Ranked by 71 mentions across Reddit · Updated October 2026
The why
This is a leave-on 7% glycolic acid toner for rough texture, clogged pores, and lingering marks. Redditors report smoother skin, and studies found glycolic acid can improve acne. Sensitive skin often finds it burning, drying, or barrier-wrecking.
One minus
Burning and redness can linger for days
Good forOily Skin
Protease enzyme toner smooths texture and loosens clogged pores; gentle, slow results.
EqqualberryToner3 mentions
For acne scarring, Redditors most often recommend BHA exfoliants, especially Paula’s Choice. Some report smoother-looking pores and fading post-acne marks, though the discussion mainly supports improvement in discoloration rather than indented scars.
The why
A 0.1% adapalene gel for persistent acne, whiteheads, and clogged pores. Studies found improvements in pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads over 12 weeks. Redditors report strong results too, but many describe purging, peeling, and barrier damage.
One minus
Purge can be brutal before results arrive
Good forOily Skin, Combination Skin
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Reddit reports clearer pores from 2% salicylic acid; studies found similar acne results.
Paula's ChoiceExfoliant10 mentions
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Studies found glycolic and salicylic acids clear acne; Reddit says: handle with care.
The OrdinaryExfoliant7 mentions
Niacinamide targets acne; Reddit loves the glow, studies find acne evidence mixed.
VTSerum6 mentions
Gentle 4% BHA for blackheads and clogged pores; stings some skin.
COSRXExfoliant5 mentions
The why
A lightweight gel-cream moisturizer with niacinamide, panthenol, ceramide NP, centella, and tea tree leaf water. It suits combo, oily, and irritated skin chasing barrier support or post-acne marks. Dry or clog-prone skin may find it too light or breakout-prone.
One minus
Breakouts and closed comedones are a real pattern
Good forCombination Skin, Oily Skin
Salicylic acid smooths clogged texture; Reddit loves it, studies support niacinamide for acne.
CeraVe3 mentions
Acne scarring refers to lasting marks or changes in skin texture left after acne. Community discussions most often center on tretinoin, with other retinoids and exfoliating acids also mentioned. Works-fit sentiment is largely positive, but the supplied data does not show which people or scar types benefit most.
“TWICE A WEEK -TO AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution”
Positive
“3 microneedling sessions, 1 laser treatment, and 2 hyaluronic acid filler sessions later I’m officially done with scarring treatment!”
“Biggest difference I’d say the acid fill bc it filled the pits I had from scarring which was one of the things I hated most about my skin after accutane.”
“In the first photo it is cystic acne, the second one is scarring!”
“or [Differin gel] are the 3 products that I know of.”
Positive
“While you’re inside for quarantine, why not try OTC Differin gel and a decent moisturizer?”
Positive
“Differin causes purging initially, while all the underlying issues come up”
Positive
“And hyaluronic acid for any scarring”
“Infrequent use of their Azelaic Acid”
Positive
“I also have some redness in my cheeks that Azelaic Acid seems to help with”
Positive
“very limited occasional use of their AHA BHA Peeling Solution”
Positive
“Still using Melano CC, Biore sunscreen, and fino hair mask regularly and occasionally Pyunkang Yul toner”
Mentioned
“I’ve used almost everything on the left except for 3 😂 Still using Melano CC, Biore sunscreen, and fino hair mask regularly”
Mentioned
We use cookies to improve your experience. Learn more