Struggling with any combination of acne, congestion, oiliness, whiteheads, large pores, and breakouts can be tough to cope with.

• why are they occurring?
• what is your skin trying to tell you?
• what else could you possibly try to help heal your skin? 

Our skin health is subject to a myriad of factors including diet, lifestyle, hydration, climate, genetics, hormones, and skin type just to name a few. These factors interact with each other and result in the skin that we are fortunate to be protected by every day, so it's no wonder that we want it to be as healthy as it can be, as balanced as it can be. It's no wonder then too, that when our skin experiences issues, we get frustrated. 

But just as is the case in other areas of life, there is only so much within our control, only so much we can change. Once we have exhausted the diet and lifestyle changes that could possibly be made, the next place to look is our skincare routine. 

Throughout the years at our boutiques in Manitoba and British Columbia, we have had the pleasure of meeting so many beautiful people and helping connect them to products that work for them, that deliver the results they truly want. Here is an edit of the 7 most well-loved products that have helped a countless number of you manage acne, congestion, whiteheads, enlarged pores, oiliness, and breakouts, and we can't wait for you to experience the results they offer as well!

Bella Aura, one the brands featured in this edit, wrote a beautiful piece on acne management earlier this year, empowering those who struggle with stubborn acne with information and best practices and removing stigma surrounding acne and oily skin. Read more here. For more information on acne and the types of acne, read their Normalize Acne! blogpost here.

1. clarifying dermal polish | AK Dermal

This polish rejuvenates the skin by evening tone and texture. This in turn helps to improve the clarity of the skin, draw out impurities, refine the pores, and balance excess oil/sebum. The powerful powder formula activates upon contact with water releasing exfoliating enzymes & detoxifying clays. Check out before and after pictures here.

2. pure + calm infusion refining face elixir | Om Organics

A favourite for 7 years running, this anti-inflammatory hydrating serum delivers an instant dose of active herbal extracts that control oil production, decongest pores, and dissolve impurities. The smallest-molecule hyaluronic acid re-plumps dehydrated skin and ensures maximum absorption. Blend with a facial oil for a customized brightening, balancing cocktail. Grab yours now!

3. light: facial moisturizing serum | Skin Essence Organics

This oil moisturizing serum is designed specifically for oily and/or acne-prone skin that requires light nourishment. The extracts and essential oils inside contain natural healing, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to keep the skin and pores clean, toned, and clear, reducing sebum production and breakouts. Reduce facial oiliness now!

4. multi repair rescue mask | Bella Aura

If you're looking for an at-home spa treatment, this multi-targeted mask is it. It supports clear skin by preventing inflammation and excess sebum and enhancing the skin's defences against breakouts. Formulated with three distinct active ingredients that go above and beyond to nurture acne-prone skin while optimizing its microbiome, this mask will help your skin find and maintain that balance it's craving. Toned pores, calmed skin, lifted and smoothed texture. Discover more here.

5. amaze exfoliating gel | Viva Health Skincare

Sometimes, gentler exfoliation what the skin needs to allow itself to heal. This highly effective, non-abrasive, natural exfoliant is ultra-gentle to use on the face, but still has the effectiveness of traditional exfoliators. Exfoliate with this gel to help reduce blackheads, whiteheads, and blocked pores while clearing off dead skin layers to reveal a brighter, calmer, supple complexion. Shop now.

6. spot treatment - niacinamide & 10% aha | Atlas Rose

This active 10% pure AHA, niacinamide vitamin B3, lemon, and tea tree oil blend reduces the look of acne and scars while lightening dark spots, improving aging skin, and redness. The combination of actives and essential oils provides targeted, concentrated treatment for acne-prone, dull, or scarred skin. Treat your skin now!

7. clarify face cream - bergamot rose | Wildcraft Skincare

An acne go-to, this balancing and silky cream provides antibacterial properties beneficial for combatting breakouts. With a high concentration of antioxidants, it works to calm and decrease redness, creating an even appearance with a comfortable amount of hydration, plus a subtle glow on the skin's surface. A little goes a long way, making it a versatile addition to any skincare routine. Shop here.

bonus: 8. control mattifying primer | Pure Anada

When it's time to apply makeup, this primer helps to absorb excess oils, while simultaneously preventing dry skin; the perfect addition to your makeup-prep routine! The ingredients within are proven to decrease sebum as well as naturally bind excess oils so your makeup looks, lasts, and feels better. Discover now!

further targeted care

At the end of the day, we all know that an all-around balanced routine will produce the best results, and that's why we created our skin care quiz which is equipped to recognize up to 144 skin types (yes, you read that right!). Take the quiz here for more targeted recommendations based on your lifestyle, diet, and allergies, and as always, feel free to chat with us on Instagram or throughout our website chat box.