Pimples and inflammation are issues many people face, regardless of age or skin type. Often, in an attempt to get rid of acne, we reach for harsh, drying products that only make things worse – damaging the skin’s protective barrier and causing even more problems.

Korean skincare philosophy is different. Instead of “attacking” the skin, it offers a path to clear skin through soothing, healing, and barrier restoration. In this guide, we’ll share tips and a product routine that will help you restore calm to your skin.

Key Ingredients to Look For

• Centella Asiatica (Cica): A true lifesaver! It soothes inflammation, reduces redness, and promotes wound healing.

• Salicylic Acid (BHA): Fat-soluble, so it can penetrate deep into pores and remove accumulated impurities and excess oil.

• Tea Tree Oil: A natural antiseptic with strong antibacterial properties.

• Niacinamide: Helps regulate oil production, minimize pores, and brighten post-acne marks.

Sample Routine for Acne-Prone Skin

Consistency and gentleness are key. Here’s a routine to calm your skin and prevent new breakouts:

Step 1: Double Cleansing (Evening)

• Oil Cleanser: Start with SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil. It dissolves makeup, SPF, and excess sebum in pores, which is one of the main causes of acne.

• Water-Based Cleanser: Finish cleansing with COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. Its low pH and tea tree oil content help maintain healthy skin balance and provide antibacterial effects without drying the skin.

Step 2: Exfoliation and Toning (2–3 Times a Week)

• BHA Acid: To deeply clean pores, nothing beats BHA. Try COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid. Apply it on dry skin after cleansing, wait a few minutes, and continue with your routine.

• Soothing Toner: On days you don’t use acids, choose a calming toner like Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner to reduce redness and prepare the skin for serum.

Step 3: Soothing and Healing (Daily)

• After toning, use a serum that reduces inflammation. Beauty of Joseon Calming Serum with green tea and panthenol is perfect for sensitive, reddened skin. For extra soothing power, try SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule.

Step 4: Lightweight Moisturization (Daily)

• A common mistake is avoiding moisturizer for fear of “overloading” the skin. Dehydrated skin actually produces more oil. Choose a lightweight, gel-textured cream like COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All in one Cream, which hydrates and promotes skin regeneration without clogging pores.

Step 5: Sun Protection (Morning)

• Sun exposure can worsen inflammation and leave long-lasting pigmentation on acne spots. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics SPF50 is lightweight, non-greasy, and perfect for acne-prone skin.

Additional Tips

• Don’t pick! Picking spreads bacteria and increases the risk of scarring.

• Change your pillowcase at least twice a week.

• Be patient. Skin takes time to renew itself. By following your routine consistently, you’ll see results in 3–4 weeks.

Explore all acne-fighting products in our store and restore calm to your skin!

Keywords: Korean skincare, acne skincare, acne-prone skin, BHA acid, salicylic acid, Centella Asiatica, cica, COSRX, SKIN1004, Beauty of Joseon, skincare routine.