The 10 Best Acne Removing Brands of 2022

Differin is the number one brand of acne treatments in the United States, with more than 20 years of rich experience in this field. FDA-approved, safe and effective, Differin's acne products are formulated with adapalene, an acne-fighting retinoid. Currently, Differin has more than 40 million customers around the world. Recommended by a host of doctors, its products are also the winners of multiple beauty awards such as Allure Best of Beauty.

Differin offers a wide range of skincare products for cleansing, moisturizing, acne treatment, dark spot correcting and the like. As the centerpiece of Differin, acne treatment is favored by many customers and enjoys a great reputation. Differin Gel, the iconic product of this brand, is the 2020 Allure Best of Beauty award winner. Packed with 0.1% adapalene, the gentle formula is safe for long-term use. It works by accelerating cell turnover, unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. With continued use, Differin Gel also helps reduce the risk of hyperpigmentation, improve your skin tone, remove and prevent pimples, and get rid of blackheads, whiteheads and spots. Compared with other acne treatments without adapalene, the superior-quality Differin Gel is better tolerated. Free of irritating ingredients such as alcohol and fragrances, it’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Use Differin Gel twice a day, in the morning and at night. It can clear up your acne after three months of daily use. Plus, Differin Gel comes in two sizes to choose from, 15g and 45g.  

Differin also provides dark spot correcting products for lightening post-acne hyperpigmentation. Pairing it with Differin Gel will visibly help with your skin condition.

In 1967, world-renowned cosmetics and skincare specialist Mario Badescu founded his namesake skincare brand, which has been recognized thanks to the professional, all-natural products and skincare treatments. Mario Badescu’s skincare formulas are all developed by the founder and inspired by his multiple studies. The brand is favored by a host of Hollywood actors and supermodels and highly recommended by Jennifer Aniston, Heidi Klum, Naomi Campbell and the like.

Formulated with soothing plant extracts, seaweed, vitamin oil, and aloe vera, Mario Badescu products are gentle and natural, suitable for most skin types. The brand provides a variety of solutions specifically designed for addressing acne, aging, dull complexion, dryness and the like. Its acne treatments come in multiple forms such as lotion, cream and mask, etc. As a hero product of Mario Badescu, DRYING LOTION is recommended by a number of celebrities and professionals as an effective acne treatment. It contains salicylic acid that penetrates into pores,  exfoliates dead skin and promotes cell turnover to leave you with clearer and smoother skin. Packed with sulfur and zinc oxide, the versatile formula also promotes wound healing, fights bacteria, prevents hyperpigmentation, and lighten up your skin tone. DRYING LOTION is made of pink sediment and translucent solution. Do not shake the bottle. Dip a cotton swab into the pink sediment at the bottom and apply it directly on the affected spot. Do not put it on broken skin.   

DRYING LOTION is specially used as spot treatment of pimples and acne. If you have large clusters of acne and bumps, BUFFERING LOTION or DRYING CREAM will make a solid choice. Both of them are formulated with niacinamide that helps keep skin hydrated and control oil production to restore your skin barrier. We recommend using them at night to avoid hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure.

Mario Badescu also comes in the sets of multiple acne products such as ACNE REPAIR KIT or ACNE CONTROL KIT to give your skin an overall treatment at an affordable price. 

Born in 1995 and headquartered in California, the United States, Proactiv, a band owned by Nestlé Skin Health, is a household name in acne treatment. Proactiv has been known for 3-Step Acne Treatment System for more than 20 years. Featuring celebrities like Judith Light, Jessica Simpson and Julianne Hough, it has become one of the most popular skincare brands among consumers. Focusing on innovation, Proactiv introduced the exclusive micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide formula in 2010 for gentler treatment.

Developed by Katie Rodan and Kathy A. Fields, two famous American dermatologists from Stanford University, Proactiv’s formulas are gentle and effective, suitable for the entire face. Aside from acne-fighting ingredients, Proactiv’s products also contain plant extracts. All these ingredients work together to effectively lock in moisture and make your skin look more hydrated and naturally brighter.  

Targeting different skin types and acne conditions, Proactiv launches 3 treatment kits, each of which is formulated with the exclusive 3-Step Acne Treatment System. The bestseller Proactiv Solution Acne Treatment System is suitable for most people. First of all, clean your face with Renewing Cleanser, which contains tiny beads to exfoliate dead skin cells and is packed with 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide to penetrate deep into pores and fight bacteria. Next, apply Revitalizing Toner to remove excess oil and hydrate your skin. The last step is to dab Repair (with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide) onto the affected spot to prevent new breakouts. The whole process effectively treat acne and restore the health of your skin. Positive results will be achieved with continued use for one month. It should be noted that when using Proactiv Solution Acne Treatment System, do not forget to protect your skin from sun exposure.

The other 2 kits are also targeted and you can choose based on your own acne condition. If you have sensitive skin, Proactiv+ Acne Treatment System will be your best bet. This treatment is free of irritating ingredients, perfect for sensitive skin type. For those with stubborn acne, ProactivMD 3-Piece System makes a solid choice. The Adapalene Gel contained in this formula has a stronger anti-inflammation and bacterial-fighting effect.

Paula's Choice is a well-known American skincare brand founded by Paula Begoun in 1995. Unlike other skincare brands, Paula's Choice lays more emphasis on enhancement of product quality and strives to provide “the best, the most effective, and the most cost-effective” products instead of spending time on advertising. Fragrance-free, colorant-free, and cruelty-free, all its products are formulated with all-natural ingredients, delivering a modern environmental protection philosophy. The ingredient lists of all Paula's Choice products are accessible on the official website and other authoritative sites. It is a trustworthy brand that is deeply appealing to a vast number of consumers.

Paula's Choice offers a wide variety of skincare products targeting pimples, blackheads, skin tone and the like. It comes in more than 10 acne-fighting products, each of which is an hot item. Thanks to superior quality, SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA LIQUID EXFOLIANT is favored by consumers and one bottle is sold every six seconds. Awarded with multiple titles like Best Acne Treatment and Best Exfoliant, it is recognized by the industry. Formulated with the hero ingredient salicylic acid, SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA LIQUID EXFOLIANT gently dissolves excess oil, maintains the water-oil balance of your skin, and unclogs pores to prevent acne at its source. The moderately concentrated salicylic acid not only gets rids of pimples but also protects skin, ideal for beginners.  It also contains butylene glycol and camellia oleifera leaf extract that help lock in moisture, brighten skin tone and provide antioxidant benefits. When using this product, you need to hydrate and protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It should be noted that it might cause breakouts and flaking as well as a slight tingling sensation in the first few uses. Don’t worry, it’s normal. Decrease the amount and frequency of use until building up your skin’s tolerance. A lot of customers say that the non-greasy formula is effective at hydrating and soothing, worth considering.  

Paula's Choice CLEAR line is also well-received by consumers. The product line features excellent cleansing power, ideal for those with acne-prone skin in daily skincare routine. You may visit the official website for more information.

Founded in 1930 by Emanuel Stolaroff and headquartered in LA, Neutrogena is a well-known American personal care brand owned by Johnson & Johnson. Neutrogena offers a wide range of products for skin care, body care, hair care, makeup and the like, which are sold in more than 70 countries/regions around the world. Over the decades, Neutrogena has provided a bunch of personalized care solutions for families worldwide and has received many positive reviews from professionals.

Skin care is the centerpiece of Neutrogena. Targeting skin concerns like acne, aging, dryness and the like, Neutrogena launches a variety of professional products, most of which feature lotion-like texture for easy application. As a cult-classic item, Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser is formulated with 10% benzoyl peroxide. This dermatologist-recommended active ingredient fights bacteria and penetrates deep into pores to preventing clogging to greatly help treat acne. The fast-acting Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Cleanser reduces swelling, especially the stubborn acne, in just one day. Apply it twice a day. But if this is your first time using the product, applying once a day is recommended in the first few uses. After building up your skin’s tolerance, gradually increase the frequency of use yet no more than 3 times daily. Many customers say that this effective acne-fighting product might cause allergies. For safety’s sake, do a patch test on the back of your hand or ear.

Pink Grapefruit Acne Face Wash & Cleanser is a gentler formula. Infused with 2% salicylic acid as the active ingredient, vitamin C and grapefruit extract, it effectively treat acne while making your skin look more natural and healthier. Featuring a refreshing scent, it delivers a great experience and is worth considering.

Born in 1956, Clean & Clear is one of the skincare brands owned by Johnson & Johnson. It provides a full range of high-quality skincare products for many young consumers. The trustworthy brand has gained the leading position in the global skincare industry for young consumers. Currently, Clean & Clear's products are sold in 46 countries/regions, making it a very influential brand.

Clean & Clear has multiple product lines such as Lemon, Watermelon, Morning Burst and the like. Acne treatment is the centerpiece of Clean & Clear’s products. Almost all its products help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Advantage Acne Control Kit is specifically designed for acne-prone skin type. Acne Control Cleanser included in this kit contains 5% benzoyl peroxide that penetrates deep into pores and removes dirt and excess oil to reduce acne. Menthol in the formula delivers a fresh scent and leaves skin feeling refreshed. However, it also contains a small amount of fragrances, so it’s not suitable for extremely sensitive skin. This kit also includes Fast Acting Treatment that is formulated with multiple moisturizing ingredients and 2.5% benzoyl peroxide as the active ingredient to hydrate your skin and prevent other skin concerns caused by dehydration. After using this product, you need to apply sunscreen. If you experience an allergic reaction after application, see a doctor immediately. At a reasonable price, this daily skincare kit receives many good reviews and is a cost-effective option. The single item in this kit is also available on Clean & Clear. You can buy separately if needed.

With a wide range of purchase channels, Clean & Clear’s products are available on the official website and other shopping sites like Amazon and Walmart.

Founded in 2017 by Aness An, Binna Won and Yanghee Paik, Rael is a professional personal care brand for women. The three founders created Rael with the original intention of producing superior-quality period care products for women. Currently, Rael provides all-round feminine care products that are sold in 19 countries/regions around the world. Rael is also committed to promoting physical education, caring for women and girls in poverty-stricken areas, and distributing menstrual products to them.

Rael launches a variety of skincare products specifically designed for acne treatment. These products are favored by the public thanks to the natural ingredients and acne-fighting results. Rael features acne patches that come in purple, pink and green packs with different benefits. INVISIBLE SPOT COVER in pink works on acne and whiteheads. Hydrocolloid in each patch absorbs pus and oil, and helps heal wounds and reduce swelling in a short time. Meanwhile, it protects the affected spot from environmental aggressors while preventing new breakouts to an extant. Compared to general acne treatments, INVISIBLE SPOT COVER is perfect for some temporary occasions for it’s invisible and takes effect within 4 hours. Easy to use, just apply the patch to the affected area.

If you have large clusters of acne, SPOT CONTROL COVER will be your best bet. The strip can cover a larger affected area, such as cheeks, chin, and forehead, to powerfully treat acne. You can choose based on your own needs.

Born in the early 1900s, La Roche-Posay is a professional skincare brand of L'Oréal With high standards for product quality, La Roche-Posay has a R&D team composed of many professionals who are committed to providing superior-quality skincare solutions for sensitive skin. The dermatologist-tested products are safe and effective, suitable for all skin types, especially sensitive skin. Over the years, La Roche-Posay has been recommended by countless professional doctors and fans around the world thanks to the quality products and outstanding benefits.

La Roche-Posay offers a wide variety of skincare products for cleansing, moisturizing, sun protection, acne treatment and the like, of which acne treatment is one of the main benefits of La Roche-Posay’s products. It comes in many targeted products such as masks, toners, creams and the like. With minimal, blue-white packaging, the products are well received by the public.  

Thanks to outstanding acne-fighting results and safe ingredients, EFFACLAR DUO ACNE SPOT TREATMENT is the winner of multiple major beauty awards such as Seventeen's Best Beauty Awards 2020, 10th Annual Beauty Award for Best Acne Spot Treatment of NewBeauty 2020, and InStyle Best Beauty Buys 2017. The cream-like, oil-free treatment absorbs quickly. Formulated with 5.5% benzoyl peroxide, it penetrates deep into pores to clear acne blemishes. LHA in this formula helps exfoliate and make your skin look healthier. EFFACLAR DUO ACNE SPOT TREATMENT is also effective at treating multiple types of acne. Do not apply too much. Up to 3 times daily. This fast-acting formula provides visible results with continued use for 3 days. It is available in 20ml and 40ml, of which the smaller size is easy to carry around.

If you have oil and acne-prone skin, we recommend using EFFACLAR DUO ACNE SPOT TREATMENT in conjunction with EFFACLAR MEDICATED ACNE FACE WASH for a better result. The latter is packed with 2% salicylic acid that helps absorb excess oil.

AcneFree is a skincare brand owned by L'Oréal. AcneFree specializes in the production and sales of affordable products for acne treatment and related skincare. Its products address acne concerns for consumers for years and enjoys a good reputation.

As a professional, experienced acne-fighting brand, AcneFree comes in a wide variety of effective acne treatments and skincare products, such as toners, cleansers, gels and the like. Most products feature simple ingredients yet significant results. The cost-effective OIL FREE 24 HR ACNE CLEARING SYSTEM 3PC KIT appears on the bestseller lists of many retail stores. This kit delivers professional-grade results and is formulated for mild to severe acne, especially the oily skin type. It comes in 3 items: OIL FREE ACNE CLEANSER, WITCH HAZEL MATTIFYING TONER and OIL FREE ACNE LOTION. OIL FREE ACNE CLEANSER is infused with witch hazel and aloe vera that help absorb excess sebum and leave you with matte and moisturized skin. OIL FREE ACNE LOTION contains 3.7% benzoyl peroxide that powerfully fights bacteria and prevents clogged pores without irritation. Following the instruction to use the product, you’ll see some improvements in 3 days. With continued use, best results will turn up after 8 weeks. OIL FREE 24 HR ACNE CLEARING SYSTEM 3PC KIT is similar to Proactiv Solution Acne Treatment System. Though working good slowly, the former is a more affordable option.  

ACNE FREE OIL FREE ACNE CLEANSER combines cleansing and acne treatment in one. Aside from the acne-fighting ingredients, it also contains ceramides to moisturize your skin and keep it hydrated and elastic. Sold at $7.99 on the official website, it can be used in conjunction with OIL FREE 24 HR ACNE CLEARING SYSTEM 3PC KIT to deliver effective acne-clearing results.  

With a wide range of purchase channels, AcneFree’s products are available on the official website and other shopping sites like Amazon and Walmart.

Bioré is a well-known Japanese brand that is committed to developing deep cleansing products. It has customers around the world and enjoys a great reputation. In 1998, Bioré entered the European and American markets. Since the launch of its Pore Strips line, it has become a favorite brand of many consumers.

Bioré has a variety of product lines, such as Pore Strips, Charcoal Line, Acne Line and Brightening Line, of which Pore Strips for nose deep cleansing is the most classic one. Pore Strips is formulated with the exclusive C-Bond Technology to binds to blackheads instead of the nose skin to clear out and unclog pores. Safe and unscented, the nose strips help protect the skin’s barrier without traumatizing when ripped off. The versatile formula gives the deepest clean in just 10 minutes and helps shrink the appearance of pores with continued use. It comes in a pack of multiple strips. Use it once a week. It’s really a cost-effective option.    

If you have oily skin, Charcoal Nose Strips will be our best bet. The nose strips are fomulated with natural charcoal that is great at absorbing excess sebum and control oil production. However, it just controls shine from the outside and can’t get rid of oily skin at the source. So other approached are needed.

BIORÉ WITCH HAZEL PORE CLARIFYING COOLING CLEANSER is also worth considering. The gentle formula contains salicylic acid and witch hazel that penetrate deep into pores to dissolve sebum and effectively remove dirt and shrink pores. It comes in 8Fl oz at a affordable price, worth a try.