Routine Overview

Skin concern: Acne marks (brown spots + lingering red/pink marks) and early textural scarring.

Skin type: Normal skin.

What results to expect (realistic):
- 2-4 weeks: More even-looking tone and smoother-feeling skin (mostly from hydration + consistent sunscreen).
- 6-10 weeks: Noticeable fading of newer acne marks; older/stubborn marks take longer.
- 12+ weeks: Gradual improvement in texture and the “look” of shallow scarring with consistent retinol use.
Reality check: Deep or pitted scars rarely disappear with skincare alone. This routine is designed to fade marks, smooth texture, and prevent new marks from forming.

Products

1) [ROUNDLAB] 1025 Dokdo Cleanser 150ml

Why it’s here: A low-stripping cleanser is non-negotiable when you’re using Vitamin C + retinol. This one cleans thoroughly without leaving your skin tight, so your barrier stays calm and your actives work better.

How it helps acne marks/scarring: Prevents over-drying and irritation (irritation = more marks), while keeping pores clean so you don’t keep “re-seeding” new breakouts that create new scars.

2) [Laneige] Cream Skin Cerapeptide Refiner 170ml

Why it’s here: This is your “toner + light moisturizer” in one. It cushions the skin, supports barrier recovery, and makes retinol tolerance way easier.

How it helps acne marks/scarring: Hydrated, supported skin heals better, looks smoother, and is less likely to get irritated (which can prolong redness and marks).

3) [Goodal] Green Tangerine VitaC Dark Spot Care Serum 40ml

Why it’s here: A K-beauty classic for uneven tone. Vitamin C derivatives + supportive brighteners target post-acne discoloration and dullness.

How it helps acne marks/scarring: Best for PIH (brown marks). It speeds up visible fading and improves overall tone so marks don’t “hang around forever.”

Note: If your skin stings easily, start 3-4 mornings/week and build up.

4) [Innisfree] Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule 50 ml

Why it’s here: Retinol is the most practical topical option for texture and post-acne after-effects, and the “cica” side helps keep it calmer for regular use.

How it helps acne marks/scarring: Encourages smoother-looking texture over time and can help post-acne marks fade faster by improving skin turnover and overall texture clarity.

Beginner schedule: 2 nights/week for 2 weeks, then 3-4 nights/week if comfortable. No need to sprint into irritation.

5) [Isntree] Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel 50ml

Why it’s here: Your mark-fading routine fails without daily sunscreen. UV darkens existing marks and slows down progress.

How it helps acne marks/scarring: Prevents marks from getting darker and protects retinol-treated skin so you actually see results instead of “two steps forward, one step back.”

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. [ROUNDLAB] 1025 Dokdo Cleanser - Cleanse (30-45 seconds), rinse, pat dry.
2. [Laneige] Cream Skin Cerapeptide Refiner - Apply a thin layer (hands or cotton).
3. [Goodal] Green Tangerine VitaC Serum - 1-2 pumps. Focus on marks, then spread lightly over face.
4. [Laneige] Cream Skin Cerapeptide Refiner - Optional second layer if skin feels tight (acts like a light moisturizer layer).
5. [Isntree] Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel - 2-finger rule for face/neck. Reapply if outdoors.

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. [ROUNDLAB] 1025 Dokdo Cleanser - Cleanse thoroughly (especially if you wore sunscreen).
2. [Laneige] Cream Skin Cerapeptide Refiner - One thin layer to buffer and hydrate.
3. [Innisfree] Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule - Pea-sized amount (or 1 pump), spread evenly. Avoid corners of nose, mouth, and immediate eye area.
4. [Laneige] Cream Skin Cerapeptide Refiner - Another light layer if you feel dry (this reduces retinol irritation).
5. Rest night - If skin feels sensitive, skip retinol and just do: Cleanser + Cream Skin (1-2 layers). Consistency beats overdoing it.