Top 10 Serums For Acne

WHAT IT DOES
There aren’t many serums out there for oily, acne-prone skin that also target fine lines and wrinkles. That’s why Clinique’s Acne Solutions Acne + Line Correcting Serum is a truly special product. It was formulated to clear acne without drying out the skin, as well as to diminish the appearance of signs of aging. 

FORMULA FACT
The ingredient list behind this serum is free of fragrances, oils, denatured alcohol, synthetic colors, phthalates, and parabens. However, it does include salicylic acid, which is an exfoliating supplement frequently used in skincare products to treat acne and psoriasis. 

WHAT IT DOES
Speaking of salicylic acid, that’s one of the key ingredients behind Peace Out’s Acne Treatment Serum, in addition to vitamin C and niacinamide. Ideal for those prone to frequent breakouts, this gentle serum can also be used to treat enlarged pores, blemishes, and oiliness.

WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
This gel moisturizer absorbs quickly, so you can comfortably apply it at any time of the day. However, keep in mind that salicylic acid can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun (so if you plan on using it in the morning, we suggest generously applying sunscreen afterward). 

WHAT IT DOES
Simply put, iS Clinical's Active Serum is made to help you achieve the clearest complexion possible. Through a combination of herbal supplements (such as willow and mushroom extracts) and salicylic acid, this serum for acne-prone skin helps reduce evidence of free radical damage and hyperpigmentation. Bonus: The addition of menthol causes a refreshing, tingly sensation. 

USER REVIEW
“Feels like a dream to put on. The tingling sensation is something I really look forward to. It really brightens the skin, and with continued use, you can see major improvements in a matter of weeks. iS Clinical is a hit in my household!”

WHAT IT DOES
Blemishes, be gone! Cleanance Concentrate Blemish Control Serum was made for those with oily, acne-prone skin. Just apply it twice daily after washing your face for a flaw-free, matte finish.

FORMULA FACT
This serum has a non-comedogenic formula that was developed to minimize the risk of allergic reactions. The three main ingredients that make up this product are comedoclastin (a skin-soothing extract derived from milk thistle), silica (which helps absorb excess oil), and Avène’s hydrating thermal spring water.

WHAT IT DOES
An acne-busting serum that’s affordable and effective? Sign us up. Mario Badescu’s Anti Acne Serum features a blend of botanicals and salicylic acid that make it gentle enough for daily use, but it's still effective at cleansing your pores and exfoliating away dead skin cells.

USER REVIEW
This might be one of the best serums for hormonal acne according to reviewers. Here’s what one user had to say: “I had unbearable acne, and RX pills were not working for my cystic and hormonal acne. I stopped the pills and tried a new regimen, starting with MB Drying lotion. This worked well for my flare-ups, but I needed to prevent the 'underground' acne, which led me to the Anti Acne Serum. I no longer suffer from acne! My small pimples and cystic/hormonal acne have been eradicated. You only need to use a small amount at bedtime, and for such a little bottle, it lasts a long time.”

WHAT IT DOES
La Roche Posay’s Acne Treatment Face Serum was made for those who are prone to breakouts. In addition to reducing the appearance of blemishes and acne scars, it works overtime to prevent flare-ups before they even happen. And apparently, it’s crushing it: in a clinical trial, participants saw a 45% reduction in pimples after four weeks of use.

HOW TO USE IT
First, cleanse your face. Then, give the bottle a gentle shake before using the dropper to distribute the serum onto your fingertips. Apply the serum to your face (avoid getting too close to your eyes) once a day at first, then increase to two or three applications per day if needed.

FORMULA FACT
Dioic acid is the primary active ingredient behind SkinCeuticals’ Blemish + Age Defense serum for acne-prone skin. Commonly used in skincare products that target blemishes and acne, dioic acid is an organic compound that reduces the skin’s sebum production—which means you can kiss clogged pores goodbye.

WHO IT’S BEST FOR
Because this product is oil-free, it’s a great option for those with oily or combination skin. Bonus: It also works to diminish the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles, so those with maturing skin should see good results from it as well.

FORMULA FACT
Some acne-busting products work by drying out the skin—Bye Bye Breakout is not one of those products. That’s because this lightweight serum contains postbiotic ferment, a nutrient-rich byproduct of probiotics that helps the complexion remain cool, calm, and clear. 

WHO IT’S BEST FOR
The Bye Bye Breakout serum is best for those with acne-prone skin who are battling scars and blemishes. And because it’s non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, it’s also one of the best acne serums for sensitive skin.

WHAT IT DOES
Most of us have experienced the pain that can come from cystic acne. If you’re looking for respite, Murad’s Deep Relief Acne Treatment serum is here to give you just that. With 2% salicylic acid (the highest amount you can get in non-prescription skincare) and an amino acid blend behind it, this product is truly one of the best serums around for acne-prone skin. 

USER REVIEW
Out of the nearly 400 5-star reviews for this product, this one felt like it was worth sharing: “I finally found something that helps my cystic acne! I have been seeing dermatologists for years and have tried plenty of prescriptions, but no topical treatment works better for my cystic acne than this.”

FORMULA FACT
You might recognize this product from TikTok, where The Ordinary’s collection of skincare serums was making the rounds. This particular product is a water-based, mineral-rich serum for oily skin, but acne-prone individuals can benefit from it as well because it contains 1% zinc (which is known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and skin-healing properties).

WHAT ELSE TO KNOW
This best-selling acne serum is also great for sensitive skin because it’s completely free of fragrances, alcohol, gluten, nuts, oil, silicone, parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and other potentially harmful additions.