Acne shows up differently depending on your skin type. If you have oily skin, you may deal with shine, clogged pores, and blackheads. If you have dry skin, your acne may be more inflamed, red, flaky, and sensitive. Because of this, the acne routine that works for one skin type may not work for the other.
This guide breaks down the differences between acne on oily vs dry skin and teaches you how to build a routine that effectively clears breakouts without damaging your barrier.
Why Acne Happens in Oily Skin
Oily skin produces excess sebum. When this oil mixes with dead skin cells, it forms:
- Clogged pores
- Blackheads
- Whiteheads
- Bumpy texture
Oily skin often benefits from stronger exfoliants and lightweight, oil-controlling formulas.
Why Acne Happens in Dry Skin
Dry skin lacks moisture and lipids. This causes the skin to crack, which traps oil and bacteria under the surface. Breakouts may look:
- Red
- Inflamed
- Deep and painful
- Flaky around the edges
Dry skin acne needs gentle exfoliation, hydration, and barrier repair — not stripping products.
The Best Acne Routine for Oily Skin
Morning Routine
- Gel cleanser with salicylic acid
- Niacinamide serum to regulate oil
- Lightweight gel moisturizer
- SPF 30+ (non-comedogenic)
Evening Routine
- SA cleanser or exfoliating toner
- Retinol 2–4 times per week
- Oil-free moisturizer
Best ingredients for oily acne:
- Salicylic acid (BHA)
- Niacinamide
- Benzoyl peroxide (spot use)
- Retinol
The Best Acne Routine for Dry or Sensitive Skin
Morning Routine
- Cream or milky cleanser
- Hydrating serum (HA + niacinamide)
- Ceramide moisturizer
- SPF 30+
Evening Routine
- Gentle cleanser
- Low-strength SA 1–2 times per week
- Ceramide or barrier-repair cream
Best ingredients for dry acne:
- Low-dose salicylic acid
- Azelaic acid
- Niacinamide
- Ceramides
- Gentle retinol (if tolerated)
Sample Weekly Acne Schedules
Oily Skin Weekly Plan
- Mon: SA cleanser + niacinamide
- Tue: Retinol night
- Wed: SA toner
- Thu: Retinol night
- Fri: Hydration night
- Weekend: Gentle routine
Dry Skin Weekly Plan
- Mon: Hydrating routine
- Tue: Low-dose SA
- Wed: Ceramide recovery night
- Thu: Retinol (optional)
- Fri: Hydration night
Best Acne Products at Skin Boutique Online
- Vivier Medicated Wash – Great for oily or congested skin.
- PCA Acne Gel – Effective leave-on spot or full-face treatment.
- ZO Complexion Renewal Pads – Helps exfoliate and clear pores.
- ZO Hydrating Crème – Great for acne-prone dry skin.
Explore our full acne collection here:
Acne Skincare Collection
Acne Routine FAQs
Can oily skin use moisturizer?
Yes — skipping moisturizer makes oil production worse.
Should dry skin use salicylic acid?
Yes, but in low concentrations and only 1–2 times weekly.
Does retinol help acne?
Yes — it prevents clogged pores and improves cell turnover.
How long until acne improves?
Most people notice clearer skin within 6–12 weeks.
Find the Right Acne Routine for Your Skin Type
Acne isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether your skin is oily, dry, or somewhere in between, choosing the right products makes all the difference. Skin Boutique Online offers dermatologist-approved formulas designed to treat acne safely and effectively.
Browse our curated Acne Skincare Collection to find products that fit your routine.