Best Essences for Acne

Ranked by 16 mentions across Reddit

Reddit’s top essences for Acne

10mentions

The why

Soothing effects target redness and inflammation, especially favored by those with reactive, sensitive skin prone to flare-ups.

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Community take

For acne, Redditors most often reach for Mugwort essences praised for soothing redness and inflammation, while ATOBARRIER365 Hydro Essence is noted for barrier support and lightweight hydration. These essences generally supplement other acne treatments rather than replace them.

What works

Mugwort essence widely praised for calming redness and inflammation
ATOBARRIER365 Hydro Essence supports skin barrier without clogging pores
Essences provide lightweight hydration and layer well with other products

Watch out for

Mugwort essence may sting or flare rosacea in some users
Essences often insufficiently moisturizing alone for acne-prone skin
Reformulations can cause loss of trust in previously effective products

What the research says about acne ingredients

Strong evidence

6 ingredients

Multiple studies found these worked for acne.

Adapalene
It usually cleared acne better than a placebo, especially in gels used with other acne ingredients
24 studies
Azelaic Acid
It usually cleared acne better than a placebo
32 studies
Benzoyl Peroxide
It usually cleared acne better than a placebo, especially for pimples, blackheads and whiteheads
23 studies
Glycolic Acid
It usually improved acne, and some studies found it cleared acne better than a placebo
22 studies
Salicylic Acid
It usually helped clear acne, though results were sometimes mixed and a few studies only showed it matched other treatments
32 studies
Zinc
Zinc may help acne, but the evidence is limited and not fully consistent
24 studies

Some evidence

4 ingredients

Some studies found a benefit for acne, but the evidence isn't settled.

Mandelic Acid
It may help acne, but most evidence is from peels and often with salicylic acid or isotretinoin
7 studies
Niacinamide
It often improved acne, but many studies used niacinamide together with other ingredients
19 studies
Retinol
Some studies found retinol improved acne, especially red, sore spots
5 studies
Tea Tree Oil
It may help acne, but the evidence is limited and not fully convincing
11 studies