Are you trying to find acne serums among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling acne serums on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 23 hours of research and did 25 acne serums tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best acne serums you can buy today
- [ POST ACNE RETINOL SERUM FOR FACE ] With encapsulated retinol, this facial serum helps skin look smoother and more even-toned. Pore minimizer helps refine skin’s texture & helps visibly reduce the appearance of post-acne marks and blemishes.
- [ SKIN BARRIER REPAIR ] This retinol face serum smooths skin texture, reduces acne marks, and brightens skin. Reducing the look of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation while repairing the skin's barrier.
- [ BRIGHTENING SERUM ] Formulated with licorice root extract helps to brighten the appearance of skin and niacinamide helps to calm skin. Fragrance free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic. Pore reducer for face.
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products, formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
- [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone, and more.
- TARGETS ACNE & CONGESTION: Salicylic Acid 2% Solution treats acne by exfoliating the skin surface and penetrating pores to control blemishes.
- HELPS SKIN HEAL: Formulated to reduce the severity of acne and allow the skin to heal for a smoother, clearer complexion.
- SUITABLE FOR TEENAGERS: Effective for mild to moderate acne in teenagers, offering a gentle yet powerful solution for acne-prone skin.
- OIL-SOLUBLE FORMULA: Lipophilic formula that penetrates oily areas to treat clogged pores and reduce acne-related skin issues.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Clean skin thoroughly and apply a thin layer 1-3 times daily. Patch test before use. Reduce application if dryness or irritation occurs.
- SKIN1004's signature ampoule with a light watery texture and non-sticky formula
- Madagascan Centella asiatica contains 7 times more soothing actives than other centella asiatica
- Immediately calms and hydrates sensitive skin
- Full Ingredients list : Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cellulose Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
- BOOSTS BRIGHTNESS & SMOOTHNESS: Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% visibly improves skin radiance and smooths texture in one week.
- HYDRATING FORMULA: Lightweight water-based serum that reinforces the skin barrier and provides hydration in as little as 7 days.
- CONTAINS NIACINAMIDE & ZINC PCA: High 10% concentration of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and 1% Zinc PCA to help control oil in 3 days.
- REDUCES PORE VISIBILITY: Clinical testing shows appearance of pores is minimized in 4 weeks, improving signs of congesting.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: Apply a few drops to the face in the morning and evening. Patch test before use and avoid broken skin.
- BRIGHT AND HEALTHY COMPLEXION: Refine tone and improve texture while nourishing your skin! Embrace newfound confidence with the Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum!
- SOOTHING AND NON-DRYING: Beneficial for acne prone skin and clogged pores. This serum is non-drying and designed to help to reduce signs of moisture loss caused by a weak skin barrier function.
- PROMOTE SMOOTH AND EVEN SKIN: This balancing formula is rich in Niacinamide (10%), also known as B3, and can be very helpful for those suffering from breakouts, uneven skin tone, enlarged pores, and dull texture.
- PERFECT ADDITION TO YOUR BEAUTY REGIMEN: Apply a few drops to your skin in the morning and at night before oils, moisturizers, and creams. Our serum is powerful enough to bring results and gentle enough for daily use.
- GENTLE ENOUGH FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: This serum is suitable for all skin types, but can be particularly beneficial for those with combination/oily skin. Our serum has a pH of 7.1, is fragrance-free, and was never tested on animals. Since everyone's skin is unique, we recommend performing a patch test before using this product to ensure compatibility and avoid any potential reactions.
- [ACNE TREATMENT WITH BHA/AHA EXFOLIANT] Formulated with 2% salicylic acid and a blend of glycolic acid and lactic acid, this acne spot treatment for face helps clear acne and prevent new breakouts, acting as an effective face exfoliator.
- [PORE MINIMIZER FOR FACE] This acne skincare product minimizes the appearance of pores and reduces blackheads with its potent mix of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, enhancing skin moisture and soothing properties.
- [ALCOHOL FREE & HYDRATING GEL] Free from fragrance, parabens, and oil, this non-comedogenic acne spot treatment is designed without harsh alcohols, preventing excessive dryness while treating stubborn acne effectively.
- [ 3 ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products, formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II)to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
- [ DEVELOPED WITH DERMATOLOGISTS ] CeraVe Skincare is developed with dermatologists and has products suitable for dry skin; sensitive skin; oily skin; acne-prone; and more. FSA Eligible & HSA Eligible Acne Skin Care
- This anti-aging pore minimizer face serum helps reduce the look of pores, smooth skin texture and boost skin radiance.
- Formulated with glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid and micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, this face serum for oily skin targets fine lines, reduces enlarged pores and visibly tightens skin.
- Face serum for oily skin visibly reduces the look of pores, Targets fine lines, reduces enlarged pores & visibly tightens skin
- Lipo-Hydroxy Acid: Also known as LHA, it's a derivative of salicylic acid, and has exfoliating and skin surface renewing properties.
- Glycolic Acid: An Alpha-Hydroxy Acid (AHA) often considered the gold standard in dermatology for skin exfoliation. Within our formulas, it is recognized for its ability to increase skin surface cell turnover and help visibly improve skin tone and texture.
- Cocokind Postbiotic Acne Serum is a face serum to help with acne, blackheads, and clogged pores.
- Postbiotic Acne Serum uses 1.5% Salicylic Acid and Postbiotics to exfoliate the skin, decongest pores, and reduce excess oil and the look of inflammation and redness.
- Postbiotic Acne Serum is also a hydrating serum using Beta Glucan (derived from oats) to lock in hydration and support the skin barrier.
- If you are new to BHA, use Postbiotic Acne Serum 3-4 times a week before building up to daily usage. Use with Texture Smoothing Cream and Silk or Daily SPF to finish your skincare routine.
- COCOKIND: Skin care products that are earth-friendly without compromising on formulation. Our products are meant to gently deliver the function they promise as well as hydration and skin barrier support, which we believe leads to glowy, happy skin
- BARRIER BOOSTING: This clarifying serum for acne prone skin features our barrier boosting Tri-Ceramide Complex (ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids) plus a potent combo of blue tansy (rich in antioxidants) to calm, clear and soothe skin
- BALANCE & CLARIFY: PHA and zinc gently exfoliate, targeting imperfections and helping unclog pores without drying out or disrupting the delicate skin barrier. Skin looks balanced, brighter and healthier with regular use
- REDUCES OILINESS & CLEARS PORES: This gentle-yet-effective clarifying facial serum balances spot-prone skin, calms inflammation, reduces oiliness and decongests pores
- ALCOHOL & FRAGRANCE FREE SKINCARE: Dermatologist tested and approved skin care, soap-free, non-comedogenic, alcohol and fragrance-free, vegan and cruelty free. For all skin types
- DRIVEN BY SCIENCE: When we stop stripping our skin and start boosting our barrier, we find the key to balanced, brighter skin. Driven by science, powered by actives - Byoma is the ultimate skin-compatible solution
- Acne Treatment Serum: An acne clearing serum that goes hard on acne without drying your skin? We made that! Thayers Double Action Acne Serum is the ultimate powerhouse for clearing acne, fading post acne marks and healing skin
- Clinically Tested To Clear Acne In 1 Week: Our salicylic acid serum features maximum strength 2% salicylic acid to penetrate pores. Clinically tested to clear acne and smooth skin texture in 1 week, help fade post acne marks & improve hydration in 15 minutes
- Clearing and Healing Actives: Our acne treatment for face features powerful clearing actives including 4% Niacinamide + 3% Lactic Acid fused with healing actives including Azelaic Acid + Hyaluronic Acid + Witch Hazel + Lemon Grass + Aloe
- Non-Stripping Formula: This silky, lightning-fast absorbing face serum maintains your skin's moisture barrier and provides a soothing and calming sensation without stripping skin. Fragrance, alcohol and paraben free and non-comedogenic serum for face
- Dermatologist-Tested Skin Care: For generations, Thayers has been the go-to choice in medicine cabinets. Thayers facial skin care products are dermatologist tested for safety and backed by science to level up your skin—for real results
- CETAPHIL GENTLE CLEAR TRIPLE-ACTION ACNE SERUM: Improves the appearance of breakouts in just 3 days and fight the appearance of blemishes with continued use
- A GENTLE WAY TO GET BLEMISH FREE SKIN: Formulated with salicylic acid, succinic acid and PHA to exfoliate the skin and even skin tone
- SOOTHES AND PROVIDES 24 HOUR HYDRATION: Contains soothing niacinamide, zinc, and prebiotics to help preserve the skin's moisture barrier
- GEL SERUM WITH A COMFORTING MILKY TEXTURE: Fragrance free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, designed to be gentle on sensitive skin
- DEFENDS AGAINST 5 SIGNS OF SKIN SENSITIVITY: Dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness and a weakened skin barrier
- CETAPHIL GENTLE CLEAR REPAIRING POST-ACNE SERUM: Soothing serum reduces the appearance of post-acne marks and pores to visibly improve skin’s texture and restore skin’s natural glow after 12 weeks.
- IMPROVES SKIN'S TONE AND TEXTURE: Formulated with 0.5% Bakuchiol, a plant-derived retinol alternative that hydrates to renew, smooth and soften skin for more visibly even skin tone
- STRENGTHENS THE SKIN BARRIER: With Zinc to help absorb excess surface oil and Prebiotics to help strengthen the skin barrier
- GENTLE ENOUGH FOR EVEN THE MOST SENSITIVE SKIN: The lightweight, non-greasy formula is hypoallergenic, fragrance free, oil free and won't clog pores
- DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
- DEFENDS AGAINST 5 SIGNS OF SKIN SENSITIVITY: Dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness and a weakened skin barrier
- Salicylic Acid: A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin, unclogs pores, and reduces inflammation.
- Niacinamide: Known for its soothing properties, it helps reduce redness and improves skin texture.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Provides hydration without clogging pores, keeping the skin moisturized and balanced.
- Usage: Apply a small amount of serum to cleansed skin, focusing on affected areas. Use morning and night for best results. Always follow with a moisturizer and sunscreen during the day.
- 8 BENEFITS IN ONE - A serum that cares for acne, prevents future breakouts, calms redness, supports skin’s barrier, hydrates, gently exfoliates, and minimizes the look of pores and pigmentation.
- PROVEN RESULTS - Clinically proven to reduce acne in 7 days and prevents future breakouts due to hormonal fluctuations.
- CLINICALLY BACKED INGREDIENTS - 1.5% Salicylic Acid gently exfoliates skin while targeting acne, blackheads, and clogged pores. 2% Niacinamide minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and helps even skin tone. 0.5% Zinc PCA reduces and balances sebum while supporting skin barrier.
- SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN - Formulated for acne-prone skin, oily skin, and large or clogged pores.
- CYCLE SUPPORT YOU CAN TRUST - Fast drying & non-sticky formula. Dermatologist tested, clinically tested, vegan, cruelty free, and fragrance free. Recyclable packaging.
- ACNE TREATMENT: Derma E's Acne Blemish Control Treatment Serum helps fight against blackheads, breakouts and cystic acne. Provides clearer and healthier looking skin and helps unclog pores. Non-drying, suitable for sensitive skin
- CLINICALLY VALIDATED: 87% saw Clearer Skin, based on questionnaire results from independent 6-week clinical studies on the Anti-Acne Collection. Winner of BetterNutrition Best of Natural Beauty Award
- NATURAL FORMULA: Packed full of powerful natural ingredients: Salicylic Acid, a beta hydroxy acid, helps skin cells shed more easily. Tea Tree Oil, Willow Bark Extract, calming Lavender, and Chamomile help to unclog pores and minimize redness
- DAILY SKIN CARE: Clean skin thoroughly before applying. Cover the entire affected area with a thin layer of face serum one to three times daily
- DERMA E: Clean beauty products that harness nature’s most effective ingredients. Our skin care products are vegan & cruelty-free, free of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, lanolin, gluten, soy, GMOs and are supplied in recyclable packaging
- [ REMOVES & PREVENTS ACNE MARKS & BLEMISHES ]: High grade pure Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) added in this serum is clinically proven to reduce acne marks & dark spots in 2 weeks, resulting in even complexion or tone. Regular daily use prevents future spots & uneven skin tone. No more blemishes, only clear healthy skin!
- [ BALANCES OIL, REDUCES OPEN PORES & HYDRATES ]: Gives you much needed clear matt look throughout the day by balancing oil, controlling sebum activity & reducing pore congestion. Improves skin texture by reducing visible pores, redness. It along with Aloe Vera soothes your skin. No more greasy face or enlarged pores! Matmarine is a perfect biotechnological ingredient to reduce excess sebum, shine, pores, spots and supports hydration.
- [ ANTI-ACNE & IMPROVES SKIN BARRIER ] : Daily dose of this Antioxidant Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) serum repairs skin barrier, boosting dermal immunity. Say bye bye to Sun damage, pollution damage or damage from other toxic chemicals or allergens with strong natural defense of your skin!
- [ CLEAN & TRANSPARENT BEAUTY ]: This serum is (i) Fragrance-free (ii) Silicones-free (iii) Sulfates-free (iv) Parabens-free (v) Essential Oils-free and (vi) Dyes-free. Also, it is non-comedogenic, oil-free, and hypoallergenic. Formulated at pH 5.5 - 6.5 with Niacinamide PC by Royal DSM, Netherlands and is guaranteed to contain less than 100 ppm residual nicotinic acid (which, at higher concentration may result in unpleasant skin sensations).
- [ SUITS ALL SKIN TYPES/ ESPECIALLY SUITED FOR OILY, COMBINATION SKIN ]: Niacinamide is a proven safe ingredient for all skin types and that is why it is so popular but 10% Niacinamide is best daily serum for oily skin or acne prone skin. People with dry or sensitive skin can use Minimalist 5% Niacinamide with 1% Hyaluronic Acid for extra hydration.
- QUICKLY FIGHTS ACNE BACTERIA ON THE SPOT. Treats acne breakouts, reduces pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads within 24 hours. Dissolves pore-clogging oils without over-drying your skin to effectively reduce future breakouts.
- CONTAINS THE PUREST FORM OF BENZOYL PEROXIDE 5%. United States Pharmacopeia (USP) grade Benzoyl Peroxide 5% penetrates deep within the pores, eliminating current breakouts and preventing new ones. Proven as one of the most effective acne-fighting ingredients.
- GLYCOLIC ACID 5% REDUCES ACNE SCARRING. Glycolic Acid in the form of sugar cane gently exfoliates to increase cellular turnover and remove cellular debris. This allows for a clearer complexion with a reduction in scarring.
- REDUCES THE OIL IN PORES UP TO 85%. This acne serum is effective on the face, chest, and back to unclog pores, reduces redness, and inflammation.
- DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED ACNE TREATMENT SERUM. Our acne serum is safe for these skin types: dry, oily, combination, and normal. This formula is also paraben free, sulfate free, and cruelty free.
- SERUM FOR FIGHTING ACNE: Clarify congested pores and visibly improve the look and feel of your skin, all while you're catching some zzz's. This triple-acid serum is your skin's overnight post-breakout go-to.
- HYDRATES & EVENS SKIN TONE: The e.l.f. SKIN Blemish Breakthrough Triple-Acid Resurfacing Serum treats breakout while you sleep and resurfaces and evens skin tone while hydrating the complexion.
- INFUSED WITH NIACINAMIDE: This seum harnesses the powers of our Triple Acid Complex plus Niacinamide improve skin tone and texture and soothe and nourish skin.
- HOW TO USE: Apply 3-5 drops in the evening on clean skin and wake up to a smoother, more even, and clearer complexion. If irritation occurs, use every other day.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: 100% vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA.
- KOREAN GLASS SKIN : Containing 10% Niacinamide, 4% Tranexamic Acid and 2% Arbutin, a powerful trio of ingredients to target dull skin, and enlarged pores.
- GENTLE YET EFFECTIVE SERUM FOR EVERYDAY USE : Infused with Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid to protect damaged skin barrier, soothe and hydrate the skin. Gentle enough to be used daily, morning and night.
- LIGHTWEIGHT TEXTURE WITH NATURE-DRIVEN PINK COLOR : Non-Greasy watery lightweight texture, easy to absorb and perfect addition to your skincare regimen.
- MADE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES : Frangrance Free, Cruelty-Free
- TARGETS ACNE: Clears breakouts where they start (Deep in pores) and prevents new acne from forming, which ultimately restores skin's texture and tone
- CLEARS, TREATS & PREVENTS: Differin works differently than other Acne treatments by normalizing skin cell turnover and effectively targets two primary causes of Acne, clogged pores and inflammation
- RX STRENGTH ACNE RETINOID: Adapalene was created for superior tolerability compared to other prescription retinoid products not containing Adapalene; It is suitable for use as part of your morning or evening regimen
- DERMATOLOGIST RECOMMENDED: Water based formula, oil free, alcohol free, fragrance free, non comedogenic; Helps reduce the risk of scarring and Hyperpigmentation by treating Acne
- REAL RESULTS: In a clinical study, Differin gel provided up to 87 percent reduction in acne breakouts after 12 weeks, which will continue to improve with further use
How to choose a good acne serums
Does the idea of finding a fantastic acne serums make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in acne serums. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top acne serums products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top acne serums on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top acne serums brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top acne serums based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the acne serums were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good acne serums, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your acne serums.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting acne serums for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our acne serums. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what acne serums should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on acne serums.
