Non-Drying Acne Serum?

Routine Help

Hi, I (34F) hope to find a non-drying serum that I can use during the day to help with acne.

My skin is fair and pretty dry even in the summer, but I still get occasional breakouts, which then lead to post-blemish marks. I do not get a lot of breakouts at once (2-3 at a time), and they are not always in the same spot. While my skin can be “sensitive” to active ingredients, it is more likely to get dry/irritated from a product than to break out a lot. Not sure if that makes sense - I guess what I’m trying to say that I don’t think the products I use add to/create my acne, but I don’t think they’re fixing my problem and I would like to find something that can help. I don’t think it’s at the level where I need to get a derm involved.

My current AM routine consists of:

  1. Cleanser
  2. Vitamin C Serum
  3. Hydrating Serum
  4. Moisturizer
  5. SPF

I occasionally use a Paula’s Choice toner at least 5 min before my Vitamin C, but regular use can be too irritating. I use Differin gel ~3 nights a week and do mild exfoliation 1 night a week.

Any suggestions as to what I can use after my Vitamin C in the morning? Bonus points if it layers well under makeup. TIA!

Posted Nov 5, 2025, 11:46 PM UTC

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