Acne is an annoying skin-care concern, but it’s also one of the most treatable. Depending on the type and severity, mild acne can be easily cleared with over-the-counter (OTC) products, while moderate and severe acne often requires prescription-strength treatments.
In the case of mild to moderate acne, breakouts are typically caused by a buildup of oil in pores. This overproduction of oil leads to clogged pores, blackheads and whiteheads. When the bacteria on your skin gets fed by this excess oil, it can overgrow and form pimples. To clear the blemishes, you need products that reduce excess oil, unclog pores and kill bacteria.
We asked dermatologists for their favorite picks for the best acne treatment, including OTC and prescription options. They recommend starting with lower-strength products and slowly increasing your dosage. Then, apply the product to your blemishes every time you wash and moisturize.
This budget-friendly Korean skincare brand is known for its no-fuss formulas that get the job done. Its spot drying lotion is formulated with ingredients like calamine, salicylic acid and vitamin B12 to help shrink red spots overnight. The expert-approved cream is great for treating both deep and surface-level acne.
This OTC retinoid was previously only available with a prescription, but our GH pros are fans of it for its ability to prevent future breakouts by reducing inflammation and speeding up cell turnover. The experts suggest applying it twice a day, but be sure to lather on a face SPF as it can make your skin sensitive to sunlight. best acne treatment