Keeping your skin free from acne can often be quite the challenge. It’s a balance of trying to find products that get rid of any current acne flare-ups but are also gentle and effective enough to prevent any more spots from appearing in the future.

But there’s no need to get stressed out about your breakouts as there are plenty of skincare products and blemish-busting ingredients out there that promise to give you a blemish-free complexion.

If you’ve been struggling with acne, here are some ingredients you should consider adding to your skincare routine.

Salicylic Acid

Known as a beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid is one of the most popular acne-fighting ingredients. You’ll find it in the majority of spot treatments and acne products because it’s so effective – even for those who have super sensitive skin.

Salicylic acid works by cleaning out your pores and reducing oil production which can zap zits away, while lightly exfoliating the skin to get rid of acne-causing grime, dirt and oils.

Kaolin Clay

Often found in face masks, kaolin clay is a great ingredient for absorbing all of the excess oil from your skin which is often the cause of spots and blemishes.

This clay is able to attract oil, while lightly exfoliating the skin at the same time. It also soaks up any dead skin cells, traces of makeup and bacteria so that when you wash the mask off your skin, you’re left with a completely blank canvas.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that we think everyone should have in their skincare routine. Not only does it protect your skin from environmental aggressors, but it also gives your skin a beautiful healthy glow.

This ingredient is especially good for clearing up any dark spots that remain after your blemishes have healed but also helps to keep your complexion bright and glowy.

Hyaluronic Acid 

Just because your skin is on the oilier side and suffering from breakouts doesn’t mean that should forget about hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid.

This ingredient will help hydrate and keep your skin’s barrier intact. This will maintain your skin’s natural oil production and help to keep bacteria, dirt, and pollution away.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A (AKA retinol) is a hardworking active ingredient that provides a whole range of anti-aging, blemish-fighting, and brightening effects.

It’s normally best to use when you’re a bit older, but if you’re really concerned about your acne it’s a good thing to start adding to your routine once or twice a week.