Struggling with acne can feel like a never-ending battle. With countless products promising miracles and conflicting advice everywhere you turn, it’s no wonder so many of us feel frustrated and confused about how to truly heal our skin.
As someone who’s been formulating clean skincare for over a decade, I want to cut through the noise and give you the straight facts about what actually works when it comes to fighting acne – and why.
Understanding Acne at Its Root
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution because acne can have many different causes and manifest in various forms. However, there’s one common factor in many acne cases that doesn’t get enough attention: anaerobic bacteria.
These oxygen-hating microorganisms thrive in the perfect storm created by excess sebum (oil) and dead skin cells that build up on acne-prone skin. The key to fighting these troublemakers? Getting oxygen to your skin.
Your Science-Based Acne-Fighting Strategy
1. Cleanse Effectively (Without Destroying Your Skin Barrier)
One of the biggest mistakes people make is using harsh, sulfate-laden cleansers that strip your skin completely. This triggers more oil production and damages your skin’s natural defenses.
Instead, look for a gentle cleanser without sulfates that removes impurities without compromising your skin barrier. Our 3-in-1 Foaming Wash All in Citrus is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin, giving you a thorough cleanse without the harsh aftermath.
Pro tip: Cleanse both morning and night when dealing with active acne.
2. Strategic Exfoliation: The Oxygen Express
Exfoliation is your secret weapon against anaerobic bacteria – it removes the layers of dead skin cells where these troublemakers hide. However, over-exfoliation can trigger inflammation and make matters worse.
The sweet spot? Once-weekly exfoliation with a formula that both draws impurities and sloughs away dead skin. Our Coffee & Charcoal Facial Scrub doubles as both a mask and exfoliant, attracting impurities while gently removing cellular buildup.
3. Balance Your pH with CBD
Your skin’s microbiome (the good bacteria) thrives at a specific pH level. When this balance is disrupted, harmful bacteria can take over. This is where CBD steps in as a powerful ally.
Our CBD Facial Toner does two critical things:
- Maintains your skin’s optimal pH to support healthy bacteria
- Contains CBD, which studies show can help regulate sebum production
This powerful combination creates an environment where acne-causing bacteria struggle to survive while your skin’s natural defenses flourish.
4. CBD: Your Inflammation Fighter
Acne is fundamentally an inflammatory condition, which is why reducing inflammation is key to healing.
Our CBD Facial Serum works to:
- Further reduce sebum production
- Calm inflammation in irritated, acneic skin
- Support your skin’s natural healing processes
Important note for sensitive skin: While our organic pumpkin seed oil base is non-comedogenic and designed to absorb rather than sit on the surface, we always recommend patch testing before full-face application, especially for teen skin which can be more reactive to oil-based products.
Beyond Skincare: Lifestyle Factors That Impact Acne
Your skincare routine is just one piece of the puzzle. These additional steps can make a significant difference:
Bedding and Makeup Tools
- Wash pillowcases frequently – they collect oil, bacteria, and product residue that can transfer to your skin
- Skip fragrance in your laundry detergent and opt for dryer balls instead of fabric softener sheets
- Clean makeup brushes regularly – they’re major bacteria collectors
- Consider going makeup-free when possible to avoid creating that anaerobic environment
Hidden Triggers
- Check your hair products – ingredients from hairsprays, gels, and conditioners can transfer to your face and contribute to breakouts
- Monitor how your diet affects your skin – while the connection varies from person to person, many find that reducing dairy, sugar, and highly processed foods can improve skin clarity
Real Results Take Time
Healing acne isn’t an overnight process. It requires consistency and patience. Our team member (pictured below) saw dramatic improvement in her cystic acne using this exact routine, but it took approximately six months of consistent care.
The journey to clear skin isn’t always linear, but with the right approach – one that works with your skin’s biology rather than against it – significant improvement is possible.
Ready to Build Your Acne-Fighting Routine?
Here’s your Bee-OCH approved shopping list for tackling acne:
The proof is in the testimonials. Check out what our amazing clients are saying about BEE-OCH CBD skincare products:
Questions about your specific skin concerns? Drop them in the comments below or reach out directly – we’re always here to help you navigate your skin journey.
With clear skin wishes (and zero BS),
Brooke
Your Queen BEE-OCH
