Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Routine for Acne and Breakouts - Sensitive Skin

This routine is designed for sensitive skin that still breaks out (because life is unfair). The goal is to reduce active acne and congestion while keeping irritation low, since irritation can trigger more breakouts and slower healing. You get a gentle low-pH cleanser, a soothing toner to calm reactive skin, an azelaic-based serum to target acne + redness + post-breakout traces, a barrier-support moisturizer to keep skin stable, and a mineral sunscreen to protect skin while it heals.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 7-14 days: less redness and discomfort around active pimples, fewer “angry” flare-ups from irritation.
• 3-6 weeks: reduced breakout frequency and faster recovery time of spots (especially if you do not pick).
• 8-12 weeks: more stable skin, fewer recurring breakouts, and less noticeable post-acne marks (daily sunscreen is a must).

The 5 Products (Luxiface catalogue)

1) Cleanser: [Etude House] SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser 250ml

Why it fits sensitive acne: Sensitive acne-prone skin does best with a gentle, low-pH cleanser that removes buildup without stripping. Stripping = irritation, and irritation often means more breakouts.

• Gentle cleanse that supports the skin barrier instead of fighting it.
• Helps remove daily impurities and excess oil without the tight, squeaky-clean feeling.
• Preps skin so toner and serum apply evenly and feel comfortable.

2) Toner: [Anua] Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner 250ml

Why it fits: This toner is built around calming and balancing, which is exactly what sensitive breakout-prone skin needs to stay consistent with treatment.

• Soothes visible redness and helps reduce the “reactive” feeling.
• Light hydration supports oil-moisture balance without heaviness.
• Creates a calmer base so your treatment step is better tolerated.

3) Treatment Serum: [Anua] Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum 30ml

Why this is the best sensitive-skin acne treatment step: Azelaic acid is one of the most sensitive-friendly acne actives. It helps reduce the look of breakouts and redness while also supporting improvement in post-acne marks. This formula is lightweight and designed for daily routine use.

• Helps calm acne-prone skin and reduce the look of redness.
• Supports clearer texture and fewer repeat breakouts over time.
• Helps reduce the look of post-breakout traces (PIH) without harsh exfoliation.

Sensitive-skin pacing: Start 2-3 nights/week for week 1. If comfortable, increase to every night. Then consider AM + PM only if your skin stays calm.

4) Moisturizer: [aestura] Atobarrier 365 Hydro Soothing Cream 60ml

Why it matters for acne + sensitive skin: A compromised barrier makes everything worse: more stinging, more redness, slower healing. This moisturizer focuses on soothing hydration and barrier support without feeling greasy.

• Hydrates and calms without heavy occlusion (good for sensitive breakout-prone skin).
• Barrier-supporting ingredients help reduce reactivity and improve routine tolerance.
• Helps keep skin stable so you can stay consistent with treatment.

5) Sunscreen (AM only): [Etude House] Soonjung Director's Mineral Filter Sun Cream 50ml

Why it is non-negotiable: UV exposure makes post-acne marks darker and keeps inflammation lingering. A mineral sunscreen is often better tolerated by sensitive skin, especially when you are treating acne.

• Helps prevent post-acne marks from deepening and lasting longer.
• Supports sensitive skin with a comfort-focused, gentle positioning.
• Protects your progress while acne heals and marks fade.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse for 30-45 seconds with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water (it worsens sensitivity).
2. Toner: Apply 1 light layer with palms and press gently. Do not rub.
3. Treatment Serum: Apply a thin layer (start small). Focus on breakout-prone areas first.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a light layer to keep the barrier steady.
5. Sunscreen: Apply generously to face and neck. Reapply if outdoors or in strong daylight near windows.

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse gently but thoroughly to remove sunscreen and buildup.
2. Toner: Apply 1 layer (2 thin layers if skin feels tight or reactive).
3. Treatment Serum: Use 2-3 nights/week at first, then increase as tolerated.
4. Moisturizer: Seal with a light layer to prevent overnight irritation and dryness.
5. Sensitive-skin rule: If you feel stinging, burning, or new dryness, reduce serum frequency (do not “push through”). Consistency beats intensity.