Once upon a time, we thought acne was a problem solely experienced by pubescent teenagers. Alas, acne breakouts can be an unfortunate, yet inevitable part of life for many people, sticking around for years (or even decades) after the final lunch bell has rung. Throw daily mask wearing (the fabric kind, not the skincare variety) into the mix and even the genetically blessed who haven’t had to deal with the woes of acne thus far are experiencing breakouts and on the hunt for the ultimate cure-all acne treatment.
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While we’d all like a one-product-fixes-all solution, stubborn acne breakouts require a more targeted approach in the form of a routine overhaul. So, in the name of banishing breakouts for good, we’ve rounded up the best acne treatments of all time.
1. NIOD Flavanone Mud
Mask on. Treating your skin to a mask a couple of times a week can be beneficial in keeping your skin balanced and your pores decongested. NIOD Flavanone Mud is one of the best products in the game when it comes to decongestion; utilising a three phase (purifying, protective, responsive) approach, it tackles existing surface impurities and provides lasting protection against environmental congestion. If you’re looking to reduce the appearance of pores and frequency of breakouts, this is the mask for you. Note that it does sting a fair bit after rinsing off, so avoid actives after using and follow up with a nourishing moisturiser!
2. Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Mask
Specifically designed with acne treatment in mind, the Peter Thomas Roth Therapeutic Sulfur Mask uses a combination of sulfur, kaolin clay, and bentonite clay to clear up acne and absorb excess oil, while aloe vera and zinc work to calm inflammation and soothe the skin.
3. La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo + Anti Acne Moisturiser
While many acne treatments can be drying, La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo + Anti Acne Moisturiser hydrates the skin while targeting blemishes and imperfections through a combination of chemical exfoliants and niacinamide. Suitable for sensitive skin, its lightweight texture is oily-skin friendly.
4. Silvi Anti-Acne Silk Pillowcase
Treated with antibacterial silver, this silk pillowcase prevents the occurrence of breakouts by eliminating the spread of acne-causing bacteria while you sleep.
5. Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Ideal for targeting the inflammation and redness that often accompanies acne, the Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster works to minimise the appearance of pores, soothe irritated and inflamed skin, and calm any redness. Used consistently (either on its own as a serum or mixed into a moisturiser), it also aids in reducing the frequency and severity of breakouts.
6. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
You knew this one was coming. Everyone’s favourite go-to product for acneic skin, the Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant uses salicylic acid to exfoliate dead skin, unclog pores and eliminate congestion, even out skin tone, and improve clarity and brightness. For best results, use once or twice daily after cleansing and toning.
7. Mesoestetic Acne One
Acne One from cosmeceutical brand Mesoestetic is a dermatologist-approved acne solution. Designed for daily use, the acne treatment cream uses a multifaceted approach to target the factors that trigger acne, employing a retinoid complex, salicylic acid, and botanicals to reduce sebum production and control acne-causing bacteria.
8. Mesoestetic Imperfection Control
A spot treatment for blemishes, Mesoestetic Imperfection Control uses pigments to camouflage breakouts, while a retinoid complex boosts cell renewal and decreases the likelihood of post-acne hyperpigmentation and enoxolone (derived from liquorice) works to reduce redness and swelling.
9. Murad Rapid Relief Spot Treatment
Breakout right before an event? The Murad Rapid Relief Spot Treatment uses salicylic acid to reduce the size and appearance of blemishes in as little as four hours. Meanwhile, pine and thyme extracts aid in combating any redness or irritation.
10. Grown Alchemist Blemish Treatment Gel
Botanicals pack a powerful punch in this acne treatment gel which uses antibacterial and antiseptic salix alba and boswellia extracts to calm the skin and decrease the size and appearance of blemishes without drying out the skin. We’d recommend letting this one work its magic overnight.
11. La Roche Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel Cleanser
The best face wash for acne, the La Roche Posay Effaclar Micro-Peeling Purifying Gel Cleanser is specifically designed for blemish prone skin, working to deeply exfoliate the skin, eliminate existing pimples and breakouts, and reduce excess sebum. Zinc reduces sebum production and cleanses the skin while salicylic acid unclogs pores and targets blemishes and LHA provides gentle exfoliation and refines pores.
Words by AR Staff
