My 5-Step Skincare Routine That Cleared My Acne

By Luna Vale

Let’s get one thing straight: this routine didn’t clear my skin overnight. It wasn’t magical, aesthetic, or expensive. It took months of trial and error (and yes, a few ugly crying sessions in my bathroom mirror). But after years of painful cystic acne, products that made things worse, and being this close to giving up, I finally found a 5-step routine that worked for my sensitive, breakout-prone skin.

I’m not saying this will be your miracle cure—but I am saying that if your skin has ever made you want to cancel plans, cry in the car, or scream at another $80 product that didn’t work… I see you. I’ve been you. And maybe—just maybe—this routine can help.

Let’s break it down. No BS. No 10-step routines. Just what actually worked.

✦ Step 1: The Cleanser That Didn’t Make Me Want to Scratch My Face Off

Product I use: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Why it works:
This stuff is boring—and that’s why I love it. My skin was tired of all the foaming, scrubbing, burning nonsense. I needed a cleanser that didn’t strip my skin barrier or make me feel tight and itchy after washing.

I used to think my skin had to feel squeaky clean to be acne-free. Nope. Turns out, stripping your face just pisses it off. I switched to this creamy, non-foaming cleanser and within a week, my skin was so much calmer.

Bonus tip: Double cleanse if you wear sunscreen or makeup, but keep it gentle. I use a balm cleanser like Banila Co Clean It Zero first.

✦ Step 2: A Toner That Didn’t Burn Off My Face

Product I use: Paula’s Choice PHA + Niacinamide Toner
Why it works:
I used to drench my face in alcohol-heavy toners and then wonder why it was red and flaky. Spoiler: those were the problem.

This toner has polyhydroxy acids (PHAs)—a gentler cousin of AHAs—and niacinamide, which helps with oil control, redness, and texture. It doesn’t sting, it doesn’t dry me out, and it gives that subtle “okay, maybe I’m glowing a little” effect.

I apply it with my hands, not a cotton pad, because my skin doesn’t need more abrasion—it needs a hug.

✦ Step 3: The Serum That Finally Did What It Promised

Product I use: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
Why it works:
If I had a dollar for every serum I tried that did nothing or made things worse, I’d have enough to buy an overpriced one that also doesn’t work.

But THIS. ONE. WORKED.

Azelaic acid is one of those low-key, underrated ingredients that fights acne, fades dark spots, and soothes inflammation without being harsh. Within a few weeks of using this, my breakouts were less angry and the hyperpigmentation started to fade.

Heads up: It has a bit of a silicone-y texture, which some people don’t love, but it’s worth it if your skin is freaking out.

✦ Step 4: Moisturizer That Didn’t Clog Me Up

Product I use: Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer
Why it works:
Confession: I used to skip moisturizer because I thought my oily skin didn’t need it. Big mistake. Huge.

Turns out, dehydrated skin = angry skin = more breakouts. This moisturizer is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and has ceramides and hyaluronic acid without the fancy packaging or heavy price tag.

It layers well under sunscreen and never causes flare-ups. It’s not flashy, but it does the job. Like the skincare equivalent of your most loyal friend.

✦ Step 5: Sunscreen (Yes, Even When I’m Home)

Product I use: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
Why it works:
Let me say this louder for the people in the back: you need sunscreen even if you have acne. Especially if you’re using actives like azelaic acid or exfoliants.

This K-beauty sunscreen is my ride-or-die. It doesn’t feel greasy, doesn’t leave a white cast (hallelujah), and actually calms my skin down. Plus, it gives the prettiest, dewy-but-not-greasy finish.

And no, sunscreen is not just for summer. UV rays don’t care if you’re sitting by your window binge-watching Netflix with your cats.

✦ What I Stopped Doing (Because That Helped Too)

Let’s be real—clearing my acne wasn’t just about what I used. It was also about what I quit:

• Over-cleansing. Twice a day MAX, no more.
• Switching products every week. I stuck to the same routine for 8–12 weeks before judging results.
• Touching/picking at my face. Still hard, still working on it.
• Using 5 actives at once. Calm down, chemist Luna. One or two is plenty.
• Thinking my skin had to be perfect to be beautiful.

✦ Real Talk: It’s a Journey, Not a Glow-Up Montage

I still break out when I’m stressed. I still have hormonal flare-ups before my period. I still fall asleep in my makeup once in a while and wake up like, “Girl. Really?”

But overall? My skin is healthier than it’s ever been. Not perfect. Just peaceful.

If you’re struggling right now, please know this: it’s not your fault. Acne doesn’t mean you’re dirty, lazy, or doing it wrong. You’re not alone, and your worth is not tied to your skin.

My inbox is always open. And no, I’m not gatekeeping my routine—because nobody should have to suffer through what I did just to feel good in their skin.

☽ Final Thoughts from Luna

Your skincare journey doesn’t have to be expensive, complicated, or Instagram-worthy. It just has to work for you. Be patient. Be kind. Be consistent-ish. (Real life happens.)

And if no one’s told you this today: your skin is allowed to be in progress. You’re still radiant. You’re still enough.

Now go wear sunscreen and drink some water, okay?

With love and SPF,
Luna 🌙