Blog15 Best Serums For Oily Skin And Acne Scars In India [August, 2024]
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A serum is an essential addition to the skincare regimen of those with oily, acne-prone skin. Serums are lightweight and fast-absorbing, making them ideal for oily skin. They are also formulated with active ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C to target acne, acne scarring, excess oil and more skin concerns.
We have compiled the fifteen best face serums available in India for oily and acne-prone skin. The serums are ranked as per their effectiveness, formulation, quality and value. Read on as we review each product in detail.
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- Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne Marks
- Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne
- The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face Serum For Acne Marks & Acne Pro...
- Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Face Serum for Men & Women – Vitam...
- Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Oil Control Serum For ...
- DOT & KEY 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Anti Acne Serum with Zinc
- LAKMÉ 9To5 2% Active Vitamin C+ Serum
- The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with Witch Hazel & Willow Ba...
- Garnier Skin Naturals
- mcaffeine 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne Prone Skin & Oily S...
- Plum 10% Niacinamide Face Serum For Clear
- UrbanBotanics 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne
- FoxTale 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with 2% Glycolic Acid
- Minimalist 2% Hyaluronic Acid + PGA Serum for Intense Hydration
- Earth Rhythm 10% Niacinamide Serum + Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
- Feature Comparison for best serum for oily skin
- How To Choose The Best Serum For Oily Skin
- Different Types Of Serums For Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
- Usage, Application & Lifestyle Tips
- FAQs About Best Serums For Oily Skin
- Conclusion
1. Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne Marks
Description
This Minimalist serum contains 10% niacinamide which can greatly benefit acne-prone and oily skin types. The addition of zinc provides more acne-healing properties.
Key Features
- Contains 10% niacinamide and 1% zinc PCA
- Lightweight, gets absorbed quickly
- Fragrance-free and cruelty-free
Our Expert Opinion
The optimal concentration of niacinamide paired with zinc makes this an excellent serum for oily, acne-ic skin. It combats acne, excess oil, blemishes and staining. The texture is lightweight yet effective. At an affordable price point, this serum really delivers results.
2. Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne
Description
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates and exfoliates inside the pores to keep them clear of acne, debris and build-up. The Minimalist serum contains an optimal 2% salicylic acid for oily skin prone to blackheads and acne.
Key Features
- 2% salicylic acid BHA
- Oil-free and silicone-free formula
- Dermatologically tested
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Our Expert Opinion
The Minimalist serum contains just six ingredients focused on delivering salicylic acid deep into clogged pores responsible for acne and blackheads. The texture feels weightless, doesn’t leave a greasy residue and shows excellent results within weeks. It’s a steal at this price point.
3. The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Face Serum For Acne Marks & Acne Prone Skin For Unisex, 10ml (Dermaco)
Description
The Derma Co serum is formulated with 10% niacinamide for acne-prone skin along with skin-nourishing oils and hyaluronic acid for intense hydration.
Key Features
- Contains 10% niacinamide
- Lightweight oil-free formula
- With hydrating hyaluronic acid
- Cruelty-free
Our Expert Opinion
This is an affordably priced serum that focuses primarily on providing optimal niacinamide to tackle acne and acne scarring. The addition of hyaluronic acid boosts hydration while keeping it non-greasy and easily absorbing. It delivers great bang for buck for those struggling with acne and oily skin.
4. Mamaearth Vitamin C Daily Glow Face Serum for Men & Women – Vitamin C Serum for Glowing Skin
Description
This Mamaearth serum contains an oil-soluble form of vitamin C called sodium ascorbyl phosphate along with ferulic acid. Vitamin C targets pigmentation and dullness while ferulic acid stabilizes the vitamin C.
Key Features
- Oil-soluble vitamin C derivative – sodium ascorbyl phosphate
- Contains antioxidant ferulic acid
- Lightweight gel-based serum
- Dermatologically tested
Our Expert Opinion
The combination of stabilized vitamin C with ferulic acid in this serum makes it very effective and well-suited for oily, pigmentation-prone skin. The brand claims it has 50x the vitamin C absorption as plain vitamin C. Powerful antioxidants minimize and reverse sun damage and discoloration. Light gel texture suitable for acne-prone skin. Reasonably priced.
5. Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Oil Control Serum For Oily & Acne-Prone Skin For Unisex Of All Skin Types, Korean Skin Care, 30ml
Description
As the name suggests, this Pilgrim serum tackles two of the biggest skincare concerns for those with oily, acne-prone skin – excess oil and acne breakouts. It combines salicylic acid and niacinamide for their proven pore-clearing, acne-healing, oil-controlling properties.
Key Features
- With 2% salicylic acid and 3% niacinamide
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Oil-free and non-comedogenic
- Fragrance and cruelty-free
- Paraben and silicone-free
Our Expert Opinion
This serum is perfectly designed keeping oily, acne and blackhead-prone skin in mind with its combination of salicylic acid BHA and niacinamide. The lightweight texture feels comfortable on application. With its wallet-friendly pricing, we would definitely recommend giving this serum a try if you have persistently oily skin prone to regular breakouts and clogged pores.
6. DOT & KEY 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Anti Acne Serum with Zinc
Description
Enriched with a myriad of blemish-banishing ingredients, the Dot & Key serum tackles all major skincare woes of acne-prone skin. The hero ingredients are salicylic acid and zinc which clear acne along with centella asiatica extract to heal inflammation and acne scarring.
Key Features
- With 2% salicylic acid and zinc
- Centella asiatica extract soothes irritation
- Lightweight gel texture
- Suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin
Our Expert Opinion
This serum stands out for bringing together three research-backed ingredients for acne-prone skin – salicylic acid, zinc and centella asiatica also known as cica. The lightweight formula gets quickly absorbed without any oily residue. For its quality ingredients, texture and effectiveness, we would rate this as a top salicylic acid serum for those struggling with acne breakouts and oily skin.
7. LAKMÉ 9To5 2% Active Vitamin C+ Serum
Description
Vitamin C works wonders for dull, pigmented skin and Lakme has used an optimal 2% vitamin C concentration along with skin-nourishing hyaluronic acid in this serum tailored for the Indian skin.
Key Features
- Contains 2% vitamin C
- With hydrating hyaluronic acid
- Lightweight gel texture
- Dermatologically tested
- Paraben-free
Our Expert Opinion
Lakme is an iconic, trusted Indian skincare brand. This vitamin C serum feels luxurious with its velvety texture while getting fully absorbed without any greasy residue – just what oily skin wants! Enriched with 2% vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, it tackles uneven skin tone, dullness, pigmentation and boosts collagen levels visibly within weeks. At its affordable pricing, this serum is hard to beat on all fronts!
8. The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with Witch Hazel & Willow Bark for Active Acne – 10ml
Description
You can rarely go wrong with a serum that combines holy grail acne-fighting salicylic acid and natural acne remedies witch hazel and willow bark. The Derma Co serum helps treat and prevent inflammatory acne in oily skin.
Key Features
- With 2% salicylic acid
- Natural ingredients – witch hazel and willow bark
- Lightweight formula
- Fragrance and paraben-free
- Dermatologically tested
Our Expert Opinion
Natural ingredients boost the acne-clearing properties of salicylic acid in this well-formulated serum for acne-prone skin. Witch hazel and willow bark are nature’s remedies for inflammatory acne caused by bacteria and excess oil. The serum unclogs pores, reduces acne, oil and resultant scarring without drying out the skin. It delivers visible improvement in texture and clarity in oily, blemish-prone skin.
9. Garnier Skin Naturals
Description
Garnier Bright Complete serum combines two skin-brightening antioxidant powerhouses: Vitamin C and yuzu lemon from Japan. Together they tackle uneven skin tone, dullness, pigmentation and aging concerns.
Key Features
- 10% Vitamin C
- Yuzu lemon from Japan
- Lightweight gel-cream texture
- Dermatologically tested
Our Expert Opinion
Garnier has used an optimal 10% vitamin C concentration along with antioxidant-rich yuzu extract that is traditionally known to brighten dull skin. This serum visibly boosts radiance and evens out skin tone with regular usage. The formula blends effortlessly without greasiness. At its affordable pricing, this serum delivers luxurious results tailored for Indian skin.
10. mcaffeine 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne Prone Skin & Oily Skin
Description
This serum combines two of the most researched ingredients for acne and oily skin issues: niacinamide and antioxidants. The hero 10% niacinamide improves skin texture and appearance along with acne and oil control while green tea polyphenols protect skin.
Key Features
- 10% niacinamide
- Green tea antioxidants
- With hyaluronic acid
- Light gel texture
Our Expert Opinion
The optimal 10% niacinamide concentration paired with antioxidant-rich green tea makes this serum highly effective and suitable for acne-prone oily skin. Hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and plumps the skin. The light green tea scented, quick absorbing texture is a treat to apply. This serum delivers all the skin-clearing, texture-refining magic of niacinamide at an affordable price.
11. Plum 10% Niacinamide Face Serum For Clear
Description
Plum combines the best of nature and science in its formulations. This serum relies on 10% niacinamide paired with antioxidant-rich rice water to control oil, heal acne, tackle pigmentation and boost radiance for dull oily skin.
Key Features
- 10% niacinamide with rice water
- Lightweight gel texture
- Suitable for all skin types
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free
- Fragrance and silicone-free
Our Expert Opinion
We love how this serum relies on the most effective skincare ingredient – niacinamide along with traditional rice water. Together they transform dull, acne and blemish-prone skin. The formula feels featherlight yet shows excellent results in terms of clearer skin, minimized pores, reduced scars and balanced oil levels. Ideal for beginners too. Definitely deserves a spot among the best niacinamide serums out there.
12. UrbanBotanics 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne
Description
UrbanBotanics Serum relies on 10% niacinamide just like our #1 serum but also includes zinc for additional healing and oil-control. Together this dream team tackles the key struggles of oily, acne and blemish-prone skin.
Key Features
- 10% niacinamide with zinc
- Lightweight gel formula
- Paraben and cruelty-free
- Budget-friendly pricing
Our Expert Opinion
With an optimal 10% niacinamide + zinc formulation focused specifically on acne and oily skin issues, this serum delivers excellent results. The formula spreads smoothly and gets absorbed without leaving a sticky residue. Users see great improvements in blemishes, breakouts, oiliness, pores and uneven skin tone over time. At less than half the price of premium brands, this serum proves to be quite a steal deal for problematic skin.
13. FoxTale 2% Salicylic Acid Serum with 2% Glycolic Acid
Our Expert Opinion
This serum relies on a proven combination of chemical exfoliants – salicylic acid and glycolic acid to renew skin faster and keep pores clear of debris, dirt, dead skin and bacteria – the root causes of acne and textural irregularities. The lightweight serum reveals clearer, brighter and smoother skin over time along with oil control. It accelerates cell turnover to lighten pigmentation and acne scarring faster. A great treatment product for acne-prone skin.
14. Minimalist 2% Hyaluronic Acid + PGA Serum for Intense Hydration
Description
Hyaluronic acid instantly hydrates and plumps up skin while improving skin barrier function over time. Minimalist Serum combines hyaluronic acid with gluconolactone (PGA) which gently exfoliates and stimulates collagen and elastin fibers.
Key Features
- With 2% hyaluronic acid
- Gluconolactone (PGA) exfoliant
- Lightweight water-gel texture
- Suitable for all skin types
- Dermatologically tested
- Paraben and cruelty-free
Our Expert Opinion
This hydrating serum relies on the time-tested combination of humectant hyaluronic acid to quench thirsty skin instantaneously and gently exfoliating PGA to reveal brighter, firmer skin over time. The formula feels refreshing with a subtle cooling sensation upon application. It layers smoothly under makeup without pilling. Delivers intense hydration at an unbelievable price point making it our top budget buy.
15. Earth Rhythm 10% Niacinamide Serum + Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
Description
Earth Rhythm Serum relies on the research-backed acne and blemish fighting ingredient 10% niacinamide along with hydrating hyaluronic acid to balance the needs of oily, acne and sensitive skin types in one bottle.
Key Features
- 10% niacinamide with hyaluronic acid
- Lightweight quickly absorbing formula
- Suitable for all skin types
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free
Our Expert Opinion
This serum relies on the highest recommended concentration of niacinamide tailored to treat acne and oily skin concerns. Paired with hydrating hyaluronic acid and suitable for even sensitive skin, this serum delivers noticeably clearer skin, balanced oil levels, refined pores and boosted radiance without irritation. The formula spreads smoothly and gets absorbed without stickiness. A skincare hero for problematic skin that feels like a treat to apply!
Feature Comparison for best serum for oily skin
| Product | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Serum | 10% niacinamide + zinc; oil control |
| Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum | 2% salicylic acid; clears acne |
| The Derma Co 10% Niacinamide Serum | 10% niacinamide; lightweight |
| Mamaearth Vitamin C Serum | Vitamin C; brightens skin |
| Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Serum | Oil controlling; salicylic + niacinamide |
| Dot & Key 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Serum | 2% salicylic; soothing cica |
| Lakme 9To5 2% Vitamin C+ Serum | 2% vitamin C; lightweight |
| The Derma Co 2% Salicylic Acid Serum | 2% salicylic; natural acne healing |
| Garnier Skin Naturals Vitamin C Serum | 10% vitamin C; instant glow |
| mcaffeine 10% Niacinamide Serum | 10% niacinamide; green tea |
| Plum 10% Niacinamide Serum | 10% niacinamide + rice water |
| UrbanBotanics 10% Niacinamide Serum | 10% niacinamide + zinc; budget buy |
| Foxtale 2% Salicylic Acid Serum | 2% salicylic & glycolic acid; exfoliating |
| Minimalist Hyaluronic Acid Serum | Hyaluronic acid; intense hydration |
| Earth Rhythm Niacinamide Serum | 10% niacinamide; calms sensitivity |
How To Choose The Best Serum For Oily Skin
With so many options available, choosing the best face serum for your oily, acne-prone skin needs can get confusing. Here is an expert guide to picking the top serums for your specific concerns:
1. Identify your skin goals
Figure out what bothers you the most – acne and breakouts or oiliness or enlarged pores/bumpiness or pigmentation/uneven skin tone? Finding a targeted serum with key ingredients that tackle your chief concern should be the priority.
2. Look for these ingredients:
- Salicylic Acid: Best for acne, blackheads, whiteheads, reducing oil
- Niacinamide: Best for minimizing pores, balancing oil, clearing acne
- Vitamin C: Best for dullness, uneven skin tone, pigmentation
- Hyaluronic acid: Best for hydration and plumping
3. Check the percentage of key ingredients
Higher percentages between 2-10% are most effective for serums depending on the ingredient and your skin concern.
4. Analyze the texture
Gel-based serums are the most suitable for oily skin while being light enough for acne-prone skin. Avoid richer, heavier emulsions and creams.
5. Read reviews
Check user reviews and ratings to understand real experiences especially from those with similar skin types and issues. Pick ones with maximum reviews closer to 5 stars.
**6. Compare pricing **
Set a budget but focus more on the formulation and suitability for your skin. Something affordable with your must-have ingredients that shows proven results beats expensive generic serums.
Different Types Of Serums For Oily, Acne-Prone Skin
1. By Chief Ingredient
- Niacinamide serum
- Vitamin C serum
- Salicylic acid serum
- Hyaluronic acid serum
2. By Texture
- Gel serum – Best for oily skin
- Lightweight water serums
- Oil-free lotion serums
- Emulsion serums – heavier
3. By Function
- Acne/Blemish control serum
- Oil control/Pore minimizing serum
- Skin perfecting serum – tackle uneven skin tone, pigmentation
- Hydrating serum
- Brightening serum
- Exfoliating serum – with AHAs & BHAs
Usage, Application & Lifestyle Tips
- Cleanse: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry before applying serum
- Application: Take 2-4 drops of serum and gently massage between palms. Tap into skin evenly focusing more on acne and oil prone areas.
- Layering: Apply serums before creams/moisturizers.
- Frequency: Use serum once at night daily after cleansing for best results
- Boost benefits: Use vitamin C serum in the AM under sunscreen for added photoprotection
- Storage: Store serum in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Sun protection: Always apply sunscreen during day when using actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and chemical exfoliants
- Alternate acid serums: Use AHA/BHA exfoliating serums maximum 3 times a week at night. Hydrate well.
- See results: Use serum consistently for 6-8 weeks to see visible results. Track progress through pictures. Be patient.
- Clean tools: Disinfect hands before application. Clean droppers with alcohol to prevent contamination
- Healthy diet & lifestyle: Drink adequate water, include antioxidant rich fruits & veggies, avoid inflammatory foods, manage stress through yoga/meditation for best skin health
FAQs About Best Serums For Oily Skin
Q. which vitamin c serum is best for oily skin ?
Some top vitamin C serums well-suited for oily skin available in India are:
- Mamaearth Vitamin C Serum
- Lakme 9To5 2% Vitamin C+ Serum
- Garnier Skin Naturals Vitamin C Serum
These serums rely on oil-soluble vitamin C derivatives combined with skin nourishers. The light formulas deliver brightening and antioxidant protection without heaviness or greasiness. Vitamin C tackles uneven skin tone, aging, dullness, pigmentation and boosts collagen – perfect for oily skin concerns.
Q. which serum is best for oily acne prone skin ?
The best face serums in India for oily, acne-prone skin are:
- Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Serum
- Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum
- Pilgrim 2% Salicylic Acid + 3% Niacinamide Serum
- Dot & Key 2% Salicylic Acid + Cica Serum
These serums contain optimal percentages of acne-clearing actives salicylic acid, niacinamide and soothing antioxidants. The oil-free, lightweight formulas treat existing acne, heal scarring, balance excess sebum, minimize pores and refine texture without aggravating acne or oiliness, perfect for oily, breakout-prone skin.
Q. Which serum ingredients help oily skin?
Niacinamide, salicylic acid, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants are the best for tackling oiliness, acne, dullness and dehydration.
Q. How is a serum different from a moisturizer?
Serums have a higher concentration of active ingredients tailored to target specific skin concerns while moisturizers focus more on hydration and maintenance. Serums are lighter than creams.
Q. How long does it take to see results from using a serum?
Most good serums deliver visible results within 4 to 8 weeks of regular usage. Acne serums work faster showing improvement in 2-4 weeks. But be patient for at least 6 weeks for optimal long-lasting complexion correction.
Q. Can serums be used under makeup?
Yes, most serums including gel, water and lotion serums get quickly absorbed into skin without interference making them suitable for layering under makeup primers and bases after application.
Q. Is it okay to use multiple serums together?
Too many serums may irritate or dry out skin. Use maximum 2 serums at once based on skin’s needs by checking ingredient compatibility. For example, niacinamide + vitamin C is a good combo while exfoliating acids are best used solo before nourishing serums.
Conclusion
Oily, acne and blemish-prone skin needs special care from targeted hardworking formulas like these top-rated serums available in India. Packed with proven skin-clearing, texture-refining ingredients, they tackle the root causes of large pores, excess oil, recurring zits, scars and pigmentation. Used regularly, you can achieve smooth, radiant and healthy skin free from blemishes and greasiness. Make serums tailored for your skin type priorities a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine to look your flawless best effortlessly!
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