It’s time for us to address the most common skincare issues — blemishes. Or better known as acne prone skin. And according to research, blemished skin often affects those aged 13 to 30. And over 80% of people within that age group find it hard to deal with this particular skin problem. So it is not surprising that we’re constantly on the move to hunt for the best tips and products that actually work. 

Speaking of skincare products, there’s only one thing to look forward to: the result. While high-ends, boujee products are always tempting, who else agrees they often serve as an ‘’eye candy’’ rather than delivering long lasting, promising results? Especially for blemish prone skin. With all the excess oil, dirt and leftover products being stuck underneath the barrier, we need something that is quick to tackle unwanted acne growth—especially on the day that we least expected. 

Related article: The Lazy Girl’s Tips To Achieve The Smoothest & Brightest Skin EVER!

And thanks to the continued innovation from all the beauty brands out there, there are a lot of brands that are consistent in producing powerful, active-packed ingredients and inventive delivery systems — all to ensure every drop does what it is supposed to do. Below, Beauty Insider has gathered some of the best products to fight off blemishes and acne prone skin concern. 

How To Slow Down The Acne Process

1. Cleanse Twice A Day 

Cleansing your skin should be the first step in your everyday beauty routine. A proper cleanse not only removes makeup and pollutants from the day, but it also regulates oil production and clears up clogged pores. It is important to cleanse the skin twice a day — morning and night respectively. Choose a cleanser designed specifically for blemished skin.

2. Exfoliate Once A Week 

Exfoliating your face once a week is recommended since it rapidly removes dead skin cells from the skin’s surface. It will prevent the formation of blackheads in the long run. But please remember not to overdo this procedure or you could wind up aggravating your skin. Find an exfoliator that is mild in texture but gentle on the skin. 

3. Do Not Touch Your Acne!

Avoid picking, scratching, or squeezing your acne areas. All of these can cause skin damage and might result in permanent pigmentation markings. Worse, it can lead to scarring of your skin. Find a non-irritant gel or cream to cover off the blemishes area. 

4. Smooth Out With The Right Moisturisers

Moisturising is essential for balancing your skin’s sebum production, regardless of whether your skin is oily, dry or sensitive. They aid in prevention of dry spots and the attainment of the skin of your dreams. By adding active substances it can literally help to achieve the skin goals you desire. Consider the moisturiser to be the ‘’base’’ or ‘’carrier’’ for your skin. It protects from within. 

5. Veggies & Fruits Are The Key 

How often does we hear the saying ‘’an apple a day keeps a doctor away?’’ Consuming more leafy greens, fruits, and fatty fish in your diet can help you get the smoothest skin possible. Apples, berries, kiwis and bananas are known to be the type of fruits that contribute to fighting blemishes. 

Related article: Hormonal Acne: What Causes Them And How To Treat Them? 

Best Products For Blemish-Prone Skin

1. Mentholatum Acnes Whitening Mild Cleanser

The Mentholatum Acnes Whitening Mild Cleanser is a mild and gentle cleanser for the skin. It has an extra-gentle, soap-free cleansing formula that has a pH level similar to that of the skin’s natural pH levels. Since it’s free from colourants, alcohol, and fragrances, this cleanser is suitable for those who are dealing with acne prone and sensitive skin concerns. Formulated with Salicylic Acid, this cleanser helps unclog pores, while Avacado Oil helps with oil control and removing any excess sebum. Centella Asiatica Extract, on the other hand, helps to soothe the skin and repairs the skin barrier. 

Why We Love It: 

  • Brightens Dull Skin
  • Mild & gentle formula
  • Free from 7 irritants including including Paraben, Colourant & Silicone

Price: RM 20.90 

Where To Buy: Watsons

2. AXIS-Y Spot The Difference Blemish Treatment

Introducing AXIS-Y Spot The Difference Blemish Treatment, formulated for those confronting acne and discolouration. Suitable for oily and sensitive skin – a transformative solution for oily and sensitive skin.

Clinically proven, it’s able to achieve a 19.37% reduction in skin oil within two weeks and an impressive 48.72% improvement after four weeks. In addition to that, it’s also been show to dimish acne severity by 19.37% in two weeks and an astounding 48.72% in four weeks.

This alcohol-free solution, infused with moisturising Ceramide capsules, goes beyond blemish concealment. It actively calms and restores your skin’s barrier, resulting in a radiant complexion. Say no more to breakouts by making Spot The Difference your passport to skin confidence. Your investment promises visible, proven results, including smooth, blemish-free skin. Here’s to a brighter you!

Why we love it:

  • Alcohol-free
  • Nourishing and combat discoloration
  • Provides effective relief and restores the skin barrier
  • Vegan

Price: RM49

Where to buy: AXIS-Y Official Shopee, AXIS-Y Watsons , AXIS-Y Malaysia Official TikTok

3. Common Labs Vitamin E Micro Needle Spot Cream

 

This Common Labs Vitamin E Micro Needle Spot Cream is literally heaven sent for acne skin concern. I know the word ‘’needle’’ may sound intimidating to you but you have nothing to worry about, as it is thinner than pore size! This product is jam packed with skin boosting ingredients including tea tree leaf extract. After 70 hours of use, the needles are naturally removed with discarded dead skin cells during the generation of new skin cells. As a result, you’ll be waking up with a fresher and smoother face!

Why we love it:

  • Effective penetration with super micro-needle (thinner than pore size)
  • Patented ingredient functioning for acne care Resolza™
  • Skin protection with Tea Tree leaf extract 54% & Vitamin E

Price: RM 78.00

Where to buy: Shopee

4. Simple Soothing Facial Scrub

Known for its soft, lightweight and kind to skin texture, soothing facial scrub from Simple will immediately cleanse and exfoliate your skin by removing all impurities, just to keep your skin looking brighter and feeling smoother than ever. Your makeup application will feel a lot smoother after washing your face with this exfoliator. 

Why we love it: 

  • No additional artificial ingredients 
  • Chemical free
  • Very lightweight texture 

Price: RM 18.55

Where to buy: Watsons

5. OLE HENRIKSEN Lemonade Smoothing Scrub

Lemon has always done the work in bringing your skin back to justice. That is why Ole Henriksen came up with this Lemonade Soothing Scrub product, that helps to exfoliate, restructurizer and polishes the appearance of your skin. They will lift and clean all the remaining dead skin, leaving your skin purified and detoxified with a smoother appearance.

Why we love it: 

  • Contain lemon peel powder and sugar exfoliation 
  • Help to soothe and smooth your skin
  • Non irritating

Price: RM 142.00

Where to buy: Sephora

6. Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

Why we love it: 

  • Effective Acne Cleansing Gel with 0.1% ADA
  • Prevents breakouts, blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes, clog pores
  • Restores skin tone and texture by clearing acne

Price: RM 36.00

Where to buy: Shopee

7. Benzac Ac Gel 5%

This trustee Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known ingredient for fighting acne. This ingredient comes in different concentrations to treat any kind of breakout from mild to moderate. It can effectively get rid of bacteria and dead skin cells that clog your pores. This Benzoyl Peroxide works particularly well for inflammatory acne, including pustules, papules, cysts, and nodules.

Why we love it: 

  • Unblocks pores and has anti-inflammatory properties
  • Reduces the production of sebum
  • Kills 94% of acne bacteria in 7 days

Price: RM 13.80

Where to buy: Watsons

8. The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil 

If you have never tried Tea Tree Oil before, this cult-classic from Body Shop is a great thing to start. You can use this product for acne treatment, sunburns and itchy bug bites. Plus, the smell is refreshing. This product is gentle to the skin and heals without irritation. Very handy for ‘’tea tree’’ beginners. 

Why we love it: 

  • Perfect for oily and blemish-prone skin
  • Perfect for a daily use or to target blemishes on your face
  • Feels super refreshing

Price: RM 44.00

Where to buy: The Body Shop

9. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Best For Acne Skin

Their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% face serum is one of the most anticipated items from the Ordinary. This product is amazing, targeted for acne-prone skin, red patches, or uneven skin tone. Efficiently shrink enlarged pores and combat greasy skin, which mainly lead to unclogged pores. Before using any thick moisturising cream, apply this serum—both morning and night. 

Why we love it: 

  • Non sticky, non greasy
  • Works wonder for all acne skin type
  • Sulphates and paraben-free

Price: RM 45.00

Where to buy: Threebs

10. SKIN INC Vitamin C Serum

The Skin Inc Vitamin C Serum combines potent nutrients including Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin E to brighten and level skin tone, minimise the appearance of the fine lines and wrinkles, and balance excess oil. They’ll work together to make your skin smoother. 

Why we love it: 

  • Suitable for all skin types and concerns
  • Fragrance, parabens and sulphates free
  • Contains antioxidant properties; protecting skin from oxidation

Price: RM 185.00

Where to buy: Sephora

11. KIEHL’S Cactus Flower & “Tibetan Ginseng” Hydrating Mist

Formulated with Cactus Flower to keep skin hydrated even under sensitive conditions. The Tibaten Ginseng inside helps increase skin-cell respiration, this formula helps skin maintain its essential moisture to keep it soft and smooth. A blend of Lavender, Geranium and Rosemary helps to detoxify and protect skin from environmental aggressors. 

Why we love it: 

  • Purifies and hydrates your skin
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Easy to bring anywhere!

Price: RM 100.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s

For more beauty infos, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook! Also, check out our Insider Mall to Shop & Get Rewarded!