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Acne care is never one-size-fits-all — and we know that firsthand. While beauty editors often get early access to the latest skincare launches, clear skin is far from a given. Hormones, stress, lifestyle changes, and a host of other factors can all affect our complexions, but it’s this lived experience that makes us uniquely qualified to spotlight the products and treatments we’d reach for at every single stage of a breakout.
Introducing the Acne Awards 2026: our first-ever awards dedicated entirely to the moisturizers, cleansers, spot treatments, non-comedogenic (read: won’t clog pores) makeup, and more that are specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Whether you’re dealing with the occasional hormonal flare-up, excess oil, persistent blackheads, or stubborn cystic acne, these are the products we trust because we’ve used them ourselves, finished them to the last drop, and recommended them time and time again to friends, family, and now, to you.
Ahead, find the 30 award-winning acne solutions that have earned a permanent spot on our shelves.
Best Cleansers For Acne-Prone Skin
Reale Actives Pore Power Exfoliating LHA + BHA Gel Cleanser, $28
“I reviewed Alix Earle’s skincare line, Reale Actives, earlier this year, and this cleanser quickly emerged as my breakout favorite. It’s powered by lipohydroxy acid (aka LHA, a gentle surface-level exfoliant) and willow bark extract (a natural source of beta hydroxy acids, or BHAs), which work together to brighten skin and slough away dead cells without feeling harsh. The mild gel formula is kind enough on skin for daily use, but still leaves skin noticeably smoother and softer, especially when paired with a cleansing device like my Foreo Luna.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Cetaphil Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser, $12.99
“This isn’t just a great cleanser for the price — it’s a great cleanser, period. Cetaphil’s Gentle Exfoliating SA Cleanser has been my go-to morning face wash for the better part of a year, and I’m convinced it’s one of the main reasons my skin has stayed consistently clear. It’s powered by a trio of exfoliating acids — mandelic and salicylic, plus gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — that helps shed dead skin and keep acne-causing bacteria in check, but the formula still feels mild enough for daily use thanks to glycerin and mild, plant-derived surfactants that give it a light lather.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Medik8 Surface Radiance Cleanse, $28
“A top London dermatologist introduced me to this gentle exfoliating cleanser — a gel that lightly foams on contact with water — and I’ve never looked back. My skin is at its best when I use it as part of my evening routine: clearer, smoother, and much more even-toned. It combines alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including mandelic and lactic acids, to chip away at dead skin cells on the skin’s surface and boost radiance, with beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid, which work deeper within the pores to break down the buildup of oil, dead skin, and dirt that can lead to breakouts. Despite its exfoliating power, it never leaves my skin feeling stripped, tight, or uncomfortable, thanks to hydrating glycerin. My acne skincare routine isn’t complete without it.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Best Toners For Acne-Prone Skin
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Exfoliating Toner, $37
“I’ve been using this exfoliating toner for years and have recommended it to countless friends and family members, especially those dealing with under-the-skin bumps, rough texture, and blackheads — it’s excellent at clearing them up. That’s largely down to its 2% salicylic acid content, which dermatologists consider the optimal concentration for deeper exfoliation. Even so, salicylic acid is relatively gentle, so my skin never feels sensitive or sore after use. After cleansing, I pour a few drops into clean hands and pat it directly onto my skin, though you could just as easily apply it with a cotton pad. I always follow with moisturizer to maximize the skin-smoothing benefits. One bottle lasts me for months, making it well worth the money.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Medicube Zero Pore Pads, $21
“Out of all the Medicube products our beauty director tested earlier this year, the brand’s Zero Pore Pad 2.0 emerged as one of her favorites. The jar comes with tweezers for easy pickup — a surprisingly handy detail if you have long nails — and each pad is soaked in 4.5% lactic acid and 0.45% salicylic acid to gently exfoliate, smooth texture, and help clear pores. One side is smooth, while the other offers a bit of physical exfoliation for extra polish. Despite the acid blend, the formula didn’t irritate her reactive skin. After three weeks of nightly use, her complexion looked noticeably clearer, smoother, and glowier.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner, $14
“The Ordinary simply doesn’t miss, and it was love at first swipe with the Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner. True to its name, the formula has a fluid, milky texture that makes it the perfect in-between step after cleansing and before serum. It floods skin with fermented NAG (a non-acidic exfoliant derived from yeast fermentation, which also appears in the brand’s Aloe 2% + NAG 2% Solution) alongside hydrating squalane, helping to smooth and brighten without irritation. Best of all, it’s gentle enough to use up to twice a day — and I have the glowier, softer skin to show for it.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Best Serums For Acne-Prone Skin
Skinbetter AlphaRet Clearing Serum, $145
“What do you get when you combine a retinoid with alpha and beta hydroxy acids? No, it’s not the setup to an extremely niche skincare joke — it’s Skinbetter’s new Clearing Serum. I’m a firm believer that some of the best acne products don’t make you choose between treating breakouts and taking care of your skin barrier, and this one is proof. The acne-targeted treatment is loaded with a laundry list of actives, including salicylic and lactic acids, niacinamide, and zinc PCA, alongside Skinbetter’s signature AlphaRet complex — a blend of an alpha hydroxy acid and a retinoid — to clear active breakouts, help prevent future ones, and keep excess oil at bay. I use it after cleansing as part of my nighttime routine (and never skip sunscreen the next morning), since retinoids can make skin more sensitive to UV exposure.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%, $9.20
“This is another product that was recommended to me by a dermatologist when I sought treatment for hormonal acne around six years ago, and I still use and recommend it regularly. High concentrations of glycolic acid are often too harsh for my skin, but lactic acid — another exfoliating alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) — is an excellent alternative. It offers many of the same benefits, helping to unclog pores, smooth rough texture, and boost hydration, without causing the sensitivity that stronger AHAs can. I was advised to use it in the evening after cleansing and before a simple, fragrance-free moisturizer, alternating it with a retinoid on different nights. It never leaves my skin feeling dry, and I personally opt for the 10% concentration, though beginners may be better suited to the 5% version. I still can’t get over the price of this bottle, especially considering it outperforms many of the exfoliating serums I’ve tried from luxury brands that cost several times as much.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Anua Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Redness Soothing Serum, $24
“For years, I was told that enduring the dreaded “retinol purge” was the price of achieving clear skin. But with sensitive skin, I’ve never been able to tolerate that frustrating adjustment period. Luckily, I discovered Anua’s Azelaic Acid 10 Hyaluron Serum, and the results have been just as impressive, without the irritation. The lightweight formula combines brightening ingredients with skin-supporting hydrators to help fade post-breakout marks while keeping my skin calm and moisturized. So how does it work? Azelaic acid helps reduce excess pigment production that can lead to lingering dark spots and redness after a spot heals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great option for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
That skin-saving ingredient is paired with not one but three types of hyaluronic acid, helping keep skin hydrated throughout the day. Not to mention, soothing aloe leaf juice and blue tansy oil also work together in this serum to calm and comfort skin. If you’re like me and looking to fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation without further aggravating your skin, this gentle yet effective serum is well worth adding to your routine.” — Alexis Bennett Parker, director of shopping partnerships
Best Moisturizers For Acne-Prone Skin
Laneige Balance Mode Shine Control Weightless Moisturizer, $28
“Laneige may be best known for its wildly popular lip products, but don’t forget: the brand got its start as an OG player in K-beauty. Case in point: the new Balance Mode range, which was formulated with oily skin in mind. Our pick of the bunch is the Shine Control Weightless Moisturizer, and the name really says it all. It’s formulated with a “rice-inamide” complex — you guessed it: rice extract plus niacinamide — to help absorb excess oil and balance sebum, alongside squalane and glycerin for round-the-clock hydration. The result is a lightweight yet hardworking moisturizer that feels like a tall glass of water for skin.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
No7 Derm Solutions Daily Lightweight Moisturizer, $27.99
“If you have sensitive or redness-prone skin, No7’s Derm Solutions Daily Lightweight Moisturizer is just what the doctor ordered. What makes it stand out — aside from the way it quenches my dehydrated skin and leaves it feeling soft, supple, and bouncy — is its barrier-supporting blend of ceramides, niacinamide, and adaptogens. Together, they help soothe skin, strengthen the moisture barrier, and dial down irritation.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
INNBeauty Project Recharge Gel Cream, $48
“I personally can’t get enough of INNBeauty Project, but for acne-prone girlies, the brand really did its big one with Recharge. When I first reviewed it last year, I called it the perfect transitional moisturizer because, despite its lightweight gel-cream texture, it delivers serious hydration. I notice the difference most in the micro-texture on my forehead and cheeks, which for me has more to do with dehydration than aging. (Yes, oily skin can absolutely be dehydrated.) The formula itself is also impressively high-tech: Synthetic peptides hexapeptide-9 and acetyl hexapeptide-8 and -9 help plump and hydrate, while orchid stem cells give skin a temporarily smoother, more radiant, plumper look.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Best Masks For Acne-Prone Skin
The Outset Purifying Blue Clay Mask, $46
“The Outset’s Purifying Blue Clay Mask is not your traditional, tight-and-drying clay situation — and that’s exactly why it’s earned a spot in my rotation. Powered by mineral-rich blue clay to help draw out sebum and visibly refine pores, it also includes a touch of salicylic acid to keep shine at arm’s length, plus soothing botanicals to help counterbalance any potential dryness. The formula feels creamy rather than chalky, so it spreads easily across the skin and never leaves that uncomfortable, stripped feeling clay masks are known for. Instead, skin looks calmer, clearer, and more balanced after rinsing — like a reset button for my most congested days.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque, $13.80
“When my skin looks and feels exceptionally oily, typically just before and during my period, I turn to this mask. It uses kaolin clay to mop up excess sebum, while 2% salicylic acid — the optimal concentration for gentle yet effective exfoliation — works to break down the paste-like combination of dead skin and oil that forms clogged pores and blackheads. I concentrate the application on my T-zone, my oiliest areas, and I’m always so impressed by how fresh and cleansed my skin feels afterwards. The best results come with consistent use, around twice a week. Blackheads don’t stand a chance. Seriously, ditch your peel-off masks!” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment, $85
“I get excited whenever I write about this face mask because it’s just so brilliant — the best I’ve ever tried in 10 years of working in beauty. Whenever my skin feels bumpy and clogged, or the blackheads on my nose are having a field day, I reach for this. It takes just two minutes to work, and that’s because it’s packed with active ingredients, namely exfoliating lactic and salicylic acids, which chomp away at the outer layer of dead skin, leaving skin brighter and smoother almost instantly. It also contains gritty exfoliating particles, but don’t let that put you off; I love a little gentle physical exfoliation now and again, and I’m convinced it soups up the benefits of the acids. It’s my best-kept secret for better skin — until now, that is. Just be sure not to leave it on past the two-minute mark, as it’s a highly intensive treatment. Better than any exfoliating facial I’ve had, hands down.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Best Spot Treatments For Acne-Prone Skin
La Roche-Posay Effaclar BPO Multi-Target Acne Treatment, $24.99
“La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Duo is an OG for a reason — but instead of coasting on the success of a bestseller, the brand went ahead and made it even better. Effaclar BPO still harnesses 5.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide to treat active breakouts and blackheads, but the updated formula also includes glycerin and anti-inflammatory willow herb to help offset the dryness that often comes with acne treatments. The result is a pimple-fighting staple that feels a little more balanced on skin without sacrificing efficacy.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
The INKEY List Succinic Acid Acne Treatment, $14
“Leave it to The Inkey List to make succinic acid part of our acne lexicon. The hero ingredient in this spot treatment acts as a gentler alternative to pore-unclogging salicylic acid, while also offering antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits and helping regulate excess oil. Whenever I dab it onto even the angriest cystic spots, I find they calm down within a day or so — without leaving the surrounding skin dry or irritated.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Caudalie Vinopure Targeted Spot Solution, $25
“Caudalie is so slept on when it comes to acne care — but no more! Alongside the Vinopure Cleanser, this spot treatment is a favorite of mine for the way it deflates large pimples in a couple of hours, no squeezing required. Exfoliating salicylic acid, bacteria-busting tea tree, and oil-reducing niacinamide form the ultimate trifecta when it comes to minimizing the appearance of breakouts. I find that just a light dab, gently massaged into the affected area, is enough to bring down spots noticeably. I keep one of these tiny but mighty tubes in every wash bag.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Best Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin
Sofie Pavitt Face Screentime Non-Comedogenic Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 30, $38
“Sofie Pavitt Face’s Screentime sunscreen left us seriously impressed when we first tested it — and it’s been on repeat ever since. It offers broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) SPF 30 protection, but the formula goes well beyond sun defense. It’s powered by ectoin (an amino acid derivative that helps hydrate and support the skin barrier), niacinamide to help calm inflammation and regulate excess oil, and vitamin E to nourish and soothe. In other words, Screentime delivers more than just sun protection; it actively hydrates skin in both the short and long term.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
EltaMD UV Clear Acne Blemish-Prone & Oil Balancing SPF 50, $49
“EltaMD has long been namechecked by dermatologists and celebrities alike — including Hailey Bieber — for its acne-friendly formulas, and its breakout sunscreen keeps that reputation intact. It combines the lightweight, non-comedogenic protection the brand is known for with niacinamide and zinc to help balance excess oil and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Understandably, it’s one we’re keeping on repeat for the foreseeable future.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Air Daily Supercharged Serum Sunscreen SPF 50, $39.99
“Think of La Roche-Posay’s UV Air as sunscreen that’s cosplaying as your new favorite serum. A new addition to the Anthelios range, it delivers SPF 50 protection in a silky, luxurious texture that sinks in quickly with a truly invisible finish — no white cast in sight. Hyaluronic acid helps keep skin hydrated throughout the day, while niacinamide supports a more even, balanced complexion over time.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Best Devices For Acne-Prone Skin
ZIIP Dot
“If you’ve ever wished you could wave a magic wand and make a stubborn zit disappear overnight, this is about as close as skincare gets. ZIIP’s entry-level Dot device (which is designed specifically for breakouts) uses nanocurrent technology to bring down inflammation and help target acne-causing bacteria. I like to use it on emerging cystic breakouts to zap them before they have a chance to surface. The result is a faster path to calmer, clearer-looking skin when you need a spot fix.” (Editor’s note: The ZIIP Dot is currently out of stock, but is being restocked soon, according to the brand.) — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Currentbody Skin LED Red Light Therapy Face Mask: Series 2, $469.99
“Since incorporating this mask into my skincare routine three times a week in the evening, I’ve noticed a tangible difference in my post-acne marks — especially when it’s used consistently alongside exfoliating acids and a solid skincare routine. In combination, my post-acne inflammation calms more quickly, and discoloration fades faster than before, which encourages me to go makeup-free more often. It’s also one of the few devices that earns its award status for me. The CurrentBody mask uses red and near-infrared light to support collagen production over time and help reduce redness and hyperpigmentation, but what really sets it apart is the comfort — the flexible silicone design makes it easy to wear regularly without feeling rigid or suffocating. It’s expensive, but it’s the most comfortable LED mask I’ve tried, and I’ve had it recommended by a couple of dermatologists, which gives me confidence in its results.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Medicube Booster Pro X2, $299
“I’ve been using Medicube’s Booster Pro LED wand since it first launched in the US, and I’ve found the red-light mode especially effective at calming large, angry breakouts — particularly the deep, under-the-skin pimples that pop up along my jawline around my period. But the new Booster Pro X2 is even better at reducing inflammation. Its treatment head is slightly larger than the original, allowing it to cover more skin at once, which is helpful if, like me, you tend to get clusters of red, irritated spots. I’m convinced that just a few minutes under the red light helps soothe painful, inflamed breakouts. Because many of the spot treatments I rely on can leave my skin feeling dry, I love pairing it with a deeply hydrating sheet mask using Mask Mode — just one of the device’s seven treatment settings, three of which are new to the Booster Pro X2. This clever setting lets you glide the device directly over the mask, helping ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin absorb more effectively while providing much-needed relief for the dry, flaky patches that often come with treating acne.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Best Pimple Patches For Acne-Prone Skin
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Day + Night, $18.99
“One of my most-used breakout fixes is Hero Cosmetics’ Mighty Patch Day + Night set, which is basically 24/7 acne insurance. I love that there’s a barely-there daytime patch (the Invisible+ ones) that blend in seamlessly onto skin thanks to the beveled edges, plus a thicker, overnight version that draws out fluid while I catch up on sleep. Both rely on medical-grade hydrocolloid (a gel-like material) to help flatten spots without drying out or irritating the surrounding skin — and in my experience, they’re one of the easiest, most effective ways to treat your breakouts from morning to night.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
The Inkey List Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches, $9.50
“Many acne patches claim to be invisible, but so few are truly inconspicuous. When I wear these, though, I forget I’ve even got them on by the next morning — they’re that good at hide-and-seek. These aren’t your typical hydrocolloid patch; they’re packed with breakout-busting ingredients like exfoliating salicylic acid and calming succinic acid, along with ectoin to help lock in moisture, because we all know that drying out breakouts isn’t the best approach for them or the surrounding skin. Still, they draw out gunk and flatten large, angry pimples exceptionally well. They’re so clear and thin I can apply makeup over the top, and no one would ever know. I’ve been through multiple packs, and I always make sure I’ve got a backup somewhere.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Multi-Target Blemish Patches, $12.99
“La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar range is the one that has been most recommended to me by dermatologists specializing in acne over the years, but it’s only recently that the brand lifted the lid on its Multi-Target Blemish Patches. That said, they were well worth the wait. They’re thinner than most patches, so you can’t feel them, no matter where you apply them, and they work like magic to iron away angry red bumps. Whenever I have a really large breakout, these are the ones I gravitate toward thanks to their fast-acting, skin-flattening effect. That’s all thanks to hydrocolloid, a healing material that also draws out pus and helps prevent pimples from getting any bigger.” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Best Makeup For Acne-Prone Skin
e.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Skin Tint Mineral SPF 50, $18
“This has already won a Beauty Innovator 2026 award, but I couldn’t resist giving it a mention in this roundup, too — it’s that good. This may be a skin tint, but the buildable, medium coverage is so excellent at blanketing raised, red breakouts and disguising post-acne marks that I never follow up with concealer. Even better, it’s non-comedogenic, so it’s less likely to clog pores compared to many other complexion products. Even though it features SPF 50, it feels incredibly lightweight on the skin, and the added niacinamide helps mop up excess oil and shine. I’m always so pleased with how well it lasts through a long day, and when I remove it, I never have to worry about seeing a cluster of new breakouts. I’m on my fourth tube!” — Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director
Make Up For Ever Balancing & Perfecting Natural Finish Longwear Foundation, $49
“As someone with oily, acne-prone skin, I have very high standards for foundation, and Make Up For Ever’s Balancing & Perfecting Natural Finish Longwear Foundation checks every box. It offers buildable coverage to blur texture and hyperpigmentation without feeling like a mask, and the natural finish strikes a perfect balance between matte and dewy. I also love that it wears beautifully throughout the day without separating around pimples or clinging to dry patches — a rare feat when you’re dealing with excess oil and occasionally harsh spot treatments. It’s become one of those foundations I instinctively reach for whenever I want my skin to look like itself, just on its very best day.” — Karina Hoshikawa, senior beauty writer
Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Blurring Balm in Universal, $39
“As someone who has spent years battling active breakouts, oily patches, and acne scarring, finding a primer that doesn’t betray me by noon is a nightmare. Most mattifying products either dry me out or clog my pores. The Danessa Myricks Blurring Balm Powder in Universal is an absolute dream. Its balm-to-powder texture smooths over raised bumps and pitted scars without clinging to dry, healing skin. The magic is achieved with upsalite, a form of magnesium carbonate that absorbs excess oil and leaves a diffused, blurred finish. The Universal shade is my go-to because it applies completely clear. It doesn’t cake around pimples like tinted primers can, and it creates an invisible, locked-down base that keeps my spot concealer firmly in place. If you’re tired of your breakouts playing slip-and-slide-with your makeup, this primer is worth the hype.” — Alexis Bennett Parker, director of shopping partnerships
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