We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. The 16 Best Acne Serums to Clear Blemishes, According to Derms Bid adieu to redness, breakouts, and persistent dark spots. By Emily Orofino Emily Orofino Emily Orofino has over a decade of experience working in beauty. You can find her work on sites such as Harper’s Bazaar, Byrdie, Editorialist, POPSUGAR, & RealSelf. She has also lent her expertise to marketing departments & product development teams of some of the industry’s most prestigious brands. Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet's editorial guidelines Updated on August 19, 2024 @ 03:09PM CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum at Amazon View All CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum at Amazon Our Top Picks Reviews Salicylic acid, niacinamide, aloe vera｜ Your Questions, Answered Why Shop With Us Photo: Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet The market is full of skin care for a variety of acne concerns, from pimple patches to treatments with salicylic acid. The FDA recently recalled 95 Glow Recipe BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum at Amazon for possible benzene contamination, and while more research needs to be done on the evolving situation, these are all effective acne serums without that ingredient. If dryness is a concern, moisturize daily, but also consider an acne serum, which can be less caustic on your complexion than alternative methods. Acne serums are loaded with concentrated levels of active ingredients to help you eradicate pimples of all kinds, from hormonal breakouts to painful nodules and whiteheads. They’re also effective at fading post-pimple scarring and hyperpigmentation. Some acne serums contain ingredients to hydrate without breaking you out, like hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts. A good rule of thumb is to consider the texture of any face serum when shopping, especially for acne-prone skin. “You’ll want to avoid most oil-based serums, as they can re-congest the pores,” notes Amanda Doyle, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. Ahead, our panel of dermatologists weigh in on which acne serums to add to your routine. Our Top Picks Best Overall: SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Clearing Serum at Skinbetter.com Jump to Review Best Budget: Best for Oily Acne-Prone Skin $6 Jump to Review Best Splurge: Clearing blackheads, shrinking enlarged pores and mattifying greasy-looking skin $260 Jump to Review Best Vitamin C: SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Gel at Dermstore $182 Jump to Review Best for Acne Scars: Renée Rouleau Fading Gel at Reneerouleau.com $43 Jump to Review Best Retinol: Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% at Amazon $15 Jump to Review Best for Oily Acne-Prone Skin: Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Booster at Amazon $49 Jump to Review Best Hydrating: This fast-absorbing oil from Sunday Riley features salicylic acid, along with $69 Jump to Review Best Drugstore: SALE Tranexamic acid, vitamin C, licorice root extract｜ $22 $16 Jump to Review Best Exfoliating: Phloretin, vitamin C, ferulic acid｜ $42 Jump to Review Best Overall SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Clearing Serum Niacinamide, licorice extract, vitamin C｜ View on Skinbetter.com $26 at Ecosmetics.com Why We Love It: SkinBetter Science formulas are clinically tested by dermatologists and used by them, too, in the case of this well-rounded acne serum. It’s in board-certified dermatologist brighten away dark spots.'Retinol, ceramides, licorice root extract｜ decongest pores, improve oil flow, promote cellular turnover, and clarify the complexion. “I love that it has two powerhouse ingredients in the retinol and salicylic acid, but it won’t dry out the skin,” he says. AlphaRet Clearing Serum also taps lactic acid, a powerful AHA, along with anti-inflammatories (and oil tamers) niacinamide and zinc, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and many plant extracts to soothe, calm, and nourish skin. Who It’s For: This is a truly efficacious product and a must for those looking to treat blemish-prone skin. Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, retinol, zinc｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Skin clarity, reducing pore size and improving texture Best Budget The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% PHOTO: Sephora $6 at Amazon $6 at Nordstrom $11 $6 at Sephora Why We Love It: If you’re dealing with skin inflammation and oily skin that causes breakouts, this affordable niacinamide serum is a wonderful place to start. “This a great choice for first-time niacinamide users—it’s a fantastic price point, and niacinamide will help reduce oil production and smooth the skin,” says Dr. Hartman, who notes that the zinc in the formula is another sebum-balancing ingredient. Who It’s For: Niacinamide and zinc are both skin soothers, so those prone to red, tender breakouts may also find relief from this serum. However, if you need a treatment to help resurface your skin and boost its clarity, this won’t do that for you. Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, zinc｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Clearing blackheads and improving uneven texture and redness Best Splurge Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying Serum PHOTO: Dr. Barbara Sturm $260 at Amazon $260 at Nordstrom $260 at Sephora Why We Love It: Dr. Barbara Sturm is known for its clean, solution-oriented formulas that treat skin without harsh ingredients, making them usable for anyone ready to invest in them. Dr. Sturm also follows the EU standards for product development, which are rigorous and don’t allow for the inclusion of over 1,000 ingredients that US brands are free to use. Its power comes from plant extracts like purslane and albatrellus ovinus to soothe skin, as well as moisture-locking hyaluronic acid. Fans of this product swear by it for its ability to clear up breakouts, fade acne scars, and brighten away dark spots, even melasma. Who It’s For: This skin-clearing serum is safe for anyone over 15 and is so gentle that those with ultrasensitive skin (even those with rosacea) can use it comfortably. If you have reactive skin that can’t tolerate aggressive formulations, this is a great choice. Key Ingredients: Purslane extract, zinc, hyaluronic extract｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Clearing breakouts and calming redness Best Vitamin C SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Gel PHOTO: Bluemercury $182 at Dermstore $182 at Bluemercury.com $182 at Ecosmetics.com Why We Love It: Dermatologists agree that daily application of an antioxidant serum, especially a vitamin C formula, is necessary for healthy and happy skin. “Phloretin CF Gel is a vitamin C that should be used first thing in the morning,” says Dr. Doyle. “This helps reduce oxidative damage to the skin, which can contribute to acne.” While many vitamin C serums can potentially irritate sensitive, acneic skin, this one was developed to be effective yet still neutral enough to use daily. When applied as a topical, vitamin C speeds up cell turnover and boosts collagen production within the skin to reveal brighter, more even skin faster. Who It’s For: Those who have acne scarring, sensitive skin, or post-pimple discoloration will benefit the most from using this powerful vitamin C serum daily. Key Ingredients: Phloretin, vitamin C, ferulic acid｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Discoloration and scars Best for Acne Scars Renée Rouleau Fading Gel PHOTO: Renée Rouleau $43 at Reneerouleau.com Why We Love It: Acne, especially inflammatory acne in the form of cysts, causes trauma to the skin, even after the blemish has disappeared. Kicking these leftover scars to the curb quickly was the hope behind this treatment gel from celebrity aesthetician Renée Rouleau. The formula uses a blend of exfoliating acids (lactic and glycolic) to fade discoloration, along with green and white teas to soothe and reduce inflammation, resulting in faster skin recovery. Who It’s For: Cysts can leave behind dark spots that take weeks or months to clear up. This formula will benefit those looking to speed up the process. That being said, it only comes in half-ounce bottles and should, therefore, be used sparingly. Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, green tea extract｜Size: 0.5 oz｜Best for: Acne scars Best Retinol Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% PHOTO: Target $15 at Amazon $18 at Ulta $20 at Riteaid.com Why We Love It: This FDA-approved retinol was formerly only accessible by prescription, but as of 2016, it’s been available at the drugstore, making it easier than ever to clear up skin. The potent vitamin A derivative fights acne from multiple angles. It sweeps out clogged pores to prevent breakouts, reduces the inflammation that worsens blemishes and stimulates cellular turnover to smooth out uneven texture and brighten up any dark spots left behind. Who It’s For: The affordable price tag makes this great for anyone on a tight budget, but it is quite strong and effective (like any retinoid) and should be used sparingly at first on sensitive skin. Key Ingredients: Adapalene｜Size: 0.5 oz｜Best for: Decongesting pores and improving skin texture and tone Best for Oily Acne-Prone Skin Paula’s Choice Niacinamide Booster PHOTO: Paula's Choice $49 at Amazon $49 at Sephora $46 at Dermstore Why We Love It: The concentrated formula in Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster features niacinamide (obvs), an oil-controlling and anti-inflammatory ingredient to help balance skin. There’s also color-correcting licorice extract and vitamin C to maintain clarity, all within one lightweight serum that’ll mix beautifully into any of your go-to products. “I find the easier the skin care routine is, the more likely a patient will comply with the routine,” adds Dr. Hartman, who notes that 10 percent of niacinamide is on the higher side and may cause irritation. Who It’s For: When you’ve got oily skin and looking to take your skin care regimen to the next level, try a booster like this favorite of Dr. Hartman’s. “You can mix a few drops with your favorite moisturizer or night cream to get the benefits of niacinamide without adding an extra step into your routine,” he says. Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, licorice extract, vitamin C｜Size: 0.67 oz｜Best for: Oil-control, skin brightening and minimizing pores Best Hydrating Eminence Organic Skin Care Acne Advanced Clarifying Hydrator PHOTO: Dermstore $69 at Dermstore $67 at Ecosmetics.com View on Myshopify.com Why We Love It: If your skin is so oily and feels suffocated by moisturizers, this hydrating, aloe-rich serum may be your dream formula. It mattifies greasy-looking (and feeling) skin while offering clarifying benefits, courtesy of salicylic acid and niacinamide, leaving it soft and touchable. Bonus: It layers well under makeup. This option is a certified organic acne serum, which is a rare distinction, and it’s got a heavy dose of hardworking plant extracts that you’d expect from a clean product. Who It’s For: This clarifying serum is ideal for oily skin types because it feels lightweight and mattifying. The only downside is the potent formula has an equally potent smell that not everyone will enjoy. Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, niacinamide, aloe vera｜Size: 1.2 oz｜Best for: Reducing oiliness and clearing breakouts Best Drugstore CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum PHOTO: Ulta $22 $16 at Amazon $22 at Ulta $19 $16 at Target Why We Love It: CeraVe is one of the most dermatologist-recommended brands around, and its affordable price point is just the icing on the cake. With a blend of encapsulated retinol, a form that more slowly dissolves into skin for enhanced penetration (and thus, efficacy), skin barrier-strengthening ceramides to strengthen, and brightening licorice extract, this serum is a true multitasker in the fight against acne (and the spots acne leaves in its wake). Who It’s For: This is a great option for anyone who prefers to rely on the tried-and-true. Just be warned that although time-released retinol is gentler than other forms of the ingredient, it may still be too strong for sensitive skin. Key Ingredients: Retinol, ceramides, licorice root extract｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Skin clarity and discoloration Best Exfoliating Glow Recipe BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum PHOTO: Sephora $42 $40 at Amazon $42 at Sephora View on Glowrecipe.com Why We Love It: This BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum blend “will help clear up acne that you have currently as well as smooth out the skin,” says Dr. Hartman. The formula includes hyaluronic acid for a little hydration boost and strawberry extract to naturally exfoliate skin. However, it can take some time to fully absorb into the skin and leave a slightly tacky finish that may not sit well under makeup. For that reason, we suggest incorporating it into your nighttime routine. Who It’s For: “This Glow Recipe serum is a nice choice for people with acne scarring and ongoing acne,” says Dr. Hartman of the brand's bestselling AHA/BHA blend. Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, mandelic acid, hyaluronic acid｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Retexturizing, brightening, hydrating Best for Sensitive Skin Sunday Riley U.F.O. Acne Treatment Face Oil PHOTO: Amazon $40 at Amazon $40 at Nordstrom $80 at Ulta Why We Love It: This fast-absorbing oil from Sunday Riley features salicylic acid, along with tea tree and black cumin oils, to clear existing breakouts and protect against future ones while dissolving congestion-causing sebum within pores. We'd sacrifice a little comfort for an acne-fighting product as miraculous as this one, but we don't have to because its silky texture feels lovely on the skin, doesn't add grease, and can be worn both day and night. Who It’s For: Looking for a way to avoid breakouts in the future but have sensitive skin? This will help keep acne at bay without causing redness or irritation. The addition of black cumin does give it a potent scent, which some users say is not unlike tacos (not the worst thing, depending on your mindset). Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, tea tree oil, black cumin seed oil｜Size: 1.18 oz｜Best for: Clearing acne, blackheads, and blemishes, and reducing the size of pores Best for Redness The Inkey List SuperSolutions 10% Azelaic Serum Redness Relief Solution PHOTO: Sephora $18 at Amazon $18 at Sephora $18 at Kohls.com Why We Love It: Azelaic acid is pretty unique; it’s neither an AHA nor a BHA, but rather, an exfoliant derived from yeast. It can treat a variety of tough skin concerns, including acne, while being totally safe for both new and expecting moms to use. Because of its soothing properties, prescription-strength iterations of azelaic acid are used to treat inflammatory acne and its associated redness, usually at a 15 percent concentration, but this over-the-counter formula features a whopping 10 percent. The heavy dose has enabled some to replace their Rx formula altogether in favor of this wallet-friendly pick from The Inkey List. Who It’s For: Someone who has tried AHA and BHA products to no avail and is looking for alternatives to treat their redness and rosacea will appreciate this pick. Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, allantoin, glycerin｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Congestion and redness Best for Dark Spots Hero Cosmetics Lightning Wand Clearing blackheads and improving uneven texture and redness $20 at Amazon $20 at Ulta View on Herocosmetics.us Why We Love It: Tranexamic acid is an ingredient frequently prescribed by doctors to help mitigate melasma; you’ll find it in this portable serum pen alongside fellow brighteners, vitamin C, and licorice root extract. The serum is applied via a soothing, cooling rollerball that dispenses a small but mighty dose of the spot-fading treatment directly on top of the offending spot you want to neutralize. Pro-tip for pen use: Try pressing the rollerball down hard on a flat surface while squeezing the button. Who It’s For: This is a travel-friendly dark spot neutralizer that works relatively quickly, so great for folks looking for a fast fix on the go. Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, vitamin C, licorice root extract｜Size: 0.34 oz｜Best for: Post-pimple discoloration Best for Inflammation Versed Clarifying Serum PHOTO: Versed $23 at Amazon Why We Love It: Both sustainable and buzzy, Versed products prioritize naturally derived ingredients to treat skin concerns. Just Breathe features willow bark, a plant-based salicylic acid alternative, to flush pores of congestion and keep them clear, as well as zinc and niacinamide to control oil and soothe stressed out skin. We love the minimalist packaging (it looks great in a shelfie) and that it only takes a few drops to get results. Just remember that if you apply too much, the serum won’t absorb and will leave a sticky finish behind. Who It’s For: This is your pick if you value natural and plant-based products and want to clear out and minimize pores. Key Ingredients: Willow bark, zinc, niacinamide｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Clarifying skin, soothing inflammation and calming redness Best for Blackheads StriVectin Multi-Action Super Shrink Pore Minimizing Serum PHOTO: Ulta $72 $51 at Amazon $72 at Ulta $72 at Target Why We Love It: Instead of using traditional salicylic acid, this formula harnesses a new-to-us iteration—betaine salicylate—which is derived from sugar beets to clear acneic skin and purge pores of grime. The addition of enzymatic exfoliants helps improve the appearance of rough skin texture, while red clover extract tightens enlarged pores for a refined, smoother-looking complexion. Many cite the velvety smooth texture as an added bonus (it feels like a slick primer). However, if the debris within your pores isn't budging after a week, you may need to level up your intervention with a stronger blackhead-fighting skin care product. Who It’s For: This is a semi-gentle product with more natural alternatives. Your skin concerns might include rough skin texture and enlarged pores. Key Ingredients: BHA, enzymes, red clover extract｜Size: 1 oz｜Best for: Clearing blackheads, shrinking enlarged pores and mattifying greasy-looking skin Best Overnight Malin+Goetz Nighttime Acne Treatment PHOTO: Malin+Goetz $26 at Amazon $26 at Nordstrom View on Malinandgoetz.com Why We Love It: This is the brand’s top-selling skin care product for a reason: it deflates painful, bulbous pimples overnight using sulfur, salicylic acid, and zinc, plus a dose of calming camphor tree extract for good measure (the ingredient, we believe, is behind its less-than-pleasant medicinal smell). A tiny amount goes a long way towards calming down swollen blemishes while you sleep; just dab it directly onto the offending area after nighttime cleansing. This formula also helps inhibit the formation of post-pimple hyperpigmentation, so once the zit itself is gone, you won’t have any lingering reminders of it. Who It’s For: This overnight formula is a dream if you’re looking for a quick and effective fix. It even deters dark spots from appearing right after a painful pimple. Key Ingredients: Sulfur, salicylic acid, zinc｜Size: 0.5 oz｜Best for: Clearing blackheads and improving uneven texture and redness Salicylic acid, niacinamide, aloe vera｜ Acne Type: The most recognizable blemishes are visibly congested pores, known as whiteheads and blackheads. They form when sebum blocks the pore, inhibiting its ability to flow through smoothly. Another type of blemish is called a papule, which looks like skin-colored or red bumps. “The cause is a blocked pore, but they occur when the pore is stretched too thin and ruptures, spreading dirt, oil, and debris into the surrounding skin,” explains Dr. Hartman. Pustules are another form of blemish caused by inflammation, but they look more intense. “These pimples develop when a collection of ‘pus’ or a thick and opaque, usually yellowish-white fluid matter forms in association with an acne lesion,” says Dr. Doyle. Then, there’s severe acne, both nodules and cysts. These blemishes lie deep under the skin, feel painful, and look like a hard bump. “Acne nodules are often caused by a surge in androgen hormones, as well as an overabundance of sebum production,” explains Dr. Hartman. “They often develop a ‘wall’ or lining around the dead skin cells, oil, and inflammation,” she says. “They can be recurrent given that they often refill with material over time.” Active Ingredients: One of the heaviest-hitting ingredient classes across the skin care spectrum is retinoids, vitamin A derivatives. Dr. Hartman says applying a retinol product is the most crucial step to add to your routine to promote skin health after sunscreen. “Retinols regulate cell turnover, promote effective exfoliation, prevent acne, even discoloration, control oil, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, unclog pores, and so much more.” Another common ingredient listed on the boxes of acne serums is salicylic acid, also known as a beta hydroxy acid or BHA, which can also be found in foundations for acne-prone skin. This exfoliating ingredient is oil-soluble, meaning it can go deep within the pore to break up the dead skin cells, causing congestion. Benzoyl peroxide is another key player in blemish serums. It’s “an anti-inflammatory that works to treat mild to moderate acne by killing the bacteria that causes acne,” explains Dr. Hartman. “It also helps to prevent acne by exfoliating the skin and can help minimize redness and the inflammation from cystic acne.” Noncomedogenic Formulas: Fun fact: “Comedo” is the technical term for blackheads, one of the most familiar forms of pore congestion. When a product is labeled as ‘noncomedogenic,’ it won’t clog pores. Considering a clogged pore is the foundation of a breakout, it’s always a good idea to look for formulas that are marketed as being noncomedogenic when aiming to treat acne. However, there is no standard for what makes a product noncomedogenic—it’s largely used as a marketing tool—so take that into consideration when shopping for an acne serum. A good rule of thumb, though, is to consider the texture of a serum when shopping. “You’ll want to avoid most oil-based serums as they can re-congest the pores,” warns Dr. Doyle. Your Questions, Answered What ingredients are best to fight acne? Retinoids are almost universally helpful in treating skin blemishes. Integrating products with other ingredients depends on the type of acne you want to address. Dr. Doyle recommends using salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide to treat papules and pustules, while Dr. Hartman suggests niacinamide for those suffering from inflammatory, reactive types of acne. Benzoyl peroxide can also be great for inflamed, angry acne. However, AHAs may be all you need if your acne isn't chronic or they appear as small whiteheads and blackheads. They’ll slough away the surface layer of skin which can block the pore, inhibiting the flow of oil, while offering the added bonus of drying out little pimples to push them to heal faster. Are serums good for acne? Serums are targeted treatments with high percentages of active ingredients so that they can be stellar solutions for acne—but not all serums are created equal, and what works for one person may not work for another. “Whether or not acne-prone skin benefits from a serum has more to do with the individual’s skin health,” says holistic plastic surgeon Shirley Madhère, M.D. If your acne is more severe and manifests as nodules or cysts, a serum bought over the counter may not work for you. “Often, a prescription paired with in-office treatments is needed to clear the skin,” says Dr. Hartman. If your blemishes aren’t responding to what you’ve bought from your favorite beauty retailer, book an appointment for a proper medical evaluation with a board-certified dermatologist. How often should you apply acne serums? The answer to this question depends on your skin and the formula you’ve chosen, as well as the season and your geographical climate. “Most people can tolerate using a serum to treat acne three to four times per week,” says Dr. Hartman, who recommends building up from a once- or twice-weekly application. If you have sensitive skin, remember that some ingredients, like acids and retinoids, can cause irritation, so don’t overdo it. Your physician can best advise you on application instructions according to your unique needs. Why Shop With Us Emily Orofino is a writer, editor, and consultant with over a decade of experience in the beauty industry. Beyond testing countless serums throughout her lifetime, she has worked with brands to bring new products to market, including products formulated to treat acne. The following experts spoke to Cheap Erlebnisweltfliegenfischen Jordan Outlet Glow Recipe BHA + AHA Salicylic Acid Serum at Amazon: Phloretin, vitamin C, ferulic acid｜.vitamin C serums.Dr. Shirley Madhère, M.D. is a holistic plastic surgeon. Read more: Beauty Skin