Go Gently: The Best Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin

There’s nothing more frustrating than round after round of breakouts. Acne-prone skin is trickier to deal with than most other skin types, but the good news is there are plenty of targeted products designed to help you along the way. The key? A simple skincare routine. Throwing a whole load of actives into the mix and hoping one does the trick is not the answer. Instead, look for acne fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide, as well as gentle, non-comedogenic formulas.

Not sure where to start? Our edit of the best skincare for acne-prone skin breaks it down for you. Read on for the products we think do the most.

Best Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin: Cleansers

Acne-prone skin struggles with clearing detritus, like dead skin cells, oil and makeup, which is why a good cleanser is crucial. Choosing something that will gently exfoliate whilst not overstripping the skin of natural oils. Look for ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid and niacinamide, which exfoliate, penetrate pores and calm redness respectively. Where possible, avoid fragrances.

Packed with effective actives, Rejuvaus’ Deep Exfoliating AHA Cleanser also contains charcoal to soak up excess sebum. If you’re looking for something on the go, Hey Bud’s Biodegradable Clear Skin Towels are a game-changer as they don’t need water.

Sitchu Picks: Our 3 Favourite Cleansing Products for Acne-Prone Skin

Hey Bud Biodegradable Clear Skin Towels

$45

Alpha-H Triple Action Cleanser

$56.95

Rejuvaus Deep Exfoliating AHA Cleanser

$90

Best Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin: Spot Treatment Gel

If you feel a spot popping up, get in early with a targeted treatment gel to reduce the severity. You want something that is going to dry clear, target bacteria and that contains salicylic acid to penetrate the pore. A handful of soothing ingredients to reduce redness also helps.

Sitchu Picks: Our 3 Favourite Spot Treatment for Acne-Prone Skin

Murad Blemish Control Rapid Relief Spot Treatment

$39

Hey Bud Acne Clearing Treatment

$25

Alpha-H Instant Action BHA Blemish Treatment

$36.95

Best Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin: Body Products

Just like your face, if your skin is prone to breakouts, you’re likely in need of specialsed body care products. This means exfoliators and cleaners designed for people with acne. And yep, that means more hyaluronic, salicylic acid and niacinamide. Will & Zo’s Body Breakout Spray is a unique and effective addition for regular exercises and those on-the-go.

Will & Zo The Now Body Breakout Spray

$39.99

Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment

$49.95

Will & Zo Body Breakout Cleanser

$49.99

Best Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin: Moisturisers

When it comes to moisturisers and acne-prone skin, the key is to look for something light and fast-absorbing. You’ll also want to look for niacinamide to balance oils and ‘non-comedogenic’ formulas to avoid blocking pores. Typically, gel or water-based moisturisers are a great starting point as they’ll hydrate without greasiness.

Sitchu Picks: Our 3 Favourite Moisturisers for Acne-Prone Skin

Hey Bud Gel Moisturiser

$45

Rejuvaus Antioxidant Light Moisturiser

$200

Jojoba Water Gel Cream

$34.95

Best Skincare for Acne-Prone Skin: Serums

Serums can be great for acne-prone skin, acting to repair and strengthen the skin barrier, calm inflammation and gently exfoliate. As it’s best to keep your routine simple, be sure to introduce this step later to ensure you’re starting simply and building gradually. Bescher‘s fragrance-free formula is a favourite due to its added sea cucumber collagen which aids in regeneration of skin cells.

Sitchu Picks: Our 3 Favourite Serums for Acne-Prone Skin

Senne Skin Clearing Anti-Breakout Serum

$65

Hey Bud Daily Acne Clearing Serum

$39

Bescher Sea Cucumber Collagen Blemish Defence Serum

$99

If you loved this edit of the best skincare for acne prone skin and are looking for more beauty inspo, be sure to catch our roundups of the best face masks and SPFs.

Our Sitchu editors work hard to deliver you the best products, events and venues that we hope you will love and each one is selected independently. Sitchu may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.

Writer

Olivia Storrie

13 August 2025

Armed with an Arts Degree in History and Psychology from the University of Sydney, a natural curiosity and a ravenous appetite, Olivia is your go-to for restaurant recommendations across the city. She also has a keen interest in hiking, patting other people’s dogs, travelling, curating her maximalist home and reading every book she can get her hands on.