Blog15 Best Serums for Acne Prone Skin in India [August, 2024]
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Dealing with acne breakouts and oily skin can be extremely frustrating. While there are many over-the-counter creams and face washes that claim to treat acne, using the right face serum makes a big difference in effectively fighting acne and preventing future breakouts.
Serums contain a high concentration of active ingredients that penetrate deeper into skin and deliver targeted treatment. Choosing the best acne face serum however can get tricky with so many options available today promising similar benefits.
This blog features a detailed review of 15 top-rated anti acne serums available in India. The serums are analyzed in-depth based on their key ingredients, suitability for different skin types, real user reviews and pricing. A comparison table allows you to quickly compare the main features and prices of the products at a glance.
So if you have oily, blemish-prone skin and struggle with painful acne, blackheads or pimple marks, this guide can help you find your ideal acne-fighting serum for clearer, healthy skin.
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- The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
- Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
- Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
- DERMATOUCH Salicylic Acid 2% Sebustop 2% Face Serum
- Dot & Key 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Anti Acne Serum
- Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Oil Control Serum
- Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
- Mamaearth Skin Correct Face Serum
- UrbanBotanics® 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
- Blue Nectar Plum Face Serum
- The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with Witch Hazel & Willow Ba...
- mCaffeine 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
- Lacto Calamine 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum
- Earth Rhythm 10% Niacinamide Serum + Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
- The Derma Co Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Face Serum
- Feature Comparison for Best Serum for Acne Prone Skin i…
- How to Choose the Best Serum for Acne Prone Skin
- Different Types of Acne Serums
- Guide on Usage, Maintenance and Care
- FAQs about Best Serum for Acne Prone Skin
1. The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
Description
The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face Serum contains 10% niacinamide which helps to control excess oil production and clear acne marks and spots. It also contains zinc which acts as an astringent and anti-inflammatory agent.
Key Features
- 10% niacinamide
- Helps control excess sebum production
- Improves skin texture
- Reduces appearance of pores
- Clears acne marks and spots
Our Expert Opinion
This serum contains an optimal concentration of niacinamide which makes it effective for acne-prone and oily skin types. The addition of zinc provides extra sebum control. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula also minimises pores and improves overall skin texture with regular use.
2. Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
Description
This salicylic acid face serum by Minimalist contains 2% BHA (beta hydroxy acid) which exfoliates dead skin cells, clears pores, controls excess sebum and improves skin texture. It helps treat and prevent acne and blackheads.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid (BHA)
- Helps treat acne and blackheads
- Deep cleanses pores
- Exfoliates dead skin cells
- Reduces sebum production
Our Expert Opinion
The minimalist serum contains an optimal strength salicylic acid that effectively exfoliates pores to reduce acne without overdrying the skin. The oil-free formula is great for oily, bumpy and acne-prone skin. Those with highly sensitive skin should patch test before use.
3. Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
Description
Foxtale serum combines a moderate concentration of salicylic acid and glycolic acid which deeply cleanses pores, exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces sebum secretion and helps combat acne, blackheads and open pores.
Key Features
- 2% Salicylic acid (BHA) and 2% glycolic acid (AHA)
- Helps treat and prevent acne
- Removes excess oil, gunk and dead skin cells
- Improves skin texture
- Non-greasy, for all skin types
Our Expert Opinion
This foaming serum is a great treatment option for those struggling with frequent acne and congested skin. The combination of BHA and AHA ensures effective exfoliation without over-drying. Those with highly sensitive skin must patch test before usage.
4. DERMATOUCH Salicylic Acid 2% Sebustop 2% Face Serum
Description
DERMATOUCH Sebustop 2% serum contains a moderate 2% concentration of salicylic acid. It helps decongest clogged pores, control oiliness, treat acne and prevent new breakouts.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid
- Reduces acne and blackheads
- Deep cleanses congested pores
- Suitable for oily, acne prone skin
- Reduces sebum secretion
Our Expert Opinion
The 2% concentration of salicylic acid in this clarifying face serum is gentle enough for daily use on oily and acne-prone skin. The oil-free and non-comedogenic formula penetrates pores effectively to control sebum activity and prevent future breakouts. Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
5. Dot & Key 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Anti Acne Serum
Description
This salicylic acid serum by Dot & Key contains 2% BHA along with Cica, Niacinamide and Zinc. Together they help in treating acne, blemishes, dark spots and excess oil. The formula is suitable for sensitive, acne prone skin.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid (BHA)
- Centella Asiatica (cica) extract
- Niacinamide and Zinc
- Oil-free, non comedogenic
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Our Expert Opinion
The combination of salicylic acid + cica extract makes this serum effective in fighting breakouts without causing redness or dryness in sensitive skin types. The added benefits of niacinamide and zinc help control sebum activity and prevent future acne breakouts. It has a lightweight gel-texture that absorbs fast without leaving an oily residue.
6. Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Oil Control Serum
Description
Pilgrim serum combines salicylic acid and niacinamide to control excess sebum, treat acne and improve overall skin clarity. Suitable for oily, acne prone skin types.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid
- 3% niacinamide
- Reduces acne and controls oil
- Improves skin texture
- Lightweight, absorbs quickly
Our Expert Opinion
The Pilgrim serum’s matte oil-control formula with salicylic acid and niacinamide makes it one of the best K-beauty options for oily acne prone skin. The combination provides effective sebum and acne control without over drying the skin. Those with sensitive skin must patch test before use.
7. Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
Description
The Minimalist 10% niacinamide face serum contains a high concentration of niacinamide along with zinc to control sebum activity, heal acne marks, improve skin texture and brighten complexion over time.
Key Features
- 10% niacinamide
- Added zinc
- Fades acne marks and spots
- Balances oil secretion
- Lightweight gel formula
Our Expert Opinion
The higher concentration niacinamide makes this serum ideal for oily, acne-prone skin types struggling with acne spots/scars and uneven skin texture. The added zinc provides extra sebum control. Being fragrance and oil-free, it is unlikely to cause any skin reactions or irritation.
8. Mamaearth Skin Correct Face Serum
Description
This Mamaearth serum combines niacinamide with antioxidant-rich ginger extract to heal acne marks and scars. It claims to improve skin texture and tone with regular usage.
Key Features
- Niacinamide and ginger extract
- Fades acne marks and scars
- Evens out skin tone
- Improves skin texture
- Paraben and toxin-free
Our Expert Opinion
While niacinamide does help control sebum and heal acne marks, there isn’t much evidence to support ginger extract’s efficacy in acne scar healing. However, being free of parabens, sulphates and other toxins, it is less likely to cause irritation or allergies in sensitive skin types. Those with highly inflamed acne should use a medicated treatment serum instead.
9. UrbanBotanics® 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
Description
This niacinamide serum by UrbanBotanics contains 10% high strength niacinamide and zinc which together help to treat acne, fade scars, control excess oil and improve uneven skin texture with continued usage.
Key Features
- 10% high strength niacinamide
- Added zinc
- Fades acne scars and spots
- Balances sebum activity
- Improves skin’s texture
Our Expert Opinion
The higher 10% concentration of niacinamide in this serum makes it quite effective for acne and acne mark treatment. Zinc provides the extra benefit of tightening enlarged pores and regulating oil secretion. Being free of irritants, it is safe to use for most skin types, including sensitive skin. Those with very inflamed cystic acne need to consult a dermat first however.
10. Blue Nectar Plum Face Serum
Description
Blue Nectar’s Plum face serum contains plant based vitamin C, lactic acid and liquorice extract that help to unclog congested pores, prevent acne and heal marks & spots. The formula is suited for acne prone skin.
Key Features
- Plant based vitamin C
- Lactic acid
- Acne & blemish treatment
- Evens out skin texture
- Oil-free for oily skin
- Pore tightening
Our Expert Opinion
While the ingredients like vitamin C and lactic acid do provide benefits like skin brightening, pore tightening and exfoliation, this serum has no acne fighting actives like salicylic acid, glycolic acid or niacinamide. So those struggling with inflammatory active acne may see no major improvement with this product alone. However it is a good one to heal acne marks/scars and unclog pores while providing a healthy glow to the skin.
11. The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with Witch Hazel & Willow Bark for Active Acne – 30 ml
Description
The Derma Co salicylic acid serum contains 2% BHA along with witch hazel and willow bark extracts. It helps unclog pores, reduce sebum, treat acne and prevent future breakouts.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid (BHA)
- Witch hazel and willow bark
- Treats acne, blackheads
- Unclogs pores, reduces oil
- Suitable for oily, acne prone skin
Our Expert Opinion
The Derma Co serum contains an optimal 2% salicylic acid concentration that works well for oily acne prone skin. Witch hazel helps tighten pores while willow bark provides anti-inflammatory benefits to soothe acne and redness. Those with highly sensitive skin must patch test before use as it contains fragrant essential oils.
12. mCaffeine 10% Niacinamide Face Serum
Description
The mCaffeine niacinamide serum contains 10% high-strength niacinamide along with hyaluronic acid and green tea extracts. It helps control excess oil, treat acne, brighten skin complexion and provide intense hydration.
Key Features
- 10% Niacinamide
- Hyaluronic acid & green tea
- Treats acne & marks
- Brightens complexion
- Controls sebum
Our Expert Opinion
The optimal 10% niacinamide concentration along with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants make this serum suitable for oily, acne prone skin types looking for oil control and skin nourishment. However, those struggling with severe cystic acne need a stronger acne treatment serum with actives like salicylic/glycolic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
13. Lacto Calamine 2% Salicylic Acid Face Serum
Description
This Lacto Calamine serum for acne treatment contains a mild 2% salicylic acid designed specifically for acne prone and oily skin. It helps unclog pores, treat acne and reduce acne spots and marks.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid (BHA)
- For acne treatment
- Reduces acne marks, spots
- Unclogs pores
- Suitable for oily skin
Our Expert Opinion
This acne face serum by a trusted brand like Lacto Calamine makes for a decent budget buy but it does not contain enough BHA to provide long lasting acne and oil control in severely oily or acneic skin types. The mild formula may however suit those with mild-moderate acne and occasional breakouts. The kaolin clay content also makes it ideal to use during summers.
14. Earth Rhythm 10% Niacinamide Serum + Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
Description
Earth Rhythm niacinamide face serum contains 10% niacinamide, 2% bio hyaluronic acid and bio marine complex. It helps to treat acne, control excess oil, fade marks, improve texture and boost skin’s hydration levels.
Key Features
- 10% niacinamide
- 2% hyaluronic acid
- Bio marine complex
- Brightens & evens skin tone
- Lightweight gel texture
Our Expert Opinion
The optimal 10% niacinamide concentration along with hydrating hyaluronic acid and marine extracts make this serum suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types. It provides oil control, acne treatment and intense hydration without feeling sticky. Those with highly inflamed cystic acne may however need a stronger medicated serum.
15. The Derma Co Sali-Cinamide Anti-Acne Face Serum
Description
This Derma Co serum combines the acne healing benefits of 2% salicylic acid and 5% niacinamide. It helps treat acne, reduce scars/marks, control excess sebum, improve skin texture and brighten complexion.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid (BHA)
- 5% niacinamide
- Acne and scar treatment
- Brightens skin tone
- Unclogs congested pores
Our Expert Opinion
This serum contains a balanced combination of acne-fighting salicylic acid and scar healing niacinamide. This makes it effective for use in oily, acne and acne-scar prone skin types to achieve clearer skin with improved texture and tone. Those with very sensitive skin must do a patch test before applying to the entire face.
Feature Comparison for Best Serum for Acne Prone Skin in India
| Serum | Key Features |
|---|---|
| The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide | 10% niacinamide; zinc; reduces marks |
| Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid | 2% salicylic acid; oil control |
| Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid + Glycolic Acid | 2% salicylic & glycolic acid; exfoliates |
| DERMATOUCH 2% Salicylic Acid | 2% salicylic acid; reduces oiliness |
| Dot & Key 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica | 2% salicylic; niacinamide; sensitive skin |
| Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide | Korean skincare; controls oil |
| Minimalist 10% Niacinamide | 10% niacinamide; fades marks |
| Mamaearth Niacinamide & Ginger | Fades marks & scars |
| UrbanBotanics® 10% Niacinamide | 10% niacinamide; zinc; reduces oil |
| Blue Nectar Vitamin C + Lactic Acid | Plant vitamin C; lactic acid; glow |
| The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid | 2% salicylic; willow bark; reduces acne |
| mCaffeine 10% Niacinamide | 10% niacinamide; green tea; hydrating |
| Lacto Calamine 2% Salicylic Acid | 2% salicylic acid; kaolin clay; budget buy |
| Earth Rhythm 10% Niacinamide + Hyaluronic Acid | 10% niacinamide; hydrating |
| The Derma Co Sali-Cinamide | 2% salicylic & 5% niacinamide; combo |
How to Choose the Best Serum for Acne Prone Skin
Here are some tips to help choose the most suitable anti-acne serum for your skin type and concerns:
Check the Hero Ingredients
Look for acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, niacinamide, tea tree oil, zinc, etc based on your skin’s needs and sensitivity levels. Avoid heavily fragranced serums.
See Reviews
Check reviews of real users with similar skin type and concern to gauge real-life efficacy of the serum. Avoid going by claims alone.
Analyze the Formula
Besides the hero ingredient, look at the additional ingredients and their purpose in the serum. Avoid serums with too many redundant components or potential irritants.
Match with Skin Type
Oily and acne-prone skin benefit more from acids like salicylic, glycolic and niacinamide while sensitive skin types need mild anti-acne agents like sulfur or tea tree.
Different Types of Acne Serums
There are a few common types of anti-acne facial serums available in the market:
Salicylic Acid Serums: Contain BHA that penetrates and exfoliates pores. Best for blackheads/whiteheads.
Benzoyl Peroxide Serums: Have antimicrobial action to kill acne-causing bacteria. Most suitable for inflammatory acne.
Glycolic Acid Serums: AHA exfoliates dead skin cells by improving cell turnover rate of skin. Helps clear acne and scars.
Niacinamide Serums: Helps minimise pores, regulate oil production and heal acne spots/marks. Best for oily acne prone skin.
Clay Based Serums: Absorb excess sebum and impurities from clogged pores thanks to the clay content. Suitable for mild-moderate acne.
Sulfur Serums: Have antimicrobial and exfoliating effect on skin. Works well for cystic acne and pustules in sensitive skin.
Tea Tree Oil Serums: Natural antibacterial properties treat and prevent mild occasional breakouts without drying out skin.
Guide on Usage, Maintenance and Care
- Perform a patch test before applying any anti-acne serum on entire face.
- Apply serum on clean, dry face either with fingers, cotton pad or a serum dropper if available.
- Use ideally at nighttime routine after cleansing and toning skin but before heavier creams.
- Use a sun protection serum/cream in morning before sun exposure as many acne serums increase skin photosensitivity.
- For oilier skin types, use serum alone or layer with a gel/water based moisturiser. Driers skins can layer with a cream.
- Use consistently for at least 4-6 weeks to see visible results. Acne and marks take time to heal.
- If using multiple serums, apply the thinner, more watery one first. Don’t combine acids like AHA/BHA together without consulting a dermatologist.
FAQs about Best Serum for Acne Prone Skin
Q. Which ingredients should I look for in an anti-acne serum?
A. Key ingredients to treat acne in serums include: salicylic acid, niacinamide, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, zinc, tea tree oil, licorice root extract and hyaluronic acid. Choose as per your skin type and severity of acne.
Q. How often should I use an anti-acne serum?
A. Limit use of any anti-acne serum to only once a day, ideally at night. Acne serums can increase photosensitivity so sun protection is a must during day time before applying them. Over-exfoliating skin with frequent anti-acne serum use can damage skin moisture barrier and worsen acne.
Q. Can I layer my regular moisturiser over acne treatment serum?
A. Yes, it is recommended to apply a lightweight, preferably gel-based moisturiser post acne serum application as some key ingredients can be drying for the skin. This helps replenish moisture while allowing serum to treat acne. Avoid using a comedogenic, heavy moisturiser.
I hope this thorough guide on choosing the best anti-acne face serum helps you pick the right product to fight acne and enjoy clear, healthy skin! Do share your feedback or queries in comments below.
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