11 BEST Drugstore Products for Acne Scarring YOU Don’t Wanna Miss
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I know it took you a million years to get rid of that acne, but now, when they finally disappeared, they left behind their existence – in the form of acne scars. I mean, are you kidding me? eye-roll
And that’s not even the worst part. Apparently, there’s no magic product or acne treatment that can nix those pesky scars overnight or in just 2 days. It takes time and consistent effort.
So it’s always better to treat acne ASAP so it doesn’t leave scars. And then deal with acne scars (if any) sooner rather than later, so it doesn’t get bigger, darker, or older.
That is why we’ve compiled this list of the 11 BEST drugstore acne scar products (because everything doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg) that work like magic and can help you get rid of those stubborn scars as quickly as you want them to be gone.
Quick Disclaimer: If your acne scars are deep, pitted, or raised, these treatments won’t work, and you need to consult a dermatologist. Don’t even try any acne scar remedy (natural or chemical) on them because you don’t know what will make them worse. But if you see brown-pink spots/scars on your face, get ready to see the results!
Now, let’s see all the best magic products for acne scarring!
1. The Ordinary AHA BHA Chemical Peel
What I Like:
- Extremely affordable
- Easy to use
- Super effective
What I Don’t Like:
- May cause slight tingling during application, but hey, that’s how you know it’s working!
This little red bottle of magic is a cult favorite, and trust me, it works wonders! The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution tackles skin texture, clears pore congestion, and improves uneven pigmentation.
This amazing at-home peel exfoliates multiple layers of your skin to reveal a brighter, more even complexion in just 10 minutes! Just remember to use it only once a week, and don’t forget to put on some sunscreen the next day!
2. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
What I Like:
- Dermatologist recommended
- Fragrance-free
- Shows results within a week!
What I Don’t Like:
- Some may experience mild dryness at the beginning, but remember to moisturize and your skin will soon adapt.
The next hero on our list is the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. This lightweight and fast-absorbing serum helps smooth your skin’s texture by reducing the appearance of post-acne marks, minimizing the look of pores, and improving your skin’s surface.
With ingredients like retinol, licorice root extracts, niacinamide, and ceramides, this serum works wonders in just a week! Apply it at night and wake up to better-looking skin!
3. AXIS-Y Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum
What I Like:
- Reduces pigmentation concerns
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
What I Don’t Like:
- If only it could make us coffee in the morning.
Raise your hand if you’re a fan of Niacinamide! 🙋♀️ Axis-Y’s Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum is a game-changer for acne scars and uneven skin tone. Plant-derived Squalane keeps your skin moisturized and healthy, while niacinamide tackles those dark spots and uneven complexion like a boss! Just a few drops of this serum will have your skin glowing, no matter where you are!
4. The Ordinary alpha arbutin serum
What I Like:
- The best thing I’ve seen for scars
- Affordable price point
- A little goes a long way
What I Don’t Like:
- May feel a lil sticky or tacky after application
Let me introduce you to The Ordinary’s Alpha Arbutin Serum, the ultimate weapon against uneven skin tone and pigmentation. I’ve yet to find a better product that targets acne scars so effectively.
What sets it apart? It’s water-based, specifically designed to improve the appearance of pigmentation, and has proven to be the strongest and safest way of fading acne scars after hydroquinone (that chemical-based skin-lightening agent that is not so safe, yikes!). And the best part? It shows results within a week!
5. Topicals Mini Faded Skin Serum
What I Like:
- Visible results in just one week
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Great for all skin types
- Decently priced
What I Don’t Like:
- It may have a strong scent for some
You had me at “visibly fade.” This dermatologist-tested serum is a miracle worker when it comes to reducing post-blemish marks, scars, and uneven skin tone.
Packed with clean antioxidants and inflammation-reducing ingredients like Azelaic Acid and Niacinamides, I call it my secret weapon against acne scars. Just remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day; start by using once a week and gradually work your way up to daily use.
6. Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner
What I Like:
- Extremely affordable
- Super gentle, especially for sensitive skin
- Doesn’t dry the skin
- Packed with so many antioxidants
What I Don’t Like:
- May not be as effective for deep hyperpigmentation
If you’re tired of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, or bad acne scars, let me introduce you to your new bestie – the Niacinamide Brightening Toner! Formulated with a soothing blend of brightening ingredients, it works like a charm to give you that radiant glow.
Some of its superhero components include 3% niacinamide (aka Vitamin B3), naturally derived arbutin for hyperpigmentation and trusty licorice root extract to soothe inflammation.
7. CeraVe Salicylic Acid Cleanser
What I Like:
- Gently exfoliates the skin
- Great for treating active acne as well
- Works well for all skin types, even senstive
What I Don’t Like:
- Can dry out the skin if used too frequently
Let’s talk about CeraVe’s Salicylic Acid Cleanser, a real game-changer! It provides gentle exfoliation without those harsh microbeads that can scratch your skin (ouch!). Serving you the goodness of salicylic acid, essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, this cleanser does wonders on sensitive skin.
Best part? It’s non-drying and works great for all skin types. So, sensitive skin beauties, fear not! Your acne-scar relief has arrived.
8. Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum
What I Like:
- Affordable price point for a high-quality serum
- Super gentle, especially for sensitive skin
- Lightweight formula that absorbs quickly
What I Don’t Like:
- Can cause dryness if not used in conjunction with a hydrating moisturizer
Do you know what they say? Good things come in small packages – and this gem of a product is no exception. The Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum will have your skin looking radiant and even in no time.
Featuring 3% tranexamic acid to target skin discoloration and 4% niacinamide to improve texture, dullness, and enlarged pores, this serum is a must-have for anyone struggling with acne scars.
9. Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment
What I Like:
- Great for exfoliating and improving texture
- Easy to use, just apply before bed
- Works amazingly and in conjunction with other products for acne scarring
What I Don’t Like:
- May be too harsh for sensitive skin types
- You will feel a strong tingling sensation initially, but bear that
Dead skin? Active acne? Dark spots? Wipe ’em all away with the Good Molecules Overnight Exfoliating Treatment! This blend of 10% alpha and beta hydroxy acids will sweep away those pesky dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reveal your beaming, radiant skin!
It pairs perfectly with the other products mentioned for an accelerated acne scar fading process.
To use, apply a few drops to clean skin and let it do its magic for several minutes before continuing with your routine. Keep in mind, this potent drugstore acne scar treatment is best used up to three times a week and might cause irritation if used with retinol or other acids.
10. Organic African Black Soap
What I Like:
- Extremely affordable
- Made with natural ingredients and free from harsh chemicals
- Great for treating active acne, post acne marks and improving skin texture
What I Don’t Like:
- Can be drying if used too frequently
- Some users may not like the smell or texture of the soap
Now, let’s talk about a cult favorite: Organic African Black Soap. If you haven’t heard of this magical soap for acne and dark spot treatment, then you’ve been missing out! But hey, it’s never too late to join the party.
This affordable black soap lasts up to 4-5 months, even with daily use, but we suggest using it every other day to avoid drying out your skin. Just follow up with a hydrating moisturizer, and your skin will be singing your praises.
11. The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
What I Like:
- Extremely affordable
- Super gentle, especially for sensitive skin
- Doesn’t dry the skin
- Lightweight formula that absorbs quickly
What I Don’t Like:
- May not be effective for severe cases of acne
Last but certainly not least, I have The Ordinary’s Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%. This lightweight cream-gel is a game-changer for brightening your skin and reducing the appearance of blemishes.
Did we mention it can also help with melasma? Now, THAT’s a multitasking product we all need in our lives. Give this bad boy a try, and watch your skin transform before your eyes; you won’t be disappointed!
Wrapping up – best products for acne scars
So there you have it — the 11 BEST drugstore products to tackle acne scarring that you don’t wanna miss! Remember, patience and consistency are key when it comes to dealing with acne scars.
Still, these affordable, effective products can definitely give you the extra boost you need to speed up the healing process and reveal clearer, smoother skin.
And while you’re at it, don’t forget to drop us a line in the comments and let us know your fav drugstore acne scar product from our list. Happy Clear Skin days, folks!
Oooooh, I love the options!