The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (2025)

Ah, acne. A nemesis so senior in my life that we’ve basically advanced into a 15-year partnership at this point.

As a commerce editor, I’ve had the dubious pleasure of slathering every potion, lotion, and questionable concoction on my face in the name of “research.” Currently, I’m onto beef tallow (and it’s promising, to say the least).

My bathroom looks like a lab. And my skin? Well, it’s been through more trials than a daytime courtroom drama. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not a masochist who enjoys turning my face into a human petri dish. But when you’ve been playing whack-a-mole with zits for as long as I have, you’ll try just about anything.

I’ve used creams that smelled like a cat’s litter box, serums that cost more than my rent (seriously), and masks that made me look like I was auditioning for something low-budget in the sci-fi genre. All in the name of that elusive, acne-free complexion. But after all these years of product testing and face painting, I’ve learned that skincare is just one piece of the clear-skin puzzle. Sure, it’s a big piece — like, corner-piece-of-a-jigsaw big — but it’s not the whole picture.

best skincare for acne

  • Best Face Wash for Acne: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser
  • Best Moisturizer:
  • Best Scar treatment: Heal Fast Physician Formulated Silicone Scar Gel
  • Best Spot treatment/pimple patches: PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches
  • Best Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
  • Best Body Wash for Acne: CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid
  • Best Face Mask for Acne: Caudalie Pore Minimizing Instant Detox Mask
  • Best Physical Exfoliant: Zo Skin Health Dual Action Scrub
  • Best for Hyperpigmentation: Rohto MentholatumMelano CC Vitamin C Essence
  • Best Serum for Acne: Typology L61 Targeted Blemish Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid + 1% Zinc
  • Best Toner for Acne: Paula’s Choice SKIN Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant
  • Best Retinol for Acne: Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Cream

Diet, stress, hormones, and that pesky thing called genetics all play their parts — and according to doctors, they’re all culprits when it comes to my skin woes. But since I can’t change my DNA, and I refuse to give up my stress-eating chocolate-covered banana habit, skincare remains my trusty weapon in this never-ending war.

Here’s to you, fellow acne fighters. We’re about to dive into the world of zit-zapping, pore-clearing, complexion-saving skincare. But only the stuff that works.

Acne skincare buyers’ guide

When it comes to tackling acne, it’s crucial to understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Acne can affect various skin types, and the approach to treating it isn’t always about simply wicking away oils or soothing dryness with a single product.

Different skin types and acne

Acne can manifest across different skin types, each requiring a tailored approach:

  • Oily:Prone to excess sebum production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
  • Dry:May experience acne along with flakiness and tightness.
  • Combination:Often deals with an oily T-zone and dry cheeks, requiring targeted treatment for different areas.
  • Sensitive:Needs gentle acne management to avoid exacerbating the skin barrier.

A tailored approach

The goal in treating acne isn’t always about oil control or hydration alone. Instead, it’s about addressing the specific needs of each skin type:

  • For oily skin, the focus might be on oil control and pore-clearing ingredients like salicylic acid.
  • Dry, acne-prone skin may need hydrating products that don’t clog pores, along with gentle acne treatments.
  • Combination skin might require a balancing act, using different products for different areas of the face.

Beyond single-product solutions

Effective acne management often involves a combination of products and ingredients:

  • Cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to fight acne-causing bacteria.
  • Non-comedogenic moisturizers to maintain skin hydration without clogging pores.
  • Targeted treatments like retinol serums to address post-acne marks and improve skin texture.

Remember, what works for one person’s acne may not work for another. It’s about finding the right balance and combination of products that address your specific skin type and acne concerns.

Best Skincare for Acne

Best Cleanser: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (1)

Pros:

  • Gentle on sensitive skin
  • Non-foaming, non-irritating
  • Hydrates while cleansing
  • Dermatologist recommended

Cons:

  • May not remove heavy makeup in one wash
  • Can feel too mild for severely oily skin

This gentle cleanser contains niacinamide, panthenol, and glycerin to cleanse and hydrate sensitive skin. It’s formulated to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping its natural moisture barrier. The pH-balanced formula is non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.

I’ve been slathering this on my face for years, and it’s gentler than a damn whisper. My skin feels clean but not tight, like it just had a spa day without the small talk. It hasn’t caused a single breakout, which is a miracle considering my face usually treats new products like an invading army. The only downside is it’s about as exciting as watching paint dry — but hey, sometimes boring is beautiful.

Active ingredients: Niacinamide, Panthenol | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive

AMAZON $14.99 $13.97

Best Moisturizer:

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (2)

Pros:

  • Deeply hydrating and nourishing
  • Great for dry and mature skin
  • Natural, organic ingredients
  • Soothing and restorative

Cons:

  • Heavy texture, may feel greasy (a little goes a long way!)

This moisturizer combines grass-fed beef tallow with honey, beeswax, and gentle essential oils. The tallow mimics human sebum for deep hydration, while honey provides antibacterial properties. Essential oils add a natural citrus scent.

I was skeptical about smearing beef fat on my face, but this stuff is as amazing as they say. My skin drinks it up faster than I down my morning Celsius (don’t come for me). It’s deeply hydrating without being greasy. The only downside? Trying to explain to my friends why I’m rubbing cow fat on my face.

Active ingredients: Grass-fed beef tallow, Honey | Skin type: All skin types, especially dry or sensitive

AMAZON $36.99

Best Scar Treatment: Heal Fast Physician Formulated Silicone Scar Gel

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (3)

Pros:

  • Clinically proven to improve scar appearance
  • Fast-drying, non-greasy formula
  • Reduces redness and discoloration
  • Easy to apply

This scar gel uses 100% medical-grade silicone to improve the appearance of scars. It works by creating a protective barrier that hydrates and softens scar tissue. The formula is designed to flatten, fade, and reduce the visibility of scars with consistent use.

I’ve been slathering this on my textured and hyperpigmented acne scars. It’s not an overnight miracle, but it’s definitely speeding up the healing process. Plus, it’s not sticky or greasy, so I can pretend I’m not high-maintenance while secretly pampering my skin.

Active ingredients: Medical-grade silicone | Skin type: All skin types

AMAZON $24.99

Best Spot Treatment/Pimple Patches for Acne: PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (4)

Pros:

  • Works overnight for fast pimple reduction
  • Targets acne with benzoyl peroxide
  • Transparent, discreet
  • Suitable for stubborn pimples

Cons:

  • May cause dryness or irritation
  • Can be too strong for sensitive skin

These hydrocolloid patches absorb pus and fluids from pimples overnight. They create a protective barrier that keeps the area clean and prevents picking. The best acne spot treatment comes with patches in two sizes to accommodate different blemish sizes.

I slap these bad boys on before bed, and by morning, any pimples (cystic or otherwise) have shrunk faster than my bank account the day after payday. They’re especially great for those “I have a big event tomorrow and of course, I get a huge zit” moments. Plus, they keep me from picking at my face, which is a win for both my skin and my self-control.

Active ingredients: Hydrocolloid | Skin type: All skin types, especially acne-prone

AMAZON $8.52

Best sunscreen for Acne Prone Skin: EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (5)

Pros:

  • Lightweight, non-greasy
  • Broad-spectrum SPF 46
  • Great for sensitive, acne-prone skin
  • Contains niacinamide for added skin benefits

Cons:

  • Can leave a slight white cast

This sunscreen combines zinc oxide with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. It provides broad-spectrum SPF 46 protection while also calming sensitive skin and promoting moisture retention. The formula is oil-free and won’t clog pores.

I’ve been using this sunscreen religiously, and my skin has never been more even. It doesn’t break me out, it plays well with my other skincare products, and it’s kept my scars and acne marks from deepening in pigment. Plus, it’s got niacinamide, which is like the overachiever of skincare ingredients.

Active ingredients: Zinc oxide, Niacinamide | Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive or acne-prone

AMAZON $44.00 $41.80

Best Body Wash: CeraVe Body Wash with Salicylic Acid

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (6)

Pros:

  • Exfoliates and smooths skin
  • Moisturizes with ceramides
  • Great for acne-prone or rough skin
  • Affordable and accessible

Cons:

  • May be irritating for very dry skin

This body wash contains salicylic acid to exfoliate and treat body acne, along with ceramides to maintain skin barrier health. It’s formulated to cleanse and moisturizewhile being gentle, and it’s fragrance-free andnon-comedogenic.

I’ve been lathering up with this inthe shower, andnothing has ever deep cleaned my skin better. My skin feels smoother than a fresh jarof Skippy, and I only need to use it once or twice a week. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, so I don’t smell likea walking airfreshener whenI step out of the shower.

Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, Ceramides | Skin type: Normal to oily, acne-prone

AMAZON $13.99

Best Face Mask: Caudalie Pore Minimizing Instant Detox Mask

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (7)

Pros:

  • Detoxifies and tightens pores
  • Reduces oil and shine
  • Great for oily and combination skin
  • Refreshing, clay-based formula

Cons:

  • Can be drying for dry skin types (apply hydration on wet skin immediately after rinsing the mask off!)

This mask uses pink clay to absorb impurities and excess sebum, while coffee and grape seed extracts provide antioxidant benefits. It’s designed to tighten pores, reduce shine, and even out skin tone. The formula is suitable for all skin types.

I slap this on once a week, and it’s like hitting the reset button on my skin. My pores look smaller, my skin feels smoother, and I can hear my blackheads screaming in terror. It’s the only mask I’ve trusted consistently for years to clear, smooth, and detox my skin overall. While it definitely does not strip the skin, I always follow with a hearty hydration product simply because it’s clay-based and really pulls it all out.

Active ingredients: Pink clay, Coffee | Skin type: Normal to oily, congested

SEPHORA $42.00

Best Physical Exfoliant: Zo Skin Health Dual Action Scrub

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (8)

Pros:

  • Dual-action exfoliation (physical + chemical)
  • Effective at removing dead skin cells
  • Refines skin texture
  • Suitable for most skin types

Cons:

  • High price point

This scrub combines physical exfoliants (magnesium oxide crystals) with chemical exfoliants (salicylic acid and lactic acid). Designed to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores and improve skin texture, the formula also includes vitamin E for antioxidant protection.

I use this a couple of times a week, and it’s like giving my face a power wash. My skin feels beyond smooth and not even active breakouts get irritated (I’m gentle, of course). The first time I used this product (which was my roommate’s before I bought two for myself), my skin was screaming for exfoliation but was angry and acneic at the same time. After a single use, my dry skin was smooth and relieved and my complexion became brighter than my future. The only downside? Explaining to anyone I recommend it to why we need such an expensive face scrub. I’ve got my elevator pitch down though, so yours is up to you.

Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, Lactic acid | Skin type: Normal to oily, acne-prone

ZO SKIN HEALTH $80.00

Best for Hyperpigmentation: Rohto MentholatumMelano CC Vitamin C Essence

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (9)

Pros:

  • Brightens and evens skin tone
  • Target dark spots and pigmentation
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
  • Budget-friendly

Cons:

  • Can irritate hypersensitive skin
  • Needs consistent use for visible results

This essence contains a stabilized form of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) to target hyperpigmentation and brighten skin. It’s formulated to penetrate deeply, effectively fading dark spots. It also includes vitamin E for additional antioxidant benefits.

This is a new, TikTok-influenced addition to my routine. I’ve been patting this on religiously each evening, and I swear my dark spots are fading faster than my will to make it through Dry January. It’s lightweight and non-irritating, which is great because my skin is even more sensitive than I am. Plus, the packaging is designed to keep the vitamin C stable, so it’s like a little fortress protecting your skincare.

Active ingredients: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) | Skin type: All skin types

YESSTYLE $11.30

Best Serum: Typology L61 Targeted Blemish Serum with 2% Salicylic Acid + 1% Zinc

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (10)

Pros:

  • Effective for acne and blemishes
  • Contains anti-inflammatory zinc
  • Lightweight, non-greasy
  • Good for oily, acne-prone skin

Cons:

  • Needs time for visible results

This serum combines 2% salicylic acid to exfoliate and unclog pores with 1% zinc to reduce inflammation. It’s designed to target acne-prone areas without over-drying the skin. The minimalist formula is free from fragrances and essential oils.

I dab this on my problem areas, and it’s like watching my pimples pack their bags over the course of a day (or two) and…move out. It’s not an overnight miracle, but it definitely speeds up the eviction process. Plus, it doesn’t dry out my skin, which is a miracle considering how many acne products leave my face feeling like the Sahara.

Active ingredients: Salicylic acid, Zinc | Skin type: Oily, acne-prone

TYPOLOGY $37.50

Best Toner: Paula’s Choice SKIN Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (11)

Pros:

  • Exfoliates and unclogs pores
  • Helps reduce acne and blackheads
  • Non-drying formula
  • Suitable for most skin types

Cons:

  • Consistent use can cause skin to get used to ingredients (only use once or twice a week for best results!)

This leave-on exfoliant contains 2% salicylic acid to unclog pores and smooth skin texture. It’s formulated to exfoliate both the skin’s surface and inside the pore, reducing blackheads and blemishes. The product is alcohol-free and contains green tea extract for soothing benefits.

I swipe this on after cleansing. Not only do my pores look cleaner after one week, but my skin texture is smoother and my breakouts are less frequent than my gym visits (who’s got the time?). It’s gentle enough to use daily but effective enough that I quickly see results. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, so my nose isn’t assaulted every time I use it.

Active ingredients: Salicylic acid | Skin type: Normal to oily, acne-prone

AMAZON $35.00 $33.25

Best Retinol: Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Anti-Wrinkle Cream

The very best acne skincare we’ve tried, from cleansers to treatments (12)

Pros:

  • Effective anti-aging skincare
  • Contains nourishing ingredients like peptides and vitamin F
  • Non-irritating formula
  • Suitable for sensitive skin

Cons:

  • Retinol can cause dryness or irritation initially (use sparingly to start!)

This retinol cream contains 1% retinol along with supportive peptides and vitamins. It’s designed to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and fade acne scars. The formula includes nourishing plant oils to help mitigate potential irritation from retinol.

When I first discovered this Drunk Elephant gem, I did not ease into it. I slathered it on like a moisturizer and waited for my skin to look 12 again. Needless to say, that is NOT how you treat your skin with retinol, but it IS how I found out how well this over-the-counter product works. If you can’t get your hands on dermatologist-prescribed tretinoin, consider adjusting to this retinol. The only downside to it is fighting the urge to slather loads of it all over when you see how well it works on your acne (or wrinkles…what have you) within a month.

Active ingredients: Retinol | Skin type: All skin types, except very sensitive

AMAZON $29.00 $22.00

How we tested

As a shopping editor with a 15-year acne saga, my testing process is no joke. I commit to each product for at least four weeks, giving my skin a full renewal cycle to show results. Before going all in, I do a patch test on my inner arm for 7-10 days to avoid any full-face fiascos.

Texture, scent, immediate effects, long-term changes — nothing escapes my scrutiny. I even snap regular photos to track progress, though I’ll spare you the unflattering close-ups. But it’s not all about what I see in the mirror. I pay attention to how my skin feels, too. Is it happy? Upset? Throwing a full-blown tantrum?

This rigorous process helps me separate the holy grails from the holy fails, so you don’t have to turn your face into a testing ground. You’re welcome. And because I’ve since (pretty much) retired from changing up my skincare so often, I’ve also provided my honest and current acne- and scar-fighting skincare routine after all my recommendations below.

FAQs

What is the best skincare routine for acne?

1. Cleanser

  • Morning & Night: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and bacteria without stripping the skin.

2. Exfoliation (2-3 times a week)

  • Night: Use a chemical exfoliant with salicylic acid (BHA) or benzoyl peroxide to help clear pores and reduce acne-causing bacteria.

3. Treatment

  • Night: Apply a treatment serum or gel with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to target active breakouts.

4. Spot Treatment

  • As needed: Apply targeted spot treatments on individual pimples to speed up healing.

5. Moisturizer

  • Morning & Night: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep skin hydrated without clogging pores.

6. Sunscreen

  • Morning: Use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least SPF 30 daily to protect against sun damage, which can worsen acne scars.

7. Optional: Retinoid (PM)

  • Night: Consider incorporating tretinoin, retinol, or at least a retinoid-like adapalene into your routine for long-term acne treatment and skin renewal.

What do most dermatologists recommend for acne?

Dermatologists generally recommend the following for managing acne:

  • Gentle Cleansing: A non-irritating, gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin’s natural oils.
  • Topical Retinoids: Adapalene (Differin) is commonly prescribed to prevent clogged pores and promote skin turnover.
  • Benzoyl Peroxide: A potent ingredient to kill acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
  • Salicylic Acid (BHA): Helps with exfoliation, unclogging pores, and preventing new breakouts.
  • Topical Antibiotics: For moderate to severe acne, dermatologists may prescribe topical antibiotics like clindamycin.
  • Oral Medications: For more severe cases, oral antibiotics (like minocycline), hormonal treatments (like birth control or spironolactone), or isotretinoin (Accutane) may be recommended.
  • Sunscreen: To prevent sun damage, which can worsen acne scarring, and to protect the skin while using active acne treatments.
  • Avoid Picking or Squeezing: Dermatologists stress that touching or popping pimples can lead to scarring and further inflammation.

How do you tell if acne is hormonal or bacterial?

Hormonal Acne:

  • Location: Typically appears along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks. This is where hormone fluctuations are most prominent.
  • Timing: Often linked to your menstrual cycle (pre-menstrual breakouts) or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
  • Nature of Breakouts: Hormonal acne tends to be deeper, cystic, and painful, with less pus. It may be slow to heal.
  • Age: More common in adults, especially in women aged 20-40.
  • Associated Symptoms: May be accompanied by irregular periods, excess facial hair, or scalp thinning (for PCOS).

Bacterial Acne:

  • Location: Often appears on the forehead, nose, and upper back. These areas have higher concentrations of sebaceous (oil) glands.
  • Timing: Can appear suddenly or during periods of increased oil production (stress, diet, or excess sebum).
  • Nature of Breakouts: Comedones (blackheads/whiteheads) or pustules with a visible whitehead, and can sometimes become inflamed or form pus.
  • Triggers: Often linked to clogged pores from makeup, products, or poor hygiene.
  • Treatment Response: Bacterial acne responds well to treatments like benzoyl peroxide or topical antibiotics.

Key Differences:

  • Hormonal acne is usually deeper, cystic, and can fluctuate with hormone levels.
  • Bacterial acne tends to have more pustules and is often more surface-level, with inflammation and redness around the blemishes.

Note: If you’re unsure or have persistent acne, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

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