Understanding Acne and Oily Skin
Acne and oily skin often go hand in hand, but they’re not exactly the same. Oily skin occurs when sebaceous glands produce excess sebum, which can clog pores and create an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria.
Acne, on the other hand, is a broader condition influenced by:
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Stress and lifestyle factors
• Inflammation and bacterial build up
While salicylic acid is a tried-and-true ingredient for tackling clogged pores and excess oil, managing acne and oily skin often requires a more holistic approach.
Why Salicylic Acid Isn’t the Only Answer
Salicylic acid works by penetrating deep into the pores, breaking down oil and exfoliating dead skin cells. It’s an excellent ingredient for oily and acne-prone skin, but for many people, additional support is necessary to:
• Calm inflammation
• Repair the skin barrier
• Address post-acne marks
This is where other ingredients, like niacinamide and zinc come into play. Combining these can help balance oil production, reduce redness, and support skin recovery.
Targeting Acne and Oily Skin: Key Ingredients to Look For
1. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that clears clogged pores and prevents breakouts. It works best when used consistently in cleansers, serums, or treatments.
The Resurface & Radiance Hydro-Lipids Micro-Peel combines salicylic acid with other hydrating ingredients to exfoliate without stripping the skin, leaving it smoother and clearer.

2. Zinc
Zinc is a powerful ingredient for acne and oily skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-regulating properties. It helps reduce redness, calms irritation, and prevents clogged pores.
The Zinc & Protein A+ Clarifying Comfort Cream is a light moisturiser that targets breakouts while soothing redness, making it ideal for acne-prone skin in need of repair and hydration.

3. Niacinamide
Niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, is a powerhouse ingredient that addresses multiple skin concerns, especially for acne-prone and oily skin. It regulates oil production, reduces redness, and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier.
The AOX B-Complex Collagen Cream combines niacinamide with nourishing ingredients like Sodium Pca to hydrate, calm redness, and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. Its antioxidant-rich formula also protects the skin from environmental stressors.

4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is renowned for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it a go-to ingredient for calming irritation and redness caused by acne or excess oil production. It also provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores.
The formula of our Sebum & Redness Neutralising Water Shield contains aloe vera alongside blackcurrant seed oil and sodium hyaluronate to calm irritated skin, hydrate, and refresh oily complexions. Peppermint and rosemary essential oils add antibacterial properties to further support blemish-prone skin.

How to Build a Routine for Acne and Oily Skin
1. Cleanse:
Use a gentle cleanser with salicylic acid to clear pores without over-drying.
2. Treat:
Apply targeted treatments to calm inflammation and balance oil production.
3. Hydrate:
Even oily skin benefits from a lightweight moisturizer to prevent dehydration.
Consult with Our Specialist
Achieving balance for acne and oily skin often requires more than just the right ingredients—it benefits from expert guidance and treatments tailored to your unique needs. We specialise in combining modern skincare science with TCM (Chinese Medicine) principles to address wellbeing root causes of skin concerns.
Whether you’re struggling with hormonal fluctuations, breakouts, excess oil, or post-acne marks, Ada’s expertise can guide you toward clearer, healthier skin.