3 min|Dr. Maya Kuczma

An Integrative Skincare Guide for Acne-Prone Skin

Wellness, Beauty, Skin Health

Beautycounter Countercontrol Clear Pore Cleanser

Beautycounter has a Never List - 1,800 ingredients they will never use in their formulations to maintain the highest standard of quality and safety within the beauty industry. The quality of their products proves you don’t have to sacrifice luxury for health. This cleanser cleans deeply - without drying out the skin - by combining willow with soothing aloe and jojoba. If you’re ending the day with a full face of make-up, oil cleanse first with Beautycounter’s Counter + Lotus Glow Cleansing Balm or Avelle’s Rejuvenating Face Oil, then follow up with this cleanser. Maskne, be gone!

Skinceuticals Silymarin CF

Oxidative stress leads to oxidation of oil within the skin; this is thought to be at the root of whitehead and blackhead formation. This formula of vitamin c, milk thistle extract, ferulic acid, and salicylic acid provides antioxidant protection and reduces oiliness. It is clinically demonstrated to reduce the oil oxidation that can lead to breakouts by up to 76%. But buyer beware - this serum smells like hot-dogs. Embrace the efficacy, and follow-up with a serum or moisturizer that is a bit more appetizing.

Avelle Rejuvenating Face Oil

Years of study, research review, and self-experimentation went into this product, formulated by two Canadian Naturopathic Doctors. The result is an evidence-based, high-quality serum that targets and treats many skin conditions. Through the inclusion of potent ingredients, such as organic blackseed and sea buckthorn oils and coq10, in clinically significant amounts, this topical can decrease inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and breakouts, while promoting cellular regeneration, moisture retention, and collagen synthesis. Use it as your oil cleanser, as the first step in a double-cleansing routine, as a serum, or to prepare the skin for gua sha.

Avelle Gua Sha Tool

Ahhh, sanctuary. Using this gua sha tool can feel luxurious, and a great excuse to take a breather, solo, for a few. Bonus points if you put on some music - or a comedy album! Gua sha can improve circulation, encourage lymphatic drainage, and reduce facial tension, all of which can help to treat and prevent breakouts, aid in the healing of acne scars, and promote healthy skin.

Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask

Over-exfoliation can actually promote acne - too much cleansing and stripping of the skin backfires, leading to excess oil production and irritation. Exfoliation is at it’s best when done sparingly, and using a product that combines exfoliation with anti-inflammatory ingredients. Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask fits the bill, via gentle exfoliators like aspen willow and rosehip seeds alongside turmeric, a natural anti-inflammatory spice. It can be used as a scrub, but Dr Kuczma prefers to use it as a mask once a week, gently scrubbing it off after 15 minutes.
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