Best serum for acne-prone skin (2025): 10 clear-skin formulas

Clear skin starts with the best serum for acne-prone skin. Here are the top-rated 10 picks in 2025 that are worth your money.

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If you have ever hesitated before trying a new serum because of a past breakout, you are not alone. Acne-prone skin needs more than just promises, it needs smart, soothing ingredients that won’t mess with your skin barrier. In 2025, the best serums for acne-prone skin are all about balance – clearing up blemishes without drying your skin out or causing new flare-ups. From lightweight niacinamide blends to salicylic acid spot saviours, these formulas are designed to work with your skin, not against it. Whether you are fighting active breakouts, acne scars, or excess oil, these top 10 picks are worth every drop and every rupee.

Table of Contents

Best serum for acne-prone skin: Top 10 picks

Acne affects over 85% of teenagers, which makes it one of the most common conditions. Using a serum with a blend of botanical goodness can soothe and fight acne as per the Journal of Medicinal Plants Science.

1. The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum Link

Are you bothered by blackheads, whiteheads, and frequent acne? This serum for acne-prone skin dives deep into pores to unclog impurities, thanks to its potent 2% salicylic acid formula. It exfoliates gently, regulates oil production, and prevents future breakouts without drying out your skin. Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin, this face serum for women and men is fragrance-free and dermatologically tested to deliver clearer and smoother skin.

Why choose:

Potent BHA clears blackheads
Oil-control and exfoliation in one
Fast-absorbing, non-sticky formula

Why avoid:

Can cause purging in early use
May irritate sensitive skin

Customer’s reactions: Customers call this the best serum for acne-prone skin for its visibly reducing blackheads and acne. Some users report clearer skin in 2-3 weeks. A few noted initial purging and mild dryness.

2. Dr. Sheth’s Centella & 10% Niacinamide Face Serum link

This dermatologist-formulated serum for acne-prone skin blends 10% niacinamide with calming Centella to tackle acne scars, regulate oil, and soothe redness. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it perfect for Indian skin prone to sensitivity and pigmentation. The lightweight formula strengthens the skin barrier, evens out tone, and minimises the appearance of pores with regular use. Free from fragrance and cruelty, this niacinamide serum is ideal for daily use.

Why choose:

Fragrance-free and gentle
Calms and heals irritated skin
Strengthens skin barrier

Why avoid:

Slower visible results for pigmentation
Might not suit extremely oily skin

Customers’ reactions: Customers loved this best serum for acne-prone skin for reducing redness and improving texture. Users said it worked gradually but effectively. Some with oily skin found it slightly heavy.

3. The Derma Co Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Serum link

Are you struggling with both pimples and the marks they leave behind? This dual-action face serum for acne-prone skin combines 2% salicylic acid and 5% niacinamide to fight active acne and fade post-acne pigmentation. It exfoliates pores, balances sebum, and strengthens skin, which makes it a complete acne solution. This lightweight and quick-to-absorb serum is good for oily and acne-prone skin.

Why choose:

Combines acne control
Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free
Affordable multitasking serum

Why avoid:

May cause dryness or peeling initially
Slightly greasy for humid climates

Customers’ reactions: Customers said this serum for acne-prone skin helped reduce breakouts and lighten spots. Some faced dryness or oiliness depending on skin type. Reviews were mixed on long-term glow.

4. Mamaearth Skin Correct Face Serum link

This everyday serum targets acne scars and enlarged pores with a powerful blend of 10% niacinamide and natural ginger extract. It works to restore even skin tone, control sebum, and calm inflammation caused by frequent breakouts. Dermatologically tested and toxin-free, this best serum for acne-prone skin is suitable for all skin types and especially great for teens and young adults beginning their skincare journey.

Why choose:

Natural actives with Niacinamide
Paraben- and sulfate-free
Mild yet effective

Why avoid:

May not fade deep scars quickly
Slightly sticky finish for some

Customers’ reactions: Users appreciated this best serum for acne-prone skin for giving a glow and softening skin texture. A few users complained about minor breakouts or slow improvement in pigmentation.

5. Aqualogica Radiance+ Niacinamide Serum link

Infused with watermelon, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, this best serum for acne-prone skin claims to revive dull skin, fade dark spots, and boost hydration. Its water-based, non-oily texture makes it ideal for Indian summers and oily-combination skin types. Moreover, this serum works to reduce acne scars and brighten skin tone without clogging pores.

Why choose:

Hydrating yet oil-free
Combats dullness and pigmentation
Perfect for humid weather

Why avoid:

Can sting on broken or irritated skin
Not ideal for extremely sensitive skin

Customers’ reactions: This best serum for acne-prone skin was highly rated for its glow-boosting and hydrating effect. Most users saw improvement in pigmentation. However, some with reactive skin reported redness or breakouts.

Also Read: Kumkumadi face serum: Why you need this elixir and 7 options to try

6. Minimalist Oil Control & Anti-Acne 10% Niacinamide Face Serum with Zinc link

This serum offers a powerful blend of 10% niacinamide and zinc for acne-prone skin as it aids in healing acne marks, oil production, and pore size. It also contains active ingredients that calm inflammation, blemished skin, and promote clear skin with reduced redness. Crafted for oily and acne-prone skin, it has a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and toxic-free formula.

Why choose:

Helps manage oil production and diminishes pores
Enhances barrier strength and minimises future blemishes
Odonatologica fragrance-free and allergy-free

Why avoid:

May be too harsh for dry and sensitive skin
A few consumers considered it to be overpriced

Customers’ reactions: Users were pleased with this best serum for acne-prone skin. However, there were a few mixed reviews regarding value for money. Customers appreciated the dark spot reduction and oil control alongside acne-clearing abilities.

7. Deconstruct Clearing Serum 5% Niacinamide + 2% Alpha Arbutin link

The combination of 5% niacinamide with 2% alpha arbutin in this serum aims to reverse the effects of dullness, pigmentation, dark spots, and even acne scarring. It inhibits the formation of melanin and helps in smoothing out tanned skin. This face serum is suitable for all skin types and genders, as it provides enhanced radiance over time. It is not sticky and lightweight, which integrates seamlessly into any skincare routine to get blemish-free and glowing skin.

Why choose:

Great couple for dark spots and pigmentation
Lightweight and quick-absorbing
Does well on every skin type

Why to avoid:

May not work well to prevent acne in everyone
Can cause irritation in some people

Customer’s reactions: Customers enjoyed the noticeable brightening and spot-decreasing effects, and many complimented its lightweight texture. But some users experienced breakouts of acne or irritation.

8. Cos-IQ 10% Niacinamide Face Serum with 4% Multi-Peptide Complex link

Enriched with a skin-brightening punch that contains 10% niacinamide, 2% hyaluronic acid, and 4% peptides, this top serum for acne skin fights blemishes, oiliness, and acne. It refines texture, shrinks pores and redness, and fortifies the skin barrier. Fragrance-free, dye-free, and comedogenic ingredient-free, this best serum for acne-prone skin provides non-greasy, calming action.

Why choose:

Triple action
Peptide-enriched formula smoothes skin texture
Fragrance-free and can be used daily

Why avoid:

Can be expensive compared to other similar serums
Not ideal for very sensitive skin

Customers’ reactions: Customers found this best serum for acne-prone skin effective in reducing acne, brightening dull skin, and improving overall texture. However, a few found the price high for the value offered.

9. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica Ampoule link

Formulated with 100% Centella Asiatica extract, this nourishing ampoule comforts irritated and acne skin and hydrates and rebalances. Its efficient, stripped-back formula works to address sensitivity, redness, and dryness without closing pores. Furthermore, this best serum for acne-prone skin is gentle enough for all skin types, particularly sensitive skin and enhances skin health, lessens inflammation, and leaves complexion brighter.

Why choose:

Pure Centella Asiatica to soothe irritation
Gentle, one-ingredient formula
Large quantity (100ml) at good value

Why avoid:

Not specifically targeted for acne or pigmentation
No brightening active ingredients

Customers’ reactions: Customers saw clearer, smoother, “glass-like” skin with fewer marks after using this best serum for acne-prone skin. But those looking for acne-busting or brightening effects may find it too weak.

Also Read: How to choose a face serum that suits your skin type: A guide you shouldn’t miss

10. Pilgrim 10% Niacinamide Serum with Zinc PCA, Salicylic & Hyaluronic Acid link

This serum combines 10% niacinamide with 1% zinc PCA and salicylic acid to cut acne, fade marks, and manage oil. Boosted with Korean white lotus and hyaluronic acid, it also enhances brightness and hydration. Additionally, this fast-absorbing and lightweight formula is an easy addition to daily skincare to enhance glow and clarity of skin.

Why choose:

Good for exfoliation, hydration, and oil control
Fights marks and acne at the same time
Suitable for women and men

Why avoid:

Mixed reviews about effectiveness
Some users said it didn’t work or caused breakouts

Customers’ reactions: Most users found this salicylic acid serum effective for diminishing acne and enhancing the tone of the skin in a matter of days. Still, multiple customers found it ineffective and not worth the money.

What are the benefits of using serums for acne-prone skin?

1. Targeted treatment: The best serum for acne-prone skin with high levels of active ingredients such as niacinamide, salicylic acid, or alpha arbutin has a direct effect on acne, curbing breakouts, and erasing marks.
2. Lightweight and non-greasy: Serums for acne-prone skin are not heavy like creams. They absorb instantly and are non-comedogenic, which makes them great for oily or acne skin.
3. Controls oil and sebum: Packed with zinc and niacinamide, the best serum for acne-prone skin regulates overproduction of oil, avoiding clogged pores and future acne. Using serums can effectively improve acne and overall skin health by balancing hydration and oil levels as per the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
4. Soothes inflammation: These serums usually contain soothing ingredients such as Centella Asiatica or aloe vera, which minimise redness, irritation, and inflammation from acne.
5. Improves skin texture and tone: Daily use of the best serum for acne-prone skin refines pores, lightens blemishes, and induces a clearer, smoother, and more even-toned skin.

Also Read: Best vitamin C serums: Top 6 substitutes of Mario Badescu that will give you a radiant glow

How to pick the right serum for acne-prone skin?

1. Ingredients: Select the best serum for acne-prone skin containing acne-fighting ingredients such as niacinamide, salicylic acid, zinc PCA, retinol, or tea tree oil. They will reduce inflammation, dissolve impurities, and regulate excess oil.
2. Non-comedogenic formula: Check if the the best serum for acne-prone skin is described as “non-comedogenic” so it does not clog pores and aggravate breakouts.
3. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic: Fragrance and strong additives can be irritating for sensitive, breakout-prone skin. Seek out gentle, clean formulas.
4. Skin type: If oily skin is your concern, opt for light, water-based serums. For combination skin, try balanced formulas with moisturizing and oil-controlling ingredients.
5. Patch test first: Always patch test the best serum for acne-prone skin before using it on the entire face to eliminate any redness or allergic response, particularly if your skin is sensitive or reactive.

(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)