AESTURA Theracne 365 Soothing Active Moisturizer: Clinical Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

Theracne 365 is AESTURA's dedicated acne-prone skin line, positioned between the barrier-focused Atobarrier 365 and the calming A-CICA 365. This moisturizer uses salicylic acid at a low, daily-use concentration alongside centella fractions, giving you a light pore-decongesting moisturizer that works long-term rather than as a spot treatment. At 60ml and $49.25, it's the most premium Korean daily-use acne moisturizer in this category.

AESTURA is Amorepacific's clinical dermatology brand, and the Theracne 365 line is their answer to the common Korean complaint that barrier-safe moisturizers don't control acne, while acne-targeting formulas compromise the barrier. Theracne 365 is formulated to split the difference: low-level salicylic acid for daily pore care, centella for inflammation control, ceramides for barrier support. Korean derm clinics often prescribe this as an adjunct to active acne treatment.

What It Does

Salicylic acid at under-the-counter concentration dissolves sebum and clears clogged pores over time. Centella asiatica fractions (asiaticoside, madecassoside) reduce the inflammation that turns clogged pores into active breakouts. Ceramides maintain the barrier integrity that most acne-targeting moisturizers compromise. The combined effect: fewer new breakouts, faster resolution of existing ones, less redness throughout the cycle. Effect compounds over 4 to 8 weeks.

Who It's For

• Adult acne-prone skin: Primary target for hormonal or stress breakouts.
• Combination skin with clogged pores: Gentle salicylic acid controls congestion without stripping.
• Post-active users transitioning: Good maintenance moisturizer after heavier acne treatment.
• Sensitive acne-prone skin: Won't aggravate like benzoyl peroxide or strong BHAs.
• Redness-prone skin with breakouts: Centella base reduces acne inflammation.

Key Specs

• Volume: 60ml
• Price: $49.25
• Hero actives: salicylic acid (BHA), centella fractions, ceramides
• Texture: light gel-cream, matte finish
• Fragrance: very mild or none

How to Use

Apply after cleansing and toner, before SPF. Dispense a nickel-sized amount for face, pat into skin. Twice daily, AM and PM. If you're using active prescription acne treatment (tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide), apply this 30 minutes after the active has absorbed. 60ml lasts approximately 6 to 8 weeks with twice-daily use. Always follow with SPF in the morning; salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity.

FAQ

Is this strong enough to clear active acne?

On its own, it's maintenance-strength, not a treatment. For active cystic or inflammatory acne, combine with a stronger BHA serum (or prescription tretinoin) and use this moisturizer as the daily companion. If your acne is mild to moderate, this may be sufficient alone over 4 to 8 weeks.

How does this compare to COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser?

Different routine step. COSRX is a cleanser (short contact time, rinsed off). This is a leave-on moisturizer (hours of contact). For daily active delivery, a leave-on with salicylic acid does more work than a rinse-off. They can be used together in the same routine.

Can I use this with retinol?

Yes, but alternate evenings for the first 2 to 4 weeks of pairing. Both salicylic acid and retinol can increase dryness and sensitivity. If you tolerate both well, you can eventually use them together: retinol first (applied to clean skin), wait 10 minutes, then this moisturizer as the sealing step.

Will this reduce sebum production?

Salicylic acid reduces sebum buildup in pores, which visibly reduces oiliness over time. It doesn't reduce baseline sebum production (that's controlled by hormones and genetics). Expect less visible shine and fewer clogged pores, not a complete shift in oil type.

Is this okay for pregnancy?

Salicylic acid at low topical concentrations is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but check with your OB. If you want to avoid all BHAs during pregnancy, the AESTURA A-CICA 365 cream is a safer alternative that still targets inflammation.

Related Products

Pair with AESTURA A-CICA 365 Toner as prep, or explore the full AESTURA collection. Related: best Korean skincare for acne, Korean moisturizers.