10 Best Ingredients for Acne, According to Dermatologists

If there's one thing we can say about acne, it's a skin condition that seems to have a mind of its own. Breakouts can persist despite how well and often you wash your face (hopefully not too often!). The truth is that treating acne is two fold: You want to tackle existing breakouts while preventing new breakouts from occurring. A skincare routine that takes advantage of the best acne-busting ingredients can help. If you're not sure where to start with the science of it all, we asked dermatologists to recommend the best acne-fighting ingredients you can use on a regular basis.

Salicylic Acid (BHA) 
Salicylic Acid is a beta-hydroxy acid, and arguably one of the most effective ingredients for treating acne. “It helps by unclogging pores and controlling oil, and is ideal for people with oily skin and comedonal—AKA non-inflammatory—acne,” says Caroline Robinson, MD, board-certified dermatologist. 

Willow Bark 
A mild sister to salicylic acid, willow bark is a natural ingredient that’s been scientifically shown to improve current breakouts while preventing future bouts of acne. “The polyphenols in willow bark tackle free radicals on the skin’s surface and the salicin fights inflammation,” says Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. She adds that some studies have even shown improvements of wrinkles and texture when applied topically.

Hydrocolloid 
Hydrocolloid bandages were originally intended to heal mild wounds, like burns or bed sores. However, people discovered that they worked wonders on acne by bringing pimples to a head and flattening them quickly. These waterproof seals essentially work by drawing out infection and pus, and they also create a moisture-rich environment that’s beneficial to healing. Today, you’ll find small sized hydrocolloid bandages for pimples, and they’re incredibly effective.  

Retinol 
You’ve probably heard of retinoids being touted as an anti-aging hero, but did you know this ingredient got its start as an acne treatment? “As the mainstay therapy for acne, retinoids and retinol have incredible track records in treating common skin concerns,” notes Dr. Henry. “Retinol helps unclog pores, exfoliate the skin, and increase collagen deposition.” It’s kind of a two-birds-one-stone situation where you’re treating acne and also enjoying some anti-aging benefits. 

Adapalene 
Some skin types don’t tolerate retinoids very well since this ingredient can be a bit drying and irritating. That’s where adapalene comes in, an acne ingredient with over three decades of research showcasing its efficacy. Anderson says, “Adapalene is a gentle, well tolerated and effective derivative of a retinoid that treats acne. It’s a go-to for acne patients who are intolerant to tretinoin and other prescription strength retinoids.”

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
AHAs—which include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid, among others—are powerful peeling agents that exfoliate the top layer of skin. This nixes dead skin cells, brightens the skin, and helps unclog pores. “AHAs are effective in clearing acne by weakening cellular adhesions and removing medium-depth acne scars or hyperpigmentation, ultimately leading to even skin tone and complexity,” explains Dr. Henry.

Tea Tree Oil 
If you prefer natural ingredients to treat acne, tea tree oil is a top contender. It's a powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help minimize breakouts and keep skin clear. One thing to note is that it’s very strong, so the pure essential oil should be diluted instead of applied directly to your skin. To be safe, use a pre-formulated product. 

Niacinamide 
Niacinamideis an excellent skincare ingredient for minimizing hyperpigmentation caused by acne, explains Dr. Robinson. It can also help with skin hydration, which is super important for skin repair. She says, “By hydrating and strengthening the skin's moisture barrier niacinamide can help improve acne and post-acne marks over the long term.” 

Sulfur 
It may be a bit on the smelly side, but sulfur is a known effective acne ingredient that can help clear up your skin. “Sulfur helps absorb excess oil from the skin's oil glands, allowing congestion to be minimized,” Anderson explains. “Specifically, it is an antibacterial ingredient that helps to fight acne bacteria (P. acnes) to reduce inflammation and prevent future breakouts.”