Affordable Cystic Acne and Improving Dark Spot Products: The Ordinary

Back in March, I shared with you my latest skincare routine for adult acne + perioral dermatitis-prone skin. I haven’t switched my routine too much. However, I wanted to focus more on acne/cystic acne spots (my PD has cleared up officially!!) and I noticed two recurring pimples on my face that wouldn’t budge plus I also wanted to improve those dark spots/scars.

I searched high and low for acne spot treatment and discoloration, due to the fact that if my pimples pop, even on their own, my skin will still scar… it’s a genetic condition. After my thorough research, I was pleased to use a beauty line I am already familiar with, The Ordinary and found Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA. Even though this product is for improving skin tone, I’ve noticed how much clearer my skin is, and the pimples that wouldn’t budge budged on out!

Everything else is pretty much the same. I still use Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, Birch juice, and 2x/week La Roche Posay Cleanser. No heavy moisturizing during the summer since this year, it’s extra hot and I then just sweat it all off and feel disgusting.

Updated skincare routine: am/pm

Step 1. The Ordinary- Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% 2 droplets onto my hands and pat all over the face.

Before adding the next product, wait for the first one to dry and absorb.

Step 2. The Ordinary- Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA 2 droplets onto my hands and pat all over my face.

Wait again for the product to fully be absorbed and dry before applying moisturizer.

Step 3. 3 pumps of Birch Juice. Lather/pat all over the face. Any access rub onto the neck.

2x a week: La Roche Posay Cleanser I use this am/pm before any other products.