Korean skincare routine for acne and enlarged pores
For acne and enlarged pores, a simple Korean skincare routine built around gentle cleansing and acid exfoliation usually works better than piling on many products. The core idea is to cleanse well, exfoliate a few times a week with AHA/BHA, and keep the rest of your routine light so you do not overload the skin.
Below you will find a step-by-step approach using Korean cosmetics we keep in stock, plus clear notes on what to combine and what to leave for separate days.
A daily gentle foam with salicylic acid, suited to oily and acne-prone skin that needs regular pore-focused cleansing.
A deep-cleansing foam with heartleaf for those who want a thorough clean aimed at the look of enlarged pores.
A two-in-one oil-to-foam cleanser ideal as a first step to remove sunscreen and makeup before your main cleanser.
An exfoliating toner with centella and AHA/BHA for people who prefer a liquid toner to swipe over the skin on exfoliation days.
Convenient exfoliating pads with AHA, BHA and PHA for those who want easy, measured exfoliation a few times a week.
How to choose products for acne and pores
Look for cleansers with ingredients aimed at oil and congestion, such as salicylic acid or heartleaf, and for exfoliating toners with AHA, BHA or PHA. Salicylic acid (BHA) is oil-soluble, so it works inside the pore, while AHA works more on the surface and PHA is the mildest option for sensitive or reactive skin.
What to combine and what not to
- Do use a gentle cleanser daily; if you wear makeup or sunscreen, add an oil-to-foam cleanser first as a first step.
- Do not use several strong acid products at the same time in one routine, as this can irritate the skin barrier.
- Alternate your exfoliating toner or pads with plain, non-active nights so your skin can recover.
- Always finish the morning with sunscreen, since acids can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
How to use it step by step
In the evening, cleanse first with an oil-to-foam or foam cleanser, then rinse. On exfoliation nights, apply an AHA/BHA/PHA toner or a clear pad, wait a moment, then continue with a light moisturiser. In the morning, do a simple cleanse, moisturise and apply sunscreen.
Start slowly: use acid exfoliation two to three times a week at first and increase only if your skin stays comfortable. Patch test any new product on a small area before adding it to your full routine.
How it fits into your routine
Keep the base short: one cleanse step (or two in the evening with an oil cleanser), one exfoliating toner used on selected days, and a moisturiser. This keeps the routine sustainable and reduces the risk of overloading acne-prone skin, while still targeting oil, congestion and the look of enlarged pores.