When Brianna first came to us, she was exhausted. She had tried every topical solution and several professional treatments in hopes of clearing her persistent breakouts—but instead of improving, her skin became increasingly sensitized, inflamed, and prone to deeper acne lesions.
Like many clients with long-term acne, her skin wasn’t responding because her barrier was compromised, her routine was working against her biology, and her underlying triggers hadn’t been addressed yet.
Understanding What Was Really Causing Brianna’s Breakouts
During her AOS acne consultation, we identified several factors contributing to her acne:
A compromised skin barrier from over-treating with harsh actives
Bacterial imbalance and product choices that were unintentionally feeding acne
Hormonal components, especially around her cycle
Lifestyle factors, including stress-related inflammation and diet triggers
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) that darkened after every breakout due to her sensitized skin
To successfully clear her skin—and keep it clear—we needed a slow, steady, corrective plan instead of aggressive treatments.
Our Gentle, Targeted Strategy for Clear, Radiant Skin
We designed a homecare routine that supported:
Folliculitis-safe and acne-safe ingredients
Barrier repair first, to stop the cycle of sensitivity
Corrective acids introduced gradually
Hydration + nourishment to strengthen her skin’s resilience
Pigmentation brighteners once active acne calmed
At every check-in, we made strategic adjustments based on how her skin was responding. Within a weeks, inflammation began to fade, breakouts reduced in frequency and severity, and her skin tone started to brighten.
The Results: Clear, Healthy, Glowing Skin in Four Months
By month four, Brianna’s active acne was almost completely cleared, her pigmentation was visibly lighter, and her barrier was strong and healthy. Today, she’s confidently maintaining her results with a simplified, acne-safe homecare routine.
BRIANNA’S CLEAR SKIN + BRIGHTENING ROUTINE:
Morning Routine
Cleanse: Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser
Tone: Face Reality Calming Facial Toner
Serum: Face Reality Mandelic Serum 5%
Used initially to clear congestion, later upgraded to NeoGenesis Mandelic Acid 8% for advanced brightening and barrier support.
Serum: Sorella Apothecary Lemon Lightening Serum
Targets stubborn pigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Moisturize: NeoGenesis Barrier Renewal Cream
SPF: iS Clinical Eclipse SPF 50+
Shields against UV-induced pigmentation and prevents scar darkening.
Evening Routine
Cleanse: Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser
Tone: Face Reality Moisture Balance Toner
Moisturize: Hale & Hush Hydrate Gel
Antibacterial Support: Face Reality Acne Med 5%
Controls acne bacteria without stripping or irritating the skin.
Weekly
Mask: Face Reality Brighten-C Mask 2 - 3x per week
Boosts radiance and helps fade dark spots over time.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Brianna’s skin didn’t clear because of one miracle product; it cleared because she committed to a gentle, personalized plan designed around her unique skin—something we believe in deeply at Art of Skin Care.
If you’re struggling with sensitized acne, recurring breakouts, or pigmentation, you don’t have to guess your way through it. Our AOS Master Estheticians are here to guide you with customized routines, expert advice, and ongoing support—just like we did for Brianna.
Looking for expert skincare guidance? Our team of licensed estheticians will help you create or refine a routine that fits your skin’s unique needs — starting with a free skincare checkup.
Author
Celine LeClerc
Celine LeClerc is a licensed esthetician, Certified Acne Specialist, and the lead esthetician at Art of Skincare, where she also serves as the Director of Education and Research & Development. With 14 years of experience in the skincare industry, Celine is renowned for her deep expertise and exceptional ability to match clients with the most effective, results-driven skincare solutions.
Guided by a passion for innovation, Celine scours the globe in search of cutting-edge, science-backed products that deliver visible transformations while supporting skin health at every stage of life. Her expertise spans everything from clearing stubborn acne to creating advanced, holistic routines for healthy aging.
At Art of Skincare, Celine leads with a commitment to education, training both clients and estheticians on the latest advancements in skincare. Her mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge, tools, and routines they need to achieve radiant, resilient skin without compromise.
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