The best skincare for acne-prone skin is gentle and consistent. The NHS recommends washing twice a day with a gentle cleanser, removing make-up every night, using non-comedogenic products that will not clog pores, and trying an over-the-counter treatment such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Do not scrub, pick or squeeze spots. If spots are deep, painful, scarring or affecting your mood, see a GP.
Acne happens when hair follicles become blocked with oil and dead skin cells, and bacteria cause inflammation in the blocked pores. Harsh products do not fix this; they usually make skin sore and redder. A calm routine with one or two proven ingredients works better. For the steps every skin type shares, see our guide to a good skin care routine.
A Simple Routine for Acne-Prone Skin
| Step | Morning | Evening |
|---|---|---|
| Cleanse | Gentle cleanser and lukewarm water | Remove make-up and sunscreen, then a gentle or salicylic acid cleanser |
| Treat | Niacinamide, if you use it | Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, starting a few nights a week |
| Moisturise | Light, non-comedogenic moisturiser | The same, especially if your treatment is drying |
| Protect | Oil-free SPF 30+ | Not needed |
Over-the-Counter Ingredients That Help
| Ingredient | What it does | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Salicylic acid | Works inside pores to clear blackheads and whiteheads | Can be drying; start slowly |
| Benzoyl peroxide | Reduces the bacteria behind red, inflamed spots | Can irritate at first and bleach towels, pillowcases and clothes |
| Niacinamide | Calms redness and may help balance oil | Gentle and easy to combine |
| Non-comedogenic moisturiser and SPF | Keeps skin comfortable without clogging pores | Essential when actives dry the skin |
A pharmacist can help you choose. The NHS guide to acne lists these self-care steps and explains the stronger treatments a GP can prescribe.
Habits That Make Spots Worse
Picking and Squeezing
This pushes inflammation deeper and can leave scars. Leave spots alone, or cover them with a pimple patch.
Scrubbing
The NHS warns that scrubbing irritates skin and can make acne worse.
Greasy Products
Heavy skin and hair products can make skin greasier. Check labels for non-comedogenic.
Too Many Actives
Layering several acids, scrubs and spot treatments at once often leads to irritation, not clearer skin.
Spots on your back or chest? Wear loose, breathable clothing, especially when exercising, and shower soon after sweating. If your skin is also very oily, our skincare routine for oily skin has more tips.
How to Start a New Acne Treatment
- Use one active at a time, so you know what is working.
- Start every other night and build up as your skin adjusts.
- Apply a thin layer to the whole area where spots appear, not just on existing spots.
- Moisturise afterwards to limit dryness and peeling.
- Give it time. Acne treatments can take a couple of months to show their full effect, so do not give up after a week.
A Cleanser for Spot-Prone Skin
Pore Control Cream Cleanser by SkinChemists
Combines salicylic acid to clear pores with niacinamide to help regulate oil, plus glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol to stop it drying the skin. The brand designed it for oily and combination skin prone to congestion. Start with it once a day and see how your skin responds.
View ProductSee a GP if you have tried treating acne yourself and it is not getting better, if you have lots of spots or spots that are deep, painful or scarring, if you have signs of infection such as hot, swollen skin, or if it is affecting your mental health. Prescription treatments are stronger and can be very effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best skincare ingredient for acne?
Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are the best-known over-the-counter options. Salicylic acid suits blackheads and whiteheads; benzoyl peroxide suits red, inflamed spots.
Should I moisturise acne-prone skin?
Yes. A light, non-comedogenic moisturiser helps, especially when acne treatments make skin dry or flaky.
Does make-up cause acne?
Heavy, oily products can contribute. Choose non-comedogenic make-up and remove it completely every night.
Is acne caused by dirty skin?
No. Acne comes from blocked follicles, oil and bacteria, often linked to hormones. Scrubbing harder will not fix it and can make it worse.
Sources: NHS, Acne.