Kaolin clay
Clay masks are godsent for acne-prone skin. Their absorbing properties attract dirt, oil and other bacteria from deep inside the pores and give it a radiant glow. Using a product with kaolin clay in your skincare routine will remove acne-causing bacteria and oil, leading to fewer breakouts.
BB picks: Lakme 9to5 Moist Matte Clay Face Mask
Benzoyl peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most common ingredients used in the treatment of active acne. It is readily available as an over the counter topical application cream. It kills acne-causing bacteria and accelerates the healing process of the breakouts. It is particularly effective on whiteheads and large pimples.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Jun 03, 2021
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.