5 Must-Have Products for Acne-Prone Skin

June 23, 2020

By: Jessica Khorsandi | skincare.com by L'Oréal

Do you have acne-prone skin? You’re not alone. Acne is the most common skin condition in the U.S., affecting up to 50 million Americans annually. (No, it’s not just a teen problem.) But just because acne is widespread, doesn’t mean it’s easy to deal with. Not only can pimples hurt your self-esteem (even though they shouldn’t!), they can also cause unwanted dark spots and marks that appear as your blemishes begin to clear. Luckily, there are products available that can help acne-prone skin types find some relief. Ahead, we rounded up five of our favorite blemish-busting products to add to your routine. (Note: Products from our parent company L’Oréal are marked with an * below.)

To Cleanse…

CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser*

A creamy cleanser that contains benzoyl peroxide is a must-try for acne-prone skin. This formula by CeraVe clears acne pimples and blackheads, helps prevent new breakouts and maintains the skin's barrier with three essential ceramides.

To Use: Apply a dime-sized amount morning and evening on damp skin. Massage gently (avoiding the eye area), and rinse well.

To Deep Clean...

Clarisonic Acne Cleansing Brush Head*

For a deep clean, try the Clarisonic Acne Cleansing Brush Head when you use your Clarisonic device. This brush head helps control excess oil,calm irritated skin and rid your pores of pollutants.

To Use: Attach your brush head to your Clarisonic and pair it with a deep-cleaning cleanser. Cleanse your skin and wash the brush after use.

To Tone…

INNBeauty Project Down to Tone

A toner is a must-have when it comes to an acne-friendly skin-care routine. Down to Tone contains a six-acid blend of phytic acid, malic acid, gluconolactone, lactic acid, salicylic acid and citric acid. It leaves your skin smooth and supple after each use.

To Use: Apply 2-3 pumps onto a cotton round or onto your fingers and pat in. Follow with your moisturizer. You can use this 2-5 times a week.

To Spot Treat….

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Spot Treatment*

No acne-fighting skin-care arsenal is complete without a spot treatment. Effaclar Duo is formulated with micronized benzoyl peroxide and micro-exfoliating LHA to help eliminate dull cellular debris and oil, clear moderate blemishes over time and gradually even skin’s texture.

To Use: Apply a thin layer — about half-a-pea-sized amount — on affected areas 1-2 times daily. If irritation or excessive skin peeling occurs, cut down your use of this product.

To Moisturize...

Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer

Acne-prone skin needs hydration, too, which is why Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer should be a key component of your routine. Its lightweight gel formula will help minimize redness while keeping dryness and rough patches away.

To Use: Apply morning and night as the last step in your skin-care routine (before using SPF during the day, of course).