Affordable PCOS Skincare Products

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Since I was diagnosed with PCOS, cystic acne has become my unwanted bestie.  PCOS symptoms range, but acne is one of the most common symptoms.

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PCOS is an endocrine reproductive disorder that affects women.  PCOS affects 10% of women of reproductive age.  Acne is a major issue for teens and women with PCOS.  This condition has a long list of body-related problems, but the hormonal imbalance can cause mayhem to your skin.  Women with PCOS often have elevated levels of androgen (which may include testosterone).  This hormone causes excess sebum (oil) production.  In addition to other hormonal problems, everyday things could also cause acne.  Such as poor diet, stress, genetics, and your lack of a good skin care regimen.

How to treat your hormonal acne with these affordable products.

Step 1

Oil-Based Cleanser - The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

I am a double cleanse girl.  I start with an oil cleanser, I personally have extremely oily skin and this step can truly make a big difference in your overall complexion.  Add two pumps of oil to dry skin massage in a circular motion.  Cleanse for 60 seconds, give the product time to work.  Wet your hands with warm water to emulsify the product.  Rinse until the product is removed.

Step 2

Cleanser - Cerave Foaming Facial Cleanser

You want to use a gentle cleanser for oily acne-prone skin.  This cleanser is formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. It works to remove excess oil without completely stripping your skin of its natural oils.  This cleanser is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and non-drying. 

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Step 3

Toner - Rose Water Spray

After cleansing your skin, you want to follow up with a toner.  I keep it simple with my toner and use basic, natural rose water.  This particular one contains two ingredients, it refreshes and calms the skin.  This contains no alcohol, no dyes and is vegan and cruelty-free. 

Step 4

Acne Treatment Gel - Differin Gel Acne Treatment

This acne treatment works to fight breakouts deep in the pores to treat current acne and prevent new acne from forming.  Which helps to restore the skin’s texture.  Differin targets clogged pores and inflammation.  It is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic and is water-based.

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Step 5

BHA Treatment - Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid

BHA’s are a great exfoliant which helps remove dead skin cells (help prevent acne breakouts).  Minimize the appearance of pores and wrinkles and improve the overall texture of your skin.  This particular BHA exfoliates and hydrates your skin.  It reduces the blackheads and reduces excess sebum production.  This formula contains 4% Betaine salicylate, it’s considered to be gentler than salicylic acid but it is just as effective.  If you have more sensitive skin, this product comes highly recommended.  

How to Use: In the evening cleanse and dry the skin.  Saturate a cotton pad and sweep all over the face. Follow up with a moisturizer.  Use every other night. 

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Step 6

Moisturizer - La Roche-Posay Double Repair Matte Moisturizer

To lock in the moisture I use the double repair matte moisturizer by La Roche-Posay.  This moisturizer is super lightweight, oil-free and keeps your skin hydrated.  This gel moisturizer contains ceramide-3, niacinamide, glycerin and oil absorbing powders, perlite and silica.  The gel texture is great for oily skin, and it won’t leave a greasy feeling on your skin. While keeping the sebum at bay.

Step 7

Sunscreen - Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30

With all of the treatments and extensive skincare regimen.  You need to protect your skin with a good sunscreen.  This particular sunscreen is made for people on color, by women of color.  This sunscreen dries clear and moisturizes your skin.  This sunscreen is made from natural products and doesn’t contain toxins that could affect your hormones. 

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Acne is a complicated issue, that can be more complicated by a hormonal condition like PCOS.  Make sure you set up a regimen to treat your skincare needs.  PCOS is a condition that may require efforts on multiple fronts.  Please make sure that you are eating a well-rounded diet, drinking water and you may need to discuss other treatment options with a dermatologist.  



Example of My Skincare Regimen:


AM Skincare 

  • Oil Cleanser 

  • Cleanser 

  • Rosewater Toner

  • Differin Acne Gel 

  • Moisturizer

  • Sunscreen


PM Skincare 

  • Oil Cleanser

  • Cleanser 

  • Rosewater Toner 

  • BHA (every other night)

  • Retinol Serum

  • Moisturizer


What are some of your favorite PCOS skincare products? Leave them in the comments.

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