Best Acne Face Serums of 2026

Charlotte Powell Avatar
Charlotte Powell
Last Updated: 2 Feb 2026

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Acne Face Serums are skincare products designed to target and treat acne-prone skin. These serums are formulated with active ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and tea tree oil, which work to unclog pores, control oil production, and reduce inflammation. They are typically lightweight and fast-absorbing, making them ideal for daily use under moisturizer or makeup. Acne Face Serums can be a helpful addition to a skincare routine for those struggling with acne or oily skin, but it is always advisable to seek professional advice before starting any new skincare regimen.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum for Acne Cover #TOP 1
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum for Acne
ftb score rating icon 9.9
The INKEY List Retinol Serum for Beginners Cover #TOP 2
The INKEY List Retinol Serum for Beginners
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ROSVANEE 2.5% Retinol Anti-Aging Serum Cover #TOP 3
ROSVANEE 2.5% Retinol Anti-Aging Serum
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 8 Acne Face Serums

Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum for Acne

Minimalist
SA02
Transparent
30 ml (Pack of 1)
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum for Acne Cover
Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne, Blackheads & Open Pores | Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture | BHA Based Exfoliant for Acne Prone or Oily Skin, Transparent, 30 ml (Pack of 1)

The Minimalist Salicylic Acid Serum is designed to tackle acne, blackheads, and open pores effectively. Its 2% BHA formula penetrates deeply to cleanse and clear your pores, removing dirt, debris, and excess oil for a smoother skin texture. Regular use not only helps eliminate existing blackheads and whiteheads but also prevents future breakouts, ensuring clearer skin. Additionally, it balances oil production while soothing redness, providing a mattifying effect that leaves your skin looking fresh and healthy.

What We Like
Effective blackhead removal
Minimises pore size
Controls excess oil
Fragrance and paraben free
Suitable for sensitive skin

The INKEY List Retinol Serum for Beginners

IF011UE
30 ml (Pack of 1)
The INKEY List Retinol Serum for Beginners Cover
The INKEY List Retinol Serum 30ml, Reduces Hyperpigmentation, Anti-Ageing Skincare, Acne Treatment, Vegan Friendly, Suitable For All Skin Types

The INKEY List Retinol Serum is designed for those new to retinol, making it an excellent choice for beginners. With its slow-release formula, it gently targets early signs of ageing, such as fine lines and hyperpigmentation, promoting a more even skin tone. The hero ingredient, Retinyl Acetate, works to enhance skin cell turnover, while added Squalane provides hydration and soothing benefits. This serum is suitable for all skin types and is cruelty-free and fragrance-free, ensuring it meets diverse skincare needs.

What We Like
Gentle for beginners
Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
Hydrating and soothing properties
Suitable for all skin types
Cruelty-free and fragrance-free

ROSVANEE 2.5% Retinol Anti-Aging Serum

RS-R902
Retinol
60 ml (Pack of 1)
ROSVANEE 2.5% Retinol Anti-Aging Serum Cover
ROSVANEE Dermatologist Tested Retinol Serum for Face Big 2 oz, with 2.5% Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C & E, Anti Aging Facial Serum for Skin Repair, Acne, Scar, Dark Spot, Fine Line and Wrinkles

The ROSVANEE Retinol Serum is a powerful yet gentle solution for your skincare routine. With 2.5% retinol, it promotes cell turnover and boosts collagen, resulting in smooth, youthful skin. This serum effectively unclogs pores and improves uneven skin tone, helping you achieve a brighter, firmer appearance. Additionally, it contains hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which work together to enhance skin strength and texture. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, it can even be used around the eyes for added convenience.

What We Like
Gentle for daily use
Improves skin texture
Brightens uneven skin tone
Suitable for all skin types
Cruelty-free and vegan
#TOP 4

NIVEA LUMINOUS 630 Anti Dark-Spot Serum

98710
White
30 ml (Pack of 1)
NIVEA LUMINOUS 630 Anti Dark-Spot Serum Cover
NIVEA LUMINOUS 630 Anti Dark-Spot & Post-Acne Marks Serum (30ml), Face Serum Visibly Reduces Post-Acne Dark-Spots, Contains Salicylic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid

The NIVEA LUMINOUS 630 Serum is designed to effectively reduce post-acne dark spots. Its patented Thiamidol works to diminish existing marks, while Hyaluronic Acid and Salicylic Acid keep your skin hydrated and glowing. This serum is particularly beneficial for those with oily skin, as it refines texture and provides up to 12 hours of oil control. Additionally, it hydrates and mattifies the skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and balanced throughout the day.

What We Like
Reduces post-acne dark spots
Ideal for oily skin
Hydrates and mattifies
Prevents new dark spots
Suitable for daily use

AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Serum 50ml

AXIS-Y
702974294651
Off White
50 ml (Pack of 1)
AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Serum 50ml Cover
AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum 50ml. | Brightening Treatment, Anti-Aging, Acne Scars, Fine Lines, Hyperpigmentation, and Dark Circles

The AXIS-Y Glow Serum is a versatile skin serum designed to target multiple skin concerns. It brightens the complexion, making your skin appear more radiant and youthful. Additionally, it aids in reducing the appearance of acne scars and fine lines, promoting a smoother skin texture. If you struggle with hyperpigmentation and dark circles, this serum can help even out your skin tone, giving you a more refreshed look. Incorporating this serum into your routine can lead to significant improvements in your overall skin health.

What We Like
Brightens skin tone
Reduces acne scars
Minimises fine lines
Fades dark circles

Minimalist Alpha Arbutin Serum for Dark Spots

Minimalist
KA02
Transparent
30 ml (Pack of 1)
Minimalist Alpha Arbutin Serum for Dark Spots Cover
Minimalist 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum for Pigmentation & Dark Spots Removal | Antipigmentation Face Serum For Men & Women with Hyaluronic Acid to Remove Blemishes, Acne Marks & Tanning, Transparent, 30 ml

The Minimalist Alpha Arbutin Serum is a lightweight anti-pigmentation solution that absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky residue. It effectively reduces dark spots and acne marks, giving you a more even skin tone. With regular use, this serum can help diminish tanning from UV exposure. Additionally, it is one of the safest skin lightening options available, inhibiting melanin production without harming your skin cells.

What We Like
Lightweight and fast-absorbing
Reduces dark spots effectively
Safe for daily use
Free from harmful chemicals
Suitable for all skin types
#TOP 7

Sylk Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum with Vitamins C & E

SHAS001
60 ml (Pack of 1)
Sylk Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum with Vitamins C & E Cover
Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Face with Vitamin C & E | Microneedling Serum for Derma Roller | Anti Aging Hydrating Serum | Anti Wrinkle and Solution for Acne Scars | 60 ml

The Sylk Hyaluronic Acid Serum offers deep hydration that lasts, locking in moisture to leave your skin feeling supple and refreshed. With Vitamin C, it brightens your complexion and helps fade sun spots, giving you a more radiant and youthful look. The added Vitamin E soothes irritation and protects your skin from damage, supporting a stronger skin barrier. This gentle, non-sticky formula absorbs quickly and suits all skin types, making it perfect for daily use and microneedling treatments to improve skin texture and reduce fine lines.

What We Like
Long-lasting deep hydration
Brightens and evens skin tone
Soothes and protects skin
Fast-absorbing, non-sticky
Suitable for sensitive skin
#TOP 8

L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Spot Serum Cleanser

L'Oreal Paris
Serum-in-cleanser
150 ml (Pack of 1)
L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Spot Serum Cleanser Cover
L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Spot Serum-In-Cleanser for Face, Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid, Visibly Fades Blemishes and Post-Acne Marks, Eliminates Excess Oil, 150ml

The Bright Reveal Serum Cleanser combines the efficacy of a serum with a lightweight gel-to-foam cleanser. It features dermatologist-recommended ingredients such as Niacinamide, which brightens your skin and helps to visibly reduce dark spots. Salicylic Acid gently exfoliates, assisting in the removal of blemishes and excess oil. Clinically proven results mean you can expect a clearer, brighter, and more even skin tone, making this product suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

What We Like
Reduces blemishes effectively
Fades post-acne marks
Brightens skin tone
Suitable for all skin types
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do serums help with acne?

In general, look for acne serums with glycolic acid or salicylic acid to help unclog pores and accelerate cell turnover. Antioxidants like niacinamide can also tame any redness and hyperpigmentation associated with acne scars, says Dr. Manish Shah, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Denver, Colorado.

2. Do face serums cause acne?

Sometimes too oily serums can cause bumps and buildup in the pores, while some high concentrated acid serums can cause more breakouts if you are using on sensitive skin. It is highly recommended always to do a patch test before you start using a new skin product.

Editor's Notes

During our acne face serum research, we found 306 acne face serum products and shortlisted 8 quality products. We collected and analyzed 199,038 customer reviews through our big data system to write the acne face serums list. We found that most customers choose acne face serums with an average price of £10.96.

The acne face serums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of acne face serums, including Minimalist, The INKEY List, ROSVANEE, NIVEA, AXIS-Y.

Written by
Charlotte Powell Avatar

Charlotte Powell is a dermatologist and a licensed cosmetologist from Westminster, London. However, she was first a cosmetologist from London Beauty Training School. According to Charlotte, she needed better insight into the human skin, hence the dermatology degree. Long before she acquired her degree, she wrote and edited articles, eBooks, and editorials for companies and websites. Charlotte combines her skill and knowledge in providing DIY Beauty tips amongst other fashion related topics.