Best Paula’s Choice Products for Acne Scars

This lightweight serum is one of the best Paula’s Choice products for acne scars, as it contains a powerful concentration of antioxidant-rich vitamin C (ascorbic acid). It promotes the production of collagen, which in turn helps minimize the appearance of hyperpigmentation while also providing anti-aging benefits[1].

In addition to vitamin C, this serum contains ferulic acid and vitamin E. These antioxidants protect the skin, and are also known to increase the efficacy of vitamin C[1].

Azelaic acid is a super powerful but gentle skincare ingredient that has been shown to fade hyperpigmentation[2]. It also has antibacterial properties, which makes it an excellent choice for those still fighting breakouts. Additionally, azelaic acid works well layered with a variety of skincare ingredients, including BHAs, AHAs, and retinol, so it’s easy to add to a skincare routine.

In addition to the azelaic acid, this serum contains salicylic acid, which exfoliates and further helps even out the skin tone. It also contains licorice root, which calms redness and brightens.

Retinol is a well-studied skincare ingredient that has been shown to fade hyperpigmentation[2]. Additionally, it is a multi-tasking ingredient that can reduce the signs of aging (including wrinkles, fine lines, and sun spots) and minimize and prevent breakouts.

This treatment contains vitamin C, which brightens the skin. Since retinol can be irritating, this treatment also contains licorice extract and oat extract, which soothe and calm redness.

Glycolic acid is an excellent ingredient for minimizing acne scars, because it promotes the production of collagen and speeds up skin cell renewal[3]. This gel exfoliant is also beneficial for those with aging concerns, as glycolic acid is commonly used to reduce the signs of aging, including wrinkles.

In addition to the glycolic acid, this exfoliator contains soothing and hydrating ingredients, including chamomile, aloe, and green tea.

Chemical peels are often used by professionals to effectively reduce the appearance of acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation[4]. While this peel is not as strong as a professional treatment, it is one of the best Paula’s Choice products for acne scars. It contains an effective blend of AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, malic acid, and tartaric acid) and BHA (salicylic acid), which resurface the skin for a more even complexion.

Since the chemical exfoliators can be irritating, this peel contains soothing ingredients, including chamomile, licorice extract, and allantoin. This peel is potent, and you should patch test prior to using (particularly if you’re new to acids).

Sunscreen is a crucial part of any skincare routine, and is especially important when it comes to hyperpigmentation, because it prevents it from getting darker and increases its likelihood to fade[5]. This product contains mineral sunscreen (instead of chemical sunscreen), which is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin.

This sunscreen contains bisabolol and willow bark extract, which calm the skin and alleviate redness. It also contains a blend of antioxidants to further protect against environmental aggressors.