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10 Best Face Serums for Acne in 2022 (Dermatologist-Reviewed)

Breakouts are a nightmare for many people. Acne can pop up at the most random times and might even leave scars behind. However, getting the right serum can help you unclog pores and treat whiteheads, blackheads, or any other type of acne.


That's why we went ahead and looked for 10 of the best face serums for acne out there. We searched Amazon for the best ones based on their ingredients, and TruSkin Naturals' Vitamin C Serum took first place on our top 10 list. For details on why we chose it along with nine other options, read on! We also have a buying guide full of tips for searching on your own.

Last updated 09/26/2023
Dr. Lauren Levy
Expert
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Dr. Levy is a board certified dermatologist practicing in NYC and Westport, Connecticut. She has expertise in treating inflammatory skin conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. She has an interest in skincare and takes a personalized approach to all of her patients.

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Table of Contents

Why Should I Use a Serum on My Acne-Prone Skin?

Why Should I Use a Serum on My Acne-Prone Skin?

Serums are skincare products that can penetrate deep into the layers of your skin and deliver specific active ingredients. It has been shown that using serum regularly will help reduce wrinkles and fine lines, improve your skin's elasticity and complexion, seal in the moisture, or reduce the size of your pores. 


Many people assume that serums contain hydrators that may make skin oilier, but that's not always the case. If you choose a serum with ingredients such as retinol or hyaluronic acid, it can actually help balance the oil and moisture levels within your skin and treat your acne! 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Serums get a bad reputation for people with acne. Because some are oil-based and feel hydrating to the skin, many patients with acne think that they will clog the pores and cause outbreaks. 


Although some serums will do just that, many serums are non-comedogenic and actually have acne-fighting ingredients. They are very hydrating and usually gentle enough to be used with prescription acne medications. They also can give that desired dewy look.

How to Choose Face Serums for Acne

When choosing a serum for acne, you should pay attention to the ingredients to ensure that there's nothing that might trigger breakouts. This buying guide will explain in detail what ingredients you might want to choose or avoid before buying a product. 

1

Look for Ingredients That Can Treat Acne

There are plenty of ingredients that can fight off acne or reduce inflammation, such as retinol or hyaluronic acid. So seek out those ingredients! 

Retinol and Salicylic Acid Can Eliminate Dead Skin Cells to Treat Acne

Retinol and Salicylic Acid Can Eliminate Dead Skin Cells to Treat Acne

Salicylic acid is well-known as an acne-fighting powerhouse. It helps exfoliate your skin and remove dead skin cells that clog pores. Salicylic acid is particularly useful to treat blackheads or whiteheads, and it can help prevent breakouts as well. 


Retinol is another effective ingredient against acne since it can unclog pores and slough off skin debris quickly. Retinol can also promote skin cell turnover and remove acne scars, thus giving your skin a healthy, smooth look. Plus, retinol contains strong anti-inflammatory properties that help treat redness! 


Even though both ingredients are relatively gentle on all skin types, you should avoid using salicylic acid and retinol at the same time. Some studies have shown that those two can actually deactivate each other and might worsen the condition of your skin. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Salicylic acid and retinols are wonderful acne treatments that can address blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory pimples. They also can help even out skin texture and tone. Traditionally, these ingredients can be drying when used in gels, cream, or masks. When used in serum, these products are better tolerated by those with drier skin.

Choose Hydrators that Can Balance Moisture Levels

Choose Hydrators that Can Balance Moisture Levels

Dryness can make your acne appear worse, so it's necessary that you keep your skin hydrated. However, hydrating acne-prone skin can be a bit tricky, since moisturizers such as coconut oil can further clog your pores and lead to even more breakouts. 


Look for products containing hyaluronic acid or other non-comedogenic ingredients instead! Hyaluronic acid helps retain the moisture within the layers of your skin without promoting oil generation or drying you out. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

Many acne medications can be drying, which leads many people to stop using the medications if they cause dryness and skin irritation. Using a hydrating serum like one with hyaluronic acid along with your acne medications will keep the skin barrier hydrated and prevent dryness and irritation. 


This will allow you to tolerate your acne medication and get all the benefits from products with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinols or retinoids.

Antioxidants Help Fight Inflammation

Antioxidants Help Fight Inflammation

Acne often comes with inflammation in the skin, so you should look out for ingredients with soothing properties. It has been shown that antioxidants, such as vitamins E, C, and A, can effectively reduce acne breakouts. They can neutralize the effects of free radicals, prevent sebum oxidation, and repair your skin!


Green tea and aloe vera are other powerful antioxidants that can reduce sebum production, inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria, and soothe inflammation.


Zinc and niacinamide are great options as well! These antioxidants have strong anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve redness or hyperpigmentation, thus making acne scars much less visible.

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

If you have hyperpigmentation after your pimple goes away, using a serum with vitamin C or niacinamide can help fade these marks quickly - of course, along with daily sun protection. Vitamin C can cause acne outbreaks in some patients, so discontinue the serum if you notice this. My favorite antioxidant serums for those who are acne-prone are SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF or SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF.

2

Avoid Pore-Clogging Ingredients

Moisturizers such as coconut oil might be beneficial for your skin, but they can actually clog pores and eventually lead to acne. Some chemicals might also cause skin irritation and breakouts, so be sure to avoid them! 

Butter and Oil-Based Ingredients are Too Rich for Acne-Prone Skin

Butter and Oil-Based Ingredients are Too Rich for Acne-Prone Skin

Butter or oil-based ingredients, such as coconut oil, cocoa butter, or avocado oil, are effective natural moisturizers for your skin, but they can clog the pores and lead to acne. Despite how beneficial they are for your skin, try to stay away from them unless your skin is severely dehydrated or as a once-in-a-while treatment. 


Mineral oil is another ingredient that some should avoid since it could exacerbate acne. Most people are fine, but if you're not sure how mineral oils work on your skin, try a patch test first. 

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

When it comes to acne, more is not always best. Stick to serums that are simple and have fewer ingredients that are known to fight acne and unclog pores. Coconut oil is popular because it is very hydrating and soothing but should not be used in people with acne since it can trigger outbreaks.

Emollients Thicken Cosmetics but Might Block Pores

Emollients Thicken Cosmetics but Might Block Pores

Emollients, such as isopropyl palmitate or ethylhexyl palmitate, are also red flags if you have acne. These ingredients help thicken the consistency of cosmetic products. Due to their heaviness, they might lead to acne breakouts or blackheads

Try to Avoid Irritating Ingredients That May Trigger Acne

Try to Avoid Irritating Ingredients That May Trigger Acne

Ingredients like isopropyl myristate, alcohol, fragrance, and sodium lauryl sulfate are commonly found in cosmetic products, but they have been shown to trigger breakouts if used repetitively.  If you have sensitive skin, those ingredients might even cause severe skin irritation. 


You should also stay away from synthetic lanolin. Lanolin is naturally extracted oil from the skin glands of sheep and moisturizes your skin effectively. Although pure lanolin does not clog pores, the synthetic version might irritate skin and cause breakouts for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin. Stick to 100% pure lanolin instead! 

3

Choose a Product Labeled "Oil-Free" or "Non-Comedogenic"

Choose a Product Labeled "Oil-Free" or "Non-Comedogenic"

When in doubt, simply pick out a product labeled "oil-free" or "non-comedogenic." Oil-based serums can be ultra-hydrating and great for dry skin, but they can also trigger the formation of acne. So by choosing an oil-free product, you are eliminating all of the heavy occlusive ingredients that can potentially clog your pores. 


Non-comedogenic is another label that guarantees that the product contains no ingredients that are pore-clogging or might promote acne. But don't confuse these with oil-free products! Non-comedogenic serums can still contain oils that do not block pores such as argan oil, neem oil, or jojoba oil. 

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10 Best Face Serums for Acne Ranking

Here are the best Face Serums for Acne, ranked according to 10 Best Face Serums for Acne (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

TruSkin Naturals

Vitamin C Serum

TruSkin Naturals  Vitamin C Serum  1

$19.99

Mid

Advanced Antioxidant Serum with Vitamin C to Shrink Pores and Prevent Breakouts

2

DRMTLGY

24 Hour Acne Serum

DRMTLGY 24 Hour Acne Serum  1

$19.97

Mid

Benzoyl Peroxide and Glycolic Acid to Treat Breakouts within 24 Hours

3

TreeActiv

Oil-Free Advanced Skin Repair Serum

TreeActiv Oil-Free Advanced Skin Repair Serum 1

$20.95

High Mid

Oil-Free Advanced Skin Repair Serum to Prevent Acne Breakouts

4

Yeouth

Retinol Serum

Yeouth Retinol Serum  1

$19.95

Mid

Retinol Serum to Boost Collagen Production and Reduce Acne

5

Dr Song

Vitamin C Serum

Dr Song Vitamin C Serum 1

$9.51

Low

Hazel and Rose Water Reduce Inflammation and Minimize Breakouts

6

Neutrogena

Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum

Neutrogena  Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum 1

$12.49

Low Mid

Non-Comedogenic and Oil-Free Serum Hydrates without Clogging Pores

7

Genius Labs

Acne Spot Treatment

Genius Labs Acne Spot Treatment 1

$16.99

Mid

Advanced Formulation for Mild to Severe Cystic Acne

8

CeraVe

Resurfacing Retinol Serum

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum 1

$16.97

Mid

Essential Ceramides Reduce the Appearance of Post-Acne Marks

9

Evologie

Intensive Blemish Serum

Evologie  Intensive Blemish Serum  1

$28.00

High

Hypoallergenic Serum with YS3 Complex Controls Blemishes and Acne

10

InstaNatural

Glycolic Acid Serum

InstaNatural  Glycolic Acid Serum  1

$20.00

Mid

Advanced Exfoliation for Glowing, Acne-Free Skin

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum

Vitamin C Serum  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.99
Mid
Reference price
$19.99
Mid

Advanced Antioxidant Serum with Vitamin C to Shrink Pores and Prevent Breakouts

This advanced antioxidant serum is enriched with vitamins C and E, as well as hyaluronic acid, to help shrink your pores, prevent breakouts, and improve your overall complexion


Furthermore, this product is formulated with plant-based ingredients and contains no synthetic color additives, fragrances, or stabilizers that might harm your skin. 


Some reviewers complained that the product felt sticky and dried out their skin. Meanwhile, many reviewers with acne-prone and dull-looking skin commented that the product helped improve their skin condition significantly. 


Many further added that their acne scars faded after using the product for a while. Others also said that the natural ingredients of the product were gentle on their skin and didn't cause any irritation. 

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No.2

DRMTLGY24 Hour Acne Serum

24 Hour Acne Serum  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.97
Mid
Reference price
$19.97
Mid

Benzoyl Peroxide and Glycolic Acid to Treat Breakouts within 24 Hours

Made with United States Pharmacopeia-grade benzoyl peroxide 5%, this serum helps treat unwanted breakouts while preventing new ones to occur. 


Furthermore, the glycolic acid in this product exfoliates the skin and promotes cellular turnover. This reduces acne scars and gives your skin a better complexion!


Some reviewers mentioned that the product slightly dried out their skin, so you shouldn't use too much of the product at once. Try combining the serum with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. 


On the other hand, many reviewers were pleased that the product helped eliminate hormonal acne, whiteheads, and pimples. Others said that the product was gentle on sensitive skin as well. 

No.3

TreeActivOil-Free Advanced Skin Repair Serum

Oil-Free Advanced Skin Repair Serum 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$20.95
High Mid
Reference price
$20.95
High Mid

Oil-Free Advanced Skin Repair Serum to Prevent Acne Breakouts

This serum is infused with powerful ingredients such as green tea, witch hazel, and tea tree water to help unclog pores, relieve inflammation, and rejuvenate your skin


Furthermore, the formula is oil-free, so it won't make your face feel greasy at all! The addition of hyaluronic acid also helps seal in moisture within your skin layer, giving you skin a dewy look! 


Some reviewers noted that the product might burn or cause rashes. So for those with sensitive skin, you should do a patch test first


However, many reviewers commented that the product helped treat and prevent acne effectively. Furthermore, reviewers mentioned that the product was lightweight, dried quickly, and did not leave behind any oil residue on the skin. 

No.4

YeouthRetinol Serum

Retinol Serum  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.95
Mid
Reference price
$19.95
Mid

Retinol Serum to Boost Collagen Production and Reduce Acne

This retinol 2.5% serum helps promote collagen production, unclog pores, and accelerate skin cell turnover to make your skin look much more radiant! 


The product is also infused with naturally occurring hyaluronic acid to retain moisture and even out wrinkles. The addition of vitamin E and aloe vera further restores your skin and protects it from free radical damage. 


Some reviewers complained that they had to wait a long time after washing their face to apply the product for it to be effective. Others noted that the formula was slightly sticky as well. 


Meanwhile, many reviewers called this product an acne miracle since it cleared up breakouts quickly and shrunk their pores effectively. They also said that the product made their age lines or acne scars much less visible and kept their skin young-looking. 

No.5

Dr SongVitamin C Serum

Vitamin C Serum 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$9.51
Low
Reference price
$9.51
Low

Hazel and Rose Water Reduce Inflammation and Minimize Breakouts

This serum is fortified with hyaluronic acid and skin-essential vitamins and minerals to help promote collagen production, thus reducing the appearance of fine lines, dark spots, or any other signs of aging. 


Furthermore, the addition of hazel and rose water helps reduce inflammation and redness and eliminate debris from your pores to minimize acne breakouts. 


Some people complained that the product made their skin feel a bit sticky. On the other hand, many people commented that the product contained gentle ingredients and did not burn their sensitive skin


Many also said that after using the product, their skin became softer and much more elastic. Their complexion was more radiant as well! 

No.6

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum

Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum 1
Source:amazon.com
Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$12.49
Low Mid
Reference price
$12.49
Low Mid

Non-Comedogenic and Oil-Free Serum Hydrates without Clogging Pores

Need an ultra-hydrating serum but afraid that the moisturizing ingredients might clog your pores? Don't worry! This oil-free, non-comedogenic hyaluronic acid serum absorbs quickly into your skin. It seals in moisture and keeps your skin hydrated for 24 hours straight! 


Many reviewers mentioned that the product felt smooth and non-greasy on the skin. Others added that the serum lightened fine lines and improved their complexion. Reviewers also said that the product didn't cause even a single spot of acne, thus making it suitable for those with acne-prone skin. 


However, some reviewers noted that the product contained perfume, so those allergic to fragrance might want to take caution and do a patch test first

No.7

Genius LabsAcne Spot Treatment

Acne Spot Treatment 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$16.99
Mid
Reference price
$16.99
Mid

Advanced Formulation for Mild to Severe Cystic Acne

With small molecules, this acne treatment serum quickly penetrates into the skin. It can remove all types of acne or pimples and shrink pores. Plus, the serum is infused with multiple types of plant extracts that soothe skin and restore rough texture caused by acne. 


However, this is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Some reviewers mentioned that the product did not help with their acne issues. Still, many said you might have to consistently use the product to really see the progress, as your skin takes time to adapt to the product.


Many reviewers were amazed at how effectively the product helped heal their acne and clear up breakouts. Many others also loved that the product helped improve their complexion without causing skin irritation or redness

No.8

CeraVeResurfacing Retinol Serum

Resurfacing Retinol Serum 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$16.97
Mid
Reference price
$16.97
Mid

Essential Ceramides Reduce the Appearance of Post-Acne Marks

This dermatologist-recommended, non-comedogenic serum is formulated with three essential ceramides, a type of lipid molecule essential for skin. It also uses licorice root extract and niacinamide to help reduce the appearance of post-acne marks. 


Furthermore, it is enriched with encapsulated retinol to help improve smoothness and make your skin look much more radiant! 


Many reviewers commented that this product effectively cleared up their acne while keeping their skin hydrated throughout the day. However, some reviewers said it took them a long time to see the difference. 


Meanwhile, others liked that the product doesn't contain any fragrance or harsh chemicals, like parabens. 

No.9

Evologie Intensive Blemish Serum

Intensive Blemish Serum  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$28.00
High
Reference price
$28.00
High

Hypoallergenic Serum with YS3 Complex Controls Blemishes and Acne

This intensive blemish serum is formulated with a patented YS3 complex to remove all types of ance bacteria, prevent post-acne scars, and reduce hyperpigmentation. 


Furthermore, all of the ingredients are naturally derived and have been clinically tested for safety and efficiency. So even those with sensitive skin can enjoy using this hypoallergenic serum! 


Many reviewers called this product a magical elixir for their sensitive, acne-prone skin. However, everyone's skin is different, so the product might not work for some. In fact, some reviewers found no noticeable change after using the product. 


On the other hand, reviewers said that the product didn't dry out their skin or leave any greasy residue behind. 

No.10

InstaNatural Glycolic Acid Serum

Glycolic Acid Serum  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$20.00
Mid
Reference price
$20.00
Mid

Advanced Exfoliation for Glowing, Acne-Free Skin

Infused with an 8% glycolic C complex (a combination of glycolic acid, vitamin C, and botanical ingredients), this serum helps exfoliates away skin debris. It refreshes your skin and promotes collagen production for healthy, youthful skin!


The addition of hyaluronic acid, argan oil, and rosehip oil also helps to soften and hydrate. Furthermore, the product is free of unsafe preservatives or harsh chemicals, so you know exactly what you're getting! 


Some reviewers complained that they received leaking bottles. On the other hand, reviewers liked that the product had a light citrus scent. 


Besides, many reviewers complimented that the product helped treat various types of acne, including cystic acne. Others added that the serum felt lightweight and absorbed quickly.

Want to Try Some Face Masks?

In case you need more nourishment for your face, we've got some suggestions for you! Check out these highly-rated face masks that will pamper any skin type.

Buying Guide Reviewed by Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Lauren Levy

Dr. Lauren Levy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Lauren Levy

This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.

Top 5 Face Serums for Acne

No. 1: TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum

No. 2: DRMTLGY24 Hour Acne Serum

No. 3: TreeActivOil-Free Advanced Skin Repair Serum

No. 4: YeouthRetinol Serum

No. 5: Dr SongVitamin C Serum

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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