Top 10 Best Serums for Acne Reviews and Buying Guide

It is good that you have decided on the right exfoliator, moisturizer, sunscreen, and face wash for your acne-prone skin. But, you might be thinking about how to make all these products work for your skin. There is a product that can function as an efficient source of nutrition and nourishment for your face. This product is known as serum.

Why You Need to Choose the Best Serum?

Serums are a combination of active ingredients mostly available in liquid form and target particular skincare concerns. The ingredients in the serum are generally made using smaller molecules. As compared to regular face cream, the number of ingredients used in a serum will be more in serums. Here are some reasons to consider using the best face serum for acne:

• Serum can make your skin moisturized. Also, it will reduce the inflammation, redness and dryness that are often faced by people with acne-prone skin.

• Further, they will bring visible differences in dark circles, skin dryness and fine lines.

• You will experience a reduction in the size of open pores. In turn, you will face lesser whiteheads and blackheads.

• In addition to addressing acne, the right serum for acne will also address the marks caused by blackheads. Further, you will see a visible reduction in the spots in your skin as well.

• You will see an overall improvement in your skin texture based on the ingredient used in the serum.

So, to get the right benefits that your skin needs, you should choose the best serum for acne. To aid you with this selection, we have shortlisted the top 10 serums for acne:

#1 Vinopure Pore Minimizing Natural Salicylic Acid Serum from Caudalie

Caudalie has formulated this product with grapeseed antioxidants and salicylic acid along with other essential oils. These ingredients help with zapping the acne and other blemishes besides purifying pores. Also, it helps with purging blackheads and excess oil.

The natural salicylic acid used in this product helps with unclogging and tightening the pores, while the organic grape water helps with moisturizing and soothing the skin. The complex of essential oils used in this product helps with toning and purifying the skin.

Many users of this serum for acne stated that it heals acne and it removes scars at a faster pace. Even, some said that it works slowly but perfectly to remove acne.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Caudalie Products

#2 Anti-Acne Serum from Mario Badescu

To prevent acne eruptions before they start, this product from Mario Badescu works with its salicylic acid presence. Many users of this product have stated that they use this serum every evening. In turn, they are able to get clear and smooth skin, and also this product keeps pimples and acne at bay they claim. The product works for acne treatment with exfoliating salicylic acid that prevents pore and acne congestion.

Many users of this product stated that this product functions as a lightweight clarifying serum and it prevents breakouts. In addition to salicylic acid, the product also includes thyme as an ingredient with natural clarifying properties.

RELATED: Top 15 Best Mario Badescu Products Reviews

#3 Mineral 89 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum from Vichy Laboratories

This product uses hydrating hyaluronic acid as the key ingredient to prevent skin from drying. When the skin becomes dry due to winter or other reasons, your body will start producing more oil to balance the dryness. This extra oil can clog the pores. In turn, there will be more breakouts.

To prevent dryness, this product hydrates, and plumps the skin. Also, the product uses Vichy volcanic water as another key ingredient. This ingredient helps with strengthening the natural skin barrier besides repairing it to prevent breakouts.

Many users of this product stated that with a clear soft gel texture and without any color and scent, this serum effectively prevents acne.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Vichy Skincare

#4 Smart Custom-Repair Serum from Clinique

This serum for acne suits all skin types and apart from providing the right acne treatment, this product has been designed to effectively address the signs of aging.

To repair the effects of long-term acne in the skin, this product uses the Patented Clinique Smart technology. Also, a combination of salicylic acid, glucosamine and peptides used in this product helps with curing acne and fine lines. Further, to address the inflammation caused by acne, the product uses vitamin C with anti-inflammatory properties.

Further, many users of this product claimed that it visibly refined their skin texture besides helping them achieve a uniform tone. Many users expressed that this serum is easy to apply and addresses acne effectively.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Clinique Skincare

#5 Tea Tree Clear Skin Super Serum from TruSkin Naturals

As you are looking for the best serum for acne, this product from TruSkin Naturals has everything to treat your acne and even to prevent future breakouts.

For instance, the retinol in this serum along with salicylic acid provides the right acne-fighting properties to this product. Further, vitamin C with its anti-inflammatory properties helps to reduce the swelling associated with acne. The calming effect on the acne for its redness and irritation is provided by the niacinamide present in this serum. Along with all these ingredients, true hydration is provided by the hyaluronic acid to prevent future breakouts. This cruelty-free serum works to soothe your unhappy skin in every possible way.

Many users of this product, who have been struggling with acne for a long expressed that this serum changed their life.

#6 Pore Refining Retinol Serum from CeraVe

In addition to providing acne treatment, the purpose of this serum is to make your skin clean and soft after acne.

The niacinamide in this product helps with fighting the acne, while the licorice root extract with its richness in glycyrrhizin, a potent antioxidant prevents aging besides safeguarding the skin from the damages caused by acne. Also, to prevent further breakouts, the ceramides in this product locks moisture in the skin. Apart from all these ingredients, retinol in this serum resurfaces and refines the skin post-acne.

Many users with acne-prone skin stated that this serum reduced dark spots and pores in their skin effectively. This resurfacing serum helps with the reduction of the appearance of post-acne pores and marks as claimed by many users.

RELATED: Top 10 Best CeraVe Skincare – Expert Reviews

#7 Acne Spot Treatment from DRMTLGY

Acne Spot Treatment treats acne breakouts besides reducing blackheads, whiteheads and pimples.

This product encompasses the purest grade of Benzoyl Peroxide that seeps deep into the pores, thereby getting rid of the present acne and preventing new ones. This ingredient is popular for its acne-fighting properties. The glycolic acid used as an ingredient in this product helps with minimizing the chances of acne scarring. This serum for acne suits normal, dry, sensitive, combination and oily skin types.

Many users have stated that they are able to see a visible difference in their acne within 24 hours of using this serum. It works by dissolving pore-clogging oils but without drying your skin overly. In turn, in addition to providing acne treatment, it also reduces the chances of future breakouts.

#8 Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum from InstaNatural

The serum for acne mainly helps to clear the skin and it also has ingredients that fight the signs of aging.

Vitamin C present in this product will help with improving hyperpigmentation. Also, it will help with bringing down the inflammation caused by acne in the skin.

The salicylic acid present in this product will help with fighting acne and retinol will help with unclogging the pores as clogging of pores is the important reason for acne in many people.

Niacinamide in this serum will help with reducing the redness associated with acne. In short, this serum can function from multiple angles with its ingredients to fight and also to prevent acne.

Many users of this product work amazingly against acne.

#9 Acne Blemish Control Treatment Serum from Derma E

With salicylic acid as the key ingredient, this serum effectively addresses acne. With its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil in this product helps with safeguarding the acne-prone skin from microbes and reduces the swelling in acne.

Aloe Vera is also known to kill bacteria that spread acne with its anti-bacterial properties. In addition, the calming chamomile and lavender in this product give a soothing smell to use.

Many users expressed that this serum provides acne treatment gently with its soothing aroma.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Derma E Skincare

#10 Rapid Dark Spot Corrector Tone Repair Serum from Neutrogena

With Retinol SA or sustained-action retinol, this serum for acne will help with reducing acne outbreaks by getting rid of dead skin cells from clogging the pores. Even, this ingredient will help with the formation of acne scars by quickly rectifying acne.

Also, Vitamin C in this product will fight free radical damage to the skin and it also reduces the inflammation caused by acne helping acne to heal quickly. Further, the hyaluronic acid in this product brings a young look to the skin by providing it with essential hydration. Moreover, the glucose complex in this product will help with strengthening the skin barrier.

Many users expressed that even though it takes some time to relieve acne scars, it completely relieves them.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Neutrogena Skincare

Why a Face Serum Should Be a Part of Your Daily Skincare Routine?

If there are tiny bumps with puss on your facial skin, you are dealing with the acne issue. The right face serum can help you treat this problem quickly. This post offers a comprehensive guide on choosing the best face serum for acne. 

Face serums have become quite popular among users seeking brighter, smoother, and clearer skin. Being extremely easy to apply, face serums offer a host of benefits. Since it is readily available, users with acne-prone skin can treat this skin issue once and for all. 

Serums are extremely beneficial when it comes to preventing the acne problem. Check the below-listed benefits to learn why a face serum for acne must be a part of your daily skincare routine. 

1. Instant hydration

The effects of dehydration will be visible on your face. You can quickly lose vital moisture of the skin and the face will turn dull. People, who consume sufficient fluids, manage to keep their skin well-hydrated. If that’s not possible for you, then you must apply face serum regularly.  

Most beauty experts and skin experts recommend face serums for hydration. This product offers instant hydration to maintain the soft texture of the skin throughout the day. You can apply it right after cleansing the face. It will deliver hydrating ingredients and trap moisture in your skin for prolonged protection. 

2. Reduced risk of hyperpigmentation

Dark scars start appearing on the skin after acne. The affected area looks darker due to hyperpigmentation. Most people with acne-prone skin experience this problem. Skin injuries and prolonged exposure to UV rays can also cause this problem. Many people consult with dermatologists and get expensive treatment. 

What if you can prevent hyperpigmentation and get clearer skin without spending a lot of money? Try a face serum that contains vitamin C. This product will prevent the tyrosine enzyme from affecting your skin. Your facial skin will appear lighter and brighter than before. 

3. It can make acne scars fade away

As you know, acne scars do not heal instantly. The healing process can take time. Most acne scars turn into ugly marks on the face that seems impossible to hide. Applying makeup is a short-term solution, but it’s not a proper way of dealing with acne scars. 

You need an antioxidant-rich face serum to make your skin plump and softer. It will eliminate free radicals, boost collagen production, and thus help you remove acne marks. Apply the face serum daily to make acne marks and other scars fade away completely. 

4. It helps you control sebum production to cure the acne problem

Face serum is like a boon for users with oily skin. Excessive oil production in the sebaceous glands is one of the main causes of acne. It causes enlarged pores and when oil blends with dirt, it clogs pores. Those clogged pores become painful acne and pimples if you don’t cleanse your face properly. 

Clean your face with a top-rated face cleanser and then apply the face serum. It will deliver ingredients that help in managing sebum production. Your skin will stay clean, healthy, and thus you can prevent acne problems. 

How to Choose the Best Serum for Acne?

Face serums are available for all skin types. You can get rid of acne and prevent future skin breakouts if you got the right product. How to find the best serum for acne? Assess the following factors and you will get what your skin needs to stay smooth and healthy. 

1. Check active ingredients

Reputable skincare product brands clearly describe the type of ingredients used to produce their products. You will find two ingredient lists on the label, which are active and inactive ingredients. Active ingredients are blended to deliver promoted benefits of a product. 

If you are buying a face serum, check its active ingredients. If these ingredients are acne-prone skin-friendly, you can treat skin breakouts much faster. Let’s find out which active ingredients should be present in your face serum! 

• Vitamin C

Vitamin C is quite essential for acne-prone skin, especially if you want to get rid of irritation caused by breakouts. Acnes can cause inflammation, swelling, tiny bumps, and redness on the skin. Post-acne scars further affect your appearance by creating dark spots on the face.  

Since vitamin C gained from dietary products rarely reach the skin, you have to find another way of meeting your skin’s vitamin C demands. Apply a face serum containing vitamin C as an active ingredient. 

This ingredient is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help you reduce the redness and swelling caused by acne. Besides, it prevents hyperpigmentation and helps you make post-acne scars fade away.  

You can gain a brighter complexion, clear skin texture, and younger skin if your face serum contains vitamin C. So, hunt for face serums containing this vital ingredient. 

• Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is now found in face serums, toners, moisturizers, day creams, night creams, and many other products. Why it is such a vital ingredient and how does it improve skin condition? Being a humectant, hyaluronic acid moisturizes the skin and prevents dryness. 

Users with oily and acne-prone skin also need hydrating ingredients. Our skin produces excess oil when it feels a lack of hydration. Hyaluronic acid maintains the optimum moisture levels. Thus, the skin produces less oil and the risk of skin breakouts reduces significantly. 

If you frequently deal with the acne problem, look for a face serum with hyaluronic acid as an active ingredient. Sebaceous glands in your skin will produce less oil, the risk of clogged pores will be low, and thus you will have clean and healthy skin. 

• Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is prohibited for users, who got dry and extremely sensitive skin. It must be present in your face serum if you got oily and acne-prone skin. This ingredient is proven quite effective when it comes to healing blackheads and whiteheads. It kills bacteria responsible for the acne problem and thus it prevents the spread of acne.  

Along with killing acne bacteria, salicylic acid can dissolve pore-clogging impurities. It cleanses skin pores and works as an anti-inflammatory agent to heal inflammation. This ingredient penetrates deeper into the skin to break and remove dead skin cells. Thus, it becomes an excellent acne healing and skin cleansing ingredient. 

• Glycerin

Glycerin is one of the most commonly found ingredients in skincare products. It is known to beautify the user’s skin without causing any serious side effects. Being an oil-free and non-comedogenic ingredient, glycerin is perfect to nourish acne-prone skin and shrink pores. 

It offers instant hydrations and helps users cope with skin issues, such as eczema, inflammation, and redness. Apply glycerin-based face serums daily to heal acne scars faster and prevent dehydration due to lack of fluid intake. 

• Niacinamide

This ingredient offers the necessary dose of ceramides to improve the moisture balance. It strengthens the epidermal barrier to prevent foreign objects from entering your skin. Thus, this ingredient prevents pore-clogging to keep your skin clean and healthy all the time. 

Since niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, it can prevent itching and burning sensations. Pimples won’t spread all over your face if your face serum contains this ingredient. So, look for a product with a blend of all the mentioned ingredients. 

2. Look for a face serum that is good for all your skin concerns, including acne

Acne might be a major concern, but what about other skin problems? Are you experiencing acne scars, hyperpigmentation, irritation, and ageing issues? If it is the case, then your face serum should contain vitamin C, humectants, emollients, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. 

Retinol or peptides will be perfect to minimize ageing signs. You may wonder whether such a miracle product exists or not. Search carefully and you will find several high-quality face serums to treat all sorts of skin issues along with acne. 

3. Check product features

There are a few tags you have to check before buying a face serum for acne. Make sure the product is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and dermatologically approved. A clinically tested face serum will certainly help you get rid of acne, pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. 

Look for ingredients that offer a short-term solution but cause long-term damage. Avoid the product if it contains:

• Artificial fragrances

Cheap quality skin care products contain artificial fragrances to offer a feel-good effect. These ingredients may make the serum smell great, but they will make your skin dry. You may soon experience skin irritation, redness, and dehydration. So, avoid such products to maintain healthy skin. 

• Dyes and artificial colors

The chances are pretty low that a face serum may contain artificial colors. If the chosen face serum doesn’t look transparent, you should reject it immediately! 

• Parabens and phthalates

Many brands blend these ingredients in their face serum formulas to increase the shelf life of the serum. You should strictly avoid the use of serum containing parabens and phthalates to avoid skin allergies and chronic health issues, such as cancer! 

Always pick an acne-prone skin-friendly face serum to heal your skin faster. A top-rated and feature-rich product will certainly make you look prettier within a few weeks!  

Conclusion

So, do not let your acne spoil your looks. Choose the right serum and bring back your skin to the condition of how it looked before your acne breakout. Here, we have further shortlisted the top products based on skin type:

Oily Skin: Acne Spot Treatment from DRMTLGY

Normal Skin: Smart Custom-Repair Serum from Clinique

Dry Skin: Mineral 89 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum from Vichy Laboratories

So, choose the best serum for acne for your skin and reap the benefits!