This is the routine Sonia prescribes for active acne — hormonal breakouts, inflammatory acne, congestion, and the post-acne marks that linger after the breakout itself has cleared. Acne is rarely just one thing, and routines that target only one mechanism are why most acne protocols fail. This one addresses sebum overproduction, follicular congestion, inflammation, and barrier compromise simultaneously.

GlyMed Idyllic Cleanser delivers 3% mandelic acid — a gentle AHA that exfoliates inside the follicle without stripping the barrier. ZO Oil Control Pads layer 2% salicylic acid with mandelic and glycolic acids for triple-acid resurfacing. SkinBetter AlphaRet drives nighttime cell turnover and prevents the dead-cell buildup that traps oil. EltaMD UV Clear adds niacinamide to calm post-inflammatory redness without clogging pores.

Use the cleanser morning and evening. Apply Oil Control Pads after cleansing in the AM, EltaMD UV Clear over top. Apply AlphaRet in the evening. Active or persistent acne benefits from a clinical assessment — begin with a complimentary consultation to map the protocol to your specific pattern.