As a combination skin gal with an oily t-zone, acne and blemishes are an issue. I used to get them only in the t-zone, but in later years, they pop up randomly all over. A lot of it is caused by sugar consumption, which I can control. But, other health factors are harder to tame. I often get red spots that are sore and inflamed. With that being said, the elf Blemish Breakthrough lineup seems promising! It is all about treating and preventing breakouts, as well as controlling oil, at a drugstore price point. This is a salicylic acid collection. I am reviewing each product before you buy.
elf Blemish Breakthrough Collection
Before I get into the individual product reviews for the elf Skin Blemish Breakthrough line, I want to cover some info that applies to everything as a whole. This collection is available from retailers that carry the brand, like Amazon, Target, Walmart in-stores, and on elf’s website. The products are sold in both full-size and mini options. You can buy the minis separately, and also in the elf Blemish Breakthrough set.
All of these products are developed by dermatologists and are fragrance-free as well as non-comedogenic. They are designed for use oily, acne prone skin. Everything is free from phthalates, parabens, nonylphenol ethoxylates, triclosan, triclocarban, and hydroquinone. All of elf’s skincare offerings are free from sulfates, as well as cruelty free and vegan. This collection is made in a Fair-Trade Certified factory.
I find that this collection is making a difference with my acne, even after a few days of use! Nothing ever 100% eliminates it, but my skin looks more clear, more often. When I do get blemishes they are smaller and fewer, plus less inflamed and painful spots. I incorporate these into my overall acne fighting routine, and I will absolutely repurchase everything here.
Acne Fighting Spot Gel
Claims: This roll on gel should be easy to use to treat, soothe, and reduce discomfort with blemishes. It can also help to prevent new blemishes. It contains 1% salicylic acid to treat and prevent blemishes, aloe for soothing, and witch hazel to control excess oil.
Directions: You are to roll it over blemishes, blackheads, and breakout-prone areas up to three times per day.
Review: I am going to get into the actual elf Blemish Breakthrough review with the elf Blemish Breakthrough spot gel. I have been using this product for many years, and I always have several on backup. This used to be $2, but doubled to $4 when it was repackaged to be a part of this collection. After all these years of use, this is the one product that I really do not think is doing much to treat my acne, but I am afraid to cut it out just in case. It layers well with all makeup and skincare. I roll it over my areas of concern instead of only on spots.
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Acne Clarifying Cleanser
Claims: This cleanser should help to remove debris, clarify pores, and control excess oil. The formula is gentle for daily use, and can reduce current acne to promote healthy skin post-breakout. It contains salicylic acid and zinc PCA to reduce and prevent blemishes, plus niacinamide and tranexamic acid to soothe and even skin tone.
Directions: You are to massage one to two pumps on your damp face and neck, then rinse thoroughly with water. It can be used in both the morning and evening.
Review: Second is the elf Blemish Breakthrough cleanser. This is a clear gel and it effectively cleanses the skin and leaves it feeling less oily. I really do believe this works along with the entire line as a team. If you are looking for a cleanser, and really a skincare line that makes your skin feel softer like a babies bottom, then I recommend my elf Pure Skin review.
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Acne Calming Water Cream
Claims: This is a lightweight, water-based moisturizer that does not make your skin feel greasy. It should help control excess oil, keep skin clear of blemishes, and soothe and even out skin tone. The key ingredients are 1% salicylic acid to reduce and prevent new blemishes and to clarify pores, niacinamide and tranexamic acid to even out skin tone, and n-acetyl glucosamine for moisture.
Directions: You are to apply one to two pumps and gently smooth it onto your skin in the morning and at night.
Review: Third is the Acne Calming Water Cream. This is actually a moisturizer, and it has a green tint, but it does not color correct. It is very lightweight and absorbs easily into the skin. It layers fine with makeup and skincare. Much like the face wash, I do believe this helps with acne in tandem with the whole collection. Most notably, it controls about 98% of my oil production! It is almost as good as a jelly moisturizer on my skin, with just a hint of oil and shine coming through. It really leaves the skin smooth and comfortable all day. With all of this being said, if you are more on the dry side and do not really need to fight blemishes, then my elf Holy Hydration Collection review is better for you.
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Triple Acid Resurfacing Serum
Claims: This is a night serum that should improve skin tone and texture, while also soothing and nourishing. The key ingredients are 8.5% triple acid complex (Salicylic Acid, PHA, Tranexamic Acid) to treat blemishes, exfoliate, and even skin tone. 10% niacinamide also evens skin tone and controls excess oil.
Directions: You are to apply three to five drops at night, and follow with moisturizer. This can be used daily, but if it causes irritation, use it every other day. You should always wear sunscreen when using this product, and avoid getting it in your eyes and mouth.
Review: Last is the elf Blemish Breakthrough serum. I find that three to four drops is enough for me to adequately cover my entire face. It leaves a sticky or tacky finish to the skin, but since you use this at night along with your other skincare, it is not an issue. As far as resurfacing goes, I am not seeing as much of that going on. Maybe I need to use it longer. But, I do believe it helps treat acne. This product never irritates my skin and is super lightweight.
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Shop elf Skin Blemish Breakthrough
Conclusion
In summary of elf Blemish Breakthrough, I am seeing visible results in terms of a reduction of acne! Mine is triggered much by sugar consumption and PCOS, so it can be hard to time at times. These products are reducing my acne and inflamed spots! They make a great team, and I have already repurchased the serum. I love that these products are derm-approved and serve as affordable options against some pricey products that do the same thing. Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
How do you best treat breakouts?
