Which Acne Type Are You
Your skin is unique. Your treatment should be too.
Type I: Mild
(Normal/Non-Inflammatory)
Are you prone to
Whiteheads & blackheads with few pimples?
Caused by
Clogged pores due to oil buildup and dead skin cells
Treatment
Use products that contain
exfoliating ingredients like Lactic & Salicylic Acid & topical Retinoids
Type II: Moderate
(Hormonal/Oily)
Are you prone to
Breakouts on face and neck plus increase on jawline around time of menstrual cycle?
Caused by
Hormonal shifts + clogged pores due to excessive oil buildup and accumulation of dead skin cells resulting in bacteria + greasy or oily cosmetics
Treatment
Use ingredients like Salicylic Acid & retinols. Increase exfoliation the week before cycle begins.
Type III: Moderately Severe
(Inflammatory)
Are you prone to
Numerous papules and pustules and occasional inflamed nodules (deep painful lumps)?
Caused by
Same factors as mild or moderate acne but are more intense or persistent and lead to deeper inflammation and more widespread breakouts.
Treatment
Start adding inflammation reducing products along with Salicylic Acid and retinols to help clean out the pores and increase cell turnover. Seeing a professional may be helpful.
Type IV
(Severe)
Are you prone to
Cystic Acne (Severe Nodulocystic Acne) characterized by large, painful cysts and nodules and persistent breakouts, significant inflammation, redness, and risk of scarring?
Caused by
An intensified combination of core acne triggers, Hormonal imbalances (like PCOS or pregnancy) and/or gut issues.
Treatment
Seeing a dermatologist and/or a GI doctor is beneficial. Typically this type of acne improves when your gut is brought back into balance.
Find Your Routine
Custom regimens to match your skin type and acne level.
1
Step 1: Cleanse AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser 5 oz
$36.00
2
Step 2: Balance AM/PM
Probiotic Instant Resurfacing Pads
$49.00
3
Step 3: Treat AM/PM
Clarifying + Refining Serum
$52.00
4
Step 4: Treat with Retinol PM
Ultimate Youth Restoring Serum
$135.00
5
Step 5: Hydrate AM/PM
Gentle Probiotic Calming Lotion
$66.00
6
Step 6: Prevent AM
Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB
$66.00
1
Step 1: Cleanse AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser 5 oz
$36.00
2
Step 2: Balance AM/PM
Probiotic Triple Action Clarifying Pads
$59.00
Use especially around hormonal flares
3
Step 3: Treat AM
Probiotic Brightening Renewal Lotion
$93.00
Spot treat with Acne Clarifying Treatment
4
Step 4: Treat with Retinol PM
Ultimate Youth Restoring Serum
$135.00
5
Step 5: Hydrate AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Lotion
$66.00
6
Step 6: Prevent AM
Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB
$66.00
1
Step 1: Cleanse AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser 5 oz
$36.00
2
Step 2: Balance AM/PM
Probiotic Triple Action Clarifying Pads
$59.00
Use consistently
3
Step 3: Treat AM/PM
Clarifying + Refining Serum
$52.00
Use all over (not just as a spot treatment)
4
Step 4: Treat PM
Ultimate Youth Restoring Serum
$135.00
5
Step 5: Hydrate AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Lotion
$66.00
6
Step 6: Prevent AM
Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB
$66.00
1
Step 1: Cleanse AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser 5 oz
$36.00
2
Step 2: Balance AM PM
Probiotic Triple Action Clarifying Pads
$59.00
3
Step 3: Treat AM
Clarifying + Refining Serum
$52.00
Apply more broadly- not just for spot-treatment
4
Step 4: Treat PM
Ultimate Youth Restoring Serum
$135.00
5
Step 5: Hydrate AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Lotion
$66.00
6
Step 6: Prevent AM
Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB
$66.00
1
Step 1: Cleanse AM/PM
Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser 5 oz
$36.00
2
Step 2: Balance AM PM
Calming Restorative Treatment
$104.00
3
Step 3: Hydrate AM/PM
Gentle Probiotic Calming Lotion
$66.00
4
Step 3: Hydrate AM/PM
Calming Restorative Treatment
$104.00
5
Step 4: Prevent AM
Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB
$66.00
6
No product selected
Visible Results, Healthier Skin: Powered by Probiotics
Probiotics meet clinical skincare.
Your Acne Concerns, Answered
WHAT CAUSES ACNE?
When someone says “acne”, most people automatically think of teenagers, puberty and dirty skin, but anyone can be acne-prone and multiple factors contribute to breakouts. Hormones, poor diet, lack of sleep, poor gut health and stress can all contribute to inflammation which is the cornerstone of acne. When the skin’s oil glands become inflamed, they can begin to overproduce sebum (oil), which mixes with dead skin cells, bacteria, and debris. This buildup clogs pores and disrupts normal skin cell turnover, leading to breakouts. Environmental factors like pollution and allergens can also irritate the skin and make acne worse.
WHAT ARE PAPULES, PUSTULES AND NODULOCYSTIC ACNE ANYWAY?
Papules are small, red, inflamed bumps that do not contain visible pus. When a pore becomes irritated, papules develop on the skin.
Pustules are similar in size to papules but filled with pus, making them appear white or yellow at the center. Both are signs of inflammation caused by clogged pores and bacteria.
Nodulocystic acne is more severe. It involves deep, painful nodules and cysts that form beneath the skin’s surface. These lesions are often larger, more inflamed, and more likely to cause scarring if left untreated. Nodulocystic acne typically requires medical attention and may not respond to over-the-counter products.
WHY PROBIOTICS AND HOW DO PROBIOTICS HELP WITH ACNE?
Treating acne requires attention not only to areas of the breakout, but to caring for the health of the skin overall. Acne is often fueled by inflammation and an imbalance in the skin’s microbiome (the community of bacteria that naturally lives on your skin). When this balance is disrupted, your skin can go into “fight or flight” mode triggering more breakouts.
Topical probiotics play a powerful role in repairing the skin barrier to support clear, balanced skin. Probiotics help restore balance by introducing beneficial bacteria that calm inflammation, strengthen the skin barrier, and help prevent the overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria—supporting clearer, more balanced skin over time.
Glowbiotics topical formulas for acne-prone skin use advanced ingredients to reduce inflammation, rebalance the microbiome, and control excess oil—without over-drying the skin.
The result: fewer breakouts, a healthier skin barrier, and glowing skin.
IS ACNEIC SKIN MORE SENSITIVE?
Yes! When you have red, inflamed skin, it can be painful—that's why Glowbiotics uses topical probiotics, mild exfoliants, anti-inflammatory technology, oil regulators, and fatty acids to help treat acne-prone skin. Our products are sulfate and paraben-free. They are also free of known phthalates, artificial dyes, and mineral oil.
These are just a few of the gentle ingredients you’ll find in the Glowbiotics acne-prone line that work to calm, clear, and support acne-prone skin—without stripping or irritating your skin barrier:
Salicylic Acid (BHA): a powerful acne-fighting ingredient that penetrates deep into pores to unclog them, reduce inflammation, and prevent breakouts. It gently exfoliates inside the pore and on the skin’s surface, helping to reduce blemishes including blackheads and whiteheads.
Retinol: a powerful yet gentle retinoid that boosts collagen, smooths fine lines, and helps clear acne by promoting healthy cell turnover. It enhances skin radiance, improves texture, and helps treat signs of aging—all with less irritation than other retinoids.
Azelaic Acid: a gentle, multi-tasking ingredient that helps clear mild acne by reducing bacteria and inflammation, while also smoothing skin texture and preventing clogged pores.
HOW CAN I MANAGE ACNE DURING PREGNANCY?
Pregnancy acne is common and usually driven by hormonal changes that increase oil production. While breakouts can be frustrating, managing acne during pregnancy requires extra care—especially when it comes to ingredient safety. First, focus on a gentle, consistent skincare routine: use a mild cleanser, non-comedogenic moisturizer, and mineral-based sunscreen daily.
The GLOWBIOTICS products are free of Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sulfates, Isopropyl Myristate, harmful dyes, DEA, MEA and TEA, Mineral Oil, Propyl or Ethyl Alcohol, Diazolidnyl Urea, Parabens, Phthalates and other known Xenoestrogens.
*Products containing retinol should not be used during pregnancy.
DO ACNE SCARS FADE OVER TIME?
Yes, they can. With time and the right treatment, there are a number of ways you can lighten or diminish the appearance of acne scars.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (flat dark spots left behind after a breakout) often fades on its own within a few months, especially with consistent sun protection and the right skincare. Ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, retinoids and alpha hydroxy acid can help speed up the fading process, even out skin tone, and support collagen production for smoother skin over time.
Deeper scars, like icepick, boxcar, or rolling scars, are caused by damage to the underlying skin structure and typically don’t fade on their own. These may require professional treatments such as microneedling, chemical peels, or laser therapy to see significant improvement.
Hypertrophic and keloid scars form as raised lumps of scar tissue where the acne once was. These are more common along the jawline, chest, back, and shoulders. Treatment focuses on reducing the height of the scar, so the skin appears smoother. Your dermatologist may treat with steroid injections, surgical removal, or laser therapy.
IS ADULT ACNE DIFFERENT THAN TEEN ACNE?
Yes—adult acne is different from teen acne in both its causes and how it appears on the skin. Teenage acne is typically driven by the hormonal shifts of puberty, leading to increased oil production and breakouts concentrated in the “T” zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Adult acne is more influenced by hormones, stress, inflammation, and lifestyle factors like diet or sleep. It’s especially common in women, especially around the jawline, chin, and lower face.
Adult acne tends to be more persistent, and breakouts may be deeper, more inflamed, and slower to heal. Plus, adults are often dealing with both acne and early signs of aging at the same time, which makes choosing the right skincare even more important.
The good news? With the right routine and targeted treatments, adult acne can be managed effectively—without compromising your skin’s health or glow.
SHOULD I STOP WEARING MAKEUP IF I HAVE ACNE?
Not necessarily! You don’t have to give up makeup if you have acne—but it’s important to choose the right products. Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fragrance-free formulas that won’t clog pores or irritate your skin. Mineral-based makeup is often a great option for acne-prone skin because it’s gentle and breathable. Also, avoid heavy or cakey foundations that can suffocate your skin.
It's important to remove your makeup thoroughly every night and regularly clean your brushes or sponges to avoid bacterial buildup.
Wearing makeup won’t cause acne if you're using the right products and maintaining a healthy skincare routine. In fact, for many people, it can be a confidence booster during the healing process.
IS IT OK TO POP A PIMPLE?
As tempting as it is—popping a pimple is generally not a good idea. Squeezing can push bacteria and debris deeper into the skin, making inflammation worse and increasing the risk of scarring or dark spots. It can also cause infection or lead to more breakouts in the surrounding area.
If a pimple has come to a whitehead and you just can't resist, it's best to use a warm compress and let it come to a head naturally or apply a spot treatment with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid or even a pimple patch. For deeper, painful pimples (like cysts or nodules), it’s safest to let a dermatologist handle it.
Left alone, you can expect your pimple to disappear within 3-7 days. Popped improperly, the pimple could last for weeks, producing more inflammation, and possible scarring.
Shop Clean, Probiotic-Powered Acne Products
GLOWBIOTICS has changed the game for acne-prone skin.
Probiotic Instant Resurfacing Pads
$49.00
I’m Hooked!
I ordered these to help with some hormonal/stress related breakouts I was having…they have been an absolute game changer for me. Within days I could notice a visible difference in the size/number of breakouts on my face. I use these pads every night, and can’t imagine ever having to go without them now. I’m hooked.
Gentle Probiotic Calming Lotion
$66.00
Fantastic!
I came across this product when I was searching for something to calm my skin during a long-term rosacea flare. It has worked beautifully. I find that reapplying a few times during the day is very helpful in calming the redness and significantly reducing the bumps.
Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser 5 oz
$36.00
Game Changer
This helps with my hormonal acne in a way that no other product I've ever used - even from a dermatologist - has. My skin is super sensitive yet this doesn't overdry or irritate it. I'm now motivated to never miss an AM or PM face wash because the Glowbiotics products I'm using are actually making a difference. Give this a try. My skin feels brand new!
Probiotic Clarifying Lotion
$66.00
Only lotion that doesn’t break me out
I have been a long time user of drug store lotion that constantly clogged more pores. Once I started using the clarifying lotion my acne calmed down and lessened significantly. It’s a light weight lotion that gives me the hydration my skin needs without clogging my pores.
Probiotic Triple Action Clarifying Pads
$59.00
Amazing
My son started using this line recommended by our holistic doctor and it’s been amazing . His skin has been clearing each week , and break outs are also much less than before . It works
Clarifying + Refining Serum
$52.00
Holy grail
This stuff has completely transformed my skin, it’s lightweight, does not pill off the skin and clears up any blemishes and redness. I will never not purchased this product.
Probiotic Instant Resurfacing Pads
$49.00
I’m Hooked!
I ordered these to help with some hormonal/stress related breakouts I was having…they have been an absolute game changer for me. Within days I could notice a visible difference in the size/number of breakouts on my face. I use these pads every night, and can’t imagine ever having to go without them now. I’m hooked.
Gentle Probiotic Calming Lotion
$66.00
Fantastic!
I came across this product when I was searching for something to calm my skin during a long-term rosacea flare. It has worked beautifully. I find that reapplying a few times during the day is very helpful in calming the redness and significantly reducing the bumps.
Probiotic Clarifying Cleanser 5 oz
$36.00
Game Changer
This helps with my hormonal acne in a way that no other product I've ever used - even from a dermatologist - has. My skin is super sensitive yet this doesn't overdry or irritate it. I'm now motivated to never miss an AM or PM face wash because the Glowbiotics products I'm using are actually making a difference. Give this a try. My skin feels brand new!
Probiotic Clarifying Lotion
$66.00
Only lotion that doesn’t break me out
I have been a long time user of drug store lotion that constantly clogged more pores. Once I started using the clarifying lotion my acne calmed down and lessened significantly. It’s a light weight lotion that gives me the hydration my skin needs without clogging my pores.
Probiotic Triple Action Clarifying Pads
$59.00
Amazing
My son started using this line recommended by our holistic doctor and it’s been amazing . His skin has been clearing each week , and break outs are also much less than before . It works
Clarifying + Refining Serum
$52.00
Holy grail
This stuff has completely transformed my skin, it’s lightweight, does not pill off the skin and clears up any blemishes and redness. I will never not purchased this product.
The Glowbiotics Difference
Dermatologist-recommended
Microbiome-supporting ingredients
Clinically tested + sensitive-skin safe
Free from harsh chemicals, sulfates, and parabens
