Step 1: Cleanse

I always start with the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser (Normal to Oily Skin). It’s a gentle but effective cleanser that removes oil, dirt, and impurities without stripping my skin. Since I have sensitive, acne-prone skin, this cleanser gives me that fresh, clean base without causing tightness or irritation.

Step 2: Exfoliant – ANUA 10% Azelaic Acid Serum

This is the star of the night. For exfoliation, I use the ANUA 10% Azelaic Acid Serum—and honestly, it’s been a game changer. Like so many of us, I first heard about azelaic acid through TikTok trends and finally decided to give it a try. I can now say I’m so glad I did, as my skin is not only calmer, but my post-acne marks and redness are fading much faster!

Korean skincare, especially ANUA, has been all over TikTok lately because of its focus on lightweight, skin-friendly formulas that give results without irritation. This serum definitely lives up to the hype, as it’s gentle, effective, and perfect for sensitive, acne-prone skin like ours!

Benefits of Azelaic Acid:

• Fades post-acne marks & redness : Helps heal dark spots and hyperpigmentation more quickly.

• Soothes sensitive skin : Calms irritation and inflammation without the sting of harsher acids.

• Prevents blemishes: Unclogs pores and reduces acne-causing bacteria.

• Lightweight texture : Feels silky and smooth, never heavy or greasy, making it perfect to incorporate to your skincare routine.

Because this is an acid-based exfoliant, wearing sunscreen the next morning is absolutely essential. Acids can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays, so protecting your barrier is key for both healing and preventing new marks.

Step 3: Moisturize

After exfoliating, I always reach for the La Roche-Posay Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream. Hydrating at this step is so important—it brings moisture back into the skin, helps rebuild the barrier, and keeps everything feeling calm and comfortable. If you skip hydration, exfoliation can leave your skin tight or dry, but a good moisturizer makes sure it stays soft, soothed, and ready to repair itself.

Step 4: Extra Repair

For an added layer of soothing hydration, I finish with one of my all-time favorites: Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative and Protective Cream. This cream seals everything in, providing overnight repair so I wake up with plump, calm, and refreshed skin.

Why Exfoliation Matters in Skin Cycling

Exfoliation is one of the most important steps in skin cycling. By gently removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, it helps future treatments—like retinoids on Day 3—work more effectively. The key is not to overdo it. Gentle, consistent exfoliation will always give better results than scrubbing every day.

For sensitive, acne-prone skin, azelaic acid is the perfect choice: it fights blemishes, fades marks, and calms redness all at once, without irritation. Pair it with a soothing moisturizer and daily sunscreen, and your skin will look smoother, brighter, and healthier.

Final Thoughts

The ANUA 10% Azelaic Acid Serum has become my holy grail for exfoliation nights. It’s lightweight, gentle, and effective—helping me calm breakouts while fading stubborn post-acne marks. Honestly, it’s proof that sometimes skincare TikTok really does deliver.

On exfoliation nights, I keep things simple: cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and protect. My skin always thanks me for it the next morning.

Honorable Mention: The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

If you’re looking for another great option, The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% is also a fantastic choice. It has the same brightening and calming benefits, and I’ve had great results with it too. The texture is slightly different—more of a cream-gel—but it’s just as effective at keeping blemishes and post-acne marks under control.