Cosmopolitan’s 2025 Acne Awards Are Here—Check Out the 92 Winners, All Hand-Selected by Our Editors and Experts

“Removing my makeup with this cleansing balm is the highlight of my nighttime skincare routine. As you massage it into your skin, there’s a gentle warming effect that feels so relaxing. And the balm-to-milk consistency is perfect for dissolving makeup without leaving a film on my face.”
—LAUREN BALSAMO, BEAUTY DIRECTOR

“This cult-favorite Clinique cleansing balm utilizes charcoal to help remove oils and dirt from my skin, making my face feel remarkably clean before I even begin my cleansing routine. It helps break down all of my eye makeup, foundation, and lip stain without breaking me out.”
—BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR

“Most nights I’m too lazy to do a full double cleanse, which is why I love this face wash so much. It thoroughly removes makeup, cleanses skin, and lightly exfoliates in one step. The light, foamy texture feels delicious on skin, and it rinses totally clean, too.” —LB

“This gentle, oil-free foam with salicylic acid and soy extract helps keep skin clear and smooth—without any sulfates, soaps, parabens, dyes, or oils. It’s hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, too.”
—MICHELLE HENRY, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

“This melts away my makeup while keeping my skin soft and hydrated. And it cleanses thoroughly without ever making my face feel overly dry and stripped.”
—MADELINE ARGY, MODEL AND CREATOR

“Sulfur is such an underrated ingredient for acne. I love it in a cleanser, like this one from Kate Somerville, for those with sensitive or dry skin. It can be used in the morning or evening to help control oil and breakouts. Over-the-counter sulfur cleansers are hard to come by, so this is my go-to for those who cannot get prescription-strength sulfur wash.”
—CONNIE YANG, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

“This is a great option for those with very sensitive skin who want a bit of light exfoliation. I recommend using it two or three times a week to smooth and hydrate the skin.”
—DHAVAL BHANUSALI, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

“This cleanser is effective for those who struggle with blackheads and whiteheads, thanks to the 2 percent salicylic acid in the formula, which helps target excess oil and unclogs pores. I use this twice a week and always bring it with me while traveling to help prevent unwanted breakouts. It leaves my skin feeling clean but still hydrated, unlike other salicylic acid products that can be drying and irritating.” —DR. YANG

“This is great for treating acne on the go (after a workout, while traveling) and for large surfaces like the back and chest. It can be layered on top of makeup and even on your makeup brushes for a quick refresh. I tell patients to spray it on problem areas a few times per day to help kill acne-causing bacteria.” —DR. YANG

"Every single morning, I spritz this onto my clean face as a toner (but also to wake me up a lil bit), and it feels so freakin’ good. Salicylic acid and glycolic acid help lightly exfoliate my skin, while zinc PCA and allantoin calm down any inflammation.”
—BG

“This toner is the perfect formula for my overly dry skin. It’s infused with rice water to nourish and hydrate the skin while simultaneously cleaning my pores. A few swipes will leave your skin looking like glass.” —JASMINE HYMAN, ASSISTANT BEAUTY EDITOR

“This essence is ideal for anyone with combination to oily skin looking to reduce blackheads, minimize clogged pores, and smooth texture. The gentle PHA and AHA blend exfoliates and hydrates—plus, it aids in fading post-breakout pigmentation.” —SAMANTHA SUSCA, LICENSED AESTHETICIAN

“This toner is packed with all the good stuff—vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, and lactic acid—to help decongest skin without stripping it of essential moisture. The exfoliaton is really gentle, so I can easily use this twice a day with my other actives and my skin isn’t sensitized at all.” —LB

“This is the gold standard when it comes to salicylic acid–based liquid exfoliators. It’s effective without being harsh.” —DR. HENRY

“The smoothing and softening effects of this gentle powder exfoliant are instant. Immediately after using it, my skin has a glass-like quality. Not to mention, it helps decongest my pores so my blackheads are less noticeable.” —LB

“These pads are ideal for those with acne-prone skin and clogged pores. They’re soaked in succinic acid, a newer acne-fighting ingredient with sebum-regulating properties. They’re also infused with BHAs and AHAs for multi-level exfoliation to help clear congestion.” —DR. HENRY

“The effects of this at-home peel are comparable to one you’d get in a medspa. The combo of exfoliating acids and soothing plant extracts helps unclog pores and fade the look of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (ya know, those stubborn red and brown marks left behind by old breakouts). I use this every other day the week before my period and my hormonal breakouts are way less intense.” —LB

“Differin 0.1 percent Gel is the over-the-counter version of the powerful Rx retinoids doctors recommend for treating acne and also signs of aging. It’s gentler and less drying than prescription options, making it ideal for sensitive skin or mild comedonal acne.” —SHARI MARCHBEIN, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

“Best for adult female acne with oiliness and fine lines, this serum pairs salicylic and dioic acids to tackle both breakouts and early signs of aging in one powerful step.” —DR. HENRY

“This is an amazing multipurpose product that targets breakouts and pores as well as post-acne redness and hyperpigmentation. I recommend using this once daily in the morning or at night underneath moisturizer and sunscreen. The formula is packed with a powerful combination of ingredients to target acne, skin texture, excess oil, and uneven skin tone.” —DR. YANG

“This serum is great for hormonal, stress-induced, or microbiome-compromised acne. SIV’s formula uses a blend of postbiotics, peptides, and barrier-restoring ingredients to treat acne at its root. It calms inflammation and prevents future breakouts by strengthening the skin’s very own immune function.” —SS

“Unlike harsher exfoliants, ÂN-DEW combines 10 percent azelaic acid with gentle PHAs for pore-clearing and anti-inflammatory benefits as well as barrier-supporting hydration. Infused with antioxidants, it also soothes redness and brightens skin.”
—SS

“It takes me a while to go through products since I’m testing them so often, but I’d emptied this entire bottle within two months—and quickly replenished it right after. The combo of salicylic and azelaic acid helps prevent zits while reducing redness.”
—BG

“I use this salicylic acid and zinc combo on days my skin is being super disrespectful, and it zaps pimples without that tight and dry aftermath. It’s clean, French (ooh-là-là), and has earned a permanent place in my acne-fighting regimen.”
—JULEE WILSON, BEATUY EDITOR-AT-LARGE

“I deal with so much stubborn hyperpigmentation, and this serum has done wonders to fade it. It melts into my skin like butter and layers perfectly under my SPF and makeup. It’s the type of product that will have you saying ‘wow’ when you catch yourself in the mirror.” —JW

“Everyone—even those of us with acne-prone skin—needs hydration. But most of the serums I’ve used leave my oily skin feeling sticky and greasy. Not this one though. The lightweight, gel-based serum helps plump up my skin and cuts down on any patchy dryness I get from healing zits.” —BG

“This product is ideal for skin that is congested and oily and can be used as a mask, cleanser, or even as a targeted spot treatment. It combines kaolin clay with salicylic acid and soothing botanicals for pore-purification and anti-inflammatory benefits without stripping the skin. The result? Decongested pores and less excess sebum.” —SS

“This is great for red, inflamed, pimples and those with oily skin because sulfur helps calm inflammation and helps absorb excess oil. I like to use this mask after traveling to help knock out any breakouts that are brewing, as I tend to break out when I travel. It can also be used as an overnight spot treatment on some of the larger angry pimples.” —DR. YANG

“On any given self-care Sunday, you’ll find me reaching for this clay mask. It’s like a skin reset in a tube. It deep cleans with that satisfying dry, crackly feel and leaves my skin feeling baby-soft, smooth, and noticeably brighter.” —JW

“This is basically an at-home spa treatment in the form a very cool neon purple mask. And when I say cool, I mean it! It literally gives a chilly tingling sensation to harness the tightening effects of cryo therapy. So the clay cleans out your pores and the cyro effect calms your skin.” —JW

“This is the best foundation I’ve put on my acne in a long time. A few dots of product blended with a sponge leaves my face practically flawless. It smoothes out uneven texture, makes my pores look invisible, and covers up acne and dark spots—all without feeling too heavy or greasy.” —BG

“This tinted serum is the epitome of a multitasker. It’s got foundation-level coverage but with a serum-like feel, it’s loaded with hyaluronic acid, and it’s non-comedogenic. Plus, it’s less than $20, and you can find it at any drugstore. Need I say more?” —JH

“An oldie but a goodie, this tinted moisturizer is ideal for oily, and acne-prone skin. The coverage level is just right for everyday—it’s substantial enough to hide breakouts and dark marks but still lightweight enough to look skin-like—and the formula is oil-free, is not pore-clogging, and contains mineral SPF 30.” —LB

“Skin tints and my acne usually don’t go together, but this ultra-sheer formula feels like I’m just putting on a calming serum with a bit of coverage. It evens out my skin tone and adds a pretty glow that doesn’t irritate or break me out.” —BG

"This concealer instantly covers up spots and brightens my skin while still looking completely natural. Plus, it’s packed with niacinamide, so it nourishes my skin as I wear it.” —MA

“Versed makeup is a dream for anyone with acne like me. I especially love the oversized applicator and the ultra-thin consistency of the brand’s concealer. I can quickly dab it on breakouts (and under my eyes and around my nose), blend it all out with fingers, and voilà! Glowy, even-toned skin.” —LB

“This is a hybrid powder concealer and color corrector that offers tons of coverage without the irritation of creams or buildup of oils. Its ultra-fine, talc‑free mineral blend (infused with salicylic acid) neutralizes redness and conceals blemishes while maintaining long‑wearing comfort for acne-prone or sensitive skin.” —SS

“The crazy thing about this primer is that it feels nothing like a primer, but it makes whatever makeup I put on top last for-ev-er. It goes on like a gel-cream lotion and has serious blurring and foundation-gripping powers. Plus, it’s got niacinamide and tranexamic acid to help improve your skin tone while you wear it.” —LB

“Curology launched the first-ever primer that contains an acne-fighting formula tailored to your skin’s specific needs. After taking an online quiz, you get sent a primer with a cocktail of Rx-strength ingredients for your exact skin concerns. Mine combines azelaic acid, niacinamide, and dexpanthenol to actively treat acne and soothe my skin while I prep for makeup.” —JH

“This setting spray is sorcery in a bottle. One spritz and my skin becomes velvety perfection. It locks in my makeup, blurs like an IG filter, and somehow still feels weightless. I’m talking all day wear with zero touch-ups.”—JW

“This formula brings the impressive staying power of the OG One/Size setting spray, except with a glassy, filter-like finish. And it’s packed with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients so your makeup won’t flake off, no matter how long you need your beat to last.” —JH

“I was anti setting powder on my acne-prone skin until I tried this. It gives my face a soft finish that looks really natural while cutting back on excess shine. I love the blurring effects so much that I use it without makeup and dust it over my T-zone over SPF before heading out the door.”
—LB

“This is one of those makeup products that instantly makes me look more awake. The texture blends seamlessly and creates the most natural sun-kissed glow.” —MADELINE ARGY

“I reach for this cream blush whenever I want a flushed glow that never looks patchy. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, and it’s also free of any pore-cloggers so it keeps my skin clear even when I layer on way more than I should (sorry, I have blush blindness!).” —JH

“I loved the OG Cloud Paint, but the sheer formula would disappear on my oily skin halfway through the day. This new version has serious staying power though—and doesn’t contribute to breakouts or look chalky either. I dust Beam or Puff on my cheekbones and across my nose for an instant face-brightening effect.” —LB

“This illuminating formula is versatile enough to be used as a luminous base, giving the skin a lit-from-within glow. But I especially love applying it to my cheekbones to create a dewy, highlighter effect.” —JH

“I use a lot of actives, so I like to keep things simple when it comes to body wash. This option from Seen is so gentle that I can use it on my skin and my toddler’s skin without worrying about causing irritation. It is fragrance-free, is sulfate-free, and has just the right amount of lather to get my skin clean without drying it out.” —LB

“Whenever I’m going through a spell of body acne, I always come back to this bar from PanOxyl. It gets rid of the most stubborn pimples with 10 percent benzoyl peroxide, and the bar format makes it easy to access hard-to-reach areas.”
—JH

“I have such sensitive skin (acne, eczema, dryness, you name it and I’ve got it), so I’m very particular when it comes to my body wash. This one from BYOMA is specifically formulated for acne, with salicylic acid and ceramides to keep me smooth and moisturized all over.” —JH

“For beach days and outdoor workouts, I can use this liberally on my below-the-chin skin and know that it won’t break me out while protecting my skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. The SPF 50 formula goes on totally clear and dries down to a tack-free finish.”
—LB

“I always get little bumps on my back where my sports bra hits against my skin, and this exfoliating lotion with AHAs and BHAs is clutch for getting rid of them. It’s super lightweight and fast-absorbing, so I never have to worry about it sticking to my clothes either.” —LB

“Most gel-creams are reserved for face moisturizers, but this one is designed for your body. I massage it all over—arms, legs, back, and chest—straight out of the shower and the niacinamide-spiked formula soaks into my skin in literal seconds. And the scent? A woodsy, citrusy, and slightly sweet blend that’s addictive.”
—LB

“Instead of thick creams, I’ve been relying on this simple ceramide-based body serum to moisturize. It quickly absorbs, softening my skin without any stickiness. The fragrance-free formula is perfect for my sensitive skin too.” —BG

“I spray this salicylic acid–packed formula on my back after sweaty hot pilates classes. It’s ideal for when I don’t have time to hop into the shower right away but want to fight off any potential breakouts.” —JH

“I’m obsessed with how this cooling body scrub feels against my skin in the shower. Plus, it’s not made with a bunch of heavy oils and butters that leave a residue on my skin and cause breakouts.” —BG

“Hands down, Celluma offers the best at-home LED device on the market—it is FDA-cleared and delivers the most visible results. The red and blue light combination builds collagen, boosts cellular activity, reduces inflammation, kills acne-causing bacteria, and helps stabilize sebaceous glands—all while providing the same efficacy as professional in-office panels.” —MC

“I use this mask every night because it really works. You get the benefits of multiple LED treatments plus cryo-cooling pads under each eye to depuff during your session. The remote tracks your progress—I love watching my session count go up every night. Since I started five months ago, I’ve definitely seen a real improvement in my skin.”
—JW

“The Déesse Pro has clinical-grade LED power, six different modes, and more LED bulbs than other masks on the market, which means deeper penetration and faster, visible results. Its multi-wavelength technology is rarely found in at-home devices, and the brand is backed by FDA clearance and medical-grade efficacy.”
—SS

“I really believe in the power of high frequency to help reduce the size of a pimple in a day or two. And NuDerma’s wand reminds me of what my aesthetician uses in the office. It’s super effective (I notice my zits are practically gone in two to three days), but it’s also majorly easy to use in my bathroom all by myself.” —BG

“These supplements from Face Reality are a must. They’re great multitaskers—supporting microbiome balance, gut health, and immune health for clearer, brighter skin.” —MC

“Acne can be exacerbated by elevated cortisol or an imbalanced nervous system. This device stimulates the vagus nerve to activate the parasympathetic system (which controls rest and digestion) and improve brain-to-organ communication. Better nervous system regulation has been shown to enhance sleep, digestion, and reduce stress and anxiety, helping the body—and your skin—heal more effectively.”
—MC

“I love a good sauna for detoxing and soothing sore muscles, but all that heat on my face triggers breakouts. That’s why I love this sauna blanket—it gives me the benefits of a sauna session without irritating my acne-prone skin. I just tuck a towel inside, which I clean between uses to avoid body breakouts, and the interior is easy to wipe down after every session.” —BG

“For me, Hydrafacials are in the same category as a fresh mani or new haircut—getting one makes me feel more confident in my skin. The treatment is totally customizable but especially great for acne-prone skin thanks to the pain-free extractions, hydration, and LED light therapy you’ll experience during a session.”
—LB

“Restylane is my go-to filler because it’s a reversible hyaluronic acid filler that can provide immediate improvement on acne scars with minimal downtime. The treatment is nearly painless, results are visible right away, and they typically last around 12 months—often a bit longer as new collagen forms.” —DR. MARCHBEIN

“This gentle laser helps calm redness and inflammation. It’s one of my favorite lasers to use in combination with topical acne treatments. The treatment can be done every two to four weeks. There is no downtime, and it gives the skin a nice glow.” —DR. YANG

“Aviclear is ideal for moderate to severe acne and typically shows the best results after 3 or 4 in-office treatments. It’s FDA-cleared to target sebaceous glands directly, helping to reduce breakouts at the source.” —DR. HENRY

“I tried PicoLazer on my chin to tackle leftover hormonal acne marks, and it helped fade them drastically without any downtime. It uses short bursts of laser energy to break up pigment and stimulate collagen, and my skin looked more even and healed after just one session.” —JH

“Most microneedling treatments can’t be performed on active acne, but this one—which combines SkinPen microneedling with a calming and clarifying serum—is designed for it. I did a series of three at Skinspirit in NYC to help with my cystic breakouts and was so impressed by how well it reduced the inflammation along my chin and improved the dark marks I had leftover from old pimples.” —LB

“The truth is, there is a limited amount of things that you can successfully use or do to get rid of acne scarring. Matrix is one of them. The treatment combines radiofrequency and microneedling to stimulate collagen production to get rid of textural issues.” —LB

“Cellstory is an eight-step skincare routine that uses Microspears, aka particles derived from freshwater-grown sponges, to help minimize fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, and leave the skin bouncy and glowing. Unlike traditional microneedling, it can be used on active acne since it doesn’t puncture the skin but triggers a healing and regenerative response.” —MC

“Unlike chemical peels or laser treatments, the Green Peel uses a blend of natural herbs to stimulate cellular turnover from the inside out—without acids or synthetic ingredients. It works deeply without damaging the epidermis, making it a safe for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It can treat varying levels and types of acne from mild to severe.”
—SS