When I first began building a skincare routine, I had no idea how to buy products that catered to my skin. It didn't help when a lot of the websites that I went through had most of their recommendations geared towards either dry or oily skin. It wasn't until after a year of trial and error that I discovered my skin type: oily/combination with acne prone skin. Only then was I finally able to select products that catered specifically to my skin's unique needs.
For anyone out there who shares my skin type, I've compiled a list of the top five products that have worked wonders for me. These are tried and tested formulas that have helped to balance my skin's oil production, prevent breakouts, and leave me with a healthy, glowing complexion.
Let's get started!
Please note:
At a glance:
• Paula's Choice Extra Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment 5% BP, $35
• Some By Mi AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum, $28.08
• Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Redness Relief Serum, $69.28
• COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule, $24.90
• CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, $28.29
Paula's Choice Clear Extra Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment 5% BP, $35 (15% OFF at Paula's Choice)
If you're someone who has struggled with stubborn acne with an oily/combination skin, Paula's Choice may be the solution for you just as it did for me!
One of the key ingredients in this treatment is 5% benzoyl peroxide, which has been shown to be effective in treating acne. This lotion has such a smooth, cooling texture and fast absorption into the skin that lets your skin feeling lightweight and refreshing.
Another ingredient worth noting is Bisabolol, a German chamomile essential oil that has been shown to reduce irritation. As someone who has experienced painful breakouts in the past, it helped to calm redness and inflammation. It left my skin feeling more comfortable and less irritated.
Overall, if you're in the market for an effective acne treatment that won't weigh down your skin, Paula's Choice Clear Extra Strength Daily Skin Clearing Treatment 5% BP is worth considering. Its lightweight texture and soothing properties make it a great choice for anyone struggling with acne-prone skin, like me!
Pros | Cons |
Reduces Irritation | May worsen dry skin |
Acne Fighting | May cause flaking |
Cruelty-Free | A little pricey |
Ingredients Overview
How to Use:
Some By Mi AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum, $28.08 (3% OFF at Shopee)
Is this Tiktok K-beauty product worth it? I say yes. Packed with 77% Centella Asiatic Extract, niacinamide, and camellia sinensis leaf extract, it's specifically formulated to soothe inflamed skin while also providing much-needed hydration and potentially increasing Type I collagen production. One other standout ingredient in this serum is Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Water, which has been shown to help reduce the secretion of sebum, unclog pores, and shrink their appearance. Not only did it visibly improve the appearance of my skin after just one use, but it's also incredibly lightweight and easily absorbed, making it a great option for those with oily skin. If you're looking for a serum that helps to calm inflammation, hydrate your skin, and potentially improve collagen production, this product is definitely worth a try.
Pros | Cons |
Reduces Irritation | May be drying |
Good for Oily Skin | May be irritating |
Smoother Skin Texture | Concerns on worsening rosacea |
Ingredients Overview
How to Use:
Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Redness Relief Serum, $69.28
I've tried my fair share of products over the years, but there's one brand that always stands out to me: Glow Recipe. From their unique and refreshing scents to the way their products leave my skin feeling revitalized, it is no surprise that their Avocado Ceramide Recovery Serum is in my top 5 list.
This serum is packed with plant-based ingredients like nutrient-rich avocado extract and butter, allantoin, and rice milk which, when applied, it delivers a cooling sensation and has a lovely scent that's both invigorating and calming.
One standout ingredient in this serum is Persea Gratissima Oil, also known as avocado oil. It is an antioxidant that helps to hydrate and soften the skin while also increasing collagen content, leaving your skin looking plump and firm. Accompanied with five different types of ceramides, this serum strengthens the skin barrier, locks in moisture, and prevents water loss. The end result is a skin that feels soft, smooth, and deeply nourished.
All in all, if you're looking for a serum that can help to strengthen and revitalize your skin, I recommend giving the Glow Recipe Avocado Ceramide Recovery Serum a try.
Ingredients Overview
How to Use:
COSRX Propolis Light Ampoule, $24.90
Propolis extract, also known as bee glue, has been making waves in the skincare world lately - and for good reason. It is a powerful ingredient that boasts a range of benefits as it consists of wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce acne and accelerate the healing of damaged skin.
I typically only use this ampoule when my skin is in need of some extra TLC as it's a concentrated serum. When I do use it, I like to pair it with my retinol serum - I've found that the two work well together to boost each other's properties and provide even better results.
On the days my skin feels oilier than usual, this ampoule doesn't leave my skin feeling greasy or weighed down due to it being lightweight and has high absorbance.
If you are in need for a propolis product that can help reduce acne, speed up wound healing, and provide a range of other benefits, the Propolist Light Ampoule from COSRX is definitely worth a try!
Pros | Cons |
Soothing to Use | Not fungal-acne safe |
Reduces blemishes (blackheads, pimples) | Not for sensitive skin |
Oil-Free | |
Ingredients Overview:
How to Use:
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, $28.29 (45% OFF at Shopee)
CeraVe's Foaming Facial Cleanser is my favourite cleanser of all time (and I've tried many cleansers) because not only does it suit my oily/combination skin, it also contains ingredients to fight acne, and has anti-aging properties.
As the name suggests, this gel cleanser strikes the perfect balance - it's lightweight, easy to lather, and won't strip away my skin's protective barrier. It also cleanses my skin thoroughly while improving its overall health and appearance.
Another feature that I absolutely love about this product is the packaging. The nozzle can be turned in such a way that it "locks" the product, preventing any unwanted spills or leaks. It's a small but ingenious design that makes me wish other skincare products had the same function!
I do recommend CeraVe's Foaming Facial Cleanser as it is definitely worth a try!
Pros | Cons |
Contains ceramides | Not fungal-acne safe |
Hydrating | May be drying |
Great for oily skin | |
Ingredients Overview:
How to Use:
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