Say Goodbye to Cystic Acne: Top Skincare Products to Try Today!

As someone who has battled with cystic acne for years, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to find skincare products that actually help. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for treating this type of acne, I have tried countless products over the years and have narrowed down some of the best ones that have made a noticeable difference in my skin.

1. Cleansers

The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing, and when it comes to cystic acne, it’s important to find a cleanser that removes impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Two of my favorites are the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser and the CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser.

• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser: This cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid, which helps to exfoliate and clear out pores. It’s gentle enough to use twice a day and doesn’t leave my skin feeling tight or dry.
• CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser: This cleanser contains salicylic acid as well as ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier. It’s a great option for those with sensitive skin.

2. Toners

After cleansing, I like to use a toner to help balance the skin’s pH and prep it for the rest of my routine. The Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a cult-favorite for a reason.

• Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: This toner contains 2% salicylic acid to exfoliate and unclog pores. It also has green tea extract, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to soothe and calm the skin.

3. Serums

Serums are where you can really target specific concerns, and when it comes to cystic acne, there are a few ingredients to look out for. The The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and the Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum are both great options.

• The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that helps to regulate sebum production and reduce inflammation. This serum also contains zinc, which is great for healing and soothing the skin.
• Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum: This serum contains niacinamide as well as hyaluronic acid and peach extract, which work together to hydrate and brighten the skin. It also has madecassoside, which is a compound derived from cica that helps to calm irritated skin.

4. Moisturizers

A good moisturizer is key to keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. The First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream and the Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture are both suitable for acne-prone skin.

• First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream: This moisturizer contains colloidal oatmeal and shea butter, which help to soothe and hydrate the skin. It’s also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores.
• Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture: This moisturizer is lightweight and oil-free, making it perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It contains glycerin, which helps to hydrate and soften the skin.

5. Spot Treatments

Finally, spot treatments can help to target specific pimples and speed up the healing process. The Mario Badescu Drying Lotion and the COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch are both extremely effective.

• Mario Badescu Drying Lotion: This spot treatment is a cult-favorite for a reason. It contains salicylic acid, sulfur, and zinc oxide, which work together to dry out and shrink pimples overnight.
• COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch: These hydrocolloid patches are great for when you need to be out and about but still want to treat a pimple. They work by absorbing the pus and oil from the pimple, which helps to reduce inflammation and redness.

Overall, consistency is key when it comes to treating cystic acne. It’s important to give your skin time to adjust to new products and to not get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. By incorporating some of these products into your routine, you may find that your skin becomes clearer and more balanced over time.