SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Serum

Is SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Serum right for you?

• If you are in your 20s–40s dealing with both active breakouts and early signs of ageing simultaneously — this is one of very few products formulated to address both concerns without compromising either.
• If you have oily or combination skin with congestion, blackheads, and visible pores — the LHA and glycolic acid combination provides chemical exfoliation that keeps pores clear and sebum regulated.
• If you have persistent hormonal or adult acne — the dioic acid component specifically targets the overactive sebaceous activity that drives adult breakouts.
• If you are frustrated that acne products are ageing your skin through dryness and inflammation — this formula corrects breakouts while simultaneously supporting the collagen and skin quality goals relevant to your age.
• Not recommended for very dry or sensitive skin — the exfoliating actives require a resilient barrier.

How SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Serum works — the science

The Blemish + AGE Serum addresses the frustrating reality of adult acne: patients in their 30s and 40s need an anti-acne treatment that also respects their anti-ageing goals. LHA (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid) — a derivative of salicylic acid — has lipophilic properties that allow it to penetrate into pores and sebaceous follicles, where it exfoliates comedones from within and reduces sebum production. Its larger molecular size compared to BHA provides more targeted action with less systemic irritation.

Glycolic Acid provides broader surface exfoliation that improves skin texture, stimulates collagen synthesis, and reduces the appearance of post-acne marks. Dioic Acid directly inhibits 5-alpha-reductase and tyrosinase — the enzymes that drive androgen-mediated sebum overproduction and melanin synthesis respectively — addressing both breakout frequency and post-inflammatory pigmentation in a single active.

What you will notice — and when

Immediately — A light, fast-absorbing texture; mild tingling as the AHA and LHA actives contact the skin.

Week 1–2 — Pores appear cleaner; active breakouts begin to resolve faster; skin feels less congested.

Month 1+ — Established reduction in breakout frequency; skin texture significantly improved; post-acne marks fading; visible anti-ageing benefit in skin clarity and tone.

How to use SkinCeuticals Blemish + AGE Serum

1. Apply morning and/or evening after cleansing.
2. Dispense a small amount and apply across the entire face — not just active breakouts.
3. Allow to absorb before applying moisturiser or SPF.
4. Always use SPF every morning — AHAs increase photosensitivity.
5. If new to exfoliating actives, start with evening use only and introduce morning use gradually.

Key ingredients & what they do

Ingredient	What it does for you
LHA (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid)	Salicylic acid derivative — penetrates pores to exfoliate comedones from within and reduce sebum production at the follicular level
Glycolic Acid	AHA — provides surface exfoliation, stimulates collagen synthesis, and accelerates fading of post-acne marks
Dioic Acid	Inhibits 5-alpha-reductase (sebum enzyme) and tyrosinase (melanin enzyme) — addresses both breakout frequency and post-inflammatory pigmentation

Dr. Bangalee's clinical perspective

Dr. Bangalee Recommends

"Adult acne is one of the most frustrating concerns I treat — patients do not want to sacrifice their anti-ageing progress to manage breakouts. Blemish + AGE Serum is genuinely dual-purpose: the LHA component works inside the pore in a way that traditional BHA does not, and the dioic acid targets the hormonal sebum pathway that drives so much adult acne. I frequently recommend this as the centrepiece of an adult acne protocol combined with appropriate SPF and a gentle cleanser."

Dr. Rajeev Bangalee MBBch · HPCSA Reg. MP 0558605 Star Aesthetic Centre

What our patients say

"I'm 38 and still getting breakouts — I felt like I was too old for acne products. This serum treats my breakouts and my skin looks more refined and youthful at the same time." Tanya, Morningside	"My skin is so much less congested. My pores look smaller, I get fewer breakouts, and the ones I do get clear faster. It's become my most important product." Kiran, Westville	"The combination of anti-acne and anti-ageing in one product is exactly what I needed. Dr. B recommended this and it's transformed my skin." Jess, Umhlanga

Frequently asked questions

Question	Answer
Can I use this alongside prescription acne medication?	Check with your prescribing doctor first. Combining multiple exfoliating actives with prescription retinoids or antibiotics can cause over-irritation.
Will the exfoliating actives dry out my skin?	Some initial dryness is normal. Use a hydrating serum (like Hydrating B5 Gel) before applying if dryness is a concern. Always moisturise afterwards.
Is it suitable for sensitive skin?	No — the combination of LHA, glycolic acid, and dioic acid is not suitable for sensitive or reactive skin. Consult Dr. Bangalee for an alternative protocol.
Can I use it during an active breakout?	Yes — continue using it during active breakouts. The LHA component works to clear existing congestion and prevent new comedones from forming.
Is it safe during pregnancy?	Avoid during pregnancy — salicylic acid derivatives (LHA) are generally contraindicated. Consult your obstetrician and inform Dr. Bangalee if you become pregnant while using this product.