Skip to content
CURAGet the app

Skin concern

Acne Skincare Routine: Steps and Actives by Severity

Acne responds to consistency far more than to intensity. The routines below step up gradually: gentle cleansing and oil control for occasional breakouts, targeted actives for frequent inflammation, and maximum-strength support where breakouts are severe or cystic. Every version keeps the barrier intact, because stripped skin breaks out more, not less.

What acne is

Inflammatory skin condition with pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Requires consistent cleansing, targeted treatments, and oil control.

Acne routines by severity

CURA grades severity from 1 to 10 during a scan and builds the routine to match. These are the templates it works from, from mildest to most intensive.

Mild acne

Severity 1–3

For occasional breakouts, this routine focuses on prevention through gentle cleansing and oil control. Products are non-irritating to maintain skin barrier health while keeping pores clear.

Morning

  1. 1

    CleanseGentle Gel Cleanser

    Removes excess oil and impurities without stripping

  2. 2

    TreatNiacinamide Serum 10%

    Controls oil production and minimizes pores

  3. 3

    ProtectMatte SPF 50

    Non-comedogenic sun protection

Evening

  1. 1

    CleanseSalicylic Acid Wash

    Deep cleans pores to prevent breakouts

  2. 2

    TreatLightweight Retinol 0.5%

    Increases cell turnover to prevent congestion

  3. 3

    MoisturiseOil-Free Gel Moisturiser

    Hydrates without clogging pores

Moderate acne

Severity 4–6

For frequent breakouts and inflammation, this routine combines deep cleansing with targeted active ingredients to reduce existing acne while preventing new blemishes. Consistent use is key.

Morning

  1. 1

    CleanseSalicylic Acid Wash

    Removes overnight oil buildup

  2. 2

    TreatNiacinamide Serum 10%

    Reduces inflammation and controls sebum

  3. 3

    ProtectMatte SPF 50

    Protects skin while preventing clogged pores

Evening

  1. 1

    CleanseSalicylic Acid Wash

    Deep cleans to remove makeup, SPF, and debris

  2. 2

    TreatLightweight Retinol 0.5%

    Stronger retinol to unclog pores and reduce lesions

  3. 3

    MoisturiseHydrating Lotion

    Prevents dehydration from active ingredients

Severe acne

Severity 7–10

For severe, cystic, or widespread acne, this intensive routine uses maximum-strength actives to combat inflammation and prevent scarring. Consider consulting a dermatologist for prescription options alongside this routine.

Morning

  1. 1

    CleanseSalicylic Acid Wash

    Medicinal-strength cleansing

  2. 2

    TreatAzelaic Acid 10%

    Multi-action treatment for inflammation and pigmentation

  3. 3

    ProtectLightweight SPF 50

    Essential SPF to prevent scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Evening

  1. 1

    CleanseSalicylic Acid Wash

    Thorough pore-clearing cleanse

  2. 2

    TreatLightweight Retinol 0.5%

    Maximum-strength cell turnover for deep comedones

  3. 3

    MoisturiseBarrier Repair Cream

    Prevents barrier damage from intensive treatments

Getting a routine for your own skin

The templates above are starting points, not prescriptions. A scan in the app grades your severity, factors in your skin type and any other concerns you have, and adjusts the steps accordingly — then tracks whether it's working over time.

Download on theApp Store

Common questions

How long does it take for an acne routine to work?

Eight to twelve weeks for a fair assessment. Acne treatments work on spots that are already forming beneath the surface, so the first few weeks change little. Judge at twelve weeks, not three.

Should I stop using moisturiser if my skin is oily?

No. Stripping oil without replacing moisture often prompts skin to produce more, and most acne actives are drying. A lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser makes the actives easier to tolerate.

Is it purging or is the product breaking me out?

Purging appears where you normally break out, comes from an ingredient that speeds cell turnover, and settles by about week six. Spots in new places, or with itching and swelling, point to a reaction instead.