Dealing with acne is about so much more than battling the occasional breakout or two. We’re all too familiar with it at Cosmo, so we take treating acne in all its forms seriously. The proof is in our fifth annual Cosmopolitan Acne Awards, which is our biggest yet. Obviously, we’ve given prizes to spot treatments, cleansers, and moisturizers galore, but we go even deeper with everything from makeup that treats and hides zits to an acne-prone scalp savior to devices you’ll want in your bathroom and ones you’ll have to see a pro for.

Choosing 107 winners as the best acne products of the year is no easy feat, so we reached out to top dermatologists and aestheticians for their favorites. The Cosmo team put hundreds of products, tools, and treatments to the test to see what kept our skin clear, smooth, healthy, and happy.

Read on for the complete list of Cosmopolitan’s 2026 Acne Award winners, organized by skincare, makeup, bodycare, and at-home tools and pro treatments. Then keep scrolling to meet our expert panel and learn how we chose all these top picks.

Khadija Horton/Getty Images

THE BEST SKINCARE

“I have at least four bottles of this in my home at all times because I never want to run out. It’s the gentlest way to remove makeup—even mascara and liner—without breaking me out.”
—BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR

“Taking off makeup is arguably the most important step in any routine to avoid breakouts, and this cleansing balm is my go-to for getting every last bit off, all the way down to my mascara. It melts into a nice, creamy texture and skips the chalky feeling that many cleansing balms have. After adding some water and rubbing, it leaves my skin feeling hydrated, fresh, and ready to start the rest of my skincare routine.”
—JASMINE HYMAN, ASSISTANT BEAUTY EDITOR

“Use this as the first step of a double cleanse at night. This is a reliable first cleanse because it dissolves long-wearing face, eye, and lip makeup as well as SPF, then rinses clean without needing harsh scrubbing. For acne-prone patients, that matters because leftover makeup and sunscreen can contribute to clogged pores, while over-rubbing with wipes can irritate the skin barrier.”
—RISHI CHOPRA, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

Best Exfoliating Cleanser

“On the rare days I wash my face in the morning, I like a no-frills cleanser that’ll degrease whatever oils spewed onto my face overnight. This one, with 1 percent salicylic acid and anti-inflammatory zinc, does this flawlessly without making my skin feel tight.”
—BG

“Over-exfoliation—it happens to the best of us! When my skin feels a bit drier and irritated than normal, I reach for this gentle, hydrating cleanser with oat. It softly hydrates without imparting any heavy, pore-clogging ingredients.” —BG

“This is an excellent option for oily and acne-prone skin because it contains 2 percent salicylic acid, which penetrates into the pores to dissolve excess oil, exfoliate dead skin cells, and help prevent new breakouts from forming. It delivers the maximum over-the-counter strength of salicylic acid in a cleanser that’s effective yet well tolerated, making it easy to incorporate into a daily routine without leaving the skin feeling overly stripped.”
—CONNIE YANG, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

“French beauty at its finest, this transforms into a delightfully foamy texture as soon as it leaves the bottle to do double duty as a cleanser and gentle mild peel. It also removes sebum, pollution, and impurities while smoothing skin texture. This foam leaves my skin feeling clean but never stripped.” —CELIA SHATZMAN, CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY WRITER

Best Benzoyl Peroxide Cleanser

“I am benzoyl peroxide’s number-one fan, and I’m convinced it’s the reason my skin looks so good right now. This formula from Differin comes in a 5 percent concentration that’s not too drying but effective for killing acne-causing bacteria when I wash with it three nights per week.” —BG

Best Hypochlorous Acid Face Mist

“Hypochlorous acid—a soothing, anti-bacterial ingredient that’s used in doctor’s offices—really shouldn’t be too fussy. And this affordable spray from e.l.f. comes in a large bottle that I can keep at my vanity to spritz on before makeup.”
—BG

“Anytime I head to the gym or a sweaty workout, I will always have this spray stashed in my bag. Not only does it fight bacteria, but it also calms all my post–hot yoga redness. Just two or three spritzes is all I need to make sure my acne isn’t exacerbated from sweat and dirt.”
—JH

“Plenty of exfoliating toners leave my skin tight and thirsty, but this does no such thing, despite its 11 percent pro-grade tri-acid complex of AHAs, PHAs, and BHA, including glycolic, lactic, mandelic, and salicylic acids. Instead, it gently exfoliates and brightens, making it a magical multitasker that leaves my skin looking brighter and more even, with noticeably smaller pores over time.” —CS

“A toner that gives my skin an extra boost of hydration without feeling heavy or sticky, this is refreshing, gentle, and leaves my face feeling calm and balanced. It’s an easy addition to my skincare routine that I keep coming back to.”
—JULEE WILSON, BEAUTY EDITOR-AT-LARGE

“Lightweight layers of moisture is key to hydrating skin without flooding it with heavy pore cloggers. I tap this into my skin before makeup to give my skin a glow, but the best part is that it never looks shiny. It acts well under makeup as a glowy primer, but I also use it at night after cleansing before serums to boost hydration.”
—BG

“These peel pads work extra hard between pro treatments to smooth uneven texture and fade dark spots. They’re coated in three different types of alpha-hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, and two types of poly-hydroxy acids, but it still somehow never irritates my skin.”
—BG

“This is one of my favorite leave-on exfoliants for patients with oily or acne-prone skin, particularly those dealing with blackheads, clogged pores, and mild acne. Its well-formulated, leave-on delivery system allows the formula’s 2 percent salicylic acid to remain on the skin for greater efficacy. It treats congestion while also helping fade post-acne marks and refine overall skin texture, making it a staple for long-term acne maintenance.”
—DR. YANG

“I haven’t used a facial scrub in years until I came across this formula from Sofie Pavitt. It’s made with magnesium flakes to gently shed any dead skin without the irritation while simultaneously brightening my complexion. I use it once a week and my face is silky smooth afterward. My products always layer on so seamlessly thanks to my fresh canvas.” —JH

Best Post-Acne-Mark Serum

“As if hormonal acne weren’t enough for me to worry about, the redness and marks my breakouts leave behind is a whole other story. But thankfully, this calming serum with 10 percent azelaic acid addresses uneven skin tone and redness without triggering new pimples.” —JH

“This is my go-to serum if someone is dealing with congestion, texture, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from blemishes. It’s multi-use—personally, I use it as a spot treatment. I love it for clients who have anti-aging goals but still deal with the occasional pimple here and there.” —SOO YOUNG KIM ABRAMS, LICENSED AESTHETICIAN

“Use this product for acne and hyperpigmentation that remains after a breakout. It is great for all skin types and safe for sensitive skin.”
—JAIME GLICK, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

“This can be used daily as a standalone serum before moisturizer as part of either a day or night routine. The formula contains an effective percentage of azelaic acid combined with gluconolactone and licorice root to help calm and clear inflamed pores, fade post-acne marks, and reduce dermatitis flare-ups, all while still being skin soothing and emollient rich for barrier protection.”
—SAMANTHA SUSCA, LICENSED AESTHETICIAN

“My favorite antioxidant vitamin C serum for acne-prone skin, it’s meant to be used every morning under moisturizer with sunscreen and is good for all skin types, although I especially love it for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin because the formula won’t make you break out.”
—SHARI MARCHBEIN, MD, DERMATOLOGIST

“Hyaluronic acid is fab for plumping and hydrating acne-prone skin without feeling too heavy. But a lot of these serums leave an annoying tacky feeling on my skin. Not this one. It sinks right in and immediately makes my face look more moisturized.”
—BG

“I get compliments on my glowy skin daily, and I credit my smooth complexion to this very serum. It is lightweight and absorbs into the skin seamlessly and is formulated with the brand’s signature plant-derived growth factor to address fine lines, while also providing hydration and barrier support with hyaluronic acid and panthenol. Talk about a powerhouse formula.” —JH

Best Skin-Resurfacing Serum

“Made with retinal, a strong over-the-counter retinoid, this firming serum is also damn good at smoothing out my uneven skin texture and helping to fade hyperpigmentation. But I really love how gentle it feels while still being super effective.” —BG

“Two things I’m constantly battling are dullness and congestion and this helps win the war on both when I slather it on before bed. It keeps breakouts at bay too, with a potent combo of dioic acid, niacinamide, pomegranate enzymes, and Centella asiatica leaf extract.” —CS

Best Barrier Serum for Acne

“Did you know your microbiome has a lot to do with acne? I’ve been into a slower approach to treating my zits lately, and this serum features pre- and post-biotic ingredients to help calm inflammation before it turns into breakouts.” —BG

Best Post-Breakout Face Mask

“Don’t let the two steps scare you—this mask is a low lift. All you do is apply the serum, spiked with 0.2 percent azelaic acid-coated spicules that give you a tingly sensation so you know it’s working to clear out gunk and smooth skin. Next, put the gel mask on for 10 to 20 minutes, leaving hydrated, clearer, and calmer skin behind.” —CS

“This is my desert island face mask; I use it at least twice a week. The plant-derived extracts and hydrators are ideal for my dry and acne-prone skin when my barrier needs extra moisture without any irritation or pore-clogging ingredients. It’s specifically designed to be used post-treatment, so I also opt for it when I need to go easy on the skincare after any facials or lasers. The sheet itself is nice and thick, so it won’t be sliding down your face while you wear it. And I use the excess serum on my neck and chest for some extra bodycare.” —JH

“Most clay masks are great for reducing breakouts but not for hydrating skin. This one is the outlier. It’s made with manuka honey, an unsung hero for acne-prone skin because it’s naturally anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. When paired with glacial clay and charcoal in this mask, it helps draw out oils and bacteria without irritating my skin.” —BG

“It truly doesn’t get more satisfying than these pore strips that can be used on the nose and chin. First, leave the strip on for 10 minutes to loosen up all the gunk. After removing it, gently (I swear you don’t need much pressure) use the included lil spatula to squeeze out all the dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Despite the scraping, it goes easy on skin, doesn’t leave my sensitive complexion tomato red, and gets out allll the gunk.” —CS

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Khadija Horton/Getty Images

THE BEST BODYCARE

Best Exfoliating Body Wash

“My dry skin barrier needs all the hydration it can get, and I also have hyperpigmentation on my legs, so this workhorse formula is a win-win. It leaves my skin feeling soft and moisturized while helping smooth the look of bumps and uneven texture. (Not to mention, it smells amazing, too).”
—JH

“I’ve always got a bottle of this body wash on hand for when my skin starts to turn on me. After just a few uses, I notice a major difference in inflammation and redness. It’s a lifesaver!” —JW

Best Fragrance-Free Body Wash

“Listen, life happens, and sometimes you get acne in your pits and privates. I’m not ashamed! But I don’t enjoy it, per se, so I use this mandelic acid–based wash a few times a week. It breaks down sweat and oil to reduce zits and, as a bonus, definitely makes me smell better.” —BG

“The most gentle bar soap, it removes the dirt, sweat, sebum, and makeup without stripping skin of the healthy oils. It’s great for all acne types.” —DR. WECHSLER

Best Brightening Body Bar

“These hardworking bars do exactly what they say they’ll do. The hyperpigmentation on my inner thighs and armpits is virtually gone.” —JW

“For a deep clean once or twice a week, I’m loving this exfoliating wash. It’s got a combo of chemical exfoliants and physical bamboo dust to help slough away dead skin and leave my body super smooth.” —BG

Best Hydrating Body Lotion

“Between my eczema, acne, and dryness, my skin barrier has a lot going on, so I need a no-frills body lotion that keeps everything in check. I love that this fragrance-free formula contains heaps of urea and amino acids, which help attract and retain moisture to keep my skin soft and hydrated.” —JH

Best Brightening Body Lotion

“I have white patches of hyperpigmentation on my legs, so I’m always looking for ways to make my skin look more even and less flaky and dry. This formula helps improve the look of uneven skin tone, so my skin feels softer and looks glowier. I especially love using it in the winter, when my legs tend to look extra dull and could use all the radiance they can get.” —JH

“Exosomes, which are the hero ingredient in Plated’s formulas, are fantastic for wound healing and reducing inflammation. I’ve been slathering my whole body in this formula, and aside from reducing my keratosis pilaris, it has definitely also cut down on redness and acne.”
—BG

“I’m very particular about body oils because I hate when they leave my skin feeling sticky or take forever to absorb. Phlur’s Beach Skin Body Oil gives my skin that silky finish I want plus the scent leaves behind a warm and indulgent sillage that makes perfume optional.” —JH

“I know an SPF is good when all my beauty editor friends are raving about it. This fast-absorbing gel is the effortless protection we all deserve.” —JW

“This came in every single tote bag with me this summer. I doused myself in this formula so much, I probably became, in part, this SPF. But it just is so good. It goes on clear and leaves my skin a little glowy but not sticky, and there are no pore cloggers or ingredients that would usually irritate my skin. I’m in love.” —BG

Best Exfoliating Body Spray

“A staple in my gym bag, I spray this 2 percent salicylic acid mist on my back, arms, chest, and butt (sorry!! it’s the truth!) after a workout class to reduce the likelihood of zits. I take heated classes, and I barely break out anymore since I started using this.” —BG

Best Hydrating Body Spray

“Two reasons why I often skip body lotion: (1) I am lazy, and (2) backne. True to its name, this lotion is as lightweight as it gets (it feels like a face mist!), so zero grease means (practically) zero breakouts. The spray-on formula is basically effortless and absorbs instantly. Both problems solved!” —CS

“There are oodles of facial peel pads out there, but that’s not the case for the body, which is why I adore these twofers that exfoliate and brighten. Use the side soaked in glycolic and salicylic acids first to remove dead skin cells and smooth bumps, then use the other end to soothe and buff skin. They’re especially great on rough spots like elbows, knees, and strawberry skin.” —CS

Khadija Horton/Getty Images

THE BEST MAKEUP

Best Hydrating Foundation

“This formula is two-thirds makeup and one-third skincare, meaning it doesn’t feel like your classic, heavy full-coverage foundation. The lightweight texture smooths over all my blemishes and hyperpigmentation with just a couple pumps, and of course it’s free of any pore cloggers so I can wear it all day long without a worry.” —JH

Best Lightweight Foundation

“If you’ve ever skipped foundation because you’re afraid it’ll make your acne worse (raises hand), this is for you. It’s so light on skin that it really does feel like a serum, but it builds up to medium coverage. It has anti-inflammatory portulaca oleracea extract to soothe skin and stop breakouts before they happen. The finish is glowy but not greasy, even on my oily skin.” —CS

“Maybe I’m the only one who forgot, but bareMinerals is legit amazing for acne-prone skin. The powder is lightweight and won’t clog pores, and it helps mattify my skin. I’m annoyed at myself that I ever stopped using it.”
—BG

“A good BB cream can be very helpful for acne-prone patients because it gives coverage without the heaviness of traditional foundation. I like this one because it is non-acnegenic, has a natural finish, and combines coverage with SPF, which is important when acne leaves lingering redness or discoloration. I especially like it for patients who want to cover active breakouts or post-breakout discoloration without using a heavy foundation.”
—DR. CHOPRA

Best Full-Coverage Concealer

“This concealer is a magician—it makes my zits disappear. Well, not quite, but you get the idea. Heavy enough to hide whatever I’m trying to camouflage without creasing or cracking, it has a serious blurring effect. Hyaluronic acid ensures it won’t dry out skin and niacinamide brightens.” —CS

Best Lightweight Concealer

“I loathe when my makeup cakes up and creases on my dry skin, but Ilia’s concealer is nothing of the sort. It’s ideal for smoothing over any blemishes or hyperpigmentation while still looking like skin. It feels so light that I forget I‘m wearing it half the time.” —JH

Best Green Color Corrector

“I love a green color corrector to reduce the look of a zit as much as the next person, but I really hate reapplying it if the formula isn’t long-wearing. Not this one. This ‘stain’ stays put all day, hiding my zits under foundation so it’s totally invisible.” —BG

“This primer has gone platinum in my makeup routine thanks to its gripping yet hydrating powers. Whether I’m going for full glam or a minimal makeup look, it always preps my skin to create a smooth base for the rest of my routine.” —JH

“I need a trifecta in a setting powder: one that zaps shine, blurs pores and fine lines (and doesn’t settle in them), and sets my makeup. This checks off every box.” —CS

“The worst part about doing a full face of makeup is watching it slowly slide off your face by midday. To combat it, I spritz on this long-wear setting mist at the end of my makeup routine. It helps lock in all the products and really melts them together so my skin looks like skin (even with a full beat on).”
—BG

“If my skin looks greasy after I put on my beloved skin tints and serum concealers, I’ll just spray this on top, and it instantly mattifies without the need for powder. It’s like magic.” —BG

“There’s nothing worse than blotting papers that just move your makeup around and still leave your face greasy. Made from 100 percent unbleached hemp fibers that soak up oil, these do the opposite on my T-zone every time—and my super-oily skin means there’s always a lot to absorb.” —CS

“I’ve never used anything quite like this—and I’m obsessed. Combining a setting spray and powder into one with a simple spritz means there’s no mess (i.e., no loose powder on my black shirt), and it saves time. It’s so blurring that it feels like a TikTok filter IRL, dries instantly, keeps oil at bay with physical starch absorbers, and never cakes or creases. (Just be sure to shake very thoroughly first and don’t spray too close to the skin.)” —CS

“This blush truly turns my cheeks into a flushed Renaissance portrait. It blends beautifully into my skin and gives me that naturally rosy finish I love, without clogging my pores like some other formulas can.”
—JH

“I didn’t always understand the allure of highlighter. Like, why would I want to add shine to my already shiny face? But a dab of this Versed stick makes my skin look alive and healthy, and it doesn’t get wonky or move my foundation or blush under it.”
—BG

“My dry, acne-prone skin makes it hard to find a bronzer that doesn’t cake up or turn muddy on my face, but Rhode’s creamy formula is a welcome exception. It sculpts and defines my cheeks with just one swipe, blends out beautifully, and doesn’t exacerbate my breakouts.”
—JH

“A common culprit of my cheek breakouts is actually cream blush, I recently realized. But this L’Oréal formula doesn’t contain any pore-clogging ingredients. I tap on the sheer blush with my fingers for a soft flush, or I’ll use a brush to add stronger color.” —BG

Best Makeup Brush Cleaner

“Hey, all of these products are great, but if you’re not regularly cleaning your makeup brushes, there’s a potential for breakouts. I love this Ogee brush cleaner because it’s so easy to use—just get it wet, smush your brush into it, swirl, then rinse it clean—and it makes my brushes so soft afterward.” —BG

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THE BEST AT-HOME TOOLS AND PRO TREATMENTS

“I’ve been using this for about six weeks, and I’ve gotten endless compliments on how good my skin looks, but I’m really excited at how it’s helping to reduce my acne scars. Using fractionated laser technology, this at-home device triggers collagen production to help renew skin for a smoother, firmer, and more even look.” —BG

Best Red Light Device for Body

“Why, yes, I am bougie enough to have a red light blanket to snuggle in bed with, and you can, too. It targets my whole body, from shoulders to toes, to kick-start collagen production, speed up wound healing, and reduce inflammation, which I specifically love for my body acne.” —BG

Best Handheld Red Light Device

“I’ve tried my fair share of at-home skincare devices, but I love how the Foreo FAQ 502 tackles several of my biggest skin concerns at once, from breakouts and lingering acne marks to uneven texture and fine lines. It combines full-spectrum pulsed light with red and near-infrared LED light, and the quick, two-minute face and neck treatment makes it easy to work into my routine.” —JH

“Medicube’s Booster Pro X2 brings multiple skincare treatments to your bathroom in one handheld device, and the upgraded device now allows you to address several skin concerns at once. My personal favorite combination is Booster mode and Microcurrent mode, which helps skincare products absorb more effectively while also targeting skin firmness. Each five-minute session is paired with LED light therapy, making it a true multitasker.”
—JH

“I’ve tested dozens of red light masks, but this really takes the crown for treating both acne and anti-aging. Using an app, I can control exactly where I want specific wavelengths of light to get a custom treatment. For me, that means blue light all over to help kill acne-causing bacteria, red light around my eyes, green light to reduce inflammation on my chin, and yellow light to soothe redness on my nose and cheeks. Want to try the treatment yourself? Use code TXRXR in the CurrentBody app for our custom dose!” —BG

“Sometimes breakouts and inflammation gets so bad that it feels like my face is on fire—especially in the summer. That’s when I reach for this facial massage wand that taps patented SonicCool and copper technology to immediately cool down and depuff my skin. Bonus: It sculpts, too.”
—CS

“I am prone to ingrown hairs on my inner thighs, but ever since I started using this at-home laser hair removal device, I barely get them. One of the reasons is that I actually love using this device, so I’m really consistent with my treatments (which I know because the accompanying app tracks how often I use it and if I’m doing it correctly). In just two weeks, I noticed a reduction in hair, which also definitely encourages me to keep things up. ” —BG

“I’ve had a Jolie showerhead in my last two apartments, and I can’t remember my life (or skin) before it. It filters the water to reduce impurities that can contribute to irritation, which is especially important for my dry and acne-prone skin. Bonus: It comes in a bunch of sleek colors that will go with whatever bathroom aesthetic you lean toward.” —JH

Best Facial Cleansing Brush

“This is nothing like the cleansing brushes of my youth. The device lightly vibrates to massage my face as it gently scrubs away all the gunk on my skin. Best of all, the massage function offers some lymphatic drainage to help bring down some puffiness and inflammation in my skin.” —BG

“I saw a major difference in my skin when I started using Clean Skin Club’s towels to dry off my face after cleansing. But I just tried these ones specifically for acne, and I’ll never use any others. They are thicker and have a waffle-like texture that helps exfoliate my skin gently as I wipe it down.” —BG

“I’m a big believer in ‘what’s happening on the inside of your body shows up on the outside,’ which is why I’m into this dietary supplement. Popping the pills every day helps get to the roots of breakouts triggered by stress and hormones as well as excess oil.” —CS

“My high-frequency wand is my most used beauty device, hands down. I just hold it against a zit, and it delivers a low-level electric current that helps kill acne-causing bacteria. My pimple flattens in a day or two (and there’s zero popping required).” —BG

Best Laser Treatment for Hyperpigmentation

“My pain tolerance is embarrassingly low, so I was thrilled to find out that Picofy is one of the more comfortable laser treatments out there. It’s ideal for targeting my post-acne marks and uneven skin tone, and I love that it requires very little downtime. I can be out and about later that day, and no one would ever guess I had been in the treatment chair just a few hours earlier.”
—JH

“I’m a needle virgin when it comes to my face, but Skinvive was the one exception I was willing to make for my dry and acne-prone skin. It delivers hyaluronic acid into the skin to boost hydration from within, and I’ve noticed such a difference since getting it. My skin barrier feels more balanced, and that persistent tightness I used to experience eased up immensely. I’ve even been able to cut back on layering so many topical products, which is a win for my easily irritated skin.”
—JH

“The original Halo laser helped me get rid of the acne scars on my face when I had my first-ever huge hormonal acne flare-up, so it only made sense to turn to the new Tribrid option this time. It’s a pretty bearable treatment, especially with numbing, and my skin looked glowy and a bit more even just a week later.”
—BG

“Environ’s Cool Peels (part of the professional line that aestheticians use during treatments) is my favorite way to chemically exfoliate my clients. I can customize with different acids (lactic, TCA, or vitamin C), percentages, and formulas (creams or gels). What makes it better than other peels, in my opinion, is that it always reduces inflammation while getting the cell turnover and resurfacing response that I want in the skin. It also encourages collagen stimulation, which is always a bonus in my book.”
—S-Y KA

“I love adding the CO2Lift Pro mask onto our facials when we need to reduce inflammation and increase hydration immediately at the studio. Clients see the difference right away, and the best part is that although they’re pricy, you can purchase a three-pack and do it at home as needed!”
—S-Y KA

“Acne scars are difficult to treat because they often involve deeper structural changes in the skin. Avava is exciting because it is designed to deliver energy deep with precision while being relevant across a wide range of skin types, including patients where laser safety and pigment risk are major considerations. It’s performed as a series depending on scar type, skin tone, downtime, tolerance, and goals.”
—DR. CHOPRA

Best Laser for Inflammation

“What makes Aerolase stand out is its ability to address multiple concerns (active acne, inflammation, and post-acne marks) in a single treatment with little to no downtime, making it one of the most versatile and well-tolerated laser options available for patients with acne, particularly those with skin of color. It works by reducing inflammation, targeting acne-causing bacteria, and decreasing sebaceous gland activity while also helping fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the dark marks left behind after acne).”
—DR. YANG

Best Laser for Active Acne

“Best for inflammatory acne in patients who want a non-drug treatment option, patients who have not responded adequately to topical regimens, or patients who want to reduce reliance on long-term oral medications, AviClear is performed in-office as a series of treatments. It targets the sebaceous glands, so it is aimed at one of the major drivers of acne rather than just drying out the surface of the skin. It uses a novel-1726 nm wavelength to selectively target sebaceous glands that cause acne beneath the skin while leaving the rest of the skin intact. For the right patient, it offers one of the most targeted device-based approaches we have for inflammatory acne.”
—DR. CHOPRA

Best Treatment for Acne Scars

“Sofwave is best known for its skin-sagging-fighting powers (sans any downtime), but when I tried it on my forehead a few months ago to tighten things up, not only did it help my skin look more taut, but it also visibly minimized a deep acne scar that always felt like a crater to me, helping it appear less deep and dramatic.” —CS

“My acne marks love to linger long after a breakout has cleared, so I’m always looking for treatments that help fade discoloration and even out my skin tone. This treatment targets hyperpigmentation and dark spots while exfoliating dead skin cells to reveal a brighter, smoother-looking complexion. I also love that it requires no downtime, so I can get back to my day right after my appointment.”
—JH

“My skin is both acne-prone and dehydrated, which makes finding treatments that address breakouts without leaving my face feeling tight a challenge. Hydrafacial’s new HydraClear Booster helps clear congested pores while simultaneously delivering hydration, so I can tackle both concerns in one appointment. After just one session, my skin was glowing and significantly clearer.”
—JH

“My friends are constantly asking me where to get a facial, and Heyday is always my go-to recommendation. It’s not absurdly expensive, and I love that you can customize your appointment with add-ons like peels and targeted treatments, depending on what your skin needs that day. It’s a no-frills experience where you can focus on whatever your skin requires, whether that’s targeting acne, addressing uneven texture, or just treating yourself to some self-care.” —JH

Best Microneedling Treatment for Acne

“Microneedling is my favorite in-office treatment for acne because it makes my skin look more even and bright, but it never triggers new breakouts. And honestly, with SkinPen, it really doesn’t hurt, and there’s practically no downtime.”
—BG

MEET THE EXPERTS

Beth Gillette, beauty editor

Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she specializes in covering skincare, makeup, and more. Although she’s had hormonal acne since her preteen years, she’s never let that lessen her love for glam, whether that’s testing the newest foundation before it launches or updating her entire makeup routine to get rid of pore-clogging ingredients.

Jasmine Hyman, assistant beauty editor

Jasmine Hyman is the assistant beauty editor at Cosmopolitan where she writes about all things acne. She is constantly vetting and testing beauty products specifically for her sensitive and acne-prone skin, and she doesn’t play around when it comes to her skincare routine. She treasures her self-care nights and monthly facials more than anything else.

Julee Wilson, beauty editor-at-large

Julee Wilson is the beauty editor-at-large at Cosmopolitan. She’s known for her thoughtful storytelling, honest opinions, and Black girl–approved product recommendations. She’s tried it all—from the fanciest serums to the toughest acne spot treatments—and never gatekeeps.

Celia Shatzman, contributing beauty writer

Celia Shatzman is a contributing beauty writer at Cosmopolitan. She’s battled acne even longer than she’s been a beauty editor, which means she’s tried every spot treatment, cleanser, moisturizer, SPF, makeup, and gadget she can get her hands on during her quest for clear skin.

Connie Yang, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist

Connie Yang, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at PFRANKMD in New York City. She specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology and has an expertise in acne, laser skin rejuvenation, and treating pigmentation and acne scarring across all skin types. Her practice focuses on achieving natural-looking aesthetic results through individualized treatment plans that incorporate injectables, skin tightening, and nonsurgical face and body contouring.

Amy Wechsler, MD, PC, board-certified dermatologist and psychiatrist

Amy Wechsler, MD, is one of only a few physicians in the country board-certified in both dermatology and psychiatry. In 2008, Dr. Wechsler published a book about her “stress aging” theory called The Mind-Beauty Connection. She joined Chanel as its dermatological advisor in 2011, developing products and creating educational content. Dr. Wechsler’s work has also earned her appointments as assistant clinical professor in dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and adjunct assistant clinical professor in psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College. She graduated from Columbia Business School in 2024 with an MBA, which provided the knowledge that led her to found Spotless, an acne clinic in NYC, with her daughter, Zoe, in 2025.

Rishi Chopra, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist

Rishi Chopra, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and Harvard fellowship–trained cosmetic and laser specialist practicing at Hudson Dermatology & Laser Surgery in New York City. He is recognized for his expertise in injectables, laser medicine, skin longevity, and the treatment of skin of color.

Karan Lal, DO, MS, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist

Karan Lal, DO, MS, FAAD, is a double board-certified adult, pediatric, and cosmetic dermatologist based in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. He is the only dual fellowship–trained cosmetic and pediatric dermatologist in the United States, specializing in laser rejuvenation, melasma, hyperpigmentation, and complex skin conditions.

Jaimie Glick, MD, board-certified dermatologist

Jaimie Glick, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York City specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania before earning her medical degree from SUNY Downstate College of Medicine. She has conducted research on laser treatments for acne scarring, authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, and has lectured nationally and internationally on acne, lasers, and other advances in dermatology.

Shari Marchbein, MD, board-certified dermatologist

Shari Marchbein, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Niche Dermatology in NYC. She is also an assistant professor of clinical dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Marchbein’s academic and clinical interests include the treatment of acne, in particular adult female acne, acne scarring, and rosacea. Dr. Marchbein has been sought out as a leader in her field for the treatment of acne and rosacea and has published multiple articles on acne pathogenesis and treatment. She has presented at renowned national conferences on the topics of acne and rosacea, including the annual American Academy of Dermatology and Advances in Dermatology meetings.

Soo-Young Kim Abrams, licensed aesthetician

Soo-Young Kim Abrams is a New York State licensed aesthetician and founder of SYK Skin, her boutique facial studio in SoHo. Before aesthetics, she spent a decade in fashion and media, working alongside top photographers, makeup artists, and models and touring with Rihanna for a cover story. Rooted in her Korean heritage, she built her career at some of New York City’s most respected skincare destinations before opening SYK Skin. She is known for her advanced facial massage, lymphatic drainage, and a whole-skin approach—calming even the most inflamed skin while focusing on lasting health, radiance, and aging gracefully.

Samantha Susca, licensed aesthetician

Samantha Susca is a facialist in New York City and founder of boutique skincare studio Refinery4 in lower Manhattan. With over a decade of experience focused on thoughtful and personalized skincare, she combines clinical manual skill with intuition and technology to create treatments tailored to personalized needs. Known for her quiet influence and transformative results, Samantha serves on the Board of Advisors for ELLE magazine.

OUR METHODOLOGY

• June 2026: The journey to find the best products begins as Cosmo editors start researching and testing hundreds of products, medications, and treatments for preventing and treating a range of forms of acne and acne scarring.
• July 2026: Cosmo editors assemble a panel of acne experts, including five board-certified dermatologists and two renowned aestheticians, to recommend the best acne products, medications, and treatments that they use on themselves and recommend to their patients.
• September 2026: After months of hands-on testing, Cosmo editors choose a winner from the nominees in each category. The awards are determined through a range of criterion, including efficacy, ease of use, accessibility, affordability, and expert advice.
• November 2026: Our list of winners is shared, including our personal testing notes and first-person reviews.

Celia Shatzman (she/her) is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor who has penned stories on topics ranging from beauty to fashion, travel, celebrities, health, entertainment, finance and more. A graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, she is a beauty and style contributor at Forbes and her work has appeared in New York, Cosmopolitan, WWD, ELLE, Conde Nast Traveler, Afar, Travel + Leisure, Women’s Health, Marie Claire, Byrdie, Refinery29 and NYLON, among others.