The best creams for acne - TOP 5 ranking in 2025
Here is our latest ranking of the best acne creams available in 2025. Acne is a problem that affects many people, not only affecting the appearance of their skin, but also their mood. Proper care for acne-prone skin requires a special approach, as such skin is often sensitive and reacts to many products available on the market. With those struggling with acne in mind, we have carried out a detailed analysis of the available creams, assessing their effectiveness, safety of use, value for money and user reviews. We invite you to read our recommendations and choose the product that best suits your needs.
The ranking factors we took into account are:
- Acne reduction
- Skin support
- Price
- Consistency
- Performance
- No irritation
- Composition
What ingredients to look for that are good for acne?
Salicylic acid - an active ingredient effective in deep cleansing pores and eliminating dead skin, as well as reducing inflammation. Supports pore cleansing
Glycolic acid - a type of alpha-hydroxy acid that promotes the removal of dead skin and improves skin texture. Also useful in lightening acne marks.
Black cumin oil - known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, it has powerful skincare properties.
Retinoids - vitamin A derivatives that regulate sebum secretion and promote exfoliation of the epidermis. They may also reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Tea tree oil - contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients, effective in soothing irritation.
Plant extracts - such as aloe vera, chamomile, calendula and others, have soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hyaluronic acid - maintains proper skin moisture, which is important when using anti-acne products that can dry out the skin.
Vitamins - vitamin C and E help protect the skin from free radical damage and improve skin condition.
Mel Skin offers a normalising cream for acne-prone skin that uses plant-based ingredients and is 100% vegan. Enriched with black cumin oil, the cream effectively regenerates, cleanses and soothes the skin. Its herbal fragrance is due precisely to the oil content. The product provides intensive hydration and nourishment and is ideal for combination, oily and acne-prone skin. Mel Skin Acne Cream controls sebum secretion, tones the skin and provides a feeling of comfort. Free from preservatives and dyes, Mel Skin cream is gentle and non-irritating to the skin. Studies have confirmed its effectiveness in moisturising, nourishing, toning and shrinking pores.
La Roche-Posay offers a high-performance cream for acne and imperfections appreciated by users for its effectiveness. The cream's formula effectively mattifies the complexion, prevents shine and reduces blemishes and discolouration. It is lightweight and absorbs quickly, although the price is quite high. The product is readily available in pharmacies and one tube lasts for quite a long time. The effects can last up to about two months. La Roche-Posay acne cream is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and can be irritating for other skin types.
Neutrogena, a brand particularly associated for its intensely moisturising hand creams, offers a cosmetic for acne-prone skin that is prized for its performance and affordability. The cream effectively combats acne, as our tests confirm. It provides hydration and smooths the skin. It works well as a make-up base, although it is not always compatible with every foundation. Application of the cream gives a refreshing and cooling sensation. The formula helps to tighten pores and mattify the skin. The scent of the cream elicits mixed reviews. The tube packaging can make it difficult to get the cream out, but overall Neutrogena acne cream is not a bad option.
Iwostin Purritin active acne cream gets mixed reviews, but is generally rated positively. It is an inexpensive product that effectively reduces blackheads and prevents their formation. The formula contains effective ingredients including retinol palmitate, zincidone, AHA/BHA, sodium hyaluronate and allantoin. The cream mattifies shine-prone skin well. It is efficient and has a nice, albeit intense, fragrance. Some users report slightly dry skin after use. The cream has a delayed effect and it takes some time to see results.
Pharmaceris T spot gel for blemishes is a fast-acting cosmetic for immediate, topical application. The packaging ensures hygienic application, but the product is not efficient and can dry out the skin with frequent use. The gel is quite runny, so a lot of the contents are wasted. The main active ingredient is 2% hydrogen peroxide, which makes the price seem a bit excessive.
