Best acne products

Say goodbye to zits, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, acne, and more.

Best Acne Products

Acne and breakouts can happen for several reasons. However, due to the stress from the pandemic, coupled with mask usage, you may have more pimples than before. That’s why taking care of your skin is so important, especially during times of high stress.

But knowing which products are best for your skin type can be challenging. Below, you’ll find a roundup of the top acne-fighting products and tips for managing a breakout with care and patience. What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition caused by clogged hair follicles under the skin. Dead skin and oil clog the pores to create small lesions. These are more commonly known as pimples, zits, or blemishes. Acne can affect people of all ages. However, teenagers and young adults tend to be affected by acne the most.

What causes acne?

Many factors contribute to acne. From stress to diet to medications, you may have more breakouts for plenty of reasons. However, studies suggest hormonal changes are the leading cause of acne development. Most acne lessens significantly after puberty, but some people struggle with acne into adulthood.

Types of acne

Inflammatory acne includes pimples and cysts. These can be painful and typically appear red and swollen. Depending on the severity, inflammatory acne might require more powerful treatment options, such as prescription topicals or oral antibiotics.

Noninflammatory acne includes blackheads and whiteheads. These do not swell as much, and you can manage them with over-the-counter (OTC) best-seller like Differin Acne Treatment Gel with 0.1% Adapalene, a type of retinoid.

Acne treatments vary in price and range anywhere from $5-$100. Ultimately, it’s a good idea to round out your skincare routine with a nice cleanser, a good toner, and a restorative moisturizer. You can also add in night serums or additional spot treatments as needed.

Here are some of the best cruelty-free products to treat all kinds of acne based on your skin type.

Best acne product for oily and combination skin

Caudalie Vinopure Natural Salicylic Acid Pore Minimizing Serum This pore-minimizing gel has 100% natural salicylic acid and uses grapeseed to limit excess oil and prevent breakouts. It can also help brighten and even out your skin.

Best acne products for sensitive and dry skin

Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant Some acne treatments can dry out your skin. But this liquid exfoliant with salicylic acid unclogs, clears pores without drying your skin too much, and gives you a glow.

Best products for teen and adult acne

Dermalogica Clear Start Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash

This gentle face with salicylic acid wash removes dead skin cells, dirt, and oil that clog pores, causing acne. Tea tree and lavender help calm irritated skin.

Best for adult acne

Dermalogica AGE Bright Clearing Serum

This serum has salicylic acid to help prevent breakouts and promote brighter skin. It is suitable for those with normal, combination, and oily skin.

Best acne product for spot treatment and clogged pores

Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Resurfacing Night Serum This serum exfoliates your skin and utilizes salicylic acid to unclog pores. This resurfacing serum also removes dead skin to prevent future breakouts.

Best products for blackheads and whiteheads

Dermalogica Clear Start Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask

This mask uses sulfur to treat mild to moderate blackheads. It also has turmeric and sage, which help reduce inflammation.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

This toner offers mild exfoliation, which prevents the formation of whiteheads. It is alcohol-free, and regular use can improve your skin's appearance.

Mario Badescu 2-in-1 Deep Cleansing Pore Strip

This dual-sided patch has Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and papaya extract that help break down skin impurities and excess oil on one side and silicone bristles on the other for exfoliation.

Best mask for acne

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay This mask is made with 100% natural calcium bentonite clay and soaks up excess sebum to keep your skin fresh. Do not leave this mask on for more than 10 minutes if you have sensitive skin.

Best retinoid treatments for acne

Differin Acne Treatment Gel This gel treatment is the only FDA-approved prescription-strength retinoid available over the counter. It can reduce redness while treating pimples.

Best salicylic treatments for acne

Derma E Acne Control Treatment Serum This serum is packed with salicylic acid and beta-hydroxy acid to help with cystic acne. It's vegan and helps prevent future breakouts.

Best gel moisturizer

Tower 28 Beauty SOS Daily Skin Barrier Redness Recovery Moisturizer For those struggling to find a moisturizer for acne-prone skin, it contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to hydrate and support the skin barrier without a greasy feel because it's oil-free and won't clog pores.

Best sunscreen

innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 45

This mineral sunscreen with zinc protects you against sunburn without causing breakouts. It is non-comedogenic and works for all skin types, including sensitive types. Sunscreen is essential for all skin types and should be used year-round.

This article was originally published on Best Reviews, and some original products have been replaced, updated, and removed.