The Best Skincare Routine for Oily & Acne-Prone Skin

AM Routine:

• Cleanser: Gel-based or salicylic acid cleanser

• Toner: Alcohol-free, witch hazel or niacinamide toner

• Serum: Niacinamide (oil control) or hyaluronic acid (hydration)

• Moisturizer: Oil-free, non-comedogenic gel moisturizer

• Sunscreen: Matte-finish, lightweight SPF 50+

PM Routine:

• Double Cleanse: Oil cleanser (if wearing makeup/sunscreen) + foaming cleanser

• Exfoliation (2-3x/week): BHA (salicylic acid) or AHA (glycolic/lactic acid)

• Treatment: Benzoyl peroxide or retinol (spot treatment or all-over)

• Moisturizer: Lightweight, soothing moisturizer

2. Dry Skin SOS: The Perfect Hydrating Skincare Routine

Goal: Restore moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and prevent flakiness.
AM Routine:

• Cleanser: Creamy, hydrating cleanser

• Toner: Alcohol-free, hydrating toner (with glycerin or hyaluronic acid)

• Serum: Hyaluronic acid + ceramides

• Moisturizer: Rich, emollient cream

• Sunscreen: Hydrating SPF 30+ (with moisturizing ingredients)

PM Routine:

• Double Cleanse: Balm/oil cleanser + creamy cleanser

• Exfoliation (1-2x/week): Gentle lactic acid or enzyme exfoliant

• Serum/Treatment: Squalane or vitamin E serum

• Moisturizer: Thick night cream or sleeping mask

• Occlusive (if needed): Petroleum jelly or facial oil (argan, jojoba)

3. Combination Skin Care: How to Balance Oily & Dry Areas

Goal: Hydrate dry zones while controlling oil in T-zone.
AM Routine:

• Cleanser: Gentle, pH-balanced cleanser

• Toner: Balancing toner (rose water or green tea extract)

• Serum: Hyaluronic acid (all over) + niacinamide (T-zone)

• Moisturizer: Lightweight lotion (gel-cream for oily areas)

• Sunscreen: Non-greasy, broad-spectrum SPF

PM Routine:

• Double Cleanse: Micellar water/oil cleanser + gentle foaming cleanser

• Exfoliation (2x/week): PHA or mandelic acid (gentle for both zones)

• Treatment: Retinol (oily areas) + extra moisturizer (dry cheeks)

• Moisturizer: Gel-cream or layered hydration (lotion + light oil on dry spots)

4. Sensitive Skin? Try This Gentle, Irritation-Free Routine

Goal: Soothe redness, strengthen barrier, and avoid irritation.
AM Routine:

• Cleanser: Fragrance-free, micellar water or milk cleanser

• Toner: Calming toner (aloe, chamomile, or centella asiatica)

• Serum: Centella asiatica or panthenol (soothing)

• Moisturizer: Ceramide-based cream

• Sunscreen: Mineral SPF (zinc oxide, fragrance-free)

PM Routine:

• Cleanser: Same as AM (skip if skin is very reactive)

• Hydrating Mist: Thermal water spray

• Serum: Niacinamide (low %) or squalane

• Moisturizer: Barrier-repair cream (cica/ceramide-based)

• Spot Treatment (if needed): Calendula or zinc ointment

Pro Tips:

• Patch test new products before full application.

• Introduce actives slowly (1-2x/week, then increase).

• Avoid fragrance/alcohol if prone to irritation.

Would you like product recommendations for any of these routines? 😊