Skin Care for Oily, Acne Prone, Sensitive Skin

By: Sophia Brigstock

I have what I would consider to be the triple threat, and not in the talented way. I have extremely oily, acne-prone, sensitive skin – probably the hardest to manage. My acne is by far not the worst I’ve seen, but I’d say it’s moderate. I’ve tried absolutely everything under the sun, high end and low end, natural and chemically riddled for about 7 years to combat my acne and I think I’ve finally found some products that work for me!

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

I have oily skin, but I find my skin tightens up and dries out easily so I can’t use a harsh cleanser, not even the “natural and gentle” Aveeno cleanser. I find simple and gentle works for me, which is why I reached for this cleanser. A 16 ounce bottle (around $10 at the drugstore) lasts me around 6 months so it’s cost effective too!

Vitamin C Cream

Vitamin C has all sorts of benefits for skin when used topically, but I use it mainly to fight sebum oxidation and hyperpigmentation. After reading up about sebum oxidation, I immediately started using my Garnier Dark Spot Corrector, which I had stashed away after I decided not to use it. I’ve found that I break out less and when I do, they’re definitely not as severe as they used to be. As a bonus, my hyperpigmentation is fading as well! This cream is definitely not the best out there, and I recommend looking around for a great Vitamin C serum (Banish sells one for only $15!) that is more potent than the one I use.

Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

This moisturizer is great! It’s thick and moisturizing without feeling heavy on the face, and doesn’t have any chemicals that irritate my skin. I find that after applying this, my skin feels plump and hydrated and my makeup goes on so smooth while also providing a beautiful glow. It’s so important to moisturize with oily skin so you keep your skin balanced!

Salicylic Acid Spot Treatment

I’m sure there’s some out there that know what I’m talking about: I can’t use benzoyl peroxide. Like ever. I break out in a terrible, itchy, burning, flaky rash that is pretty much unbearable. Maybe that’s just something you have to go through with benzoyl peroxide and then you’re left with beautiful skin, but I just can’t bear to go through that kind of pain! My alternative is salicylic acid and it seems to do the trick. I dab it on my pimples throughout the day and at night before I go to bed and they shrink in half the time it would normally take had I left them!

It’s not easy dealing with acne and can be really hard to find products that work specifically for your skin. We’re all different, have different bodies, different skin and sometimes you just have to experiment and find what works for you! Don’t give up, always do your research, and don’t be afraid to take advantage of a return policy!