The Right Skincare Routine for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

Sensitive skin that also breaks out is one of the hardest combinations to treat — most acne products are too harsh, and most gentle products don't actually touch the breakouts. Here's a routine built for both at once.

Step 1: Gentle Cleansing

Start with a fragrance-free cleanser with no harsh sulfates. Look for calming ingredients like aloe vera or green tea extract. Massage in gently and rinse with lukewarm water — hot water strips the barrier you're trying to protect.

Step 2: Gentle Exfoliation

Exfoliation clears the dead skin cells that clog pores, but sensitive skin needs a measured approach. AWAKENING's 12% AHA + BHA blend is formulated to exfoliate effectively without harsh scrubbing particles — 2 to 3 times a week is enough to start.

Step 3: Real Hydration

Even oily, acne-prone skin needs hydration — skipping it just triggers more oil production. A non-comedogenic moisturiser keeps your barrier balanced without clogging pores. THAT CREAM's peptide complex was built specifically for this: hydration and barrier support without the heavy oils that trigger breakouts.

Step 4: Daily Sun Protection

Don't underestimate this step. Sensitive, acne-prone skin is often more vulnerable to UV damage, especially while using exfoliating acids. THE SHIELD⁺ SPF 30 is light enough not to clog pores — and that matters, since the best sunscreen is the one you'll actually wear daily.

Step 5: Targeted Spot Treatment

For active breakouts, a targeted treatment with salicylic acid can help directly. Apply only to affected areas — covering your whole face can over-dry skin that's already working hard to repair itself.

With this routine, consistency matters more than intensity. Results build over weeks, not days, and if anything reacts badly, a dermatologist consult is always worth it before continuing.