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How To Treat Acne - Our Step By Step Guide

Your expert guide to clear, healthy skin.

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In This Guide

Understanding Acne: The Root Causes

Acne forms when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. A clean beauty approach targets these causes without harsh chemicals that can damage your skin barrier and cause long-term sensitivity.

  • Excess Oil Production

    Hormones trigger sebaceous glands to produce too much oil, creating the perfect environment for breakouts.

  • Clogged Pores

    Dead skin cells and oil combine to block pores, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne.

  • Bacterial Overgrowth

    P. acnes bacteria thrive in clogged pores, causing inflammation and painful cystic breakouts.

  • Inflammation Response

    Your immune system responds to bacteria with inflammation, creating red, swollen, and tender lesions.

Clean Beauty Hero Ingredients for Acne

These scientifically-proven ingredients work synergistically to clear existing breakouts whilst preventing new ones, all without compromising your skin's natural barrier.

  • Salicylic Acid (BHA)

    Penetrates deep into pores to dissolve oil and dead skin cells. Unlike harsh scrubs, it exfoliates gently from within the pore.

  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

    Regulates oil production, minimises pore appearance, and reduces inflammation without irritation or dryness.

  • Tea Tree Oil

    Natural antimicrobial that targets acne bacteria whilst soothing inflammation. Gentler than benzoyl peroxide.

  • Mandelic Acid (AHA)

    Larger molecular size means gentler exfoliation, perfect for sensitive acne-prone skin that can't tolerate glycolic acid.

  • Zinc

    Powerful anti-inflammatory mineral that reduces redness and supports skin healing from both topical and internal use.

  • Peptides

    Support skin repair and collagen production, helping heal acne scars whilst maintaining skin elasticity.

The Clean Beauty Difference

Traditional acne treatments often contain harsh ingredients that strip your skin, leading to increased sensitivity, premature ageing, and rebound oil production. Clean beauty formulations work with your skin's natural processes.

What We Avoid

  • Sulphates: Strip natural oils, causing overproduction of sebum
  • Synthetic Fragrances: Can trigger inflammation and sensitivity
  • Parabens: May disrupt hormones that regulate oil production
  • Alcohol Denat: Over-dries skin, leading to irritation and more breakouts

What We Include

  • Plant-Based Actives: Gentle yet effective botanical ingredients
  • Ceramides & Hyaluronic Acid: Maintain skin barrier whilst treating acne
  • Antioxidants: Protect against environmental damage and support healing
  • Probiotics: Balance skin microbiome for long-term clarity

Lifestyle Factors That Impact Acne

Your skincare routine is just one piece of the puzzle. These lifestyle factors can significantly impact your skin's clarity and overall health.

Diet & Nutrition

Whilst the relationship between diet and acne is complex, certain foods may trigger breakouts in sensitive individuals:

  • High-glycaemic foods: May increase insulin and trigger oil production
  • Dairy products: Contain hormones that can stimulate sebaceous glands
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Support anti-inflammatory processes
  • Zinc-rich foods: Support skin healing and reduce inflammation

Stress Management

Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can worsen acne. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise into your routine.

Sleep Quality

During sleep, your skin repairs itself. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep and change pillowcases regularly to prevent bacteria buildup.

Your Simple Step Ritual For Acne

  1. Deep Cleanse & Purify

    Start your skincare ritual with a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser designed to purify without stripping your skin. Harsh cleansers often disrupt the skin’s delicate barrier, leading to irritation and dryness, but a mild formula maintains hydration while effectively removing impurities. Ingredients like chamomile calm inflammation, while aloe vera soothes and restores balance. Massage the cleanser into your skin using slow, circular motions for a full minute – this allows time for the formula to break down makeup, excess sebum, and dirt. Pay attention to overlooked areas such as your neck and along your hairline, which often accumulate unseen residue. Rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water ensures no residue is left behind, leaving your skin fresh, supple, and ready to absorb the following treatments. Cleansing twice a day creates the perfect foundation for a clear, glowing complexion.

  2. Exfoliate & Unclog Pores

    Exfoliation is crucial for keeping pores clear and preventing breakouts, and salicylic acid is a gold standard ingredient for acne-prone skin. Unlike scrubs that can be abrasive, this BHA penetrates deep into pores to dissolve oil, dead skin, and buildup from within. Starting with a low concentration of 0.5–1% helps your skin gradually adapt, reducing the chance of irritation. Apply a thin layer evenly over your face, focusing on congested areas like the T-zone where blackheads and whiteheads are common. Avoid sensitive areas around the eyes and lips. Giving the product 10–15 minutes before layering anything else ensures it works to its full potential. Over time, consistent use helps reduce the frequency of breakouts, smooth rough texture, and minimize pore appearance. With patience and proper use, this step transforms your skin by addressing acne at its root cause.

  3. Balance & Calm Inflammation

    After exfoliation, it’s essential to restore balance and calm irritation, which is where niacinamide shines. This vitamin B3 derivative is a multitasking powerhouse – it regulates oil production, reduces redness, and minimizes pore visibility. In addition, niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, making your skin more resilient against environmental aggressors and future breakouts. Formulas with added peptides accelerate skin healing and repair, supporting smoother texture and reducing the risk of acne scarring. Apply a few drops and press gently into your skin, allowing it to absorb fully before moving to the next step. Over time, niacinamide evens out skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and promotes a healthy glow. Because it’s gentle and versatile, this serum pairs well with most other ingredients, making it a staple in any acne-focused skincare ritual. Regular use not only treats breakouts but also prevents new ones from forming.

  4. Target Active Breakouts

    When breakouts do occur, treating them directly helps reduce their lifespan and prevent scarring. Natural antibacterial agents like tea tree oil are effective alternatives to harsher chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide, killing acne-causing bacteria without excessive dryness or peeling. Spot treatments are best used sparingly – apply only where needed to avoid irritating unaffected areas. Many formulas include additional soothing agents like zinc oxide, which not only reduce inflammation but also calm redness. Applying treatments at night allows them to work uninterrupted while your skin repairs itself. Over time, targeted use minimizes the severity of breakouts and speeds up recovery, keeping your skin smoother and clearer. Remember that treating spots requires patience – picking or squeezing can worsen scars and prolong healing. With consistent care, blemishes heal faster and leave less of a mark on your skin.

  5. Hydrate Without Clogging

    Hydration is often overlooked in acne care, but it’s essential for long-term results. Dehydrated skin compensates by producing more oil, which can worsen congestion and breakouts. A lightweight, oil-free moisturiser provides hydration without clogging pores, maintaining balance and preventing flare-ups. Hyaluronic acid attracts water into the skin for plumpness, while ceramides strengthen the barrier, keeping irritants out and moisture in. Applying moisturiser while your skin is slightly damp maximizes its hydrating power. Gel-based or water-cream textures are especially beneficial for oily or combination skin, offering hydration without a greasy finish. Over time, regular moisturising helps smooth skin texture, reduces sensitivity, and improves tolerance to active treatments. This step ensures your skin remains nourished and resilient while staying clear of excess oil and breakouts.

  6. Protect & Prevent (Morning Only)

    The final step of your morning ritual is sun protection, which is absolutely non-negotiable for healthy, clear skin. Acne treatments like salicylic acid often increase photosensitivity, making sunscreen even more critical. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are gentle yet effective, forming a protective barrier that reflects harmful UV rays without clogging pores. Regular sunscreen use prevents post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, where dark marks from old breakouts linger for months. It also shields against premature aging, fine lines, and uneven texture caused by sun exposure. Apply generously and evenly across your face, neck, and ears, as these areas are often forgotten but equally vulnerable. Reapplication throughout the day ensures lasting protection, especially if you’re outdoors or sweating. Consistent SPF use transforms your skincare results, protecting your progress and ensuring that all the effort you put into treatment truly pays off.

Further Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long until I see results from my acne routine?

Most people start seeing improvements within 2-4 weeks of consistent use, with significant changes visible after 6-8 weeks. This timeline aligns with your skin's natural renewal cycle. Initial improvements include reduced inflammation and fewer new breakouts, whilst existing blemishes take longer to heal. Be patient and consistent - switching products too frequently can actually worsen acne.

Can I use multiple acne treatments at the same time?

Yes, but introduce them gradually to avoid irritation. Start with one active ingredient (like salicylic acid) for 2-3 weeks, then slowly add others like niacinamide. Avoid combining multiple exfoliating acids in the same routine. Always use a gentle cleanser and moisturiser to support your skin barrier whilst using active treatments.

Why is my acne getting worse when I started a new routine?

This is often called "purging" and is normal when using exfoliating ingredients like salicylic acid or mandelic acid. These ingredients accelerate cell turnover, bringing existing clogs to the surface faster. Purging typically lasts 4-6 weeks and occurs in areas where you normally break out. If you're getting breakouts in new areas, it may be a reaction to a product ingredient.

Should I avoid moisturiser if I have oily, acne-prone skin?

Absolutely not! Skipping moisturiser can actually worsen acne by triggering your skin to produce more oil to compensate for dehydration. Choose lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. These provide essential hydration whilst supporting your skin barrier without clogging pores.

What's the difference between hormonal and regular acne?

Hormonal acne typically appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks, often flaring around menstrual cycles. It tends to be deeper, more cystic, and harder to treat with topical products alone. Whilst the same skincare ingredients help, hormonal acne may also benefit from internal support like spearmint tea, zinc supplements, or consulting with a healthcare provider about hormonal balance.

Can diet really affect my acne?

Whilst the relationship varies by individual, research suggests high-glycaemic foods (white bread, sugary snacks) and dairy products may worsen acne in some people. These foods can increase insulin levels and inflammation. Focus on anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and zinc. Keep a food diary to identify your personal triggers.

Is it safe to use retinol with other acne treatments?

Retinol can be beneficial for acne, but use caution when combining with other active ingredients. Start with retinol 2-3 times per week in the evening, and use salicylic acid or other exfoliants on alternate nights. Always use sunscreen during the day, as retinol increases photosensitivity. If you experience excessive dryness or irritation, reduce frequency or consult a skincare professional.

How do I prevent acne scars and dark spots?

Prevention is key: never pick or squeeze blemishes, as this increases inflammation and scarring risk. Use gentle exfoliating acids like mandelic acid to promote cell turnover, and incorporate vitamin C serums to brighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Always wear sunscreen, as UV exposure darkens acne marks. For existing scars, consider professional treatments like chemical peels or microneedling.

About The Author

Erin Norden

Erin Norden

Certified Dermatologist & Clean Beauty Expert

Erin is a professional Makeup Artist with over 15 years’ experience and the founder of Clean Beauty Market, Australia’s leading destination for luxury clean beauty. Since 2017, she has curated and tested hundreds of high-performing, cruelty-free brands, setting the standard for clean beauty nationwide. Featured in publications like Marie Claire, Elle, and Cosmopolitan, and on Channel 7’s Kochie’s Business Builders, Erin is widely recognised as a trusted voice and advocate in the clean beauty space.

  • 15+ years as a professional Makeup Artist (establishes deep, hands-on industry knowledge).
  • Founder of Clean Beauty Market (est. 2017), Australia’s leading clean beauty retailer.
  • Transitioned her entire professional and personal beauty kit to clean, sustainable alternatives, proving she lives what she teaches.