Collection: Acne & Breakouts

Adult acne is driven by a combination of excess sebum production, bacterial overgrowth (C. acnes), sluggish cell turnover that blocks pores, and inflammation. Hormonal fluctuations — particularly androgens — are the most common trigger in adult women, which is why breakouts often flare around the jawline and chin. Stress, diet, and unsuitable skincare products can also contribute. Unlike teenage acne, adult acne tends to be more inflammatory and persistent, which is why a clinical protocol works better than spot treatments. If your primary concern is the dark marks left by past breakouts rather than active acne, see our Pigmentation & Uneven Tone collection.

With a clinician-prescribed protocol including CLENZIderm, Advanced-Protocol Retinoid, and supporting products, most patients see meaningful improvement in 8–12 weeks. Mild acne may respond faster (4–6 weeks), while severe or cystic acne can take 4–6 months of sustained treatment. A temporary purging phase in weeks 2–6 is common when starting Advanced-Protocol Retinoid — this is existing congestion surfacing faster, not new breakouts. Consistency is critical — stopping treatment early is the most common reason acne returns.

CLENZIderm M.D. is Obagi's expert-selected acne system designed to treat breakouts at every stage. It includes three products: a 2% salicylic acid foaming cleanser to clear pore blockages, a pore therapy toner with solubilised benzoyl peroxide (BPO) that penetrates into the follicle to kill bacteria, and a therapeutic moisturiser that hydrates without clogging pores. The system's patented BPO delivery technology makes it significantly more effective than standard benzoyl peroxide products — the active reaches the bacteria inside the pore, not just on the surface.

Purging is a temporary increase in breakouts that occurs when you start a retinoid like Advanced-Protocol Retinoid. The accelerated cell turnover pushes existing blocked pores and microcomedones (tiny, invisible blockages) to the surface faster than they would naturally appear. Purging typically happens in your usual breakout areas and lasts 2–6 weeks. It's a sign the treatment is working. If you experience breakouts in completely new areas, widespread irritation, or symptoms beyond 6–8 weeks, consult our clinician to adjust your protocol. Note that rosacea can sometimes mimic acne with papules and pustules — if redness and flushing are your main symptoms, our Sensitivity & Rosacea collection may be more appropriate.

Yes — this is one of the biggest misconceptions about acne. Skipping moisturiser strips the barrier, triggers rebound oil production, and makes acne treatments more irritating. The key is choosing the right moisturiser: lightweight, non-comedogenic, and free from heavy oils or fragrances. A barrier-supporting hydrator with ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or ceramides keeps the skin balanced while your acne actives work. This is especially important when using Advanced-Protocol Retinoid and benzoyl peroxide, which can both cause dryness.

The over-the-counter products in this collection can be purchased directly. However, Advanced-Protocol Retinoid — which significantly improves acne outcomes by preventing pore blockage at the source — requires a consultation with our clinician. Consultations are free, take around 15 minutes, and allow us to assess your acne severity, skin type, and any contraindications before building a personalised protocol. When you purchase the full CLENZIderm + Advanced-Protocol Retinoid + hydrator + SPF protocol after consultation, you receive 10% off your entire order.