A holistic guide to healthier, calmer, and more balanced skin
Acne and congestion can be a real struggle at any stage—they can show up in your teens, 30s, 50s and beyond. Whether you’re experiencing chronic breakouts, the occasional flare-up, or stubborn under-the-skin bumps, keeping skin clear is possible.
Here’s how to help your skin thrive with holistic and effective strategies that support long-term skin clarity.
1. Cleanse Smarter, Not Harsher
Washing your face is essential, but harsh products or over-cleansing can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier and lead to even more breakouts. Here's how to do it right:
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Choose a gentle cleanser that doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight or squeaky clean. A dry, compromised barrier overproduces oil, traps bacteria or increases inflammation—leading to more congestion.
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Cleanse for at least 60 seconds. Take your time, massage in gentle circles (don’t forget jawline, hairline, and neck!) and rinse thoroughly.
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Stick to 2 cleanses a day. In the morning, or after a sweaty workout and evening. Hydrating rinse-off or oil cleansers are ideal depending on your skin’s needs.
Our Picks:
Eminence Clear Skin Probiotic Cleanser
Skin Frequency Liberate Cleanser
LILFOX Amazon After Dark Cleansing Balm
2. Hydrate From the Outside In
Even oily and acne-prone skin needs hydration. In fact, dehydration can increase oil production and inflammation.
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Hydrating facial mists replenish water loss topically, crucial for the outermost layers of the skin. Mist before applying serum or moisturizer.
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Look for hyaluronic acid or botanical alternatives like marshmallow root or Indian senna seed to boost hydration and plump skin.
Our Picks:
Huna Nourish Moisture-Calm Hyaluronic Elixir
Josh Rosebrook Hydration Boost Concentrate
3. Use Targeted Treatments
Treating acne and congestion with the right actives can transform your skin but gentleness is key.
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Salicylic acid or willow bark extract gently exfoliate inside the pores to prevent and reduce breakouts.
Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in acne treatments and can be found at varying strengths. Many are very harsh and dry out the skin, causing unwanted flakiness and possibly skin barrier disruption. All salycilic acid products at ORESTA are gentle and safe.
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Niacinamide is a multitasker: reduces inflammation, balances oil, fades post-acne marks, and strengthens the skin barrier.
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Calming botanicals like calendula, chamomile, lavender, comfrey, honey and echinacea soothe irritated skin and accelerate healing naturally.
Our Picks:
HUNA Clarify Blemish-Control Serum
Eminence Clear Skin Willowbark Serum
Blissoma Smooth A+ Correcting Serum
4. Yes, You Can Use Oil for Acne
One of the biggest myths? Oily or acne-prone skin should avoid oils. The truth: certain oils can help balance sebum, clear congestion, and calm inflammation.
Acne-prone skin is often deficient in linoleic acid, which causes excess sebum to clog pores. Linoleic-rich oils can help rebalance and clear skin.
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Best oils for acne-prone skin:
Tamanu • Hemp Seed • Black Cumin Seed • Jojoba • Pumpkin Seed • Sesame
Our Picks:
5. Support Your Skin With Lymphatic Movement
Breakouts aren’t just about clogged pores. Lymphatic stagnation, when waste, toxins and old cells aren’t properly eliminated, can lead to bumps and congestion.
Incorporate practices that support lymph flow:
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Gua Sha or dry brushing 2–3 times per week
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Facial massage (even when applying cleanser or serum!)
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Topical support: Products like Laurel’s Deep Clarity Cleanser encourages lymph flow and detoxification
6. Understanding Teen vs. Adult Acne
Acne can arise during any stage of life and can be triggered by different things depending on the stage. Switched up your routine for your specific skin's needs.
Teen Acne:
Often due to hormonal shifts, increased sebum production and improper hygiene routine. It's usually accompanied by oily skin. Gentle cleansing, hydration, and lightweight serums are key.
ORESTA Teen Picks:
Eminence Clear Skin line + Blissoma Products
Oresta’s Teen Skin 101 Masterclass
Adult Acne:
More likely tied to inflammation, barrier disruption, as well as hormonal shifts. Dry skin is more common as we age, so richer, soothing treatments with barrier support work best.
ORESTA Adult Acne Picks:
Laurel, Blissoma + Huna Products
In both cases, harsh treatments and ingredients disrupt the skin barrier and will aggravate acne (even if it seems to be better at first). Acne care should be gentle and supportive.
7. What About Congestion (Without Breakouts)?
Even if you're not dealing with full-blown acne, you might still have congestion, those little bumps or clogged pores that linger, often on the forehead, chin, or jaw.
Common causes:
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Product build-up
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Using too-rich moisturizers
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Lack of exfoliation
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Lymphatic stagnation
How to treat it:
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Exfoliate regularly (1–2x/week)
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Use serums and moisturizers with linoleic-rich oils
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Keep skin hydrated but not overloaded
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Support lymph flow with massage tools
7. Other Considerations For Keeping Skin Clear
A consistent skincare routine that is appropriate for your specific skin is an important step for keeping skin clear–there are, however, many reasons or triggers for acne and congestion. Here are some lifestyle tips to consider when struggling with acne:
- Regularly change bedding, especially pillowcases
- Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands
- A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats
- Certain foods or supplements may trigger acne (we recommend working with a holistic nutritionist or naturopath to find your unique triggers if you suspect food is a trigger for you)
- Gut health is linked to skin health, so addressing any digestion issues can also help clear up acne
- Certain ingredients in hair care, detergent, makeup, sunscreen may trigger acne
- Stress can also cause acne flare ups
Clear skin isn’t about punishing your skin with harsh treatments, it’s about supporting it. Whether you’re dealing with breakouts, bumps, or just want to keep your glow, prevention, balance, and nourishment are your best tools.
And remember, you’re not alone. We’re here to help guide you—holistically and intentionally.