Acne Creams, Lotions, & Gels
The following acne creams, lotions, and gels are organized by key ingredients. Product information is summarized, with more detailed information, including prices, and in most cases, ingredients, warnings, and user reviews being accessible via the accompanying merchant links.
Benzoyl Peroxide
This vanishing cream (a tinted version is also available) from Clearasil® contains the over-the-counter maximum 10% benzoyl peroxide concentration to target acne-causing bacteria, while also containing glycolic acid to exfoliate and smooth the skin.
This oil-free, water-based, gel from Zapzyt® contains 10% benzoyl peroxide. This acne gel is designed to be invisible after application, making it easier to apply makeup and moisturizers afterward.
Sulfur & Resorcinol
Adult Acnomel® from Numark Laboratories is a tinted cream containing 8% sulfur and 2% resorcinol. This acne product is claimed to remove and prevent acne blemishes, while being less drying than benzoyl peroxide products.
This tinted acne cream from Clearasil® contains 8% sulfur and 2% resorcinol. It is designed to conceal and dry out pimples, reduce redness and irritation, while not overdrying the skin.
Glycolic Acid
This exfoliating lotion from Alpha Hydrox® utilizes a 10% glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid) concentration to remove dead skin cells. This pH balanced product contains moisturizers and Vitamin E and is designed to improve skin texture, elasticity, and tone. It is formulated for normal to dry skin, and it is not for sensitive skin.
This toner for "problem skin" contains 11% glycolic acid, an exfoliant, and is applied with a cottonball to remove oil, dirt, and makeup. Unlike cleansers, however, it is not rinsed off immediately after use. This product is claimed to improve skin texture and complexion. It is pH balanced and non-comedogenic, so it will not clog pores.
Salicylic Acid
This acne gel contains the over-the-counter maximum 2% salicylic acid concentration and uses Neutrogena's Microclear™ technology to deliver salicylic acid deeper into the pores. This oil-free acne gel is clear when applied; it is also non-comedogenic.
Tea Tree Oil
This acne treatment contains tea tree oil, which is known to kill acne-causing bacteria, and it also contains 2% salicylic acid. It further contains ingredients to reduce inflammation and irritation, such Algae Extract and Licorice Extract. It is designed to be invisible when applied.