What Causes Acne & Best Korean Skincare to Treat It

Acne—it's the uninvited guest that overstays its welcome. Whether you're battling the occasional breakout or persistent acne, understanding the root causes can help you take control of your skin. So, let’s break it down: why does acne happen, and what can you do to fight back?

What Causes Acne?

Acne isn’t just about having oily skin; it’s a combination of factors that work together to create the perfect storm. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:

Excess Sebum Production – If your skin produces too much oil, it can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Clogged Pores – Dead skin cells and oil build-up trap bacteria inside pores, causing pimples.

Bacteria (P. acnes) – This acne-causing bacteria thrives in clogged pores, leading to inflammation and breakouts.

Hormonal Fluctuations – Androgens (hormones) can increase oil production, making acne more likely during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or stress.

Diet – High-glycaemic foods (like sugar and refined carbs) and dairy have been linked to breakouts in some people.

Stress – Stress triggers hormones that increase oil production and inflammation, making breakouts worse.

Wrong Skincare Products – Heavy, pore-clogging (comedogenic) products can suffocate your skin and worsen acne.

Friction & Pressure – Tight masks, hats, and even touching your face too often can cause irritation and breakouts.

Medications – Some medications, like steroids and birth control pills, can trigger acne as a side effect.

Genetics – If your parents struggled with acne, there’s a higher chance you might, too.

Best Skincare Products to Combat Acne

While acne can be stubborn, the right skincare routine can make a world of difference. The key? Choose gentle, non-comedogenic products that target breakouts without damaging your skin barrier.

1. Cleansers (Remove excess oil, dirt, and bacteria)

🔹 Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser – A hydrating and gentle option for oily, acne-prone skin.

🔹 Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser – A lightweight gel that cleans without stripping your skin.

🔹 Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser – Contains tea tree oil to fight acne-causing bacteria.

2. Exfoliants (Unclogs pores & removes dead skin cells)

🔹 Isntree Chestnut 2% BHA Clear Liquid – A powerful yet gentle BHA that helps clear pores and reduce blackheads.

🔹 Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner – A multi-acid formula that keeps pores clear and skin smooth.

3. Toners (Balances skin & preps for treatments)

🔹 Isntree Green Tea Toner – Hydrating and calming, perfect for inflamed, acne-prone skin.

🔹 Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner – Combines aloe for soothing and BHA for acne control.

4. Serums & Treatments (Targets acne directly)

🔹 Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum (Propolis + Niacinamide) – Anti-inflammatory and helps regulate oil production.

🔹 Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum – Packed with exfoliating acids to keep breakouts at bay.

🔹 Tretinoin or Adapalene (Retinoids) – Prescription-strength treatments for deep pore cleansing and acne prevention.

🔹 Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – Helps heal post-acne scars and strengthens the skin barrier.

5. Moisturizers (Keeps skin balanced without clogging pores)

🔹 Purito Oat-In Calming Gel Cream – Lightweight and soothing, ideal for acne-prone skin.

🔹 Illiyoon Ato Ceramide Cream – Strengthens the skin barrier, perfect for irritated or sensitive skin.

6. Sunscreen (Prevents post-acne scars & inflammation)

🔹 Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Air-Fit Sun cream – Lightweight, calming, and mattifying.

🔹 Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics – Nourishing and non-greasy, ideal for daily wear.

7. Spot Treatments (For targeting active pimples)

🔹 Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patch – Absorbs pus and protects pimples from bacteria.

🔹 Benton Goodbye Redness Centella Spot Cream – Calms inflammation and reduces redness.

Additional Tips for Managing Acne

Aside from a solid skincare routine, lifestyle changes can also help reduce breakouts:

✅ Double Cleanse – Use an oil cleanser first, followed by a gentle foaming cleanser to remove sunscreen, makeup, and excess oil.

✅ Use Non-Comedogenic Products – Make sure your skincare and makeup won’t clog pores.

✅ Introduce Actives Slowly – Avoid irritation by easing into strong ingredients like retinoids and acids.

✅ Avoid Over-Exfoliating – Too much exfoliation can weaken your skin barrier and cause more breakouts.

✅ Stay Hydrated – Even oily skin needs hydration! A well-hydrated skin barrier helps regulate oil production.

Acne can feel like an uphill battle, but with the right approach, you can regain control of your skin. Stick to a consistent routine, be patient with results, and remember—your skin’s health is more important than achieving “perfection.”

Need help choosing the best acne-fighting products for your skin type? Let us know in the comments!