Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Routine for Hormonal Acne - Oily Skin

This routine is made for oily skin dealing with hormonal acne (often deeper, more stubborn breakouts around the jawline/chin) plus clogged pores and post-acne marks. The strategy is: keep pores clear with a gentle but effective cleanse, use a BHA-based essence-toner to reduce congestion and excess sebum, treat inflammation and redness with azelaic acid (a hormonal-acne-friendly active), keep the barrier calm with a lightweight soothing moisturizer, and lock in results with a non-comedogenic, sebum-control sunscreen.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 7-14 days: less “angry” redness around active spots, slightly smoother texture, less mid-day shine.
• 3-6 weeks: fewer new inflamed breakouts and shorter pimple life cycle, especially in congestion-prone areas.
• 8-12 weeks: more stable skin, fewer flare-ups, and faster fading of post-acne marks (daily sunscreen is the deciding factor).

The 5 Products (Luxiface catalogue)

1) Cleanser: [Anua] Heartleaf Succinic Moisture Cleansing Foam 150ml

Why it fits hormonal acne + oily skin: Hormonal acne gets worse when pores stay congested and inflammation keeps looping. This cleanser focuses on clearing sebum and buildup while staying pH-balanced and barrier-considerate, so you do not trigger rebound oil or irritation.

• Helps reduce pore congestion and excess oil that feed recurring breakouts.
• Cleans effectively without the tight, stripped feeling.
• Preps skin so treatment steps apply evenly and work more consistently.

2) Toner/Essence: [Cosrx] Two in One Poreless Power Liquid 100ml

Why this is ideal for oily hormonal acne: This is an essence-toner with natural BHA (from willow bark) aimed at smoothing texture, clearing debris, and reducing excess sebum. It supports fewer clogged pores, which means fewer “new breakouts that become new marks.”

• Helps keep pores clearer and texture smoother over time.
• Targets excess sebum and buildup without heavy layers.
• Great for oily skin that wants acne care without over-drying.

Smart pacing: Start once daily (PM) for 1 week. If comfortable, use AM + PM. If you feel stinging or dryness, reduce to 3-4 nights/week.

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

Why this is the hormonal-acne workhorse: Azelaic acid is a top-tier choice for hormonal acne because it helps calm inflamed breakouts, reduce visible redness, and support fading of post-acne marks, without relying on harsh daily exfoliation.

• Helps reduce the look of inflamed breakouts and redness.
• Supports clearer-looking texture and fewer repeat breakouts over time.
• Helps fade post-acne traces while staying routine-friendly.

How to start: Use once daily for 5-7 days, then increase to AM + PM if your skin stays calm.

4) Moisturizer: [Dr.G] Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream 70ml

Why oily skin still needs moisturizer: Over-drying oily skin usually backfires. This lightweight soothing cream supports hydration and barrier stability so your acne steps work better and irritation stays low.

• Gel-cream feel that suits oily skin without heaviness.
• Helps calm visible redness and supports recovery.
• Improves routine tolerance so you can stay consistent.

5) Sunscreen (AM only): [CellFusionC] Advanced Clear Sunscreen 100 SPF50+/PA++++ 50ml

Why it is non-negotiable: UV makes post-acne marks darker and keeps inflammation lingering. This sunscreen is positioned as non-comedogenic and suitable for troubled skin, with sebum-control support and a refreshing matte finish, so oily skin actually wears it daily.

• High UV protection prevents marks from deepening and returning.
• Comfortable for oily skin, easier daily consistency.
• Supports oil control while protecting barrier and progress.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse 30-45 seconds with lukewarm water, focus on T-zone and jawline. Rinse well.
2. Toner/Essence: Apply a thin layer. If new to BHA, use it only 3-4 mornings/week for the first 2 weeks.
3. Treatment Serum: Apply a thin layer (2-3 drops). Press gently into jawline/chin if hormonal breakouts cluster there.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a light layer. Keep it thinner on the T-zone, normal on cheeks.
5. Sunscreen: Apply generously to face and neck. Reapply if outdoors or near strong daylight.

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse thoroughly to remove sunscreen and oil buildup (still gently).
2. Toner/Essence: Use nightly if comfortable. If you feel dryness, reduce to 3-4 nights/week.
3. Treatment Serum: Apply evenly. If skin is reactive, keep it once daily and do not “push through” irritation.
4. Moisturizer: Seal with a light layer to keep barrier steady overnight.
5. Hormonal-acne rule: If you get a flare week, do not add extra acids. Stay consistent with these steps and let inflammation settle.