Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Routine for Acne Marks and Scarring - Oily Skin

This routine targets two things that often get mixed up: acne marks (post-blemish discoloration and lingering redness) and early scarring/texture (roughness, unevenness after acne). For oily skin, the key is using effective actives in lightweight textures so you get results without congestion or greasy buildup.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 2-4 weeks: calmer-looking skin, less visible redness, early fading of newer post-acne marks.
• 8-12 weeks: more obvious improvement in tone + gradual smoothing of uneven texture with consistent retinol use.
• Reality check: deep/pitted scars rarely disappear with skincare alone. This routine improves the look of texture and helps prevent new marks from forming.

Products

1) Cleanser: [isntree] Green Tea Fresh Cleanser 120ml

A low-irritant gel cleanser that removes excess sebum without stripping. Oily skin still needs a healthy barrier, especially when using retinol at night.

• Helps cleanse thoroughly while staying comfortable (no tight, squeaky finish).
• Supports oil-control cleansing so pores stay clearer.
• Preps skin for treatments without increasing irritation risk.

2) Treatment Serum (AM / non-retinol nights): [Anua] Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum 30ml

Azelaic acid is one of the best multi-tasking options for oily, acne-prone skin. It helps with post-acne marks, redness, and clogged-pore behavior without the heaviness of many “spot correctors.”

• Helps fade the look of post-blemish marks over time.
• Calms visible redness and supports clearer-looking pores.
• Lightweight feel that suits oily skin.

3) Night Treatment (texture + scarring support): [Innisfree] Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule 50 ml

This is the core “scarring and texture” step. Retinol supports skin renewal and smoother-looking texture over time, while the Cica-focused base improves tolerability.

• Helps refine uneven texture and post-acne roughness gradually.
• Supports clearer, more even-looking skin over consistent use.
• Designed to be used with sunscreen in the daytime for best results.

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

Oily skin still needs a moisturizer, just not a heavy one. This gel-like soothing cream supports barrier recovery and helps keep treatment steps tolerable.

• Quick-absorbing hydration without stickiness.
• Soothing support helps reduce “treatment irritation,” which can worsen marks.
• Great as a buffer after retinol.

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

Sunscreen is what prevents acne marks from getting darker and protects retinol-treated skin. This one is positioned for oily skin with a refreshing, matte finish.

• Helps stop post-acne marks from lingering and re-darkening.
• Matte-leaning finish supports oily skin comfort.
• Daily SPF50+/PA++++ protection for consistent progress.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse for 30-45 seconds, rinse lukewarm, pat dry.
2. Azelaic Serum: Apply 1 pump over face (or focus on marks and acne-prone zones).
3. Moisturizer: Apply a thin layer of Dr.G Soothing Cream.
4. Sunscreen: Apply CellFusionC generously (face + neck).
5. Reapply sunscreen: If outdoors, reapply every 2-3 hours (and after sweating/wiping).

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 4)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse thoroughly to remove sunscreen and oil buildup.
2. Retinol nights (start slow): Apply Innisfree Retinol Cica Ampoule 2 nights/week for 2 weeks, then increase to 3-4 nights/week if comfortable.
3. Moisturizer: Apply Dr.G Soothing Cream to seal and reduce dryness risk.
4. Non-retinol nights: Use Anua Azelaic Serum instead of retinol, then moisturize.