11 Vitamins, Oils & Acids for Your Acne Skincare Routine
*PR: Only Environ, Coola, Vichy & Ark were gifted.
Sian Victoria © - Beauty skincare routine, Environ, Derma.E, Ark, Vichy, Green Tea & Grapeseed oil
How to Treat Acne & Reduce Texture and Get Hydrated Clear Skin
I know that dealing with acne can be super frustrating, and it often feels like we're on a never-ending quest for solutions that really work. I've figured out that having a solid skincare routine is a must for making my skin healthier and better looking. I focus not just on tackling acne, but also on keeping my skin hydrated and overall healthy. It’s all about finding the best mix of active ingredients and gentle products so my skin feels nourished instead of reactive.
The skincare world can be a bit much with all the products, false claims and steps out there, but breaking it down into a routine has really helped me. From picking cleansers that fight acne to adding in hydration and antioxidants, every step has its reason. When figuring out what causes and affects my acne, I’ve noticed my skin is clearing up, feeling smoother, and having fewer flare-ups.
With so many products out there claiming to be miracle workers, it's tough to know what to trust. For me, sticking to a routine and choosing good-quality products that suit my skin has been the key to my skincare wins.
Lately, I’ve been really into vitamin A skincare and supplements, and they've totally changed my skin for the better! They've improved my skin's texture, helped with scarring and congestion, and just made everything look nicer overall.
It’s taken me ages to finally lock in some skincare products that work for my skin type and actually make a big difference. I’ve struggled with problem skin for a while, but now I’m at a point where I’m happy with how it looks, and I’m not feeling the need to hide.
You can check out my before-and-after hormonal acne photos to see how far I’ve come. But in this post, I wanted to give you a roundup of beauty products I’ve been loving and highly recommend! Hopefully, this helps if you're looking for a way to tackle hormonal acne, congestion, bumpy texture, oiliness, or skin sensitivity.
1. Start with a Facial Wash Containing Salicylic Acid
Cleansing kicks off my skincare routine, and I always start with a facial wash that’s got salicylic acid in it. This stuff is ideal for anyone with acne-prone skin because it goes deep into the pores, getting rid of extra facial oil and gunk that can cause breakouts. Plus, it helps calm down redness and swelling from those pesky spots. I make sure to really massage the cleanser into my skin for at least 30 seconds so it can do its thing.
After that first cleanse, I use a second cleanser that's sulphate-free. It's much gentler on my skin and sweeps away any leftover dirt or product without drying it out. Using a sulphate-free formula is key to keeping my skin's barrier healthy, which helps it stay balanced and less irritated.
This two-step cleansing thing really leaves my skin feeling fresh and prepped for the rest of my skincare. When I cleanse properly, the products that come after soak in better, making them way more effective against acne and boosting my skin's overall health.
For what to use, I recommend starting with a vitamin A face wash. I absolutely love the Derma.E Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser and Environ Sebuwash. These are the best washes I've come across! I found out about Environ Skincare when they sent me their vitamin A range for a #100dayreset challenge I just finished. But before that, I had already ordered some vitamin A skincare from Biovea, shipped straight from the USA.
Once I finished the Environ stuff, I switched to Derma.E products from Biovea. Both the Environ Sebuwash and Derma.E Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser contain vitamin A, and honestly, they’re the most effective facial washes I’ve ever used. You can grab Environ at Harvey Nichols, but you need to book a skin consultation first, and it’s priced around £29.
Derma.E can be ordered from Biovea for about £9.60, or you could go for a package deal with a cleanser, toner, and moisturiser for £28, but just a heads up, it needs to be shipped from the USA. Free shipping kicks in for orders over £39, and if your order’s £39, you usually don’t have to pay customs fees—I didn’t have to last time, but just a fair warning! Both products are totally worth the effort to hunt down, in my opinion. You don’t need to buy both; just the one will do, and do a double cleanse with it.
The Derma.E Anti-Wrinkle Vitamin A & Glycolic Acid Cleanser is eco-friendly, vegan, and totally free of GMOs, gluten, soy, and cruelty. It foams up really well and makes your skin feel squeaky clean and smooth with its exfoliating power. The vitamin A, glycolic acid, and papaya work together to really cleanse, remove dead skin cells, and promote skin renewal.
The Environ Sebuwash is also cruelty-free and vegan. It has salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and other active goodies like vitamin A, antioxidants, and peptides. It offers a low-foaming cleanser that makes your skin feel soft and deeply clean, plus the salicylic acid helps with sloughing off dead skin cells, too.
Sian Victoria © - Environ Skincare Salicylic acid facial wash & Derma.E Vitamin A cleanser
2. Use a Liquid Exfoliate with Glycolic Acid
Liquid exfoliation is a super easy way to get rid of dead skin cells and show off a fresher look. I like to use a glycolic acid-based exfoliator because it helps improve skin texture and tackle uneven skin tone. Glycolic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that’s popular in skincare to boost cell turnover, which is great for fading acne scars and discolouration.
When I apply it, I just take a cotton pad and swipe it evenly across my face, being careful not to get too close to my eyes. It’s best to start off slow with this type of exfoliator and then gradually use it more often as your skin gets used to it. This way, you cut down on the chances of irritating your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin like I do.
The liquid formula really gets into the skin, clearing out impurities and making your complexion brighter and smoother. Plus, unlike those rough physical scrubs that can be harsh, a chemical exfoliator is way gentler and keeps the skin’s barrier intact.
Consistent use of glycolic acid has also helped clear up those pesky clogged pores, making my skin look clearer over time. Just remember to follow up with some hydrating products since chemical exfoliants can leave your skin feeling a bit dry. Oh, and I steer clear of other strong active ingredients on the same day to avoid overwhelming my skin.
For a product that delivers, check out the Derma.E Anti-Wrinkle Vitamin A & Glycolic Acid Toner. It’s got vitamin A, glycolic acid, and Marine Plant Extracts. Plus, it’s from a vegan and cruelty-free skincare brand.
This toner does a great job of tightening pores to keep dirt out. It helps smooth out your skin by sloughing off dead skin cells and encouraging skin renewal.
Sian Victoria © - Derma.E Vitamin A & Glycolic Acid & Biovea Green tea facial toner
3. Tone with a Botanical Green Tea-infused Toner
A green tea toner is seriously worth it for my skincare routine. It’s super calming and packed with anti-inflammatory goodness. Green tea's loaded with antioxidants, which help shield my skin from all the nasty stuff out there that can cause acne and irritation. It’s perfect after cleansing since it whisks away any leftover dirt while giving my skin a nice refresh.
If you want to take advantage of what green tea can do for your skin, I just press it in with a cotton pad or my hands to let it soak in completely. The botanical extracts cool and energise my face, making it feel smooth and balanced. Plus, I’ve noticed it’s great for minimising pores over time, which gives my skin a more even look.
Another thing I love about this green tea toner is that it preps my skin for the rest of my routine. It keeps my skin hydrated and balanced, which means my serums, oils, and moisturisers work even better. It’s become a must-have in my regimen because it supports overall skin health without any dryness or irritation. This super gentle formula is great for using every day, and it leaves my skin feeling fresh and ready to take on the day or night!
As for my top pick, the Biovea Botanical Japanese Green Tea Toner (which is now called the Super Fruits Antioxidant Facial Toner) is my absolute favourite. If I could, I would totally bathe in it! The smell is amazing, and I can’t help but look forward to applying it on my clean skin morning and night just to enjoy that refreshing scent.
It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and doesn’t have any parabens or sulfates. This toner really helps tighten my pores, firms up my skin, hydrates, and makes fine lines less noticeable while boosting elasticity for a glowing complexion. I've been all about green tea skincare for a while now, so it’s definitely a staple in my beauty routine!
Sian Victoria © - Uriage Eau Thermale water & Vichy Mineral 89 serum
4. Hydrate with Thermal Water or Hyaluronic Acid Serum
After I cleanse and tone my skin, the next step is all about adding moisture. I like to use either thermal water or a hyaluronic acid serum. Thermal water gives my skin that refreshing hydration and some nice minerals to help calm my sensitive skin down. On days when my skin feels really dry or tight, I grab my hyaluronic acid serum. It’s great at drawing in and locking in water, making my skin feel super soft and smooth.
I usually apply the serum while my skin’s still a bit damp from the toner, which really helps it to lock in that moisture. Just a few drops are enough for my whole face, and I gently press them in instead of rubbing, so it goes on evenly without irritating my skin. For thermal water, I can mist it on whenever my skin needs a quick hydration boost throughout the day.
Adding this step to my routine really makes a difference. I've seen that my skin looks way more plump and is much more receptive to other treatments. Plus, it makes applying makeup so much easier because it smooths everything out and keeps foundation from clinging to any dry patches.
If you're looking for a solid hydration boost, definitely consider adding thermal water to your skincare lineup. I can’t recommend the Uriage Eau Thermal Water Spray enough. I take it everywhere! Whenever my skin feels thirsty or I need a little pick-me-up after hours at my desk, I just spray it on, and that cool mist does wonders for refreshing my skin.
After toning, I also love using Vichy Mineral 89. It’s a daily booster serum that hydrates and plumps my skin, especially on my cheeks and forehead, where things tend to get dry, especially when it’s chilly outside. This stuff has 89% thermal water along with 15 skin-loving minerals and hyaluronic acid, which is amazing at holding water—up to 1000 times its weight! It really helps keep my skin drenched and looking plump. To find out more, I’ve done a review of the Vichy Mineral 89 in another post.
Sian Victoria © - Biovea Vitamin E Grapeseed oil & Environ Skincare Avance Elixir
5. Apply Vitamin Serums and Oils like Grape Seed Oil
After hydrating, I like to add vitamin serums and oils to really boost my skin's health and look. I use a vitamin C serum because it brightens my complexion and helps fade those pesky post-acne marks. Then there's vitamin E serum, which is awesome for soothing and repairing my skin. Together, these vitamins help protect against free radicals and keep my skin looking smooth and even.
To lock in all those benefits, I apply a few drops of grape seed oil. It’s lightweight and doesn’t clog my pores, which is a huge plus. This oil is full of good stuff like antioxidants and essential fatty acids, helping to keep my skin barrier intact and super hydrated. I warm it up in my palms and gently press it onto my skin, letting it soak in. This step not only seals in moisture but also smooths out any dry patches.
Layering these products keeps my skin nourished, resilient, and less likely to irritate throughout the day. I've definitely noticed that adding antioxidant-rich oils and serums has made my skin feel more supple and balanced over time.
For oils, I use Biovea Organic Grapeseed oil with vitamin E every other night on my face and neck. I’d use it nightly, but it can make my hair greasy if it gets on there while I sleep. I used to be nervous about oils because my skin is oily and combination, but after doing my research, I found that grape seed oil is great for acne-prone skin since it doesn’t clog pores.
Grapeseed oil has amazing benefits; it tones and tightens the skin while also balancing out oily, blemish-prone areas. Since I started using it, I’ve noticed my acne scars fading. Sure, it might feel a bit greasy, but don’t let that scare you off; it really works wonders. Just a tip: I’d stick to using it at night, or during the day if you’re just chilling at home.
I recently added the Environ Focus Care youth tri-peptide complex advanced elixir to my skincare routine, too. I put it on right after my toner and mineral water. The clear gel absorbs easily and leaves my skin feeling plump and soft, and prevents premature ageing. After that, I top it off with moisturiser.
This advanced elixir has Meritage, which is a blend of Chinese root extracts that help fight off UV damage and pollution while also evening out skin tone. Plus, it’s got three powerful peptides that improve my skin's overall structure.
Sian Victoria © - Derma.E Anti-wrinkle Renewal cream & Environ Skincare SkinEnssentiA Vitamin A AVST Moisturiser 1
6. Apply a Vitamin A Moisturiser
A vitamin A moisturiser is a must in my nighttime routine for keeping my skin smooth and clear. Using it helps my skin renew itself, which is super important for tackling acne and getting a better skin texture. Vitamin A, or retinol, boosts cell turnover, helps clear out pores, and, over time, reduces blemishes. Plus, it’s great for fading those annoying post-acne marks, making my complexion look more even and glowy.
When I apply it, I only need a small amount and spread it evenly on my face, steering clear of my eyes to prevent irritation. It’s smart to ease into using vitamin A products because they can cause some dryness or peeling at first. To help with that, I make sure my skin is well-hydrated first with a hyaluronic acid serum or a light moisturiser.
Regularly using a vitamin A moisturiser not only helps manage breakouts but also keeps future ones from popping up. I avoid layering other strong ingredients on nights I use it, so my skin stays balanced and comfy while I enjoy all the benefits of this powerhouse product.
As for product recommendations, I really like the Environ Skin EssentiaA AVST Moisturiser 1 and the Derma.E Anti-wrinkle Retinyl Palmitate Cream. Both are fantastic for keeping my skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. If I had to nitpick, I wish the Derma.E came in a pump bottle since it’s way more hygienic than a tub, and the Environ product has a bit of a smoky smell that makes my boyfriend joke about me smelling like smoke after my skincare routine.
With the Environ Skin EssentiaA AVST Moisturiser 1, you need a skin consultation first since it has some potent ingredients. This moisturiser is the first step in their range and starts with a lower dose of vitamin A, so you can gradually move up to stronger formulas. After toning and using my serums, I’ll take a blob the size of a Malteser and massage it into areas where I need it most, like my t-zone and jawline, where I get hormonal breakouts. It really helps smooth out my skin’s texture.
The Derma.E Anti-wrinkle Retinyl Palmitate Cream, on the other hand, has higher levels of vitamin A that help renew skin cells, reduce wrinkles, and give a more youthful look. It’s packed with antioxidants, vitamin E, and nourishing oils like avocado! Plus, everything from Derma.E is 100% vegan and mostly made from plant-based ingredients.
Sian Victoria © - Charcoal peel off face mask & Ark Skincare Hydration Injection Masque
7. Use a Charcoal Face Mask Once a Week
Using a charcoal face mask once a week is a great way to refresh and clean up my skin. Charcoal is effective at detoxing your skin because it pulls out dirt, oil, and gunk from deep in your pores. This really helps with keeping my skin clear and reduces the chances of breakouts, especially in spots that are prone to blackheads or excess oil. I like to spread the mask evenly over my face, paying extra attention to my T-zone, where my skin gets the oiliest.
After it dries, I rinse it off with lukewarm water, making sure to wash away all the residue without being too rough. My skin always feels way cleaner and looks more refined afterwards. For me, this mask is a solid way to keep my skin balanced since it controls oil but doesn’t leave it feeling dry. It fits perfectly into my routine and works well with the other products I use to make my skin clearer.
To get the best results, I always make sure my skin is prepped beforehand by cleansing it really well. After the mask, I slather on a hydrating product to keep my skin healthy and feeling good.
I usually go for the T-zone Charcoal & Bamboo Peel Off mask on my pampering Sundays after I cleanse and tone. I think it’s not the best at getting rid of blackheads, but it does make my skin a lot smoother, especially since it pulls out some of the small facial hairs.
In a way, that’s actually good because when sebum builds up and clogs hair follicles, I’ve noticed I have fewer blackheads since I started using it. Alternatively, you could use a charcoal clay or mud mask, which are just as beneficial as peel masks. Once I peel the mask off, I quickly apply the Ark Skin Perfector Hydration Injection Masque so that all those vitamins can really do their thing after a deep clean.
8. Follow with a Vitamin-infused Face Mask
After using a charcoal mask to cleanse my skin, I like to follow up with a vitamin-packed face mask to boost hydration and give my skin some extra love. This mask is loaded with essential vitamins like C, E, and B5, which help brighten my complexion, soothe irritation, and support skin repair. I apply it evenly on my face, paying extra attention to those dry or sensitive spots, and let it sit for the recommended time to really let those effective skin-loving ingredients sink in. The formula is full of hydrating and skin-strengthening goodies, leaving my skin feeling soft, refreshed, and looking super radiant.
I’ve been using the Ark Skin Perfector Hydration Injection Masque for a while now, and you can read more about it in my post about skincare tips for teens and 20s. This mask has Vitamin E to help shield against UV damage, Vitamin A for collagen support, Vitamin C to help with pigmentation, and Vitamin B5 for smoothness. Plus, it’s got a Hyaluronic Acid Booster to really quench dry skin.
Sian Victoria © - Coola makeup setting spray, Green tea & Aloe SPF 30
9. Use an SPF in the Morning
Applying SPF in the morning is a must if you want to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. Sun exposure can make hyperpigmentation worse and lead to dark spots, especially if you’re prone to acne, which can leave marks or scars. Make sure to use a sunscreen that covers all UV rays and has an SPF of at least 30. It helps keep your skin safe and makes sure your complexion stays nice and even over time.
I prefer lightweight, non-comedogenic options that work well under makeup and won’t clog my pores. Some SPFs even have extra benefits, like hydration or antioxidants, which is a nice bonus for your skin's health. Make sure to apply it generously and evenly on all exposed areas like your face, neck, and ears. Don't forget to reapply, especially if you’re outdoors for a long time, sweating, or washing your face during the day.
Combining SPF into my morning routine has been protecting my skin from sun damage and premature ageing, making it less susceptible when using vitamin A and facial acids. It’s a key part of my approach to keeping my skin clear and healthy. If you plan to use AHA, BHA, and retinols, then SPF is a must, as these active ingredients can increase skin sensitivity.
For a product recommendation, check out the Coola SPF 30 makeup setting spray. It’s great for normal, oily, and combination skin. It not only protects against sun damage with SPF 30 but also helps reduce oiliness, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Coola is an organic and 100% vegan brand offering a variety of awesome beauty products for makeup, skincare, and body care, all aimed at taking steps to safeguard your skin from the sun’s harmful rays and preventing early signs of ageing.
Once I finish my makeup, I just spray the Coola matte mist on my face, and it keeps everything in place all day. It’s also ideal for sensitive skin since it’s packed with natural and organic ingredients like cucumber, green tea, and my beloved aloe vera to soothe and protect, plus hyaluronic acid to hydrate and soften the skin.
If you deal with breakouts and acne, this setting spray is safe to use and won’t clog your pores since it's non-comedogenic!
Sian Victoria © - Advanced Nutrition Programme, Skin Accumax & Collagen support supplements
10. Consider Taking DIM or Vitamin A Supplements
When it comes to taking care of your skin, supplements can be a great addition to your routine alongside topical treatments. DIM, which you can find in veggies like broccoli and kale, is often taken to help balance hormones, which is necessary for managing acne. When helping to even out hormonal levels, DIM might just cut down on breakouts, especially if your acne is linked to those hormonal changes.
Vitamin A is another good one; it helps with skin renewal and keeps pores from getting clogged. This vitamin supports healthy skin cell production and regulates oil levels, both of which are key to clearer skin. Just make sure to run it by a doctor or healthcare professional before having any supplements, because too much vitamin A can have some negative effects.
Keeping up with your supplements is ideal since you usually won’t see results right away; it takes time. While they’re not a substitute for a balanced diet and a solid skincare routine, supplements can really help tackle those internal issues that might be causing your acne on your face and body. Always go for quality supplements from trusted brands to get the most out of your efforts.
During my #100dayreset challenge, I tried out the Advanced Nutrition Programme's Skin Accumax and Skin Collagen Support supplements, and they’ve honestly made a massive difference for my skin alongside my new skincare routine for acne.
The Skin Accumax is packed with DIM, which is amazing for anyone dealing with hormonal acne. I've been taking it for over 100 days, and I can confidently say it’s worked wonders for me; my mild hormonal acne has almost completely cleared up. I started off with four supplements a day and have cut it down to just two, and I plan to stick with these for good. They’re fantastic! Plus, they have Vitamins A, E, and C, too. These are just a few of the top supplements for acne that are worth looking into so that you can improve your acne from the inside and out.
11. Include Collagen Supplements
Collagen supplements can really boost your skincare routine since they help keep your skin elastic and strong. Collagen is a protein that you naturally find in your body and skin, but as you age and face various stressors, your body makes less of it. Adding a collagen supplement can help make up for that loss, leading to firmer and smoother skin.
When you're shopping for a collagen supplement, go for hydrolysed collagen or collagen peptides because your body absorbs those better. These usually come in powders that you can mix into water or your morning smoothie, or you can find them in convenient capsule form. Taking them regularly might also help your skin stay hydrated, minimise fine lines, and keep that healthy glow.
If you're dealing with acne, collagen can really aid in healing and repairing your skin, especially for those pesky scars or inflamed areas. Improving the structure of your skin helps it bounce back more quickly over time. Plus, a lot of collagen products have added vitamins like C, which not only help with collagen production but also provide antioxidant benefits for your skin. Just make sure to choose high-quality options if you want to see real results.
As for a specific product, I’ve been taking Skin Collagen Support from the Advanced Nutrition Programme for about a month now, along with Omega 3 & 6. I recommend trying Skin Omegas+ too, since they’re packed with vitamin A, but be cautious because too much vitamin A isn’t great for your liver. The Skin Collagen Support has a veggie source of vitamins A, D2, and C, and grapeseed extract, which helps make your skin smoother, plumper, and youthful.
To conclude
Creating a skincare routine that tackles acne while keeping your skin healthy can feel like a bit of a journey, but it’s totally worth it. When sticking to gentle yet effective steps, you can set up a routine that really fits your skin’s needs. Pairing active ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin A with soothing and hydrating products means your skin will get the treatment it needs without drying out. Keeping at it consistently is ideal to see real, long-lasting results, so be sure to adjust things based on how your skin reacts to suit your skin type.
Also, don’t forget to think about your overall lifestyle. Things like drinking enough water, eating right, and managing stress can really affect your skin, too. If you feel it's useful, adding some well-chosen supplements can boost your results even more. And remember, patience is needed as great skin doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s way better to see gradual improvements rather than rush for quick fixes that don’t last.
Celebrate those little wins, like having fewer breakouts or a more even skin tone, because they show just how much your hard work is paying off. With commitment and the right approach, getting clear and healthy skin is totally possible!
