Acne Serum
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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Acne Treatment Face Serum, Salicylic Acid Serum Treatment, 1.01 OZ
La Roche-Posay
[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] This product is amazing. I love the way it feels on my skin after a quick cleanse. It’...
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CVS Refining Retinol Serum, 1 OZ
CVS
This has a very gentle feel to it and doesn’t irritate my sensitive cheeks. It absorbs very well and fast into my face. After drying, it f...
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Acne Serums for Smooth, Clear Skin
Acne serums' powerful active ingredients can help you achieve clearer, healthier skin. At CVS, you can find serums to help with mild breakouts, painful cysts or hormonal acne related to your menstrual cycle.
How Acne Serums Can Help Target Breakouts
Anti-acne serums target breakouts with lightweight, fast-absorbing formulas that may penetrate more deeply into the skin than creams. The concentrated active ingredients in serums focus on tackling the root causes of acne, which typically include:
Clogged pores
Excess oil
Bacteria
Inflammation
Key Ingredients to Look For in Acne Serums
When shopping for acne serums, choose a formula that matches your skin type. For mild or occasional acne, look for gentle active ingredients, such as salicylic acid to unclog pores or niacinamide to reduce inflammation and oil.
The deep, painful bumps of cystic acne may require a different approach. Your serum should include more potent active ingredients, including benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid or prescription-strength acne treatments, such as retinoids. These ingredients fight inflammation and bacteria.
For hormonal acne, focus on oil control and consistent serum use (either daily or around the time of the month you typically break out). Look for acne serums with niacinamide and retinoids. Zinc may also help regulate sebum production, and it may reduce redness and swelling to promote faster healing of blemishes.
Best Ways to Apply Acne Serum in Your Routine
To maximize the effectiveness of your acne serum, follow these steps:
Thoroughly wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil and makeup.
If you use a toner, apply it now to prep your skin and enhance absorption of your serum.
Gently pat several drops of acne serum onto pimple-prone areas or all over your face, as needed.
Give the serum a minute or 2 to dry, then finish your routine with a noncomedogenic moisturizer to lock in moisture and support the skin barrier. Don't forget to add sunscreen in the morning.
If you're layering serums for acne with other treatments, it's generally advised to apply them in order of thinnest (most watery in texture) to thickest. To prevent irritation, be careful about using too many products or active ingredients at once. When in doubt, alternate their use, or consult your dermatologist or health care provider.