Best Neutrogena Products for Acne

This cleanser contains a 2% concentration of the chemical exfoliator salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is able to shed excess skin cells and decongest pores[1]. This helps fight current breakouts while also preventing new blemishes from forming.

In addition to the acne-fighting salicylic acid, this cleanser contains chamomile and aloe. These ingredients help soothe the skin to minimize irritation and reduce redness. This cleanser can be used up to two times per day.

This is one of the best Neutrogena products for acne, because it is non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores) and sweeps away dirt and debris without irritating or drying out the skin. It is a great alternate for those that find the Oil-Free Acne Wash Redness Soothing Facial Cleanser to be too intense for daily or twice daily use.

This cleanser was developed with sensitive skin in mind, and is free of many of the common irritants that can cause issues for this skin type.

Salicylic acid is one of the best ingredients for fighting acne. These pads contain a 2% concentration of this oil-soluble chemical exfoliator. This amount is gentler on the skin, but still helps unclog pores to promote a clear, smooth complexion[1].

While salicylic acid is effective, it can cause irritation and dryness, especially for those who have never used chemical exfoliators before. If you’re new to chemical exfoliators, it is best to start slow with this product. Use a pad every other day or every two days, and then build up your use from there (if your skin tolerates it well and it seems necessary).

Benzoyl peroxide is highly effective when it comes to fighting acne. It kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin, and also gets rid of excess oil and pore-clogging dead skin cells[2]. The 2.5% concentration in this treatment is great for treating current acne and preventing new blemishes from forming.

This treatment can be used at the same time as the Rapid Clear Treatment Pads, but this will increase the likelihood of irritation. If using both products in your routine, it may be best to alternate these products rather than layering them in order to avoid irritation. Additionally, while this treatment is marketed as an AM treatment, it can be used either day or night.

While retinol is often associated with anti-aging, it is also an excellent ingredient for preventing acne and lightening the appearance of post-acne marks[3]. It increases cell turnover rate, which keeps pores from clogging and stops acne from forming.

If you’re using the Rapid Clear Treatment Pads and/or the Stubborn Acne AM Treatment (or any other treatments with chemical exfoliators or benzoyl peroxide), you should not layer them with this treatment. Alternate your use of the Stubborn Marks PM Treatment with these products, as layering them will very likely cause irritation, and may also inhibit the effectiveness of the products.

This spot treatment contains a 10% concentration of benzoyl peroxide – the key ingredient in this product. It kills acne-causing bacteria on the skin, and also gets rid of excess oil and pore-clogging dead skin cells to rapidly decrease the size of a pimple[2].

Neutrogena claims that this spot treatment will start working within 2 hours after application.

While this moisturizer is marketed towards sensitive skin, it is great for those who are prone to acne. It is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and also does not contain any oil.

This water-based moisturizer is lightweight, so it won’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin.

Sun exposure can be particularly harmful for those prone to acne, as it can make post-acne marks less likely to fade. With this in mind, it is important to wear an SPF on a daily basis. This oil-free and non-comedogenic SPF moisturizer is great for daily use, because it protects from the sun without clogging pores or contributing to breakouts.

This moisturizer is lightweight and non-greasy, so it won’t leave a thick film on the skin.