When it comes to dealing with persistent teen acne, its best to look for tried-and-true formulas. They may not be the friendliest to your wallet today, but they’re definitely the most cost-efficient alternatives in the long run. We admit though, it’s hard to find a Holy Grail that actually merits its high price, so we’re here to help!
Below, we compiled a list of 10 effective anti-acne products that are actually worth your hard-earned money.
1. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
Benzoyl peroxide is a non-negotiable for oily-skinned gals due to its clinically-proven acne-fighting properties. This sudsy CeraVe cleanser combines the star ingredient with hydrating goodies like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to ensure a non-drying formula.

Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, P1,200, CERAVE
Read more:
What Is Benzoyl Peroxide and Why Is It Effective Against Acne?
2. Pixi Glow Mud Mask
A clay mask is great for mopping up excess shine, but most of them tend to sting delicate skin. If you haven’t found one that works for you, try this mild wash-off mask from Pixi on your next at-home spa day.

Glow Mud Mask, P1,720, PIXI
3. Krave Beauty Great Barrier Relief
FYI: Using too many acne treatments at once can excessively dry out your skin, causing your pores to produce even more sebum. That’s why we suggest finding a buffer product for your harsh acne treatments, like this anti-inflammatory pick from Krave Beauty.

Great Barrier Relief, P3,000, KRAVE BEAUTY
4. Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
Remember this old-school skincare favorite from the 2010s? Skincare trends may have changed since then, but Mario Badescu’s salicylic acid spot treatment remains unparalleled.

Drying Lotion, P1,280, MARIO BADESCU
5. Clinique Clarifying Lotion Twice A Day Exfoliator 3
Another classic beauty staple, this witch hazel exfoliant from Clinique gently buffs away oil build-up without stripping your skin dry. Basically, that means less blemishes and dullness for your skin!

Clarifying Lotion Twice A Day Exfoliator 3, P2,700, CLINIQUE
6. Murad Clarifying Toner
On sweltering summer days, go for Murad balancing toner to instantly refresh your face. With consistent use, it can reduce the appearance of pores and soothe angry breakouts.

Clarifying Toner, P1,350, MURAD
7. Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
If you want the best of the best, invest in a company’s flagship product. For example, this weightless BHA bestseller from Paula’s Choice is highly regarded for its gentle clarifying properties.

2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, P2,345, PAULA’S CHOICE
8. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
Getting a prescription-strength retinoid over the counter was impossible until La Roche-Posay developed this hidden gem. Infused with Adapalene Gel 0.1%, this potent formula can treat all kinds of zits, from whiteheads to raised pimples.

Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment, P1,950, LA ROCHE-POSAY
9. Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream 60ml
Packed with soothing plant-based ingredients, this non-greasy moisturizer is ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Our tip: Use it on damp, freshly-toned skin to really lock in the hydration.

Midnight Blue Calming Cream 60ml, P1,620, DEAR KLAIRS
10. COSRX Master Patch Intensive (Cystic Acne)
Yup, you can now get COSRX’s cult-fave pimple patches in a value size. Plus, this jumbo variation contains a blend of tea tree oil and salicylic acid to alleviate redness and prevent post-acne dark marks

Master Patch Intensive (Cystic Acne), P1,100, COSRX
*This story originally appeared on Candymag.com. Minor edits have been made by the Preview.ph editors.
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