As a person who struggled with hormonal acne all my life, I have used enough products to know what works and what doesn’t.
While not many people have the time to research on what products can help banish pesky zits, here is my pick on products that has helped me a lot for the past year and I hope they help you too!
1. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
A popped pimple is prone to infection so what this does is calm and shrink your pimples although it is not recommended for cystic acne – the ones that don’t have a head. All you have to do is dip a cotton swab to the bottom of the bottle, and dot the liquid onto your pimples. Even Kylie Jenner swears by this! (No I didn’t find out about this product from her)
What you can also try: Etude House AC Clinic Pink Powder Spot
2. Neutrogena Deep Clean Blackhead Eliminating Daily Scrub
If you wear makeup on a daily basis, you need to either scrub or do double cleansing to make sure all your pores are clear. A gentle but powerful scrub like this Neutrogena one banishes blackheads, eliminates texture, and smoothens pores. A clean and clear canvas will not only prevent breakouts, but make your makeup go on smoothly!
What you can also try: Soap & Glory Scrub Your Nose In It
3. Cosrx One Step Pimple Clear Pad
Now for the more intense stuff! Not everyone can afford a monthly facial (me included), so stay-at-home spa sessions are the best. What better way to complete that than a chemical peel that changes your skin and your life? These pads are not the cheapest but when once or twice a week, your skin will start to see a difference in no time!
What you can also try: Philosophy The Microdelivery Overnight Anti-Aging Peel
4. Aloe Vera Gel
They don’t call this one of Mother Nature’s best gifts for nothing guys! Pure aloe vera gel has cured most of my skin issues from chicken pox, inflammation, dry patches, to sunburn and it costs zero Ringgit. No plant no problem; tons of brands are now adopting pure aloe vera gel into their line and you can get them from most Korean beauty brands.
What you can also try: Nature Republic 92% Soothing Gel
5. My Beauty Diary Facial Masks
Mud masks are preferable for acne but as a person with combination skin, I love pairing strong ingredients with moisturising facemasks like these ones from My Beauty Diary. They are jam packed with serum and are also the ultimate treat for everyone after a long and tiring day.
What you can also try: Innisfree It’s Real Squeeze Mask
6. Mario Badescu Anti-Acne Serum
As you can already tell, I’m a huge fan of Mario Badescu. This anti-acne serum’s main ingredient, Salicylic Acid, helps prevent eruptions before they start. It also helps unclog pores and is a powerful serum in a tiny bottle. My now clearer skin really boosted my confidence and I feel like a beauty queen thanks to this beauty regime!
What you can also try: The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil
7. The Kinder Soaps
Out of all the facial cleansers I’ve ever used in my life, I find this particularly bar of soap called Clarity to be the best. The Kinder Soaps all-natural approach means that it is safe to use, smells great, and works great on acne thanks to the antiseptic functions that derive from the soap’s main ingredients: essential oils.
What you can also try: Earth Care Soaps