E.l.f. Blemish Breakthrough Fighting Spot Gel: The star ingredient in this roll-on spot treatment is salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA). Though gentle, this exfoliates skin on a deeper level, breaking up the paste-like mixture of oil, dead skin cells, and things like daily grime or pollution that would otherwise get trapped inside pores and form a spot. It’s anti-inflammatory, too, which explains why it’s able to quell my angry red breakouts so quickly.
The Ordinary 2% + NAG 2% Solution: The Ordinary touts this as a “soothing solution for post-acne marks,” and it really does deliver. When my breakouts subside, I’m often left with red skin staining, but I’ve noticed that this helps fade the marks and make my skin appear less irregular in tone. It’s super hydrating, too. I use it under moisturizer or sunscreen.
CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser: My oily skin loves this gel-to-foam cleanser. It cuts through face grease and removes heavy makeup, too. Since adding it to my routine, I’ve noticed fewer whiteheads but my skin doesn’t feel stripped — that’ll be the work of oil-reducing niacinamide, exfoliating salicylic acid, and moisturizing ceramides.