Acne & Blemishes

Breakouts are one of the most common skin concerns in the UAE, where heat, humidity, sweat and daily sunscreen can easily clog pores. Our Acne & Blemishes collection brings together proven treatments from trusted brands like CeraVe, Cetaphil, Medicube, La Roche-Posay and The Ordinary, all 100% original and delivered across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah.

Look for salicylic acid (BHA) to unclog pores from within, as in the CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser 2% and The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution. Succinic acid pads and the Medicube Zero Pore SA Clear Cleansing Foam help keep excess oil and congestion in check, while niacinamide and ceramides calm inflammation and protect the barrier so skin heals faster.

These picks suit oily, combination and acne-prone skin, including adults dealing with hormonal or stress-related breakouts. Keep your routine simple: cleanse, treat, moisturize and protect with a lightweight SPF. Shop the collection and start your path to clearer skin.

How to build a routine for acne-prone skin

A simple, consistent routine works better than lots of strong products. Build it in four steps.

1. Cleanse. Use a cleanser with an active ingredient. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser 4% Benzoyl Peroxide helps clear breakouts without stripping skin. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel uses salicylic acid on the face and body. In UAE heat, wash again after the gym or a sweaty day outdoors.

2. Treat. Add one treatment at a time:

3. Moisturise. Acne treatments can dry skin, and dry skin can make breakouts worse. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer like Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream, or add Beauty of Joseon Calming Barrier Serum for extra comfort.

4. Protect. Many acne actives make skin more sun-sensitive, so wear sunscreen every morning.

Give each new product 6 to 8 weeks before deciding whether it works.

Frequently asked questions

How long does acne skincare take to work?

Give any acne product 6 to 8 weeks before judging it. Some treatments show early changes. CeraVe says its Acne Control Gel helps skin look clearer after 3 days. But clogged pores and marks need a full skin cycle or more to improve. Change one product at a time so you know what's working.

Can I use niacinamide and salicylic acid together?

Yes. Use salicylic acid first, as a cleanser or a serum like The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2%, then apply The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. If your skin starts feeling dry or tight, use them on alternate nights.

Should I use benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid?

Benzoyl peroxide suits red, inflamed pimples. Salicylic acid suits blackheads and clogged pores. Try CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser 4% Benzoyl Peroxide for breakouts or CeraVe Acne Control Gel 2% Salicylic Acid for congestion. Note that benzoyl peroxide can bleach towels and pillowcases.

Should I moisturize if I have oily, acne-prone skin?

Yes. Acne treatments dry skin out, and skin that feels tight can produce more oil. Choose a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer such as CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM, which is oil-free and won't clog pores.

When should I see a dermatologist about acne?

See a dermatologist if your acne is painful and deep, leaves scars, or hasn't improved after three months of consistent care. Prescription treatments can help where skincare alone can't. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M can be used alongside a routine your doctor prescribes.