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The 15 Best Acne Products Recommended by Dermatologists, Experts and PureWow Editors

Say good riddance to pimples with products from the people who experience it every day.

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best acne products: collage of some of the best acne products, like clearstem skincare, solwave wand, mighty patch, dr. dennis gross and malin and goetz
Dasha Burobina for PureWow

Ah, acne. It’s a right-of-passage for many during adolescence and an absolute pain in our butts as adults. It comes in all sizes with many names, from pimples and blemishes to zits and cysts, but no matter what name we give it, it doesn’t make it any less tiresome to deal with. And it’s not just us. More adults are reportedly experiencing breakouts than ever (but more on that later), so we spoke to two experts, a licensed clinical aesthetician and a dermatologist, to answer our most pressing acne questions. We also curated a heavily vetted list of the best acne products, from Clearstem’s Clearity blackhead dissolver serum to an oxygenating detox face from Malin+Goetz that doubles as a cleanser.

The Best Acne Products at a Glance

Meet the Experts

What Is Acne-Prone Skin?

If you tend to get a pimple on the regular, chances are you have acne-prone skin. In a nutshell, “it’s skin that is sensitive to frequent breakouts,” says Dr. Racanelli. “Acne begins when the upper portion of the hair follicle becomes clogged by dead skin cells and worsens with excess oil production and bacterial growth.” When this happens, the sebum becomes trapped, causing inflammation—or that annoying pimple you’ve been itching to pick at. (Don’t!)

What Causes Acne-Prone Skin?

The cause of the frequent blockages could be due to a myriad of factors, according to both Gronich and Dr. Racanelli. Genetics, hormones, extra keratin production, stress, your environment, makeup, hair products, medications and your diet can all play a role in causing your next blemish. Whether you choose to avoid inflammatory foods or purge your makeup products of anything that has pore-clogging ingredients, most of these catalysts can be managed once you identify what they are. “With acne prone skin, anything that inflames you will show up as acne,” notes Dr. Racanelli. “The goal is to find out what your unique inflammatory triggers are.” That being said, talk to your dermatologist to find the source of your blemishes and how best to treat them.

Does Acne-Prone Skin Ever Go Away?

“Usually, acne lessens with time but it's not something that goes away 100 percent for everyone. Many people break out well into their 40s and 50s, especially when hormones change from pregnancy, birth control shifts, menopause, etc.” says Gronich. Our skin is the biggest organ in our body and is constantly exposed, so it’s extremely susceptible to breakouts. Dr. Racanelli also reminds us that the skin constantly changes as we age, so that hormone androgen—which runs rampant in our teenage years—can come back at any time. The result? That annoying breakout that’s totally harshing your mellow.

How Often Should You Exfoliate Acne-Prone Skin?

According to our expert derm, you should exfoliate two to three times a week if you want to see those whiteheads and blackheads melt away. She’s not the only one to preach a consistent exfoliating regimen either. Regular and consistent exfoliation is a non-negotiable for Gronich as well. You’ll want to look for “products that contain AHAs such as glycolic acid and BHAs such as salicylic acids,” to exfoliate the top layer of the skin and directly address the buildup in your pores, according to Dr. Racanelli.

For sensitive skin, steer clear of acne products with irritating exfoliants like scrub brushes and beaded products. And there is such a thing as over-exfoliation. “Over-exfoliation can strip your skin of its natural oils which can further exacerbate the inflammation in your skin.” she adds. Noted, doc.

What Should I Look for in Acne Products?

Dr. Racanelli suggests to “look for moisturizers, sunscreens, and makeup that states that they are ‘oil-free’ or ‘non-comedogenic’ on their labels, as these are less likely to clog your pores.” For reference, the comedogenic scale determines whether ingredients have a likelihood to clog pores (on a scale of 0 to 5) based off the molecular size. Some common examples of ingredients with a four or five ranking and should be avoided by those with acne-prone skin are coconut oil, isopropyl palmitate and shea, to name a few. For a full list of ingredients to avoid, check out the extensive list on Clearstem’s site. When in doubt, try to “spot test each new acne product before using it everywhere as everyone’s skin responds differently,” says Dr. Racanelli.

Both experts recommend looking for acne products with AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, zinc, vitamin C and anti-inflammatory star players like green tea or turmeric.

How We Chose the Best Acne Products

We chose the best acne products based on a PureWow editor’s personal experience, PureWow editor reviews, expert recommendations and carefully appraised customer reviews.

After having used a number of acne-targeting product for over a decade, from Proactive and mall kiosk solutions (you know the ones that are made with skin-healing minerals from the Dead Sea) to—yes, even—Accutane, this editor has sourced products that she’s used consistently over the past few months and years that have kept her breakouts to a minimum. Both experts, Danielle Gronich and Dr. Jennifer Racanelli have shared their acne must-haves, too. Additionally, we considered every product’s ingredient list, formulation, effectiveness, and quality.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get that relief you’ve been looking for.

Standout Makeup Remover

1. Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Makeup Remover

Dermstore

  • Active Ingredients: Cucumis sativus (cucumber) fruit extract, glycerides
  • Skin Types: sensitive skin, intolerant skin, allergy-prone skin
  • Promising Review: “I've bought this product over and over again because it removes my makeup without stripping my skin or causing irritation or breakouts (which is something that tends to happen when I use oil cleansers). Also, it's fragrance-free and comes in a large 500ml bottle. Every so often, I'll drift away to try another micellar water, but I always come back to Bioderma.” – Megan, Bioderma reviewer

This is not your average makeup remover that’ll leave your skin feeling stripped, raw and irritated. Bioderma’s micellar water cleanses your skin of any impurities, whether that be from everyday pollutants or residual makeup, helping to clear out clogged pores and remove any oil buildup. And did we mention that it’s formulated with a cooling cucumber extract that will help soothe red, inflamed skin? That and it’s approved by Dr. Racanelli as an effective and gentle cleanser for acne-prone skin because it doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or ingredients often found in many popular makeup removers. To use, simply soak a cotton pad with the solution and swipe it over your face and eyes until clean.

Standout Clay Mask

2. KNOW Beauty Glacial Bay Clay Mask

amazon

  • Active Ingredients: Canadian colloidal clay, bentonite clay, lactic acid
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Why We Love It: fast results, reduces acne inflammation, improves skin texture
  • Promising Review: “This mask is truly a game-changer when it comes to removing impurities from your skin. I could feel it working from the moment I applied it, and when I washed it off, my skin felt incredibly clean and refreshed. But that's not all…after just a few uses, I noticed a significant improvement in the size of my pores. And if that weren't enough, this mask also restores radiance to your skin. I have dull, tired-looking skin, and I've been looking for a product that will give me a healthy glow. This mask did just that! After using it, my skin looked brighter and more youthful.” – Amazon reviewer

The High School Musical alum and 34-year-old actress Vanessa Hudgens knows a thing or two about acne. She’s been open about her struggle with adult acne in the media and mentioned that she’s found refuge in clay masks to fight blemishes and prevent breakouts.” As she explains, “Rather than sell you an entire product line, I wanted to make simple, effective, and elegant solutions that can slot seamlessly into your existing routine!” Her go-to mask pulls out oils and impurities without stripping the skin of moisture. After applying a thin layer to their face, many reviewers reported feeling a slight tingling effect, but no need to fret, as this is the active ingredients—bentonite clay, lactic acid and Canadian colloidal clay—at work. If you tend to experience inflammation or redness because of your acne, Hudgens thoughtfully added giant sea kelp and cucumber extract to calm any irritation.

Outstanding Blackhead Dissolver

3. Clearstem Clearity Serum

Clearstem

  • Active Ingredients: AHA mandelic acid, vitamin C, turmeric
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “I’ve struggled with terrible cystic acne for so many years, and it wasn’t until I started using Clearity AND learned about all the pore-clogging ingredients (that I was using at the time like coconut oil, jojoba oil and others) that my red bumps finally started going away…I’ll never be without this or any of their products! I use every single one almost every night I’ll forever be thankful I discovered ClearStem” – Madeline W., Clearstem reviewer

Meet our favorite multi-purpose vitamin C serum on the market created by Gronich: Clearstem’s Clearity. With the perfect trifecta of ingredients (AHA mandelic acid serum, vitamin C and turmeric), this blackhead dissolver penetrates skin and gently exfoliates your pores, ‘dissolving’ any excess oil, as Clearstem claims. In addition to unclogging pores, it also works to brighten skin, smooth texture and improve the appearance of acne scars, thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of the tumeric. Associate fashion commerce editor Stephanie Meraz swears by this serum to keep acne at bay. “As someone who’s recently dealt with a bout of adult acne flare-ups, I’ve had to reassess my skincare regimen, so when I started to consistently use Clearity, I began to experience fewer breakouts, even around my period when I normally get cystic acne. It feels refreshing when I apply it to my skin.” Gronich also notes that it doesn’t contain pore-cloggers in its formula, so it can be used on all skin types. For the blend to work properly, you’ll want to apply a thin layer over bare skin and let it sit for a minimum of ten minutes before following up with the rest of your skincare products.

  • Active Ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, lipo-hydroxy acid
  • Skin Types: oily skin, sensitive skin, combination skin, dry skin
  • Why We Love It: derm-approved,medicated formula, decreases excessive surface oil
  • Promising Review: “I am a licensed esthetician and I have been using this for years. I have very oily, acne-prone skin. It really helps to clear up any active blemishes and keep my pores clean! I haven’t noticed it dry my skin out, but again, my skin is extremely oily, so someone with combo or dry skin may notice some dryness, so for those folks I'd [recommend to] use it only once a day or every other day and use a gentle, hydrating cleanser in between. Definitely always follow this with a good toner and moisturizer, no matter your skin type!” – Alison, La Roche-Posay reviewer

Allow us to introduce you to the medicated cleanser that goes the extra mile for acne-prone skin. Recommended by Dr. Racanelli, this cleanser boasts 2% salicylic acid, a dermatologist-approved ingredient for those who have blemishes because it goes deep into the skin to treat the affected area. Unlike many gel cleansers on the market, this face wash doesn’t leave the skin feeling stripped of hydration and is ideal for oily skin, according to many reviewers, though most suggest you follow up with a moisturizer for good measure. The oil-free formula contains lipo-hydroxy acid, an exfoliating ingredient that can be used twice a day for oilier skin types to decrease excess sebum production. For those with combination or dry skin, we suggest consulting your dermatologist on the frequency of use, so as not to strip your face entirely from its healthy oil production.

Favorite Facial Device

5. Solawave Wand

Solawave

  • Standout Technologies: red-light therapy, galvanic current, therapeutic warmth
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “From the moment I became a cosmetologist, I have been super intrigued with skin care and finding new product that works for me to be able to share with friends, family, and clients. This happens to be my favorite LED light therapy! I feel like it [makes serums penetrate] better than the first wand and I felt like I could see the results quicker! The galvanic current and LED light are stronger, which is a plus for me! Some of my acne scars have diminished as well!” – Jacqueline A., Solawave reviewer

A device so nice we reviewed it twice. (No, seriously.) We can’t get enough of this relaxing red-light therapy treatment that helps kill bacteria that could be causing your breakouts. Massage your clean face with the wand using an upwards and outwards motion three times a week, letting the warm light depuff your skin and minimize acne inflammation as it glides over your skin. It has a 180-degree rotating head that makes it easy to maneuver along the curvatures of your face. Use it with the cooling aloe-vera-based activating Renew Complex Serum, or a serum of your choice, for a smooth glide. The wand uses a galvanic current to help your serums absorb into your skin more effectively than it would when applied with your hands. Whether you choose to store it in your medicine cabinet, throw it in your overnight bag or toss it in your purse to enjoy on a long car ride, the Solawave wand is incredibly compact, lightweight, and the most travel-friendly acne device on the market.

  • Active Ingredient: 100% medical-grade hydrocolloid
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “I've tried many acne patches, and these definitely work the best! Most effective on a ready-to-burst whitehead and will at least help degunk it. I’ve also found they work great on zits you’re tempted to pick at—they offer both a blurring effect and a barrier.” — Mel, Mighty Patch reviewer

For occasional breakouts or those annoying whiteheads that seem to sprout up overnight, try sticking a Mighty Patch over the spots. Each patch is made with 100% medical-grade hydrocolloid that absorbs the gunk inside your pimple in as little as six to eight hours. The pack features six of the best-selling original patches and six of the invisible+ patches that won’t budge and seamlessly blend into any skin tone without a hitch. If you have a habit of picking at your pimples, these patches are a PureWow editor favorite for preventing acne scarring, redness and infection.

For Acne Aftercare

7. CeraVe Acne Resurfacing Retinol Serum

ulta

  • Active Ingredient: retinol
  • Skin Types: sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “This [serum] was the greatest find. I already love CeraVe, as I have very sensitive skin (especially to fragrances) [and] this has honestly changed my face in a week. I have cystic acne and therefore [have] red, angry, and persistent post-acne marks. While they’re not completely gone (yet), this has made a drastic difference in not only the marks but the rest of my skin tone as well. I hope they never stop making this, it is amazing.” — Linds, CeraVe reviewer

OK, your pimple finally subsided, but you’re now having to deal with the annoying aftermath of it all. Enter: CeraVe’s resurfacing retinol serum. From scarring to red marks that make it look like the pimple never left ‘ya, this potent blend purportedly speeds up skin renewal to improve the texture and brightness. While retinol is known to be one of the best ingredients for acne-prone skin, it also has the tendency to cause irritation for some, which is why this serum was formulated with encapsulated retinol, which can be gentler on sensitive skin types. Basically, the vitamin A derivative is protected by a lipid so it’s able to sink into your skin without being in direct contact with the surface layers, so you’re less likely to experience its harsh drying effects. Soothing and brightening ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides and licorice root are added to balance things out, restore your skin’s texture, maintain its moisture barrier and improve its overall appearance. This everyday retinol serum is developed by dermatologists and happens to be Dr. Racanelli’s top pick for sensitive skin but be sure to follow the instructions. Some discomfort may occur for first-time retinol users, so Dr. Racanelli suggests using it sparingly (tk time a week to start) to allow your skin time to adjust.

For Gentle Exfoliation

8. First Aid BeautyFacial Radiance Pads

Dermstore

  • Active Ingredient: aloe, green tea
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “These pads got rid of all the tiny bumps on my forehead after just a few days of using them! I've always had issues with dry skin, but this has helped exfoliate my skin and clear up the few blemishes I struggled with. I started using this twice daily now and I've seen such a noticeable difference, but I would suggest only using one daily if your skin is sensitive.” — Tiff Jane, First Aid Beauty reviewer

Sometimes convenience is key when treating acne-prone skin. First Aid Beauty’s Facial Radiance Pads are quick and effective, according to hundreds of reviewers. Each jar contains 60 thin pads that are saturated in a blend of non-irritating botanical extracts like aloe, licorice root, lemon peel, cucumber and Indian gooseberry, which target inflammation and hyperpigmentation. And that’s not all. Each small-but-mighty-pad features green tea extract, a natural ingredient that is known to decrease oil production when used consistently. Oh, and it’s got the stamp of approval from our expert dermatologist, Dr. Racanelli. For best results, swipe one pad across your clean face and neck, morning and night before applying serums, moisturizer and sunscreen.

For Improved Texture

9. Clearstem Hydraglow Stem Cell Moisturizer

Clearstem

  • Active Ingredient: bakuchiol (a natural alternative to retinol), squalane
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “I’ve tried my fair share of moisturizers throughout the years, and there’s something special about this one. I’ve used this for months, and love how supple it makes my skin look. It’s even helped improve the appearance of my red acne scars that never seem to go away. The moisturizer has a whipped texture to it that just melts into my skin. The best part? I don’t have to use a lot to get quenched, hydrated skin, so I feel like I’m definitely getting my money’s worth.” – Stephanie Meraz, associate fashion commerce editor at PureWow

If you’re regularly using retinols and exfoliants to treat your acne, you’re going to need a stellar moisturizer to hydrate your skin and prevent your oil glands from overcompensating. We love the Hydraglow moisturizer because it boasts immediate topical benefits—like soft, plump and smooth-looking skin—and it has invisible advantages that continue to work after you wash it off. The brand claims that the formula can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines with consistent use. “I’ve been using this for over half a year and my skin’s texture and moisture level has improved drastically. I’ve received a lot of compliments from friends and family, and I can only assume it's because of this gem,” says Meraz, who uses the moisturizer morning and night. “And a little goes a long way here. I like to use a nickel-size amount since the creamy texture blends like butter into the entirety of my skin.” With a blend of plant stem cells, bakuchiol and squalane, you can think of this as an antioxidant-packed superfood for your skin.

Favorite Pore-Targeting Serum

10. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta® Pore Perfecting & Refining Serum

Dr. Dennis Gross

  • Active Ingredient: AHAs and BHAs
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “This product is GREAT! I am an older woman who has had problem skin most of my life, [and] as I got older my skin was dull, had enlarged pores and blemishes. This product has started to minimize my pores, refine the texture and decrease blemishes. I think that my continued use will result in a much younger looking skin. Love it.” — Null N., Dr. Dennis Gross reviewer

This cult-favorite skincare brand knows how to pack a mean punch against acne. We can’t go anywhere without our Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peels, but the real acne MVP is none other than the Alpha Beta watery serum. With AHAs, BHAs, farnesol, prickly pear and more, you can think of this as your secret weapon to achieving clear skin. If you’re looking to eliminate bacteria buildup and expunge the gunk from your pores, this serum is for you. The non-drying formula has even gone through Dr. Gross’s extensive clinical-graded trail, in which 81 percent of participants saw improvement in fine lines and wrinkles, no doubt due to adipic acid which binds to the skin to smooth and fill textured spots. The subjects also reported improvement in their pores after consistent use over a few days. While there’s no topical treatment on the market that will shrink your pores, we can, however, minimize the appearance of them temporarily, which is precisely what this serum does.

Standout Multi-Purpose Product

11. Peace Out Acne Serum

Ulta

  • Active Ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “I’ve tried a million different acne serums and I’m so happy to say this is one of the first I actually like. For one, it feels so smooth and soothing going on [my skin]. It layers beautifully over my vitamin C serum and under a moisturizer. It combines a lot of highly potent, powerhouse ingredients in a single formula which I also love. And of course, the best reason to love it—I’m breaking out a lot less since I introduced this into my routine! [My] pimples aren’t completely gone, but [there are] definitely way less of them!” — Rachel K., Peace Out reviewer

Sometimes less is more. Having multiple serums, exfoliants and creams may not be in your wheelhouse or price-range, and that’s more than OK. The TikTok viral Peace Out Acne Serum is a fast-acting treatment that boasts seven benefits in one pastel peach bottle. In a nutshell, it targets acne, decongests pores, soothes irritation, hydrates skin, improves texture, brightens dark spots and prevents new breakouts from forming. For a multi-purpose acne product, this lightweight serum has all the effective ingredients you want for the best care, from oil-targeting performers like zinc and 2% salicylic acid to brightening and replenishing key-players like vitamin C and niacinamide. The silicone- and fragrance-free serum has a thin, watery consistency to it, making it ideal for all skin types. For best results, apply one to two pumps on a dry, clean face and neck, morning and night, or before a pimple patch (the “dream team” combo, according to TikTok). Make sure to also lather on a moisturizer (or a SPF if it’s daytime) and you’re good to go.

For Cystic Acne

12. Dermalogica Deep Acne Liquid Patch

Ulta

  • Active Ingredients: 5% colloidal sulfur, niacinamide
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin

Listen up, people! Dermalogica’s latest launch claims to stop cystic acne in its tracks. Yeah, you heard right. Basically, it’s a liquid-to-patch spot treatment that forms a semi-permeable barrier that protects the infected area from absorbing more bacteria and environmental stressors all while cleaning out the pus. (Great news: Expecting mamas can use it throughout their pregnancy, too.) The concentrated spot treatment is sulfur-based and features 4% niacinamide to aid in the healing process over time, while preventing cystic acne from getting worse. Unlike traditional patches that are often confined to a small circumference, this one applies freely like a liquid, making it customizable to any sized breakout. When you feel a deep pimple coming on, use the needle-point applicator to control where the treatment is applied and use your finger to dab it into your skin until it’s completely invisible. Mark our words: This product is one to watch.

Outstanding Oxygenating Face Mask

13. Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask

amazon

  • Active Ingredients: squalane, vitamin C and E
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “I’ve used this for over five years and will continue to keep it a frontrunner in my lineup until it’s discontinued—though I hope that never happens. Although it a bit pricey, there’s something magical about the formula that makes it worth every penny. It’s such a fun face mask that oxygenates and bubbles up within seconds of applying it. By the end of the recommended five minutes, I look like a pie-faced Mrs. Doubtfire, but man-oh-man does it pay off. My skin is silky smooth, my blemishes are noticeably calmer and my spots clear up faster. I use it anytime my acne feels out of control, like when I’m menstruating or eating too much dairy, and it works like a charm. I also force everyone I know to try it at least once because it’s just so dang funny to watch in action.” — Stephanie Meraz, associate fashion commerce editor at PureWow

Looking for a fast-acting face mask? The Malin+Goetz Detox Face Mask is at the top of our beauty lineup always, especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. It applies as a thick gel and quickly oxygenates to a weightless foam by the end of the five minutes that can be easily wiped away with a washcloth. The majority of reviewers get a kick out of the foaming effect, noting how it feels like the gentle gel penetrates deep into the layers of the skin with each micro burst. After you wash off the foam, you may notice that your skin is feels silky smooth and bright. That’s because it’s made with vitamin C, squalane and almond oil, all of which brighten, moisturize and nourish dehydrated skin. According to dermatologists, the purifying mask is a no-brainer buy that goes beyond the confines of the face and neck. “This is my favorite all around, multi-purpose treatment,” says Dr. Angela Lamb. “It can function as a rejuvenating mask in the shower, a shaving cream or an add-on to help give you that wonderful glow from the vitamin C.” In fact, the co-founders of the brand, Matthew and Andrew, prefer to use it when shaving to soften the hair follicles and after a long flight to replenish dehydrated skin.

best acne products: Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 PA

Exceptional Non-Greasy Sunscreen

14. Kosas DreamBeam SPF 40 PA++++

  • Active Ingredients: zinc oxide, ceramides
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “Almost every SPF makes my skin breakout, so I was really hesitant to use DreamBeam. I've worn it every day for a week and I have no signs of a breakout! I even wore it this weekend at Coachella, and with all the dust and reapplying a few times a day, my skin still feels great. [It’s] definitely worth a try for people with very sensitive skin.” — Maxim, Kosas reviewer

Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, this broad-spectrum SPF 40 doesn’t just provide you with ample protection, it also improves your skin’s overall texture, thanks to the ceramides and peptides in it. ICYDK, ceramides live in the outer layers of your skin and play a crucial role in the skin’s renewal process, but they unfortunately diminish with age. In a study conducted by The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, it was found that ceramide-containing products and moisturizers (like this SPF) can complement acne therapies, as it restores dry, irritated skin (one of the main drivers of those annoying pimples). And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, this silicone-free sunscreen went absolutely viral on TikTok, garnering over 123 million views after Hailey Bieber was seen slathering her face in it. Naturally, we had to put it to the test, too, and we were surprised by the results. The creamy blend goes on with a peachy tint to balance out the natural white cast of the zinc-based SPF. We found it to be non-clogging, slightly blurring and an incredibly natural base for makeup.

best acne products: Avène Cicalfate Scar Gel

For Acne Scars

15. Avène Cicalfate Scar Gel

  • Active Ingredients: C+ - Restore, Avène thermal water, silicones, hyaluronic acid
  • Skin Types: acne-prone skin, combination skin, dry skin, mature skin, normal skin, oily skin, sensitive skin
  • Promising Review: “For about a month and a half to two months I been suffering with perioral dermatitis and it has been rough and taking over lower half of my face…I kept reading on Reddit about this product praising it, so finally I gave in. It’s been one day—I got it yesterday [and] used it that night and the pustules were all dried up [and] the redness was almost completely gone. I was flaking in the areas most affected quite a bit, but I will take it. I know the price tag is a bit intimidating but it’s worth every penny. Also make sure (before using) you shake it and/or roll the tub in between the palms of your hands a bit to combine the ingredient separation.” — Mar., Avene Amazon reviewer

When it comes to skincare, the French know a thing or two. When we chatted with our French expert and Yolaine Paris founder Camille Yolaine a few months back, she mentioned that Avène is a French makeup bag staple. The brand’s scar gel utilizes their famous thermal water, which calms damaged skin, as well as hyaluronic acid and “C+ - Restore,” the brand’s naturally derived ingredient that helps replenish the skin barrier with essential proteins. Now we know we should always buy silicone-free shampoos, but did you know that silicones have been proven to heal scars and wounds? Basically, silicones create a thick, protective barrier that allows the spot to heal and breath. Be careful not to use the gel on existing blemishes though, as this can trap oil or dirt in your pores. For best results, apply the gel sparingly only after your breakout has fully healed. Hot tip: Silicones are water repellent, so if you have acne- or oily-prone skin, make sure to double cleanse the following day to remove any residue.

3 Steps, 1 Major Result: StriVectin’s New Acne Control System Might Be Your Gateway to Clear Skin


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Why You Should Trust Us

Stephanie Meraz is PureWow’s Associate Fashion Commerce Editor. She graduated with a bachelor of arts at the University of San Diego, where she majored in English literature and creative writing, and completed Columbia University’s intensive publishing course. Stephanie is a natural savant when it comes to pushing the boundaries in fashion, beauty, and dating & relationships. She has over 22+ years of experience as an avid shopper, securing a Limited Too personal stylist at four years old. You can count on her to test out the latest hair trends, suggest shopping tips, and spill the tea on her juicy dating experiences. No topic is off limits—however personal or embarrassing.

PureWow is the best friend you never had when it comes to finding the best, most useful lifestyle products online. Founded in 2010, our company’s editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which ones are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series, which sees each and every item we test being ranked on a 100-point scale of awesomeness, to the painstakingly curated lists our fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family editors create as vertical experts, you can trust that our recommendations include some of the greatest items you’ll find on the internet. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.


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Associate Fashion Commerce Editor

Stephanie is a natural savant in the fashion, beauty, and dating & relationships beats. She graduated with a bachelor of arts at the University of San Diego, where she majored...