03
The Acne Protocol
Treatment-Forward
Active-ingredient-heavy routine for adult acne and clogged pores. Salicylic acid in the mornings, retinoid alternative at night, niacinamide everywhere in between.
Acne-Prone · BHABHANiacinamide
The Essentials
The minimum routine. Skip nothing here.
01 / CLEANSER
Cleanser
Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Cleanser
Foam · AHA-BHA-PHA · daily
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02 / ESSENCE
Essence
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
Salicylic 4% · willow bark · daily AM
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03 / MOISTURIZER
Moisturizer
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
Birch sap · light · non-comedogenic
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04 / SPF
SPF
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics
SPF50+ PA++++ · non-comedogenic
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The Extras
Optional add-ons. Each has a "when to add" trigger — none are daily-use unless the trigger fits.
01 / TONER
Toner
Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
Triple-acid exfoliating toner · 3-4× weekly
When to add: add 3-4× weekly for deeper exfoliation; never daily
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02 / SERUM
Serum
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Niacinamide · oil regulation
When to add: add daily AM for compounding oil control + post-acne marks
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03 / TREATMENT
Treatment
COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch
Hydrocolloid patches · 24 ct · spot only
When to add: add for active spots, especially overnight
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— Editor's Note
The biggest mistake in acne routines is stacking too much at once. Pick BHA OR retinoid OR vitamin C — not all three on the same day. Some By Mi's 30 Days Miracle line is the K-beauty entry point for AHA-BHA-PHA exfoliation. COSRX's pimple patches are still the best in their category three years running. Do not skip moisturizer because skin feels oily — dehydrated skin overproduces oil to compensate.