This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of the links, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.
My friends often ask me to recommend beauty products to them, and I’m eager to do so. When the question is posed, I get straight to generating links for my top picks. Then the unthinkable happens. Before I can press send, I’ve usually received a follow-up email to clarify exactly what the product needs to do, which products they’ve already tried, and a friendly reminder that it should cost no more than $5. If you prefer to watch instead of read, check out my Youtube Video on my favorite products for fungal acne from The Ordinary:
I used to roll my eyes and send them a thesis in response on why you should be prepared to invest major dough into your skincare.
While I stand by the fact that skincare is an investment, I was wrong about the price of that investment. As it turns out, there are some incredible brands out there doing the Lord’s work in the skincare world, and today I’m privileged enough to tell you about one of the BEST: The Ordinary.
The Ordinary has you covered when it comes to the basics. In the absence of fancy packages, names, and formulas- they’ve created powerful skincare at an affordable price. I love the chemist-like bottles – they actually do make me feel a little fancy! So without further ado, Here are My Top 4 Picks from The Ordinary– all four of them are SAFE for those of us with Malassezia/Fungal Acne.
If you’re not sure if you have fungal acne, check out these blog posts:
Psst! Want to Cure Your Fungal Acne Fast?
If you’re just starting your journey from fungal acne to clear skin, I know how overwhelming all this information can be! It took me over a year to test out all the various “safe” products, and even then I made several mistakes!
But now my skin is clearer than it’s ever been in over 15 years! In fact, I have never had clear skin in my adult life until now, not even when I was taking dermatologist-prescribed antibiotics ?
If you’re in the same boat, grab my shortcut Guide: From Fungal Acne to Clear Skin. Get clear fast, and stay clear for life using my proven methods, products, and skincare routines!
My Top 4 Picks from The Ordinary (Fungal Acne Safe)
1. Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
I use this product as part of my daily morning skincare routine. Hyaluronic Acid is a hero in the moisture department, and vitamin B5 is its powerful sidekick. Together they receive an A++ for creating/maintaining surface moisture. I like to place a few drops on my already wet skin and gently massage in for the best results. I follow up with a regular moisturizer, like this one from Bioderma.
2. AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution**
**UPDATE!! Unfortunately the formulation of this product has changed and it is no longer fully FA safe. It now contains the ester, “Polysorbate 20”. I can say that with the presence of ‘ 30% Alpha Hydroxy Acids, (Glycolic/Lactic/Tartaric/Citric), 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid)’ the ester may not result in it’s usual adverse effects. However, I still feel strongly that you should proceed with caution.
Alpha & Beta Hydroxy Acids for the chemical exfoliation win! Fair Warning: this stuff is potent! In fact, I was torn on whether to include this product on my list because it comes with a LOT of warnings. If you have:
- Cuts
- Open Wounds
- Irritation
- Skin Rashes including psoriasis, eczema
- Other Skin Conditions
…THEN DO NOT USE THIS PRODUCT. It can and will leave you with a chemical burn. I’ve linked to the product page so that you can read before buying. If you are used to using acids as exfoliators, I recommend starting this off slowly- use once every two weeks and only leave it on for 3 minutes to start. Gradually work your way up from there.
3. Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
A high powered antioxidant blend. Antioxidants in skincare products promote youthfulness: even toned, well rested, firmer, less wrinkled skin.
The Ferulic Acid essentially boosts the effects of the Resveratrol. This little elixir needs to go on alone or after water-based formulas, but before heavier creams & oils. I prefer to use it alone, let it soak in, and then put on my PM moisturizer. I’ve been using CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (yes, a body lotion for my face!)
4. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 10% + Zinc 1%
This formula is designed to battle congestion, reduce the appearance of blemishes, and keep excessive sebum at bay. However, it is not a spot treatment for acne. This is more about reducing appearance of acne scars and keeping the t-zone free of those pesky clogged pores and blackheads.
Users also reported less visible pores and smoother texture to skin. If you use vitamin C, don’t use them together. This formula can compromise your Vitamin C’s integrity, so it’s best to alternate days.
See My Newest Post on The Ordinary with More Products!
Free Fungal Acne Shopping Lists & Guides
Need some help clearing your skin? I have shopping guides for all the fungal-acne-safe products at Walmart and Target, Glycerin-Free Products, and Sample Skincare Routines. Enter your email to download them instantly!
If you found this post helpful, share it with your friends & family so we can all have clear, glowy skin together!
You can also Pin this image to Pinterest, and I will so appreciate it if you do!
Shop My Favorite Fungal Acne Safe Skincare
