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Fact: Acne is unpredictable. You can live by a very strict skincare routine and still wake up to unwanted blemishes. Whether you experience painful cystic acne or notice new blemishes ahead of your menstrual cycle, acne has a not-so-funny way of popping up when you least expect it. But, honestly — is there ever a good time to get a breakout?
Laser treatments and prescription medicines are helpful ways to tackle acne, but they can be pretty pricey. Thankfully, you can create a zit-zapping, blemish-clearing anti-acne skincare routine without breaking the bank. Amazon is stocked with celeb-approved, bestselling products that clear the most stubborn active breakouts and banish leftover marks from older ones.
We’ve rounded up 11 must-have acne-clearing products. Scroll ahead for the skincare scoop!
Differin Acne Treatment Gel
- Pros
- Cons
- Fast-acting
- Clears stubborn marks
- Some customer reviews advise new users to apply this product sparingly due to its strong formula
Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid
- Pros
- Cons
- Deep cleans pores
- Helps even skin tone
- Customer reviews note sticky texture immediately after application, but note that it dries over time
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash Benzoyl Peroxide
- Pros
- Cons
- Can be used for breakouts on the body
- Doesn't dry out skin after use
- Some customer reviews note strong scent
Mighty Patch Original from Hero Cosmetics
- Pros
- Cons
- Transparent shade that's not very noticeable if you wear it outside
- Doesn't lift or peel after extended use
- Doesn't irritate sensitive skin
- Some customer reviews note concerns over the price
CeraVe SA Cleanser
- Pros
- Cons
- Cleanses and exfoliates at the same time
- Softens skin
- Doesn't deliver an intense exfoliating experience like physical exfoliating scrubs would
Bubble Skincare Level Up Balancing Gel Moisturizer
- Pros
- Cons
- Hydrates skin
- Cute design
- Customer reviews note sticky texture after use
SeoulCeuticals 20% Vitamin C Hyaluronic Acid
- Pros
- Cons
- Absorbs quickly
- Lightly scented
- Some customer reviews note watery texture
COSRX Snail Mucin Sheet Mask
- Pros
- Cons
- Leaves a radiant glow
- Clean and simple packaging
- Customer reviews note slimy texture
Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum
- Pros
- Cons
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy formula
- Some customer reviews noted minimal results
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
- Pros
- Cons
- Minimizes the appearance of active breakouts
- Fast-acting
- Customer reviews note strong scent
Rael Pimple Patches, Miracle Invisible Spot Cover
- Pros
- Cons
- Available in two sizes
- Conceals blemishes
- Some customer reviews note difficulty taking off the patches
