Skin Care
How to Build a Routine That Works for Acne-prone Skin.
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. It is a condition characterized by clogged pores, inflammation, and bacteria buildup that leads to breakouts. While acne is often associated with adolescence, many adults also struggle with the condition. The good news is that it is possible to manage and improve acne with the right skincare routine. However, crafting a routine that works for acne-prone skin can be a bit tricky, as it requires balancing acne treatment with maintaining the health of your skin.
Acne occurs when the hair follicles (pores) become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. This creates an environment where bacteria thrive, leading to inflammation and the development of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, or other types of acne lesions.
Some factors that can contribute to acne include excessive oil production, hormonal changes, bacteria, diet and lifestyle and so many others.
Having gotten an insight as to how acne works, here is a step by step routine that would work for your acne prone skin and keep your face healthy and clean at all times.
Cleanse Properly

The first step in any skincare routine is cleansing, especially for acne-prone skin. Cleansing helps remove excess oil, dirt, sweat, and makeup that can clog pores. However, when it comes to acne-prone skin, it’s important to choose a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils or irritate your skin.
Some things to pay attention to includes:
- Cleanse twice a day; once in the morning and once at night using lukewarm water.
- Avoid scrubbing your face too hard; instead, use your fingertips to gently massage the cleanser into your skin for 30 seconds.
- Don’t overwash your face, as this can strip your skin and lead to further oil production
Read Also: Top Concealers for Acne
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation is a crucial step for acne-prone skin, as it helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. However, it’s essential to choose the right type of exfoliator and use it in moderation to avoid irritation.
Ensure to:
- Use a chemical exfoliant 2 to 3 times a week. Over-exfoliating can irritate the skin and lead to more breakouts.
- Apply exfoliant after cleansing, and allow it to absorb into your skin. Follow up with a moisturizer.
- Avoid physical exfoliants as scrubs with coarse grains can irritate the skin and worsen acne, especially if you have inflamed or cystic acne.
Treat Acne with Spot Treatments

If you’re experiencing active breakouts, acne spot treatments can help target individual pimples and reduce inflammation. Spot treatments are concentrated formulas that help kill bacteria, reduce oil, and minimize the appearance of pimples.
Moisturize Regularly
Moisturizing is a crucial step in an acne-friendly skincare routine. Acne-prone skin can often be dry or dehydrated due to the use of acne treatments and this can strip the skin of its natural moisture. A good moisturizer helps keep the skin hydrated and balanced.
Also ensure to avoid touching your face constantly as your hands carry bacteria and oil, so touching your face can spread these to your skin and contribute to breakouts. Remember to maintain a healthy lifestyle by staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress to help support your skin’s health.
If you stick to this routine, you can be sure to have a smooth and healthy face for yourself.
Skin Care
Inside Nancy Isime’s 5 Skincare Tips for Women in Their 30s
Nancy Isime finally shared the skincare routine behind her signature glow. You just hit 30, and suddenly your skin is changing? Here are 5 skincare tips from the media personality to consider in your 30s.
Clinical Facials

Photo – istock
She highlighted clinical facials as her number one routine to maintain her glow. Nancy pointed out that while women could get away with simple scrubbing and face masking in their 20s, their 30s require transitioning to professional and medical-grade skincare treatments by licensed skincare professionals.
She also mentioned treatments like microneedling, often known as collagen induction therapy, vampire facials, laser therapy, salmon DNA, chemical peels, and skin boosters.
Clinical facials provide deep extraction and medical exfoliation to revive your skin. She also talked about getting a good esthetician to test your skin type first.
Hydration

Photo – Instagram
Nancy mentioned how staying hydrated helps you glow from within, because drinking enough water supports skin health. She described hydration as an essential part of her routine. She also recommended drinking herbal tea and natural juices to support overall wellness. Nancy pointed out that taking IV (intravenous vitamins) drips helps with the infusion of vitamins, including vitamin C, biotin, and vitamin B.
Set Boundaries
Taking care of your skin requires setting boundaries. Nancy pointed out that maintaining healthy skin starts from making strict decisions on what to eat, drink, and do.
Intermittent Fasting
In addition to a structured diet, Nancy incorporates intermittent fasting into her routine.
Some studies suggest intermittent fasting may support cellular repair processes. Cell regeneration slows down during your 30s, causing the build-up of metabolic waste, which can contribute to visible skin changes over time.
She stated that skipping breakfast once or twice a week does not negatively affect your system. Instead, it triggers your body to clear out damaged cells and boost your natural glow. Nancy shared that doing an occasional 36-hour water fast may hasten the process.
Sleep

Photo – istock
Lack of sleep can affect the skin’s appearance, especially in your 30s. During deep sleep, the body naturally repairs itself, producing hormones that support skin repair and boost blood flow.
As someone who loves her sleep, Nancy advised that sleeping 6 to 9 hours, or even 10, rejuvenates your skin, which aligns with doctors’ recommended 8 hours of sleep every night. In cases where you find it hard to fall asleep, Nancy also mentioned taking supplements to help with sleep.
Skin Care
Bar Soap vs Body Wash: How Each Affects Your Skin
Bar soap and body wash both promise clean, fresh skin, but they do not always treat your skin the same way. The truth is, your choice between bar soap and body wash can affect how your skin feels, looks, and even behaves over time. If you have ever stepped out of the shower feeling tight and dry, or soft and moisturized, your cleanser probably played a big role.
Let’s break it down.
Bar Soap: Simple, But Sometimes Drying

Photo: Dove
Bar soap has been around for generations. It is affordable, easy to use, and lasts longer than most body washes. For many people, it is the default choice.
Traditional bar soaps are made with cleansing agents that remove dirt, oil, and sweat. That sounds good in theory, but these cleansing agents can sometimes strip away your skin’s natural oils. When that happens, your skin may feel tight, dry, or slightly itchy after bathing. This is especially noticeable if you already have dry or sensitive skin.
Some bar soaps also have a higher pH level, which can disrupt your skin barrier. Your skin naturally leans slightly acidic, and when that balance is disturbed, it can lead to dryness, irritation, or even breakouts.
Bar soaps can also be a good option if you have oily or acne prone skin. They tend to cleanse deeply and remove excess oil effectively. Some medicated bar soaps even contain ingredients designed to help with body acne.
So while bar soap gets a reputation for being drying, it really depends on the formula and your skin type.
Body Wash: Gentle and Hydrating

Photo: Dove x Mykirei x Neutrogena
Body washes tend to feel more luxurious, but their biggest advantage is how gentle they are on the skin. Most body washes are made with milder cleansing agents that clean without stripping away too much moisture. This makes them a popular choice for people with dry or sensitive skin.
Many body washes also contain added ingredients like aloe vera, ceramides, oils, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help hydrate the skin while you cleanse, which is why your skin often feels softer after using body wash.
Another benefit is flexibility. Body washes come in different formulas for different skin needs. There are moisturizing body washes, exfoliating ones, brightening formulas, and even body washes designed for sensitive skin.
However, body wash is not perfect. Some formulas contain fragrances and additives that can irritate sensitive skin. Also, if you use too much product, you may not rinse properly, which can leave residue on your skin.
So Which One Is Better?

Photo: Google
There is no universal winner here. It depends on your skin and what it needs.
If your skin is dry or sensitive, body wash is usually the safer option. It is more hydrating and less likely to disrupt your skin barrier.
If your skin is oily or you prefer a deep clean, bar soap can work well, especially if you choose a gentle, moisturizing formula.
At the end of the day, both bar soap and body wash can keep your skin clean. The best choice is the one that keeps your skin comfortable, healthy, and happy.
Skin Care
4 Best Cleansing Oils We Tested to Gently Remove Makeup, Dermatologist-Approved
Cleansing oils have become essentials for anyone who wears long-wear makeup or relies on sunscreen daily. They break down pigment without stripping the skin, and the right formula keeps the complexion smooth, clear, and comfortable. We tested multiple options across different textures and skin types to find the oils that truly perform.
Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil

A lightweight favorite that cuts through foundation and brow products almost immediately. It emulsifies cleanly, making it ideal for oily and combination skin that needs a thorough cleanse without residue.
Hada Labo Gokujyun Cleansing Oil

Soft, hydrating, and perfect for dry or dehydrated skin. The formula gives a smooth glide and rinses off without leaving a coated feel, making it a strong choice for evening routines.
Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil

A minimal, fragrance-free option made for sensitive skin. It removes makeup gently and keeps the moisture barrier intact, which is important for anyone prone to irritation or dark marks from harsh cleansers.
Neutrogena Ultra-Light Cleansing Oil

Featherlight and quick to dissolve sunscreen, dust, and daily buildup. It’s a reliable everyday cleanser for those who prefer a barely-there texture that still works efficiently.
A few seconds of massaging, a splash of water, and each of these oils transforms into a clean, milky rinse, dependable formulas that make end-of-day cleansing feel smooth instead of stressful.
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