I feel your pain, I suffered adult acne on and off for years; it can be so frustrating and embarrassing. Everyone’s skin different of course, but this is what worked (finally!!) for me:
1.treating my skin with kid gloves; no harsh exfoliants, no SLS, nothing super astringent. It sounds counterintuitive, but the constant stripping of oil seemed to throw my skin constantly out of whack. Clean it like a baby’s bum, very thoroughly, but incredibly gently! I found doing a double cleanse useful.
2.Chosing an SPF with care; the vast majority seem to break me out, even if they are meant to be suitable for oily skin. La Roche Posay Anthelios XL ultra light is great and has never caused me any problems. Personally I’d take the moisturiser and hydrator out of your routine too and see if that makes a difference- you can always add them back in if you find your skin is missing them. Instead drink lots of water and hydrate from within.
3.Start using a retinol at night, you don’t have to spend very much, the ones by The Ordinary are very good. Start on the gentlest one and gradually build your way up- it’s very easy to get addicted and over do it when you start seeing the results!
- Stop touching your face in the day, wash your hands religiously when you’ve been on public transport and regularly anti-bac wipe your phone, keyboard and mouse. I was sceptical but it did make a difference.
6.See your doctor! I was weirdly embarrassed and thought I wouldn’t be taken seriously, but all the doctors I’ve seen have been very sympathetic and have really helped. I’ve had various prescriptions over the years, but for me personally Yasmin contraceptive pill and Spironolactone have been the most effective.
Sorry for the essay! I’ve read it often takes a combination of things to get rid of acne and that’s definitely true :) Hope some of that helps! Xx