For acne-prone skin, it's all about managing and preventing breakouts. Look for products that are noncomedogenic so they don't clog pores, as well as exfoliating ingredients to slough away dead skin cells and keep new breakouts at bay.
Step 1: Cleanse
Managing existing pimples and preventing new breakouts from forming starts with your face wash. Look for a product that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to keep pores clear. The Neutrogena Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Face Wash ($12) is formulated with maximum strength salicylic acid to keep your skin clean and clear.
Step 2: Treat
Darden recommends treatment products that will "gently exfoliate and clear out congestion in the pores for smoother, glowing, clear skin." The Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum ($68) uses salicylic acid and farnesol to prevent and clear pore blockage, while also helping minimize oiliness in the skin.
Step 3: Moisturize
Even if you have acne-prone skin, it's never a good idea to skip out on moisturizer in your skin-care routine. Your skin needs hydration, especially after using acne-fighting ingredients that can be drying. The Tula Breakout Star Acne Moisturizer ($52) is lightweight and oil and alcohol-free, so it won't clog pores or dry your skin out.
Added pro tip: "LED light therapy can have a positive effect on the skin as well," Darden says. "Blue LED light kills acne-causing bacteria to clear up existing breakouts and prevent new ones from forming."
Jessica Harrington (she/her) is the senior editor of PS Beauty, where she oversees coverage around makeup, skin care, hair, tattoos, and more. With more than eight years of industry experience, she has interviewed countless celebrities, reported on hundreds of beauty trends, and swatched more lipsticks than she can count. Prior to PS, Jessica worked for publications such as Makeup.com, Skincare.com, and The Zoe Report.
