Quick answer

Build your routine in this order: cleanse with a gel cleanser, apply a lightweight moisturiser or primer, use a thin layer of non-comedogenic foundation, then spot-conceal blemishes with a targeted concealer. Keep layers thin, avoid heavy occlusive products, and remove everything before bed. If you use active treatments, apply them at night, not under makeup.

Why order matters more than products

Acne prone skin reacts to what sits on it and for how long. Applying makeup in the wrong order, or layering too much, can trap oil and bacteria. Start with clean skin, then add the lightest products first. A gel cleanser removes excess oil without stripping, which helps makeup sit more evenly. If your skin is sensitive, patch test any new product before using it on your whole face.

Choose formulas that won't clog pores

Look for labels that say non-comedogenic or oil-free. These are less likely to block pores. Water-based foundations and concealers are generally better for breakout-prone skin than heavy creams. Avoid ingredients like coconut oil or heavy silicones if you know they trigger your breakouts. The Skin O2 Anti-Acne Spot Cream + Free Concealer (Zit Kit) includes a concealer designed to reduce redness, which can be useful for spot coverage without a full face of makeup.

Keep your tools clean

Brushes and sponges can harbour bacteria. Wash them at least once a week with gentle soap and warm water, and let them dry completely before use. Dirty tools can transfer bacteria to your skin and undo the benefits of a good routine. If you use your fingers, wash your hands first.

Your step-by-step makeup routine for acne prone skin

  1. 1. Cleanse gently: Use a gel cleanser to remove oil and impurities. Massage with lukewarm water, then rinse and pat dry. Avoid scrubbing, which can irritate active breakouts. Checkpoint: skin should feel clean but not tight or stripped.
  2. 2. Apply a light moisturiser or primer: Choose an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser or primer. This creates a smooth base and helps makeup last without clogging pores. Wait 1-2 minutes before the next step. Common mistake: skipping moisturiser can lead to excess oil production, making makeup break down faster.
  3. 3. Use a thin layer of foundation: Pick a non-comedogenic, water-based foundation. Apply with a clean damp sponge or brush, starting from the centre of your face and blending outward. Build only where needed. Checkpoint: if you can see thick texture, you've used too much. Less is more for acne prone skin.
  4. 4. Spot-conceal blemishes: Use a targeted concealer for breakout prone skin, like the one in the Zit Kit, which also helps reduce redness. Dab a small amount directly on the blemish and blend the edges gently. Common mistake: rubbing concealer over a large area can look cakey and may irritate surrounding skin.
  5. 5. Set only where needed: If you have oily skin, lightly dust a translucent powder on your T-zone. Avoid heavy powder all over, which can look dry and settle into fine lines. Checkpoint: powder should feel weightless, not like a mask.
  6. 6. Remove makeup thoroughly at night: Use your gel cleanser or a gentle makeup remover to take everything off before bed. Leaving makeup on can clog pores and lead to more breakouts. Next step: follow with your evening skincare, including any acne treatments.

Products that fit this routine

  • Gel Cleanser: Skin O2 Gel Cleanser is a lightweight vegan gel cleanser that removes excess oil and impurities, and kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria. Suitable for oily, acne prone and non-sensitive skins, but not for sensitive skin. Starting with a clean, oil-free base helps makeup apply smoothly and reduces the chance of trapping bacteria under foundation.
  • Anti-Acne Spot Cream + Free Concealer (Zit Kit): Anti-Acne Spot Cream + Free Concealer (Zit Kit) is a targeted spot treatment that rapidly diminishes and dries away blemishes, and comes with a free anti-redness concealer. Safe for all skin types except sensitive skin. You can treat individual breakouts and conceal redness in one step, which is ideal for days when you want light coverage without a full face of makeup.