15 Medical-Grade Skincare Heroes for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
If your skin leans oily, reacts easily, or is acne-prone, choosing the right medical-grade products can make all the difference. These are the top picks I trust (and use) to balance, protect, and treat my skin. You can buy the products from my Benable list.
1. Plumping Facial Serum
A hydrating serum enriched with botanicals (like hibiscus oil) that help firm and smooth — I layer this after toner and before heavier creams to keep my skin glowy without excess shine.
2. Ultra Light Moisturizer by Alastin
This lightweight moisturizer keeps my skin balanced without feeling greasy. It supports the skin barrier, calms redness, and maintains hydration — perfect for oily / reactive types.
3. Alastin Cleanser (Gentle Face Wash)
A daily cleanser I use morning and night. It’s gentle yet effective enough to remove makeup, oil buildup, and impurities without over-stripping the skin.
4. Hydrating Anti-Wrinkle Serum
Provides lightweight hydration while delivering anti-aging benefits. I often use this in the morning under sunscreen or makeup as a boost without heaviness.
5. “Gooey & Citrus” Vitamin C Serum
A vibrant, juicy formula with bright citrus scent. I apply this in the morning after my cleanser / toner to brighten and protect, especially for days when my skin looks dull or uneven.
6. Medical-Grade Vitamin C Serum
A more clinical, potent vitamin C option I use when I want extra antioxidant support. Its watery texture layers well under stronger treatments or moisturizers.
7. Hyaluronic Acid Serum
A staple hydrating layer — helps plump and bind moisture without heaviness. Use this before your moisturizers and treatment products for a supple, dewy base.
8. Brightening Serum
A lightweight serum that targets dull patches and pigmentation. I often slot this into my nighttime rotation, especially when I want a gentle boost without resurfacing agents.
9. Clear Sunscreen (Luxury Category)
Sun protection is non-negotiable. I use this lightweight sunscreen daily, especially under makeup — it leaves a smooth, slightly dewy finish without ghosting.
10. Tatcha Pore-Refining Moisturizer (Luxury)
A silky, featherlight cream that tightens pores and hydrates without weight. For days when I want a premium feel but still need oil control, this is a favorite.
11. Budget-Friendly Toner
A gentle, natural-feeling toner I use post-cleanse to prep skin for actives. It helps balance pH and reduce excess oil before heavier layers go on.
12. Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive / Dry Areas
Even oily skin has dry patches or moments of sensitivity. This cream gives targeted moisture without compromising the rest of my routine.
13. Vitamin A “Pommade” (Drying Gel)
Used sparingly and carefully: a targeted spot treatment for inflamed breakouts. I limit it (especially at first) to avoid irritation, using it on trouble spots overnight.
14. Lotion P50 (Pore-Shrinking / Exfoliating Toner)
A powerhouse exfoliating lotion that purifies, resists oil, and helps mattify. Expect a tingling or warming sensation early on as your skin adapts.
Tips for Using These Products Together
- Less is more: Start slow, especially with actives like Vitamin A or exfoliants.
- Layer smartly: Thin → thick (e.g. hyaluronic acid → serums → moisturizers → sunscreens).
- Spot treat: Use stronger treatments only on localized areas if your skin is sensitive.
- Consistency over intensity: It’s better to use a gentle product regularly than overdo a strong one irregularly.
- Always use sunscreen: Especially when using resurfacing or brightening agents.
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