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Step-by-step explanation for beginners and the best products for every step.

Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser

How do it: Start by applying two to three pumps of your oil-based cleanser on dry skin—no water needed yet! Massage it in circular motions all over your face, concentrating on areas where oil and makeup tend to build up, like your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). This step is key to breaking down oil-based impurities, such as makeup, sunscreen, and sebum. After about 30 seconds, wet your hands and continue massaging to emulsify the oil. You’ll notice the texture turn milky white. Once fully emulsified, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Product recommendation: I recommend the Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil. It’s lightweight, penetrates deep into pores, and removes sebaceous filaments, all while leaving a refreshing finish. Plus, it emulsifies beautifully, making it super easy to rinse off without any greasy residue.

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser

How to do it: After the oil cleanse, it’s time for a water-based cleanser. Squeeze a small amount onto your fingertips, add a bit of water, and rub your hands together to create a thick foam. Gently massage this foam into your face, especially around your T-zone and cheeks, to make sure you’ve removed any remaining impurities. This step helps clean water-based dirt and sweat while preventing clogged pores. After 30 seconds of massaging, rinse your face with lukewarm water.

Product recommendation: The Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is perfect for acne-prone skin. It has a mild formula that balances your skin’s pH without leaving it dry or tight, which is key for keeping oily skin in check.

Step 3: Exfoliation

How to do it: Apply a small amount of exfoliant to your still-damp skin. Start by gently massaging in circular motions across your face, paying special attention to rough or texturized areas, like the nose and chin. Exfoliation helps smooth out your skin’s surface, minimizes pores, and brightens your complexion. Be gentle—over-scrubbing can irritate your skin and lead to breakouts. After 30 seconds, rinse off with lukewarm water. Exfoliate 2-3 times a week; too much can harm your skin barrier.

Product recommendation: The Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner is fantastic for chemical exfoliation. It contains ingredients that dissolve dead skin cells and control oil, making it great for keeping acne under control without being abrasive.

Step 4: Toner

How to do it: Now that your skin is fresh and clean, it’s time to apply a toner. Pour a small amount into your hands or onto a cotton pad and gently pat it into your face. Focus on areas that tend to produce more oil, like your forehead and chin. Toners help restore your skin’s natural pH and hydrate it, making your skin more receptive to the rest of your skincare routine.

Product recommendation: The Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner is ideal for acne-prone skin, as it soothes with aloe while gently exfoliating and controlling oil production. This combo helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

Step 5: Essence

How to do it: Pour a small amount of essence into your palms and pat it onto your skin. Essences are lightweight but packed with hydration and active ingredients. Focus on areas where you feel your skin needs extra moisture or care. This step helps boost your skin’s hydration levels and improve its overall texture.

Product recommendation: The Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a popular choice for its hydrating and healing properties. It’s great for acne-prone skin because it repairs the skin barrier without clogging pores.

Step 6: Serum

How to do it: Apply a serum to target specific skin concerns, like acne or hyperpigmentation. Gently pat it into your skin, concentrating on problem areas, such as spots with active breakouts or acne scars. Serums are usually more concentrated, so a little goes a long way—just a couple of drops will do!

Product recommendation: The Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum is an excellent choice for oily and acne-prone skin. It helps exfoliate and reduce acne while keeping your skin calm and hydrated.

Step 7: Sheet Mask

How to do it: Twice a week, indulge in a sheet mask for added hydration and treatment. Simply place the mask over your face and smooth it down to ensure good contact. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, allowing your skin to soak up the serum. After removing the mask, gently pat any leftover serum into your skin—don’t rinse it off!

Product recommendation: The Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Sheet Mask is perfect for acne-prone skin. It’s infused with tea tree oil, which helps soothe irritation and reduce excess oil, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and balanced.

Step 8: Eye Cream

How to do it: Dab a small amount of eye cream onto your ring finger (since it’s the gentlest) and gently pat it around your eye area. Focus on areas where you notice puffiness or dark circles. Eye creams help keep the delicate skin around your eyes hydrated and protected.

Product recommendation: The Innisfree Green Tea Seed Eye Cream is a great option for lightweight hydration, and it won’t make the area greasy, so it works well for people with oily skin.

Step 9: Moisturizer

How to do it: Even oily skin needs moisture! Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that will hydrate your skin without clogging your pores. Apply a pea-sized amount all over your face, focusing on drier areas and being sure not to neglect your neck.

Product recommendation: The Etude House SoonJung 10-Free Moist Emulsion is a soothing, lightweight option that hydrates without clogging your pores. It’s especially good for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

Step 10: Sunscreen

How to do it: Finish off your morning routine with sunscreen, even on cloudy days. Apply a generous amount to your face and neck, making sure you cover areas that are frequently exposed to the sun. Sunscreen is vital in preventing hyperpigmentation and protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.

Product recommendation: The Missha All-Around Safe Block Aqua Sun Gel is lightweight and non-greasy, making it perfect for oily skin. It absorbs quickly and provides broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast.

Important:

Test First

Always perform a patch test before introducing a new product to your routine. Apply a small amount of the product to a less sensitive area of your skin, such as your inner arm or behind your ear, and wait 24-48 hours to check for any allergic reactions or irritation. Everyone’s skin is different, and it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Your Skin is Unique

While this routine is designed for acne-prone and oily skin, results may vary from person to person. What works for one person may not necessarily work for you. The key to skincare is trial and error, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Adapt your routine as needed.

Know Your Skin Type

These products are specifically chosen for oily and acne-prone skin. If you don’t have oily skin, using them could potentially lead to dryness, irritation, or even worsening skin conditions. Make sure you have the correct skin type before trying any of the recommended products.

Consult a Dermatologist

If you’re dealing with persistent skin issues or severe acne, it’s always best to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice. They can help guide you toward treatments and products tailored to your skin’s specific needs.

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If you have any questions, feel free to leave a reply in the comments 🌸. Until then, bye!!