My face is very dehydrated, prone to closed comedones, prone to fungal acne, and I have an acrylates allergy. For the last month, I've been working on strengthening my skin barrier, and I can finally see some good results. Navigating all these conflicting skin concerns is challenging, but here is the routine that is currently working for me.

Hydration & Barrier Repair

I start my routine with the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner (Fragrance Free). It is beautifully hydrating and safe for my sensitivities.

Followed by this, I use The Ordinary Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution. It is a very lightweight serum that helps soothe my skin without clogging pores or feeding Malassezia.

Next, I go in with The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum. This has been instrumental in my barrier repair journey over the last month.

When my skin feels like it needs extra help, I add The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides cream. It is rich and provides the perfect occlusive layer to prevent transepidermal water loss overnight.

Sun Protection

For my SPF, I am currently using the Omi Sun Bears Active Protect Milk. Finding an SPF that ticks all the boxes for fungal acne and an acrylates allergy is incredibly difficult, but this one works well for my skin.

Treating Red Marks & Old Acne

To get rid of active red marks from old acne breakouts, I rely on Azelaic Acid. I rotate between a few choices depending on what I have available:

Cos De BAHA Azelaic Acid Cream/Serum
VT Cosmetics Azelaic Acid Serum
Skinoren Azelaic Acid Cream

Azelaic acid is incredibly effective for post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) and helps keep my skin clear without the irritation that sometimes comes with other actives.

Weekly Exfoliation

Once a week, I use The Ordinary Salicylic Acid BHA to help prevent closed comedones. However, because my barrier is my main priority, I always make sure to pair this with the Soothing & Barrier Support Serum and the PhytoCeramides cream. This ensures I get the exfoliating benefits without compromising my skin's hydration.