Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation.
The cleansers, creams, and body treatments you oughta clear any pop in of breakout.
When we hear acne, we often think of oily skin, because excess oil leads to clogged pores.
But theres good news: the key to treating and preventing pimples is not to stop working out.
(In fact, sweat contains urea, which is an amazing moisturizer.)
We spent weeks testing the endless options on the market to find the ingredients and formulas that worked best.
These eight win our seal of approval as the best acne products out there.
Sweat pimplesare, you guessed it, breakouts that pop up post-perspiration.
We found that this combination kept our skin clear when used consistently.
The high percentage of lactic acid (nine percent) is what makes this product so effective.
I love lactic acid, says Kavita Mariwalla, MD, a dermatologist in NYC.
We don’t use it enough, to be honest, when it comes to exfoliating.
If your pimples are more occasional,a spot treatmentcan be your best friend.
Which means a moisturizer that will replenish your complexion without exacerbating breakouts is key.
The Nue Co Barrier Culture Moisturizer does just that.
Plus, niacinamide brightens skin tone and helps lighten post-acne hyperpigmentation.
This formula is also fragrance-free for sensitive skin or noses.
A multi-tasking mask that targets impurities in a breakout and shine from excess oil?
Most clay masks leave our skin overly dry, thus exacerbating a breakout even more.
The formula is also oil-free and non-comedogenic.
This Kosas wash is the epitome of strong yet gentle.
On the contrary, it feels more soft and supple than ever before.
However, some folks prone to breakouts may prefer a cleanser that is fragrance-free.
Photo:Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
Heat and sweat and tight spandex are not a kind combination for your skin.
I typically only struggle with body acne in the summer," saysShannon Bauer, senior editor.
This spray has become my go-to.
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
I haven’t noticed any bleaching or staining of my clothes either.
Simply hold the machine over your breakout and wait for three minutes.
The light will automatically turn off when the treatment is over.
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
Move to the next acne spot and repeat.
We felt a slight warming sensation but no pain or discomfort while using the machine.
The handheld tool is also small enough to fit in any toiletry or gym bag for on-the-go use.
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
AHAs are water-soluble and work on the surface of the skin.
The most common BHA is salicylic acid, which is found inPeace Out Blemish Balm CleanserandMario Badescu Drying Lotion.
OneShape Skin Award winnerthat effectively combines both is Skinfix’s Azelaic Acid BHA/AHA face cleanser.
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
But there are other ingredients to add to your acne-fighting toolbelt.
Clay, often found in face masks, are great for managing oil production, says Dr. Mariwalla.
Beyond just the pimple, managing acne means caring for your skin as a whole.
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
A moisturizer, such asThe Nue Co Barrier Culture Moisturizer, was formulated to do just that.
For example, while effective, benzoyl peroxide does not play nicely in the sandbox with the other children.
It can break down many other active ingredients like retinol and vitamin C, he explains.
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
This largely depends on the product you are using to treat breakouts.
A moisturizer, especially ones that assist barrier function, are applied on top of serums.
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
Shape / Mehroz Kapadia
PHOTO: Shape / Jhett Thompson
