One of our top requested routines at DermaFix is one for a sensitive, acne prone skin. Creating the right skincare routine for sensitive, acne-prone skin involves balancing acne treatment with gentle care to avoid irritation. Often this involves the repairing of the skin barrier along with addressing the acne concern.
- Gentle Cleansing (Morning & Night)
Start with a mild cleanser to avoid stripping the skin of its natural oils. Opt for products formulated for sensitive skin with ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and aloe vera to soothe and hydrate. Avoid cleansers with harsh scrubs or strong chemicals, as these can trigger inflammation and worsen acne. Look for options labelled as non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t congest pores. DermaFix offers a range of cleansers which will gently cleanse and remove impurities whilst being gentle on a sensitive skin. Try DermaFix Gentle Cleansing Gel: A calming botanical cleanser with Aloe Vera and Hops extract for an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin. DermaFix Calming MicroFoam Cleanser: Utilizes Aloe Leaf Juice which produces startling results in replenishing lost moisture from the skin, whilst providing soothing and healing benefits; Cucumber Extract reduces inflammation and redness within the skin, additionally offering anti-oxidant benefits; other actives reduce inflammation, whilst locking in moisture to plump and hydrate the skin.
- Toning
Toners can benefit acne-prone skin by removing excess oil and refining pores. Choose alcohol-free toners to avoid irritation. Ingredients like witch hazel and green tea extract provide anti-inflammatory benefits without drying the skin. Sensitive skin types should always patch-test toners first to ensure there’s no adverse reaction. DermaFix Brightening Toner refines the pores and assists in the prevention of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation as well as completing the cleansing step. DermaFix MD Mandelic Toner uses Niacinamide as well as Mandelic Acid in a powerful formulation to deep cleanse, refine the pores and provide a gentle exfoliation on the skin.
- Targeting Treatments (Morning & Night)
Sensitive, acne-prone skin needs active treatments, but they must be applied carefully. Overuse of strong acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or retinoids can exacerbate sensitivity.
Morning: A serum containing niacinamide is ideal for sensitive acne-prone skin. Niacinamide helps control sebum production, reduce redness, and strengthen the skin barrier without causing irritation. DermaFix B3 Booster is the ideal addition to your skin care routine. This super strength Niacinamide serum decreases inflammation through various biological pathways, neutralises free radicals, improves barrier function, reduces appearance of redness, reduces melanin production by inhibiting melanosome transfer from Melanocyte to Keratinocyte and is gentle enough to be non-vasodilating.
Night: Incorporate mandelic acid (a gentler exfoliant compared to glycolic acid). This is mild yet effective at decongesting pores and reducing inflammation as well as less likely to cause irritation compared to harsher exfoliants. DermaFix DermaBright is a powerful Mandelic Acid exfoliating serum that can be slowly introduced into your skin care routine. This should only be used on the recommendation of an accredited DermaFix Skin Care Professional.
- Moisturizing (Morning & Night)
Even oily, acne-prone skin needs moisture, especially if it’s sensitive. Lack of hydration can lead to overproduction of oil, worsening acne. Use a lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin without congesting pores. Aloe Leaf Juice is soothing, hydrating and healing whilst Niacinamide reduces inflammation and regulates oil gland secretion. All these ingredients and more are found in DermaFix Vitamin B Cream.
- Sun Protection (Morning)
Sunscreen is crucial, especially for acne-prone skin, as UV exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation and further sensitivity. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they are less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical filters. Ensure your sunscreen is labelled as non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. DermaFix DermaShield SPF 40 SANS approved broad spectrum UVA/UVB/HEV light protection sunscreen is Zinc Oxide based and non-oily which makes it a very popular choice amongst clients with acne prone skin. It is recommended to use DermaFix Ferulic + C + E in conjunction with your broad spectrum SPF as this enhances the UV protection and the protection of the skin from free radical damage for up to 72 hours following correct application.
- Avoid Irritating Ingredients
Sensitive, acne-prone skin should avoid: Alcohol-based toners or astringents. Fragrance or essential oils, which can cause allergic reactions or irritation. Physical scrubs, as these can disrupt the skin barrier and cause micro-tears, exacerbating acne.
- Weekly Exfoliation (1-2 times a week)
Exfoliation helps to clear dead skin cells that can block pores, but with sensitive skin, less is more. Use a mild enzymatic exfoliator like DermaFix DermaPolish + with Activated Charcoal to assist with the removal of redundant skin cells and
- Lifestyle Considerations
In addition to a consistent skincare routine, other lifestyle factors can help manage sensitive, acne-prone skin:
Stress management: Stress can increase the incidence of breakouts, so incorporating stress-reducing practices like meditation or yoga can be helpful.
Hygiene: Clean pillowcases, cell phones, makeup brushes, sponges and avoid touching your face throughout the day.
For sensitive, acne-prone skin, the key is a gentle approach that controls acne without triggering irritation. Look for products with calming, anti-inflammatory ingredients, and avoid anything harsh or stripping. Consistency and patience are essential, as changes to the skin take time. By maintaining a soothing, non-irritating routine, you can manage acne effectively while keeping your skin calm and balanced.
For more information or for a customised recommendation, please contact us at DermaFix Head Office on 0861 28 23 23 or email enquiries@dermafix.co.za
