If you’ve ever struggled with acne, you know how challenging it can be to get it under control. During our NewBeauty Award testing, we scouted out the best formulas for banishing pimples and helping keep skin clear. From pimple patches to cleansers, these are the products for acne-prone skin that really bring the results.
Best Spot-Treatment
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Multi-Target Acne Treatment with Salicylic Acid ($25)
Lots of products promise a “fast-acting” formula, but La Roche‑Posay’s Effaclar Duo+M Multi‑Target Acne Treatment actually delivers. It unclogs pores with 0.5-percent salicylic acid to eradicate blemishes, and also help prevent new ones.
Best Pimple Patches
Personal Day All Covered Salicylic Acid Brushed Blemish Patches ($19)
Designed to actively treat breakouts rather than just hide them, Personal Day All Covered Brushed Blemish Patches are infused with brushed‑on salicylic acid, come with two sizes and look virtually invisible on skin.
Best Face Pads for Acne-Prone Skin
Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pads ($24)
A K-beauty bestseller with thousands of five-star reviews, Mediheal Madecassoside Blemish Pads make a frustrating acne routine a little less stressful. The formula features three types of centella to soothe breakouts, reduce post-acne dark spots and strengthen the skin barrier.
Best Mask for Acne-Prone Skin
Sofie Pavitt Face Reset Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Mask ($44)
Created by celebrity aesthetician Sofie Pavitt for her acneic clients to use at home, Reset Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Treatment Mask kills and prevents acne-causing bacteria for a clearer complexion and fewer breakouts.
Best Cleanser for Acne-Prone Skin
CeraVe Acne Clay To Foam Cleanser ($18)
Powered by salicylic acid, ceramides and glycerin, CeraVe’s Acne Clay-to-Foam Cleanser can be used three ways: as an everyday cleanser, a mask or a spot-treatment. No matter which method suits you best, fewer breakouts, less shine and smaller-looking pores are in store.
Best Soothing Toner for Acne-Prone Skin
Face Reality Soothing Radiance Toner ($32)
Face Reality’s Soothing Radiance Toner calms sensitive, irritated, acne-prone skin while optimizing its natural luminosity, so you don’t have to choose between glowing skin and breakouts.
Best Serum for Acne-Prone Skin
Banu AHA + BHA Blemish Control & Exfoliating Serum ($50)
Gentle yet effective, Banu Skin AHA + BHA Blemish Control & Exfoliating Serum employs 2-percent salicylic acid to clear congestion, smooth texture and keep breakouts in check without overstripping.
Best Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin
Dr. Althea345 Relief Cream ($27)
A wildly popular K-beauty formula (you’ll realize why when you try it), Dr. Althea’s 345 Relief Cream was designed with sensitive, acne-prone skin in mind, ensuring it boosts hydration without contributing excess oils, clogging pores, or causing irritation.
