15 Best Acne Creams in India for Radiant Skin [August, 2024]

Finding the best acne cream in India that suits your specific skin type and breakout concerns can be really challenging. With so many spot treatments, gels, herbal formulas, and hydrating creams available claiming acne-clearing properties, determining what works best seems impossible. After extensive analysis testing numerous popular over-the-counter spot treatments and anti-acne creams launching from both international and domestic Indian brands, we curated this definitive guide ranking the 15 top-rated medicated blemish-banishing formulas compositionally formulated to effectively heal existing breakouts while preventing future acne.

1. Mederma PM Acne Scar Removal Cream 10g

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Description

The Mederma PM acne scar removal cream is formulated specifically for use at night. It contains nutrients and moisturizers to help reduce the appearance of acne scars while you sleep.

Key Features

• Night cream for minimizing acne scars
• Formulated with Cepalin to improve skin texture
• Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
• Works for all skin types
• 10g tube

Our Expert Opinion

Mederma’s acne scar removal night cream targets skin regeneration overnight when the repair mode peaks. It’s an effective and affordable option containing proven scar-fading ingredients. Since it’s not a treatment for active breakouts, we recommend adding a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide product in the morning.

2. DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Acne Scars & Marks Cream

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Description

Dermatouch Bye Bye Acne Scars & Marks Cream works to correct uneven skin texture and discoloration caused by acne scarring. The formula helps minimize the appearance of post-acne marks and wounds.

Key Features

• Targets both acne scars and marks
• Improves skin texture
• Evens skin tone
• Suitable for all skin types
• 30g tube

Our Expert Opinion

We like that Dermatouch’s cream was specially formulated to address multiple concerns related to acne scarring. The inclusion of glycolic acid should help with resurfacing, while niacinamide tackles discoloration. Just keep in mind this isn’t a treatment for active breakouts.

3. Dermatouch Salicylic Acid 2% Niacinamide 6% Anti-Acne Oil-Free Gel For Active Acne

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Description

Dermatouch Anti-Acne Gel contains salicylic acid and niacinamide to clarify skin and keep breakouts at bay. The oil-free formula helps balance sebum production, minimize pores, and improve texture.

Key Features

• 2% salicylic acid clears and prevents acne
• 6% niacinamide reduces marks and tightens pores
• Oil-free gel texture
• Balances oily and acne-prone skin
• 30g tube

Our Expert Opinion

With hardworking ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide, Dermatouch Anti-Acne Gel makes a great everyday treatment for preventing breakouts. We like the pore-minimizing effects and oil control abilities to create clearer, shine-free skin. Use AM and PM after cleanser.

4. Khadi Natural Ayurvedic Acne Pimple Cream

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Description

Khadi Natural Ayurvedic Acne Pimple Cream tackles breakouts and inflammation with a blend of neem, turmeric, honey, and other botanical extracts. The formula calms irritation to promote clearer skin.

Key Features

• Ayurvedic therapy for acne and pimples
• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial
• Softens and soothes skin
• Safe for all skin types
• 50g tub

Our Expert Opinion

For an all-natural acne treatment, Khadi’s Ayurvedic Pimple Cream delivers. We like the synergy between neem, haldi, and honey to reduce redness and swelling. The inclusion of aloe vera and rose water nourishes skin too. It makes a great medicated spot treatment to prevent scarring.

5. Organic Harvest Acne Control Mattifying Day Cream

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Description

Organic Harvest Acne Control Mattifying Day Cream combines green tea, moringa, and other certified organic ingredients to promote clear and shine-free skin. The non-greasy formula absorbs excess oil while fighting breakouts.

Key Features

• Mattifying day cream for acne-prone skin
• Contains green tea and moringa
• Fights blemishes and shine
• 100% organic formula
• Paraben-free
• 50g tube

Our Expert Opinion

For an organic option that battles acne, Organic Harvest checks off all the boxes. We like the astringent and antioxidant properties of green tea and moringa to control oil and treat inflammation. Use this lightweight cream daily to see a reduction in breakouts over time. The matte finish wears well under makeup too.

6. Panchkruti Anti Acne Cream

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Description

Panchkruti Anti Acne Night Cream calms existing breakouts and prevents new ones with Ayurvedic actives like manjistha, lodhra, and nagkesar. Niacinamide brightens post-acne marks over time.

Key Features

• Ayurvedic night cream for acne management
• Manjistha, lodhra, and nagkesar treat inflammation
• Niacinamide fades acne scarring
• Suitable for all skin types
• 50g tube

Our Expert Opinion

Panchkruti Anti Acne Night Cream takes an Ayurvedic approach to treating acne concerns. We like the blend of traditional herbs like manjistha and lodhra to reduce redness and swelling overnight. Use this medicated treatment daily alongside acne spot correctors for optimal results. The inclusion of niacinamide also helps fade leftover marks.

7. NEW MAX STRENGTH 10% SULPHUR OINTMENT SULFUR CREAM

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Description

This maximum-strength sulfur ointment delivers 10% medicated sulfur to help clear severe acne, including stubborn cysts and nodules. The potent formula penetrates pores to eliminate breakouts and blackheads on oily, congested skin.

Key Features

• 10% sulfur treats severe inflammatory acne
• Unclogs pores and dries up blemishes
• specifically formulated for oily, congested skin
• Clear cysts, nodules, whiteheads, blackheads
• Medicated acne spot treatment

Our Expert Opinion

For those dealing with painful cystic acne, this strong 10% sulfur ointment can help dry up lesions fast. We like the high concentration of sulfur paired with salicylic acid and precipitated sulfur to penetrate deep within clogged pores. Use a thin layer as an overnight mask to avoid irritation. Results may cause temporary flaking but prevent scarring.

8. Aqualogica Clear+ Purifying Acne Face Cream

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Description

Aqualogica Clear+ Purifying Acne Face Cream couples acne-fighting salicylic acid with soothing green tea extract. This lightweight cream formula clarifies congested skin while delivering antibacterial and antioxidant properties to treat and prevent breakouts.

Key Features

• Salicylic acid and green tea fight acne
• Lightweight cream clarifies and hydrates
• Controls oil and shine
• Prevents future breakouts
• 20g tube

Our Expert Opinion

Combining acne-clearing salicylic acid with green tea’s anti-inflammatory effects, Aqualogica Clear+ makes an excellent medicated acne cream. We like the lightweight texture that won’t clog pores further and the inclusion of hydrating ingredients. Overall, it’s a solid pick for mild to moderate inflammatory acne.

9. Nature4Nature Supple Smooth Anti Acne & Pimple Removal Cream

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Description

Nature4Nature Anti Acne & Pimple Removal Cream eliminates breakouts with a blend of organic flora extracts from neem, tea tree, basil, rosehip seed oil, and more. The dermatologically-tested formula gently exfoliates while delivering antibacterial benefits.

Key Features

• Organic cream removes pimples and acne
• Multi-tasking botanical ingredients
• Dermatologically tested formula
• Exfoliates dead skin cells
• For men and women

Our Expert Opinion

Nature4Nature earns points for creating an effective organic acne cream. We like the combination of clarifying tea tree and exfoliating lactic acid paired with soothing aloe vera and healing rosehip seed oil. This balanced approach fights current blemishes without stripping the skin. The formula is free of parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, and phthalates too.

10. Mystiq Living Green Tea Clarity Acne Salicyclic Acid Gel Cream for Anti Acne

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Description

Mystiq Living Green Tea Clarity Acne Gel Cream clarifies congested skin and prevents further breakouts with salicylic acid. Green tea extract provides antioxidants while aloe vera soothes inflammation. The lightweight gel cream absorbs fast without oiliness.

Key Features

• Salicylic acid acne cream gel
• Green tea fights blemishes
• Fast-absorbing gel cream
• Balances oily, acne-prone skin
• 50g tube

Our Expert Opinion

A nice pick for oily skin, Mystiq Living Green Tea Clarity utilizes acne-fighting salicylic acid and inflammation-reducing green tea. We like this lightweight gel cream texture that provides oil control, unlike thicker creams. Remember to wear SPF in the AM though since salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity. Overall, it tackles clogged pores effectively at an affordable price point.

11. Pink Blue Handmade™ Anti Acne Cream Natural

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Description

Pink Blue Anti Acne Spot Treatment Gel uses a blend of botanical ingredients like neem, green tea, witch hazel, and tea tree to dry out blemishes naturally. The oil-free gel formula reduces post-acne marks while suitable for acne-prone skin.

Key Features

• Natural anti-acne spot gel
• Neem and green tea treat acne
• Helps minimize acne scars
• Oil-free formula for oily skin
• 30g tube

Our Expert Opinion

Those seeking a plant-based solution will like Pink Blue Handmade’s Anti Acne Spot Gel. We’re fans of neem, witch hazel, green tea, and tea tree for their antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties to fight breakouts sans harsh chemicals. Remember to use a pea-sized amount directly on blemishes though, as the formula is quite potent.

12. Lotus Professional Phytorx Tea Tree Cruelty-Free Clarifying Pimples and Acne Cream

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Description

Lotus Professional Phytorx Tea Tree Cream harnesses the power of tea tree oil, bentonite clay, and willow bark extract to clear existing pimples fast while preventing new ones from developing. The non-comedogenic formula calms irritation too.

Key Features

• Tea tree clarifying acne cream
• Bentonite clay draws out impurities
• Fights acne plus calms skin
• Pocket-sized 15g tube

Our Expert Opinion

Containing ingredients commonly found in clarifying masks, like tea tree oil and bentonite clay, Lotus Professional Phytorx makes an excellent medicated spot treatment cream for acne-prone skin. We like the small tube packaging for travel and targeted use on breakouts. Willow bark rounds things off to reduce inflammation.

13. DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Acne Spot Oil-Free Gel

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Description

DERMATOUCH Bye Bye Acne Spot Gel combines acne-targeting salicylic acid with irritation-soothing zinc PCA and allantoin. This oil-free gel formula works to reduce blemish size while preventing new ones from occurring.

Key Features

• Salicylic acid spot treatment
• Oil-free gel texture
• Soothes acne-prone skin
• Prevents future breakouts
• 20g tube

Our Expert Opinion

For on-the-spot acne reduction, Dermatouch’s Bye Bye Acne Spot Gel works fast thanks to pore-clearing salicylic acid. We like the inclusion of soothing agents like zinc and allantoin to minimize dryness and peeling. Use this directly on whiteheads and painful under-the-skin spots to bring them to a head faster without irritation. It makes an effective maintenance treatment between breakouts too.

14. Brinton AcMist Vitamin E & Aloe Vera Based Moisturizing Cream Gel

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Description

Brinton AcMist Moisturizing Cream Gel hydrates acne-prone skin without clogging pores or causing new breakouts. Formulated with vitamin E, aloe vera, and witch hazel, this lightweight gel cream clarifies while soothing irritation.

Key Features

• Oil-free gel cream for acne-prone skin
• Hydrating aloe and witch hazel
• Vitamin E prevents free radicals
• Non-comedogenic formula
• 50g tube

Our Expert Opinion

For acne-prone skin lacking adequate moisture, Brinton AcMist gets the job done without risks of new blemishes. We like the combo of aloe, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin while witch hazel and zinc treat inflammation. Use as your sole moisturizer AM and PM to avoid congestion while keeping breakouts at bay.

15. Bioderma Sebium Global Intense Purifying Cream

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Description

Bioderma Sebium Global Intense Purifying Cream absorbs excess sebum using Fluidactiv complex while salicylic acid clears existing acne. The matte textured cream leaves skin clean and shine-free without over-drying.

Key Features

• Purifying cream for acne-prone skin
• Absorbs excess sebum
• Salicylic acid clears breakouts
• Leaves a matte, flawless complexion
• 30ml tube

Our Expert Opinion

We recommend Bioderma Sebium Global for acne-prone combination skin that experiences both breakouts and oiliness. The Fluidactiv complex regulates sebum production to prevent clogged pores and new pimples from developing. Use as the last step of your skincare routine at night after treating blemishes with acne spot correctors during the day.

Comparison for Best Acne Cream in India

How to Choose the Best Acne Cream

With countless acne creams on the market, choosing the right one can get confusing. Here are some tips on selecting the best acne cream for your skin’s needs:

Identify your skin type and acne type – Is your skin oily, dry or combination? Do you suffer from blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or cystic acne? Identifying skin and acne types helps narrow suitable treatments.

Look for acne-fighting ingredients – Effective OTC ingredients like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, glycolic acid, and niacinamide target breakouts without a prescription strength.

Consider added skin benefactors – Soothing and healing agents like green tea, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, tea tree oil, and omegas complement acne treatments by reducing dryness and irritation.

Compare texture suitability – Gels and lightweight lotions suit oilier skin types best as rich creams may block pores. Dry, sensitive skin benefits more from hydrating cream-based formulas.

Mind usage directions – Acne spot treatments work best directly on existing blemishes while all-over face creams target and prevent future breakouts.

Different Types of Acne Creams

There are a few common formats and textures when it comes to acne cream products:

Gel creams – These spread like creams but absorb fast like gels without leaving skin greasy. Gel creams help clarify congested pores.

Spot treatments – Thicker in texture and made for direct application on existing pimples to reduce redness, swelling, and expedite healing. Most contain acne fighters like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

Night creams – Packed with resurfacing acids, retinoids, peptides and antioxidants, these nourishing formulas work overnight as the skin goes into repair mode during sleep.

Oil-free creams – Made specifically for acne-prone skin, these hydrating creams minimize new breakouts by cutting out pore-clogging oils. Light, fast-absorbing textures prevent congestion.

Medicated sulfur creams – Extremely drying in nature with higher percentages of sulfur, these creams tackle cystic acne and severe breakouts by penetrating deep within the pore lining. Best for use a few times per week or as overnight masks.

Healing creams – More soothing-based to calm irritation from acne treatments, healing creams feature ingredients like colloidal oatmeal, aloe vera, chamomile, green tea extract, shea butter, and vitamin E.

Usage, Maintenance & Care Guide

To maximize results from your chosen acne cream, be sure to use it properly and pair it with the right complementary products:

Perform patch tests – Try any new acne cream on a small skin area first to check for allergies or adverse effects before full facial application.

Layer from thin to thick – To aid proper absorption, apply acne creams from lightest to richest consistency starting with toner, serum and ending with moisturizer or treatment cream.

Moisturize adequately – Temporarily easing up on acne creams by adding a plain hydrator can help restore skin’s moisture barrier to avoid flaking.

Sun protection is vital – Acne creams with exfoliating acids or retinoids make skin more sun-sensitive requiring diligent SPF protection during daytime use.

Don’t mix benzoyl peroxide – Combining products with benzoyl peroxide together can make formulations less effective.

See a dermatologist if over-the-counter options fail to show improvements after 2 months of use. Custom prescription formulas target acne way below the skin’s surface.

FAQs about Best Acne Cream in India

Q. What are the best acne creams in India?

• Mederma PM Acne Scar Removal Cream
• Dermatouch Bye Bye Acne Scars & Marks Cream
• Dermatouch Salicylic Acid Anti-Acne Gel
• Khadi Natural Ayurvedic Acne Pimple Cream
• Organic Harvest Acne Control Mattifying Day Cream
• Panchkruti Anti Acne Night Cream
• 10% Sulfur Ointment
• Aqualogica Clear+ Purifying Acne Face Cream
• Nature4Nature Anti Acne & Pimple Removal Cream
• Mystiq Living Green Tea Clarity Acne Gel Cream
• Pink Blue Handmade Anti Acne Spot Gel
• Lotus Professional Phytorx Tea Tree Cream
• Dermatouch Bye Bye Acne Spot Gel
• Brinton AcMist Moisturizing Cream Gel
• Bioderma Sebium Global Intense Purifying Cream

Q. How do I choose the best acne cream in India?

To choose the best acne cream in India, identify your skin type and acne type first. Look for acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and consider added skin benefactors like green tea and vitamin E. Compare textures suitable for your skin—gels for oily skin, creams for dry skin. Read usage directions on spot treatments vs all-over creams.

Q. What are the different types of acne creams?

The main types of acne creams are: gel creams which absorb fast without oiliness; spot treatments to reduce existing pimples; night creams with resurfacing acids to work overnight; oil-free creams that won’t clog pores; medicated sulfur creams for severe acne; and soothing healing creams with botanicals.

Q. How should I use and maintain acne creams?

To use acne creams properly: perform patch tests first; layer thinnest to thickest texture; moisturize skin adequately to avoid dryness; always wear SPF during day with exfoliating creams; don’t mix benzoyl peroxide with other products; and see a dermatologist if over-the-counter options fail after 2 months of use.

Q. Can I use acne creams as spot treatments?

Yes, many acne creams can be used as concentrated spot treatments. Acne spot treatments typically contain higher percentages of acne fighters like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Apply them directly onto existing breakouts like whiteheads and pimples for faster drying and reduction.

Q. How fast do acne creams work?

Results with acne creams require patience. Expect to use acne creams consistently for 4 to 6 weeks before seeing significant clearance and improvements. Ensure you follow product directions carefully and pair creams with complementary acne-fighting products for faster visible effects.

Q. What are the best acne creams in India in each of the categories that matter ?

Best Ayurvedic Anti-Acne Cream – Khadi Natural Ayurvedic Acne Pimple Cream. It combines neem, turmeric, honey and other ayurvedic ingredients to reduce inflammation and control breakouts.

Best Organic Acne Cream – Organic Harvest Acne Control Mattifying Day Cream. Certified organic formula with green tea, moringa, no parabens suits acne-prone skin.

Best Acne Scar Removal Cream – Mederma PM Acne Scar Removal Cream. Nightly use helps minimize appearance of acne scars with skin-repairing cepalin.

Best Gel-Based Acne Cream for Oily Skin – Mystiq Living Green Tea Clarity Acne Gel Cream. Its lightweight gel texture absorbs fast without causing oiliness or breakouts.

Best Sulphur Acne Cream for Severe Breakouts – 10% Sulphur Ointment. High sulphur concentration helps clear painful cysts, nodules by drying out lesions with spot application.

Best Soothing Healing Cream for Acne – Brinton AcMist Vitamin E & Aloe Vera Cream Gel. Hydrates while calming irritation from acne treatments using aloe vera, witch hazel and vitamin E.

Best Medicated Night Cream for Acne Prone Skin – Panchkruti Anti Acne Night Cream. Ayurvedic formula with manjistha, lodhra, nagkesar treats inflammation to prevent overnight breakouts.

In conclusion, these specialized acne creams suit different skin types and acne conditions. Do consider your core needs before deciding the best option.

Q. Which ingredients should I look for in acne creams?

Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, niacinamide, glycolic acid, and retinoids (OTC versions) all help treat breakouts in OTC formulas without a prescription. Vitamin C, green tea, aloe vera, and chamomile can also calm acne.

Q. Can I use acne creams as spot treatments?

Yes, acne spot treatments typically contain a higher percentage of acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to be used directly on existing whiteheads, blackheads and breakouts for faster results.

Q. Should acne creams be used daily or only when required?

For optimum prevention and maintenance between breakouts, daily use is recommended. However, acne spot treatments should only be used when needed to avoid excessive drying and irritation on healthy skin areas.

Q. Can I use acne creams if I have sensitive skin?

Those with sensitive skin still dealing with breakouts can opt for soothing cream-based formulas with minimal percentages of acne actives, focusing more on inflammation-reducing botanical ingredients versus harsh acids or peroxide. Perform patch tests first.

Q. How long does it take for acne creams to work?

Results require patience. Expect to use acne creams consistently for 4 to 6 weeks before noticing significant improvements. Follow directions carefully and pair with complementary acne-fighting products in your regimen for faster visible effects.

Conclusion

Acne creams serve as vital weapons against existing breakouts while preventing new ones from occurring with continued use. Just be sure to select suitable formulas for your skin type and acne concern. Additionally, maintain realistic expectations on visible results while practicing proper usage directions for maximum effectiveness over time. We hope our reviews on India’s top anti-acne creams plus usage and care tips assist you in achieving clear, healthy skin free of blemishes.