Smooth
For bumps, big-looking pores, and rough texture. We clear congestion and refine the surface, without over-drying, which only makes it worse.
Why this routine
Rough texture and clogged pores come from buildup. The fix is chemical exfoliation (BHA) plus a retinoid to speed turnover, paired with light hydration so your skin doesn't overproduce oil in retaliation.
Morning
Gentle cleanser · don't over-scrub
A mild cleanser. Scrubbing harder doesn't clear pores, it irritates.
Niacinamide serum · refine + balance
Helps minimize the look of pores and regulate oil, lightweight and well-tolerated.
Oil-free moisturizer · hydrate, don't clog
A gel or lightweight lotion that hydrates without heaviness.
SPF 30+ · non-negotiable
Especially while using BHA and retinoids, they make skin more sun-sensitive.
Evening
Cleanse · remove the day
Double cleanse if you wore makeup or SPF.
BHA (salicylic acid) · 2 to 3 nights/week
Gets inside pores to clear congestion and smooth texture.
Retinoid · on the OTHER nights, start slow
Speeds cell turnover to smooth texture over time. Begin 2 nights a week, never the same night as BHA.
Oil-free moisturizer · every night
Buffer the actives and keep the barrier comfortable.
Pro upgrade
Sonicsmooth Pro+ · resurface rough texture
An at-home dermaplaning and microdermabrasion tool that resurfaces rough, bumpy skin and refines the look of pores. It's the fastest route to a visibly smoother surface.
While you sleep
Support your beauty sleep · repair happens at night
Your skin rebuilds collagen and repairs its barrier during deep sleep, and poor sleep spikes cortisol, which breaks both down (good sleepers recover their barrier about 30% faster). Deeper rest gets you more from every step above.
Three rules so this actually works
- Never layer BHA and retinoid the same night. Alternate them, together they over-irritate.
- Don't over-strip. Harsh, drying products make oily/congested skin produce more oil.
- Introduce one active at a time. Add BHA first, get comfortable, then bring in the retinoid.