Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Routine for Hormonal Acne - Sensitive Skin

This routine is designed for sensitive skin that still gets hormonal acne (typically deeper, more stubborn breakouts around the jawline and chin). The goal is to reduce inflammation and recurring breakouts without triggering irritation, because irritation can worsen redness, slow healing, and leave darker post-acne marks. The routine uses a low-pH gentle cleanser, a calming toner, a sensitive-friendly treatment active (azelaic acid), a barrier-support moisturizer, and a non-nano mineral sunscreen to protect skin and prevent marks from getting darker.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 7-14 days: less stinging/reactivity, calmer-looking redness around active pimples, more stable hydration.
• 3-6 weeks: fewer inflamed flare-ups and faster “pimple life cycle” (especially if you do not pick).
• 8-12 weeks: more stable skin with fewer recurring breakouts and gradual fading of post-acne marks (daily sunscreen decides how fast this happens).

The 5 Products (Luxiface catalogue)

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

Why it fits hormonal acne + sensitive skin: Hormonal acne skin needs cleansing that removes buildup without stripping the barrier. A stressed barrier often means more inflammation and more breakouts.

• Low-pH cleansing helps keep skin comfortable and less reactive.
• Gentle, daily-use cleansing without the tight “squeaky clean” feeling.
• Preps skin so treatment and moisturizer apply evenly and feel calmer.

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

Why it fits: Sensitive acne-prone skin improves when inflammation is controlled. This toner supports soothing hydration and oil-moisture balance so your treatment step is easier to tolerate.

• Helps calm visible redness and reduces that “reactive” feeling.
• Light hydration supports a healthier oil-moisture balance.
• Creates a calmer base so the treatment step feels gentler.

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

Why this is ideal for hormonal acne + sensitivity: Azelaic acid is one of the most sensitive-friendly acne actives. It helps reduce the look of inflamed breakouts and redness while also supporting improvement in post-acne marks over time, without relying on harsh daily exfoliation.

• Helps calm inflamed-looking breakouts and reduce the look of redness.
• Supports clearer texture and fewer repeat breakouts over time.
• Helps reduce the look of post-acne traces (PIH) in a routine-friendly way.

Sensitive-skin pacing: Start 2-3 nights/week for week 1. If comfortable, increase to every night. Consider AM use only after your skin stays calm for 2 full weeks.

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

Why it matters: Sensitive hormonal acne routines fail when the barrier stays irritated. This moisturizer focuses on soothing hydration and barrier-lipid support without feeling greasy, helping you stay consistent.

• Soothes irritated skin while providing long-lasting moisture.
• Barrier-lipid support helps reduce reactivity and improve tolerance of treatment.
• Light gel-cream feel that is comfortable even when skin is inflamed.

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

Why it is non-negotiable: UV can deepen post-acne marks and keep inflammation lingering. A non-nano mineral sunscreen is often better tolerated by sensitive skin, especially during acne treatment phases.

• High UV protection helps prevent post-acne marks from darkening and lasting longer.
• Mineral filters are typically more comfortable for reactive, sensitive skin.
• Soothing-focused positioning supports daily wear and consistency.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse for 30-45 seconds with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water (it increases sensitivity).
2. Toner: Apply 1 light layer with palms and press gently. No rubbing.
3. Treatment Serum: Apply a thin layer (start small). If you are very reactive, use only PM for the first 2 weeks.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a light layer to keep the barrier steady.
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 gently but thoroughly to remove sunscreen and daily buildup.
2. Toner: Apply 1 layer. If skin feels tight, do 2 very thin layers instead of one heavy layer.
3. Treatment Serum: Use 2-3 nights/week at first, then increase as tolerated. Keep the layer thin.
4. Moisturizer: Seal with a slightly more generous layer than AM to support overnight recovery.
5. Buffer option (same products, gentler feel): If you feel tingling, apply moisturizer first, then apply a smaller amount of the serum on top (or mix 1 drop into moisturizer in your palm).