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When breakouts pop up out of nowhere at the most inopportune times, your best bet at damage control is selecting an acne spot treatment to quash pimples quickly. These potent topical serums and creams contain a high concentration of acne-fighting active ingredients to tamp down inflammation and clear clogged pores in record time.
Acne spot treatments come in gels, lotions, creams, liquids, and the very popular pimple patches. This variety means that all skin types can reap the benefits, especially those with dry or sensitive skin types that typically can’t tolerate drying acne-fighting ingredients slathered all over the face.
“In this day and age, there are more acne spot treatment formulas on the market than ever before,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav. “However, the format remains largely the same topical spot treatments — with the more recent inclusion of pimple patches.”
The most effective acne spot treatment for you depends on the type of breakout you’re experiencing. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy explains, “If your pimple is raised or has visible pus, reach for a non-medicated hydrocolloid patch, which will help drain and flatten by drawing out excess oil and fluid. ”While acne spot treatments are amazing for tackling a pesky pimple, those with consistent breakouts should build an acne-fighting skin care and makeup regimen. A full routine can include items like acne-fighting cleansers, moisturizers, face serums, retinols, acne-fighting SPFs, foundations, and even unexpected items like pillowcases that can help minimize bacteria (just remember to wash them regularly).
Top Acne Spot Treatments of 2024
Acne treatments have been in the news following a Valisure report that cited elevated levels of benzene in benzoyl peroxide acne products, however the verdict is out on whether or not you should avoid the ingredient. “Generally benzoyl peroxide is considered a safe product, unless you are storing these agents in hot places or using them for long periods of time after storage, in general [it] should not be a problem,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank. The good news: There are plenty of clean formulas available that rely on ingredients other than benzoyl peroxide, including options that enlist naturally-derived witch hazel or willow bark to zap acne.
We’ve created a comprehensive list of some of the best acne spot treatments available through the use of customer reviews, expert recommendations, bestsellers, and a thorough round of product testing. Below you’ll find the 15 best acne spot treatments, tailored for specific needs.
Editor’s Choice: Top Acne Spot Treatments of 2024
The right acne treatment for you depends on the type of breakout you’re experiencing — the acne spot treatment that works best for cystic acne may not be the best fix for blackheads. On top of this, certain skin types do better with gel formulas versus lotions. Personal preference comes into the mix as well, as some may want a spot treatment to wear during the day, where others prefer to apply the formulas overnight. And of course, the recent news of benzene found in certain acne products may also have you looking for a treatment that relies on natural ingredients. Instead of selecting one best overall acne treatment, we’re spotlighting the below three acne treatments after thorough testing and expert input.
- Differin Acne Retinoid Treatment Gel: Our testers — and many dermatologists — rate Differin’s formula as the best drugstore acne spot treatment on the market. The formula used to be only available by prescription, but now you can purchase it over the counter. Its clinical-grade adapalene is a type of retinol that exfoliates skin and promotes turnover for clearer skin.
- Mario Badescu Drying Lotion: To zap a pimple overnight, go with Mario Badescu’s legendary drying lotion that we rate as the best overnight acne spot treatment. All you have to do is drop a cotton swab into the container and apply directly on problem areas — the sulfur and alcohol work together to dry out excess oils and clear away bacteria.
- Hero Cosmetics The Mighty Patch Original Pimple Patches: Pimple patches are a popular way to treat rogue breakouts, and according to our editors, none are better than Hero Cosmetics’ The Mighty Patch. They work by drawing out excess sebum from the pores to decrease the size of the pimple while protecting compromised skin from environmental aggressors like pollution. These clear stickers have duct tape-caliber grip on the skin, so they don’t slide around or fall off overnight.
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Editors’ choice
Differin Acne Retinoid Treatment Gel
Type: Gel
Size: 1.6 oz
Key Ingredients: Adapalene
The best thing Differin ever did was release an OTC version of its formerly prescription-only acne treatment — this formula is the best drugstore acne spot treatment you can find. Adapalene, the powerhouse ingredient in this acne spot treatment, is well-known for its acne-fighting properties. Differin targets two main causes of breakouts: clogged pores and inflammation. In addition to that, it also helps to speed up skin cell turnover to reveal a smoother complexion over time. While this is a great product, it’s a retinol product, and certain precautions need to be taken. It’s best to use it once a day after cleansing, preferably at night. Retinoids can cause sensitivity, so limiting sun exposure will go a long way and always using sunscreen outside is a must.
Editor testing and review notes: “When I’m stressed out, my skin follows suit with sporadic breakouts that can last for weeks at a time. Differin is one of the few acne spot treatments that I know I can rely on to lessen the look of pimples and blackheads — although you can dab it directly on a zit, I find that the best results come when I apply a thin layer on my complexion before night cream. My skin is prone to redness, but this formula doesn’t irritate it.” — Senior Beauty & Lifestyle Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $14.30
editors’s choice
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
Type: Lotion
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, sulfur, calamine, and zinc oxide
This formula was created in the 1960s by Mario Badescu and is still a top-seller today. “I like Mario Badescu Drying Lotion,” says Dr. Yadav. “It’s a classic formula that uses sulfur and salicylic acid to help treat a blemish overnight.” A clarifying, bi-phase solution, this best dermatologist-recommended acne spot treatment dries up blemishes by drawing out acne-causing debris while reducing the inflammation of these breakouts the next day. Without shaking the bottle, dip a cotton swab into the pink sediment and dab directly onto your breakout. Let the formula dry on its own without rubbing it into the skin. Then go to sleep and rinse off well with water the next morning.
Editor testing and review notes: “This little vial is always on my bathroom counter with some clean cotton swabs. Yes, it’s excellent when I’m trying to swat down a pimple that’s already surfaced, but I also notice improvement with cystic acne around my time of the month if I apply it on the problem area nightly. I have dry skin, so sometimes the skin around my pimple will peel the day after application, but it’s easy to slough away with a gentle exfoliator.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $10.80
Best acne spot treatment patches
Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Original Pimple Patches
Type: Patches
Quantity: 36 Count
Key Ingredients: Hydrocolloid
While gels and creams have reigned supreme in the way of traditional acne spot treatments, hydrocolloid pimple patches have become fast favorites over the last couple of years with Hero Cosmetics leading the charge. These seamless, easy-to-apply patches work best on white-heads and to bring debris to a head while drying out excess moisture, and this brand is a favorite of Jeffy’s. “They work to reduce inflammation, deliver treatments, and also help by deterring picking,” she explains.
Editor testing and review notes: “Mighty Patch Original patches have duct tape-caliber sticking power. I have dry skin, so I’m always layering on face serums and moisturizers before bed — these stickers stay put, even on top of those skin care products. They’re peerless for purging whiteheads.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $10.77
Best sulfur acne spot treatment
De La Cruz Acne Treatment With 10% Sulfur
Type: Lotion
Size: 2.6 oz
Key Ingredients: Sulfur
Dr. Jeffy touts the use of sulfur as a “great spot-treating active” because it helps to curb excess oil while soothing inflammation. This means you get pore-clearing benefits with a lower risk of irritation — ideal for those with sensitive, acne-prone skin. This affordable formula from De La Cruz delivers a potent 10 percent concentration of the ingredient. Dab it on and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing to clear away whiteheads and blackheads.
Editor testing and review notes: “I ordered this sulfur spot treatment after a dermatologist recommended it to me in passing. It’s one of those rare acne treatments that’s powerful enough to make a difference in the size of a breakout without causing the skin around the pimple to peel or turn red. In fact, I think its biggest benefit is quickly quelling inflammation — when I leave it on a breakout for a few minutes, my acne is noticeably less red by the time I rinse it off. To treat blackheads on my nose, I’ll smooth on a thin layer on the area and leave it on overnight. My only critique has to do with the scent — sulfur has a funky smell, so it takes some getting used to.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $8.98
Best spot treatment for cystic acne
Murad Deep Relief Acne Treatment
Type: Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid; phytosteroid
Cystic bumps can be the most difficult to quash. That’s why Murad’s Deep Relief Acne Treatment is enjoying well-deserved fame on TikTok: This formula contains a potent dose of pore-clearing salicylic acid that helps to decrease the size and intensity of those pesky pimples. While the two percent concentration of the ingredient would typically leave skin dry and peeling, Murad’s formula teams the acne-fighting active with plant-based phytosteroids that calm and balance the skin. This means you can apply it a few days in a row to quickly zap your breakout.
Editor testing and review notes: “Cystic acne is the most common type of breakout I experience — and it’s always the most frustrating to treat. I was amazed by how effectively Murad’s acne spot treatment worked on a deep, painful pimple on my cheek that hadn’t quite surfaced yet: I dotted the serum on the bump three days in a row, and by day four it was significantly smaller.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual-Action Acne Treatment
Type: Lotion
Size: 1.35 fl oz
Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide and lipo-hydroxy acid
While some products high in benzoyl peroxide can be too much for some skin types, this 5.5 percentage is mild enough to provide an effective result without the negative effects. “For a benzoyl peroxide-containing spot treatment, I like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo,” says Jeffy. “It has micronized benzoyl peroxide making it much more tolerable than other benzoyl peroxide products.” This micronized formulation also allows for better penetration of the product and is great for stubborn inflamed acne. This treatment also includes a micro-exfoliating LHA, a derivative of salicylic acid, to help further unclog pores and deliver a smooth skin texture.
Editor testing and review notes: “This is one of the acne spot treatments that I keep coming back to. For well over five years, it’s been the tube I reach for as soon as I see a pimple start to surface or when I’m dealing with pervasive blackheads on my nose. It has the rare ability to decrease the size and redness of my breakout after just one use. My skin is dry and sensitive, so my skin will peel if I use it more than two days in a row, but otherwise it’s a peerless choice.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $35.99
Neutrogena Stubborn Acne AM Treatment
Type: Lotion
Size: 2 oz
Key Ingredients: Benzoyl peroxide
This Neutrogena acne spot treatment is a top-rated choice on Amazon for its ability to tackle all-over acne and recurring breakouts. It packs a micronized form of benzoyl peroxide (an ingredient that combats acne-causing bacteria) for a less irritation and more efficient delivery of the ingredient deep in your skin. Acne-prone skin types can use it all over as a face serum, while those with occasional breakouts should dab it on the inflamed area.
Editor testing and review notes: “This is one of my favorite affordable acne treatments that I’ll pick up when I’m traveling and experience a breakout — I know I can count on it to decrease the redness and inflammation of pimples after a few days of use. It’s one of the most gentle benzoyl peroxide formulas I’ve tested on my sensitive skin, too.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $7.38
Starface Hydro-Star + Salicylic Acid Pimple Patches
Type: Pimple patch
Quantity: 32 patches
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid
Starface pimple patches aren’t just cute — they’re highly effective, too. The hydrocolloid adhesives help to draw out excess oils while protecting your breakouts from environmental aggressors like pollution, which can make existing acne worse. The brand’s yellow Hydro-Stars may be the most brand’s most popular, but this version is best for those who want to clear breakouts quickly. That’s because they double down on acne-fighting benefits with the inclusion of pore-clearing salicylic acid. Apply them on clean, dry skin up to three times a week.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve tested every pimple patch that Starface offers, and I find these ones to be the most effective. I love that they not only protect my skin but also actively clear out clogged pores with salicylic acid. The packaging is also a major bonus to this acne spot treatment — I love that I can easily travel with them and apply the stickers with precision using the mirror in the compact.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $16.97
Best Spot treatment for sensitive skin
Burt’s Bees Herbal Blemish Spot Treatment Stick
Type: Oil
Size: 0.2 oz.
Key Ingredients: Willow bark extract, cica, and tea tree oil
This convenient Burt’s Bees acne spot treatment is formulated with willow bark extract, making it one of the best clean acne spot treatments you can buy. This ingredient naturally contains BHAs to reduce acne and unclog pores that lead to breakouts. The best part is that neither cica nor the tea tree oil (an herbal astringent) are abrasive. Packed in an easy-to-use roll-on stick, this product gently soothes the skin as well.
Editor testing and review notes: “Traveling comes with plenty of acne triggers for my skin — greasy food, hard water in hotels, cotton pillowcases instead of my trusted silk one at home, and perhaps a glass or two of wine. That’s why I keep this Burt’s Bees herbal acne spot treatment in my travel bag wherever I go — it’s a tiny roll-on that does its work gently, never leaving my skin irritated, flaky, or inflamed. After two nights of consistent use, I notice a major improvement in breakouts.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $7.84
Best Acne Spot Treatment for Dry Skin
Skinfix Acne + 2% BHA and Azelaic Acid Acne Spot Treatment
Type: Lotion
Size: 0.5 oz
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, azelaic acid, kaolin clay, and niacinamide
This highly-rated Skinfix acne spot treatment contains salicylic acid to help decongest clogged pores while also eliminating excess oil. Niacinamide, an ingredient that’s well tolerated by many skin types, helps to minimize the look of pores and regulate sebum production to create a balance in the skin. But even when acne disappears, post-acne hyperpigmentation often remains, which is why azelaic acid comes in handy for fading these marks and improving the look of uneven skin tone. Some reviewers have noted that this spot cream can be a little potent so it’s best to follow the user instructions and only apply to affected areas on the face or body after cleansing one to two times daily.
What testers say: “My face broke out so bad before an event and this cleared up my pimples overnight! It dried out the pimples and also helped with shrinking the size and decreased redness! Defs recommend!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $22
The Inkey List Succinic Acid Acne Treatment
Type: Cream
Size: 0.5 oz
Key Ingredients: Succinic acid, sulfur powder, salicylic acid
When you wake up with a pimple but have somewhere to be, you need an acne spot treatment that’ll layer comfortably under makeup. That’s what The Inkey List’s Succinic Acid Acne Treatment brings to the table. This formulas contains succinic acid, which has antibacterial properties to address the root cause of acne, plus salicylic acid and sulfur powder that sop up excess oil and release pore-clogging dead skin cells. The formula has a light green tint to it that helps color correct redness on fair skin types, too.
What testers say: “I absolutely love this treatment from Inkey list. I’m on my fourth bottle and I have not strayed. Honestly, I’m used to having spot treatments absolutely dry out my skin, however; I have not had that experience with this product. I use it around once a day when I have acne and it even helps with reducing dark spots. The biggest bonus is that it’s super affordable!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $14
Caudalie Vinopure Color Correcting Spot Solution
Type: Cream
Size: 0.5 oz
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, tea tree, niacinamide
Caudalie’s Color Correcting Spot Solution is another acne spot treatment that you can comfortably wear during the day with other skin care products or under makeup. The formula is great for normal to dry skin types that deal with acne, as it doesn’t overly dry out skin while eradicating excess oils and dead skin cells that can cause or worsen breakouts. What’s more, this acne spot treatment also contains niacinamide that targets post-breakout scars and marks.
What testers say: “First off, this is the most luxurious feeling salicylic spot product I have ever owned. I have a bevy of glycolic acid serums, retinoids, etc., and while they are very effective, they also all have a bit of a funky smell which is usually par for the course for these things. I also own the Caudalie Vinoperfect serum and their facial spray, which smell divine and have a great texture, so it was no surprise that even a spot cream from them would feel like a luxury product.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $12.75
Kiehl’s Truly Targeted Acne Clearing Solution
Type: Serum
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, niacinamide, licorice root
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
This isn’t what many of us are used to when we think of a pimple patch, but Kiehl’s liquid patch creates a lightweight barrier on the skin while treating the breakout with acne-fighting salicylic acid. Great for combination, oily, and dry skin types, this treatment can be applied in the morning or evening and reduces pimple size in as little as 24 hours. And with regular use, it can fade acne marks in four weeks. To use, apply one drop to a clean fingertip after cleansing and gently dab it onto the breakout. Spread it into a thin layer without over-rubbing it. Then — the most important part — let the serum dry fully for 30 to 60 seconds before applying any SPF or makeup.
Editor testing and review notes: “Not only do I use this Kiehl’s spot treatment to target active breakouts — I also use it as an acne serum the days after my breakouts have calmed down to ensure they don’t leave a mark in their wake. It’s a super lightweight formula that feels cooling on contact (a godsend when the breakout feels hot and irritated).” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $30
Best pimple cream for oily skin
Bliss Clear Genius Acne Spot Treatment
Type: Gel
Size: 0.5 fl oz
Key Ingredients: 2% salicylic acid, witch hazel, niacinamide, zinc PCA, and cica
Salicylic acid is a recurring ingredient in many of the acne spot treatments on this list for a reason. While this fragrance-free formula is great for all skin types, it works especially well on oily skin. Using a gentle yet effective cocktail of salicylic acid, witch hazel, niacinamide, zinc PCA, and cica this spot treatment helps fight pimples and blackheads without stripping the skin. On clean skin, apply to the affected area using a thin layer one to three times a day.
What testers say: “It does work on the whiteheads on my sensitive skin but only in places that get a lot of air to dry out. Sometimes, it takes as long as 3-5 days to dry one out, though. Gentle, not fast. Cruelty-free, though!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $7.80
What to Know About Benzoyl Peroxide in Acne Treatments
On March 6, 2024, independent lab Valisure published a report citing elevated levels of benzene in benzoyl peroxide acne products from brands like Cerave, Clearasil, Proactiv, and more. Benzene is classified as a class 1 solvent by the Food and Drug Administration, meaning it’s a known human carcinogen or a strongly suspected human carcinogen.
Valisure has flagged benzene in dry shampoos, sunscreens, and deodorants, but those reports point to contamination of the products. The difference with benzene found in acne treatments is that rather than product contamination, benzene is the result of benzoyl peroxide breaking down due to factors like poor storage or product expiration.
“Benzoyl peroxide is considered generally safe at appropriate dosages by the FDA and has been deemed eligible to be over the counter for a long time, but when exposed to high temperatures for extensive periods of time benzoyl peroxide can turn into benzene, which is a very well known carcinogen that can cause various problems and various types of cancers,” explains Dr. Frank.
Should this be a cause for concern? “Well, yes and no,” says Dr. Frank. His advice is to store your products in a cool place and make sure you’re not using them after long periods of time after storage. “Whenever you use a medication, you need to weigh the benefit and the risk,” adds board-certified dermatologist and Jori Skincare founder Dr. Joshua Zeichner. “There are many patients in whom I will still write prescription benzoyl peroxide for. It is a very effective tool, and I am not yet convinced that I need to stop using it.”
To safely incorporate benzoyl peroxide, Dr. Zeichner recommends sticking to products with lower concentrations of the ingredient. “Independent of the benzene issue, studies have shown that 2.5% is as effective as higher concentrations in treating red, angry pimples, but associated with less irritation,” he explains. Dr. Zeichner also says to discard any benzoyl peroxide containing product after its expiration date. “At any point, if the product doesn’t look, feel, or smell the way it did when it was originally purchased, toss it,” he says. As for application, Dr. Zeichner recommends using benzoyl peroxide acne spot treatments at night, “as UV light exposure and heat have been associated with an increase in benzene levels.”
Dr. Frank notes that “even without the production of carcinogens, benzoyl peroxide along with other acne ingredients can cause irritation, sun sensitivity, and other medical and aesthetic issues, plus there are a lot of other options for people that are sensitive to benzoyl peroxide or are worried about the concern of increased benzene levels.” He notes that salicylic acid, oral medications, and lasers and light sources are options for those who want to minimize chemical exposure while treating their acne.
“For now, I would avoid the products listed until further data comes out, but I wouldn’t give up on benzoyl peroxide or other over-the-counter beauty products that have been around for a while either,” Dr. Frank says.
What to Look For in the Best Acne Spot Treatments
With everything on the market, finding the best acne spot treatment can easily become overwhelming. To break things down in a digestible way while shopping, reviewing the product’s ingredients, delivery, and formula to help you make a more informed decision.
- Active ingredients: Ingredients matter when looking for an effective acne spot treatment (more on this next). Benzoyl peroxide, a popular ingredient kills acne causing bacteria, is best used on pus-filled pimples while salicylic acid, another popular ingredient, is an exfoliant that unclogs pores. This makes it great for zapping blackheads and whiteheads. Additionally, sulfur also addresses clogged pores but by targeting excess sebum and dead skin cells making it ideal for oily or congested skin types.
- Delivery: Lotions, creams, gels and patches are all common methods of delivering acne-fighting actives in spot treatments. Dr. Jeffy notes that if your “pimple is raised or has visible pus,” a non-medicated hydrocolloid patch will help best. Gels or lotions might work best when trying to unclog pores and kill bacteria.
- Formula type: Dr. Jeffy cautions that “spot treatments contain highly concentrated amounts of actives safe for use on small areas only,” meaning that formula type is important to consider especially for sensitive and dry skin types. Treatments with high concentrations of sulfur will be incredibly drying as might those with higher percentages of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid — so it’s important to factor in formulas with lower percentages of actives and those that are coupled with soothing ingredients or hydrators like niacinamide, calendula, and glycerin.
Top Acne-Fighting Ingredients in Acne Spot Treatments
Focusing on ingredients is key to an effective spot treatment because not every ingredient will treat every type of acne breakout. The reason so many acne spot treatments contain multiple actives is because each one will accomplish a different goal to help you reclaim clear skin. Here are some key players.
- Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is an exfoliant that goes deep into the pores making it great for whiteheads and blackheads. “Salicylic acid works by unclogging pores of excess oil and dead skin cells,” explains Dr. Jeffy.
- Retinoids and adapalene: These vitamin A derivatives have been used in many prescription acne treatments and “have historically been used for treating more advanced acne,” says Dr. Yadav. They help to jumpstart skin cell turnover to relieve you of a breakout faster. However, they’re also known for not being the kindest to sensitive skin types.
- Sulfur: “Sulfur targets both dead skin cells and sebum, two of the main factors that cause pore congestion,” says Dr. Yadav. Note that this ingredient can be drying, so you’ll want to keep a rich moisturizer in rotation when using the ingredient.
- Niacinamide: “Niacinamide and sulfur are also great spot-treating actives that help remove excessive oil and soothe inflammation without irritation,” says Dr. Jeffy. In addition to being gentle, niacinamide is also beneficial when refining pores.
- Willow bark: “Willow bark is actually the precursor to salicylic acid and is both an effective anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial agent,” says Dr. Yadav. Great for unclogging pores, willow bark is excellent for use on whiteheads.
- Hydrocolloid: These new kids on the block are amazingly popular because of how fast they can absorb excess fluids from a breakout. “They work to reduce inflammation, deliver treatments and also help by deterring picking,” says Dr. Jeffy.
- Witch hazel: This popular astringent is often, but not exclusively, found in the natural product space. Witch hazel, a plant native to North America, is lauded for its ability to ease inflammation and soothe the skin.
How to Apply Acne Spot Treatments
When to incorporate a spot treatment is just as important as what ingredients you’re using. Potent actives like benzoyl peroxide and retinoids are best left to nighttime routines, as they can lead to sensitivity during the day. “I recommend applying spot treatments at bedtime after cleansing the face and then cleansing in the morning to remove any residue or excess product that may remain on the skin,” says Dr. Jeffy. However, items like pimple patches are amazing for both day and night use and provide an extra layer of protection to the skin while also preventing unwanted picking.
- Cleanse: When using active ingredients it is always good to balance your routine with gentle products so that you don’t sensitize or cause irritation to the skin. Opt for a gentle cleanser. Or if you have a specific skin type, go for one of the best face washes for oily skin or a cleanser suited for dry skin.
- Tone: Then go in with a gentle or hydrating toner (as opposed to an exfoliating toner) that will make sure all traces of dirt, bacteria and makeup are removed.
- Moisturize: Choose a moisturizer for acne-prone skin that won’t further clog your pores or exacerbate existing breakouts.
- Spot Treat: A little goes a long way when using a spot treatment, and is usually the last step in a skincare routine. “Spot-treatment products are too strong to be used on the entire face,” says Dr. Jeffy. So one small pump should suffice for a small area. To maintain a sanitary environment, make sure your fingers are clean if you’re applying a cream or lotion. Q-tips always come in handy to provide easy application and are typically recommended when using bottled sulfur acne spot treatments.
How Long Does It Take for Spot Treatments to Work?
The timeline to zap pimples matters less than using the right formula for the right type of blemish. “The frustrating truth is that most acne treatments can take up to six weeks to work and fully clear a blemish, but many of the below treatments can help quell a blemish and make it less painful or noticeable, making them easier to manage and conceal with makeup, if desired,” says Dr. Yadav.
It’s easy to view acne spot treatments as a quick fix — but that doesn’t mean you should go rogue and apply as frequently as you’d like. Follow the instructions on the packaging or you may inadvertently inflict unnecessary irritation. “It’s not recommended to apply most benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoid/adapalene formulas more than twice a day at most, as these ingredients can be quite irritating to the skin,” advises Dr. Yadav. “Depending on the type of blemish, willow bark, clay, or pimple patches may be your best bet for a constant treatment, which can be helpful ahead of a major event,” she notes.
Struggling with more cystic acne? It’s best to consult with a dermatologist for a long-term solution, which could include prescription medication or laser treatments.
How We Chose the Best Acne Spot Treatments
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
Narrowing down the 15 best acne spot treatments was a collective effort. We conducted expert interviews with professionals in the fields of dermatology as well as aestheticians to determine top ingredients and products. We also garnered personal recommendations from them. In addition, we looked through customer reviews and product ratings while tapping into our own market research and product testing. For the March 2024 update of this article, our editors reviewed the product inclusions to eliminate any that could be at risk of containing benzene, per the Valisure report. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
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Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank is a board-certified dermatologist, skincare consultant, and founder of the bespoke aesthetic healthcare brand PFRANKMD. In over 20 years of private practice, he has become a world-renowned expert in minimally invasive cosmetic surgery.
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Dr. Brooke Jeffy is a board-certified dermatologist, acne specialist, and founder of BTWN, a simple skincare line for teens.
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Dr. Geeta Yadav is a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto. She’s an expert in both medical and cosmetic dermatology at her practice Facet Dermatology. She holds a master’s degree in international health from Johns Hopkins and completed her dermatology training at the University of Toronto, where she still teaches today.
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Dr. Joshua Zeichner is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He is one of the country’s key opinion leaders in treating acne and rosacea, and is an expert in cosmeceuticals, skin care, and cosmetic Dermatology.
Meet the Authors
Jamie Wilson is a New York-based beauty writer and editor. Prior to going freelance and contributing to brands like Glamour, she previously held the title of beauty editor at Harper’s BAZAAR writing both print and digital features, trend stories, celebrity interviews, and cover stories. She can usually be found testing out new products from her Brooklyn apartment, including top acne spot treatments.
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits beauty, fashion and lifestyle stories. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness, as well as the latest shopping trends and clothing brands. Sullivan contributed to the November 2024 update of this article, refreshing product selections after a round of testing and updating the article throughout after an interview with a dermatologist regarding the Valisure report regarding benzene in OTC acne treatments.
