Does acne prone skin need a different moisturizer?

What should you look for on the label?

• Look for noncomedogenic, which means formulated to avoid blocking pores. Oil free and won't clog pores are other useful label terms.
• Avoid heavy, greasy formulas. Oily personal care products, including heavy lotions and creams, can worsen acne.
• Choose little or no fragrance, particularly if your skin is sensitive. Fragrances and perfumes can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
• For easily irritated or dry skin, consider a moisturizer containing glycerin or ceramides, ingredients used to help retain moisture.

Choose for your skin type rather than assuming that a thicker night cream is better. Night creams are usually thicker than day creams, so check the formula instead of choosing by the time printed on the jar.7

What if your skin is sensitive too?

Be more selective about moisturizers that also contain exfoliating acids or retinol. Retinol can irritate sensitive skin, and salicylic acid can also cause irritation even though it is useful for treating acne. A product described as natural can still cause an allergic reaction. Try a new cream on your inner arm for a few days before putting it on your face.7

What should a simple acne prone skincare routine include?

A gentle routine supports acne treatment, and a crowded bathroom shelf is not a treatment requirement. Scrubbing away oil or blemishes irritates skin and can cause more breakouts. Keep the routine focused on cleansing, suitable acne treatment, moisture when needed and sun protection.1

• Wash with a gentle cleanser twice a day. Remove makeup at the end of the day, and do not scrub or squeeze spots.
• Use acne treatment suited to your breakouts. A pharmacist can advise on options such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Acne treatments generally belong across the affected area, rather than only on individual spots.
• Use an oil free moisturizer if treatment leaves the affected skin visibly peeling. Follow your treatment's directions rather than adding extra applications to speed things up.
• Protect your skin outdoors with sunscreen and protective clothing. Choose sunscreen, skincare and makeup intended not to clog pores.

Will changing moisturizer clear acne?

Choosing suitable skincare helps avoid clogged pores. Treatment needs to address the type of breakouts you have. Adapalene, for example, can unclog pores and prevent new blackheads. Give the same acne treatment 6 to 8 weeks to show improvement; convincing improvement can take several weeks or months.12

Stop a product if it causes severe irritation and seek medical advice. Get help for deep, painful breakouts, acne causing scars, or acne that is not improving with self treatment. Hot, swollen skin or acne affecting your mental health also warrants medical help. Deep, painful acne needs more than a moisturizer change.125