Best Skincare Products for Acne- Dermatologist Acne Product Reviews

Are you looking for the best skincare products for acne? I can help! In this article I review the acne products that I use to treat my acne patients and tell you why I choose them and how to know which ones are best for you and do not have comedogenic ingredients.

When I treat patients with acne, I know that managing breakouts is about more than just making pimples go away. Acne is a multifaceted skin concern that doesn’t exist in isolation. Most acne products only target active breakouts. But my acne patients often also need to treat the dark spots left behind, facial redness, dry skin, and signs of aging.

So before you buy any skincare products to treat your acne, it’s important to understand your specific skin needs. I recommend taking our scientific skin type quiz to determine which of the 16 Baumann Skin Types you are. This will provide insight into whether your skin tends to be oily, dry, sensitive, or prone to pigmentation. Knowing your skin type helps me curate a custom skincare routine with products that will be gentle yet effective.

Acne Spot Treatments

Do you have a pimple that you want to get rid of? I can help! Here is my advice on a few ways to treat pimples:

Instructions on popping pimples

How to heal acne scabs

If you do not have a pimple that is ready to pop, and you do not have a scab, using an acne treatment product can help. Look for anti-inflammatory ingredients like salicylic acid, sulfur, and caffeine to shrink pimples.

Here are the acne treatment products that I use in my patients:

Acne Cleansers

Acne cleansers should decrease acne causing bacteria, stabilize the microbiome, and lower the skin’s pH.

You can learn more about acne cleansers here.

For my oily skin patients I prefer salicylic acid cleansers:

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For my dry acne prone patients, I prefer alpha hydroxy acid cleanser:

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Moisturizers for Acne Prone Skin

Noncomedogenic Moisturizers for Oily Acne-prone Skin

These light noncomedogenic moisturizers are the ones I recommend for my oily skin patients with acne.

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Noncomedogenic Moisturizers for Dry Acne-prone Skin

For dry skin that needs a heavier moisturizer:

Retinol for Acne

Prescription acne medications like tretinoin (Retin A) turn into retinol in your skin. This means that retinol, although not as strong as prescription retinoids, can prevent and treat acne. I like to start my acne patients on a low strength retinol and slowly increase the strength to prevent retinoid dermatitis.

Learn how to use retinol for acne here.

These are the best retinols for beginners to treat acne:

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Benzoyl peroxide for Acne

Benzoyl peroxide (BP) is one of the strongest treatments for acne, but it prevents acne rather than treating acne you already have. (although it does help unclog pores). BP works by killing acne causing bacteria and is very effective at getting rid of acne.

Benzoyl Peroxide Cleansers

BP is irritating to dry skin types and many dry types cannot tolerate it- especially in leave on lotions and creams. Using BP in a cleanser is a good way for dry skin types to tolerate BP.

BP cleansers are also really good for back acne!

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Benzoyl Peroxide Lotions and Creams

BP comes in many prescription acne creams; some are even combined with retinoids. These should be used in your night skincare routine.

Here are some BP acne spot treatment products you can get without a prescription:

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Make sure you take the skin type quiz before using any of these strong benzoyl peroxide acne products because dry, sensitive skin types may not be able to tolerate them.

Best Noncomedogenic Sunscreens

For acne-prone skin, it’s crucial to choose an oil-free, noncomedogenic sunscreen that won’t clog pores and trigger breakouts. I recommend these dermatologist-approved sunscreens specifically formulated for acne-prone skin:

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 –

This lightweight mineral sunscreen contains lactic acid and niacinamide to calm breakouts and redness. It provides hydration with hyaluronic acid while protecting skin with transparent zinc oxide.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Oil Free SPF 60 Sunscreen –

With a high level mineral sun protection from titanium dioxide, this lotion sunscreen features perlite and silica to absorb excess oil while La Roche-Posay’s signature spring water soothes skin.

Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 36 –

Containing non-nano zinc oxide for safe sun protection, this tinted sunscreen moisturizes with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants without causing acne. Cucumber extract helps calm inflammation.

SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50 –

A weightless mineral sunscreen fluid with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, this product uses absorbing oils and redness-reducing artemia salina to protect acne-prone skin without clogging pores.

PCA Skin Weightless Protection Broad Spectrum SPF –

With ultra-fine zinc oxide, this hydrating sunscreen provides non-whitening UVA/UVB protection. Oat kernel extract helps calm acne flare-ups while sodium hyaluronate attracts moisture.

When shopping for noncomedogenic sunscreen to use with acne treatments, avoid coconut oil or mineral oil. Seek light lotions or gels that say noncomedogenic. Using SPF daily prevents acne scarring and further irritation from UV exposure.

These are noncomedogenic chemical sunscreens that are tinted. These are best for darker skin types of those with melasma who plan to be in the sun for over 30 minutes:

These are noncomedogenic chemical sunscreens that are untinted. These noncomedogenic sunscreens are best for men and light skin types who plan to be in the direct sun for more than 30 minutes:

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These are noncomedogenic physical (mineral) sunscreens that are tinted, These are best for dark skin types, and anyone with melasma who wants a noncomedogenic chemical free sunscreen.:

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These are noncomedogenic physical (mineral) sunscreens that are untinted. Best for light skin types and men who want to avoid chemicals:

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products for the microbiome

Acne Products that Stabilize the Microbiome

The skin microbiome, the community of microbes on the skin, plays an important role in acne. Two microbes implicated in acne are Cutibacterium acnes (formerly Propionibacterium acnes) and the fungus Malassezia.

C. acnes is a usual resident on healthy skin but can spur inflammation when overgrown in pores. Malassezia may worsen acne by increasing sebum production. An imbalance of the microbiome is involved in acne.

Recent studies using genetic sequencing show differences in the microbiome between acne-prone and normal skin:

In 2017, Dréno et al. found higher levels of Firmicutes/Proteobacteria and lower Actinobacteria in acne patients. Although C. acnes was <2% of bacteria overall, it was more abundant in acne lesions.(3) After treatment, Actinobacteria decreased, indicating microbiome changes.

In 2018, Kelhälä et al. showed acne severity positively correlated with C. acnes levels. Isotretinoin and antibiotics reduced acne grades and C. acnes counts while increasing microbial diversity.(4)

This research shows lowering C. acnes and promoting microbiome diversity improves acne. Directions include using prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics to favor beneficial bacteria. Gentle skin care normalizes the microbiome. Targeted antimicrobials like benzoyl peroxide can reduce C. acnes. An integrated approach modulating the microbiome is optimal for acne.

One product I recommend to help balance the skin microbiome is Revision DEJ Daily Boosting Serum. This serum contains ingredients like Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Saccharide Isomerate, and Bacillus Ferment (Post biotic) that help diversify and stabilize the microbiome for long-term skin health. These ingredients provide nutrients that support a diverse community of beneficial skin microbes. This helps protect the skin’s natural energy sources and reduces the overgrowth of any single potentially harmful species like C. acnes. By promoting microbiome balance and resilience, the DEJ Daily Boosting Serum helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while keeping complexion clear and healthy. Using products like this serum with probiotic benefits is an integral part of an integrated approach to manage acne by optimizing the skin microbiome.

In this video, I discuss the microbiome with Revisions; Dr. Alisar Zahr. She explains how prebiotics and probiotics can help with acne, skin aging and skin inflammation.

I recommend the Meder Circa Night Cream to my dry skin, menopausal patients with acne for several reasons. Soy is a standout ingredient, particularly beneficial for menopausal skin low in estrogen. It stimulates collagen production, addressing issues like skin laxity and wrinkles common during menopause. Metabiotic Ice-Awake® offers potential benefits for sleep-deprived skin. Probiotic Sirtalice® supports collagen production. The inclusion of shea butter and Panthenol (Vitamin B5) provides immediate comfort and soothes skin irritation, This is a good heavy noncomedogenic face cream for menopausal women with acne-prone skin who are on retinoids.

How Acne Products Work

I find that my patients have more success treating their acne when they understand how acne ingredients work to clear up blemishes.

Here’s an overview of the main acne-fighting agents in the most effective acne skincare products and how they work on acne:

Benzoyl peroxide: This antibacterial penetrates deep inside pores to kill acne-causing P. acnes bacteria, reducing inflammation. It also helps peel away pore-clogging dead skin cells through oxidation. Look for 2.5-10% concentrations.

Salicylic acid: This beta hydroxy acid acts as a chemical exfoliant, dissolving the gluelike substance inside pores that traps dead skin cells. It also has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness. Optimal levels are 0.5-2%.

Retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives like adapalene and tretinoin increase cell turnover to prevent dead cells from clogging pores while stimulating collagen. They require adjustment as they can initially cause dryness and peeling.

Azelaic acid: Derived from grains, azelaic acid kills acne bacteria while reducing inflammation and post-acne dark spots through blocking melanin production. It has a gentler side effect profile.

Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide helps regulate oil production while calming inflammation. It may also help shrink the appearance of enlarged pores with continued use.

Using acne products with these proven ingredients consistently is key to seeing clearer skin over 4-8 weeks as the acne healing cycle runs its course. Be patient, as treating acne takes time. My top tips: cleanse gently, treat with leave-on serums or gels containing key actives, hydrate skin to avoid dryness, and use spot treatments on emerging breakouts. Your dermatologist can also advise on whether adding oral medications may be of benefit.

More blogs to find the best acne products:

To shrink pores

To unclog pores

To treat cystic acid

Build an acne skincare routine

Dermatologist Tips For Managing Acne

In addition to finding the right acne-fighting skincare products, be sure to follow these dermatologist recommendations to help control and reduce breakouts:

Use non-comedogenic makeup and sunscreen: When applying face makeup and sunscreen, check that the product is labeled non-comedogenic or oil-free, meaning it won’t clog pores. Look for lightweight mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Avoid picking/popping pimples: As tempting as it is to pick at a breakout or an acne scab, this often worsens acne and can lead to scarring. Instead, use a targeted spot treatment and let the blemish heal on its own.

Watch dietary triggers: Foods linked to worsening acne include those with a high glycemic index like refined carbs, sugary foods/drinks, and dairy products. A diet higher in produce, lean proteins, and healthy fats may improve acne.

Reduce stress where possible: High stress levels raise cortisol, which can trigger excess oil production and inflammation. Stress management techniques like exercise, meditation, or speaking with a therapist can all help lower anxiety levels.

See a dermatologist for severe/persistent acne: If you’ve tried over-the-counter acne products for 8 weeks without improvement, make an appointment with a dermatologist. Prescription oral or topical medications often clear more stubborn cases of acne.

Shop Smarter for an Acne Skincare Routine

The bottom line I share with my acne patients is that with the right skincare routine of acne cleansers, acne-fighting leave-on treatments like retinol, non-comedogenic moisturizers and acne spot treatments, you can take control of stubborn breakouts for clearer, healthier looking skin. To learn more about building a custom acne skincare routine, click here.

Key steps are understanding your skin type, avoiding habits that worsen acne, and using products with proven anti-acne ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and retinoids.

Be consistent, as treating acne takes time and diligence. But you’ll start seeing results within 4-8 weeks in most cases.

Don’t waste any time- take the acne skincare routine quiz and get started on the right acne products for your skin type today.

DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek. “Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more. Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals. Sunscreen “We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.” Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup. Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand. Vitamin C Serum “A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging. Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants. Peptides Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.” Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively. This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek. At-Home Peel Pads Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate. “The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.” According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says. Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection. KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids. Emollient Night Cream “In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.” “Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products. Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid. RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme “The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.

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