While we frequently associate acne with our teenage years and find it bothersome, adults are now more typically affected by the condition. It affects women more frequently than it does men. According to a 2014 study published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, up to 22% of women globally experience adult acne compared to 3% of men. Controlling acne might be challenging, but it's not impossible, depending on how severe your disease is. About the skincare products that can combat acne, inflammation, and dark spots, we talked to board-certified doctors. We also listed their recommendations for the best acne-prone skin products.

What Are The Best Acne-Prone Skin Ingredients?

The experts we spoke with emphasized Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Adapalene, and Azelaic Acid as the top four substances to combat acne. Although many over-the-counter medications include these components at a lesser dosage and are available without a prescription, these are offered for more difficult cases of acne. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Beta Hydroxy Acids are additional acne-fighting components present in Over-The-Counter (OTC) treatments (BHA). These substances can encourage the top layer of dead skin cells to shed and aid with clogged pores like blackheads. However, experts concur that you should speak with a dermatologist to determine what products are most effective for your skin type and won't irritate it (or worsen your acne).

1. Salicylic Acid

As a BHA, Salicylic Acid functions as a chemical exfoliant. The substance can help with inflammation and helps our skin shed its outer, dead layers. These solutions, which often come in the shape of a cream, wash, or lotion, serve to remove extra oils and unclog pores, which can be the source of some acne outbreaks. Salicylic Acid can have a drying impact, especially on sensitive skin, so it is advised to only apply it every other day or a few times a week. Salicylic Acid is a derivative of Lipo Hydroxy Acid (LHA), which functions quite similarly in terms of clearing skin of dead skin cells and unclogging pores. LHA, however, is less abrasive and harsher.

2. Benzoyl Peroxide

Propionibacterium Acnes (P. acnes), the bacteria that frequently results in skin irritation and lesions seen in acne, is inhibited by Benzoyl Peroxide. Inflammatory acne can benefit greatly from this substance. Many Benzoyl Peroxide treatments include 10% of the active component, but larger concentrations have never been shown to be more effective for treating acne. If you're just starting, you should go for a lesser strength because higher strengths merely make the skin itch more. People with sensitive skin or dermatological conditions like Eczema or Rosacea shouldn't use the substance.

Be aware; Benzoyl Peroxide can bleach your towels and clothes as well.

3. Adapalene

A form of retinoid called Adapalene is used to treat blackheads and mild to moderate acne. The first OTC retinoid treatment for acne, Adapalene is available in concentrations of 0.1% and 0.3% and acts to control the turnover of cells lining pores to prevent clogging. Dermatologists advise using an oil-free moisturiser and mild cleanser with adapalene because it can be quite drying to the skin.

4. Azelaic Acid

Azelaic Acid acts to unclog pores like those of Salicylic Acid and Adapalene. In comparison to Salicylic Acid and Adapalene, it is milder, making it a better choice if you have sensitive skin. Additionally, it can reduce the appearance of old acne scars, which are brown areas that are most noticeable in persons with darker skin tones. Azelaic Acid is available in OTC formulations at a 10% strength and prescription levels at 15% and 20% strength.

Experts' Picks For Acne-Prone Skin Care In 2022

For acne-prone skin, the dermatologists we spoke to advised looking for products containing Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Adapalene, and Azelaic Acid. Below, we've featured a variety of face washes, moisturisers, and more that contain these components in addition to various acne-fighting substances that dermatologists prescribe. Each of the following companies and products came highly recommended by specialists.

1. Neutrogena Oil-Free Salicylic Acid Acne Wash

To unclog pores and treat acne, skin specialists advised using this Salicylic Acid Cleanser from the well-liked brand Neutrogena. It has LHA, which serves as a mild acne treatment. Since it is free of oils, perfumes, and parabens, it is suited for the majority of skin types.

2. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser

Our experts' top choice for a Benzoyl Peroxide Wash with a lesser concentration is CeraVe. Hyaluronic Acid helps the skin keep its natural hydration, 4% Benzoyl Peroxide helps clear acne, and niacinamide has a natural anti-inflammatory action.

3. Teenilicious Acne Face Cleanser With Salicylic Acid & Tea Tree Oil

Teenilicious's fragrance-free acne cleanser contains a Salicylic Acid concentration. Neem Leaf Extract, which inhibits acne-causing germs and calms sensitive skin, is another ingredient. Tea Tree Oil aids in the treatment of acne's inflammatory signs and symptoms, including redness, swelling, burning, and itching.

4. Neutrogena Clear Pore Face Mask

This Neutrogena product, which includes 3.5% Benzoyl Peroxide, was suggested by a dermatologist. According to the company, it can be used as a weekly mask or a daily cleanser to remove bacteria and stop new outbreaks.

5. Teenilicious Acne Face Kit With Benzoyl Peroxide & Witch Hazel Extract

The acne-causing germs are eliminated by the Teenilicious Acne Face Kit With Benzoyl Peroxide And Witch Hazel Extract. Its gentle formulation works on the pores without causing skin irritation. Acne's size and redness are diminished with Benzoyl Peroxide and Witch Hazel Extract. This Acne Face Kit helps to treat obstinate acne, prevent breakouts, and lessen blemishes.

6. Mario Badescu Drying Mask

The oldest known agent to treat skin inflammation is sulphur, which is present in this face mask by Mario Badescu. While calamine and cucumber can soothe the face and prevent irritation, the mix of sulphur and zinc oxide in this mask removes excess oil and draws out impurities. It can be used two or three times per week. According to the company, it can also be applied as a spot treatment for troublesome outbreaks.

7. Teenilicious Acne Face Kit with Azelaic Acid & Alba Bark Extract

By accelerating cell turnover, the Acne Face Kit helps the skin get rid of the bacteria that cause acne and starts the healing process. Additionally, it soothes irritated and inflamed skin while bringing the skin's pH level back to normal, brightening the skin tone.

8. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Salicylic Acid, which is present in this popular liquid leave-on exfoliant from Paula's Choice at 2%, aids in removing dead skin cells and clearing clogged pores. Green Tea is another ingredient, that the manufacturer claims can help calm inflamed skin and lessen obvious signs of ageing.

9. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion

Acne sufferers might benefit greatly from products that provide hydration while being oil-free, such as a CeraVe daily moisturiser. According to the manufacturer, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and other ceramides are present in this oil-free night moisturiser from the company to deliver vital hydration all through the night. The company's AM Facial Moisturizer, which includes SPF 30, is also available.

10. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion

For people with acne, Cetaphil is a reliable brand. According to the makers, this face and body moisturiser has a non-greasy, paraben-free product without additional fragrance to prevent irritation for sensitive skin types. The moisturiser is available in four quantities, ranging from 4 ounces to 20 ounces, and according to Cetaphil, it can hydrate skin for up to 24 hours.

What To Consider While Purchasing Products For Acne-Prone Skin

Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Azelaic Acid, for example, can be used both in the morning and at night, according to experts, who advised us that acne-fighting medications can be used every day. Since Adapalene is more stable than previous retinoids, it can be administered during the day. It is preferable to use sunscreen at night if you are planning to spend a lot of time in the sun during the day because it can make your skin more vulnerable to the sun's UV radiation. Experts advised patch-testing acne treatment medications on persons with sensitive skin before using them more frequently than every other day to prevent allergic reactions.

Although over-the-counter (OTC) remedies can assist with mild to moderate acne, it typically takes three months of daily use to notice benefits. It's also okay to combine all of the aforementioned acne-fighting substances but be aware that this can be very irritating and that layering products won't increase their potency.