BYOMA Acne Control Moisturizer: what to know

Which BYOMA moisturizer are you buying?

The UK Blemish Control Moisturiser costs £13.99 for 50 ml. BYOMA describes it as oil free and very lightweight, intended to hydrate without heaviness. BYOMA also sells a Moisturising Gel Cream, so 'the BYOMA moisturizer' is not much of a shopping instruction. Match the full name and country before following application directions.23

What does the UK formula do?

The UK formula combines salicylic acid, bakuchiol and BYOMA's Clearamide Complex. BYOMA describes the complex as helping maintain the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss, and bakuchiol as soothing and hydrating while reducing the appearance of marks left after blemishes. The salicylic acid percentage is not specified. Salicylic acid helps dissolve dead skin cells that can clog pores. That makes it relevant to clogged pores and mild breakouts, rather than a reason to rely on a moisturizer alone for deep, painful acne.245

How do you apply the UK version?

1. 1Cleanse your face gently, without scrubbing.
2. 2Apply your serum if you use one. BYOMA places this moisturizer after serum.
3. 3Apply 1 to 2 pumps and smooth over skin until fully absorbed. BYOMA's directions are morning and night.
4. 4In the morning, follow with sunscreen.

What if your skin is sensitive or you use acne medication?

Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, prescription retinoids and isotretinoin can dry and irritate skin. A daily moisturizer can help you tolerate acne treatment, but the UK BYOMA formula also contains an acne active: it is not simply an extra layer of hydration. If you need a moisturizer to ease treatment dryness, look for one labelled noncomedogenic, meaning unlikely to clog pores, and fragrance free. Keep your prescribed treatment directions in place.567

Before applying a new product across your face, test it on a small area for a week. Watch for itching, burning or new breakouts. Introduce only one new product at a time so you can identify a problem. If you suspect a moisturizer is causing breakouts, remove it for two weeks and watch whether they decrease.5

How long should you wait for clearer skin?

There is no specific acne clearing timeline for this BYOMA moisturizer. As general guidance, acne routines combining medication, cleanser and an acne friendly moisturizer often show less acne after 4 to 8 weeks. Inflammatory acne can take several months of care and treatment. Seek help early for deep, painful lumps or acne that is leaving scars. If a consistent routine has not improved your acne after a few months, see a healthcare professional rather than continuing to change moisturizers.467

Should you use moisturizer with acne?

Yes, especially when acne treatment leaves your skin dry. Apply moisturizer after washing to help trap water in the skin. Oil free, noncomedogenic or 'won't clog pores' are useful descriptions to look for on the container. You do not have to choose a moisturizer containing another acne active just because you have acne.7

For texture, BYOMA describes its separate Moisturising Gel Cream as lightweight and suited to oily, blemish prone skin, while its Moisturising Rich Cream has a thick texture intended for dry skin. The Gel Cream and Rich Cream are separate products, not two moods of the Acne Control Moisturizer.1