You would think dealing with breakouts would get easier with age but, unfortunately, there's something called adult acne and it's a real pain! I'm 31 years old and I still struggle with occasional pimples, whether it's due to hormones, diet, or stress! And to make matters worse, sometimes a trip to the dermatologist doesn't cut it, especially if your insurance doesn't cover the prescription. Hey, I have to keep it real. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing over-the-counter products that will leave your skin clear without breaking the bank.
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You'd be surprised how many products you can get at the drugstore or beauty department stores that effectively treat acne. From cleansers to spot treatments to brightening formulas to help fade your manchas, there's something for everyone and every kind of breakout. So don't stress over those pesky pimples, here's a look at some of the best cost-efficient acne-fighting products on the market right now. Check them out!
A good cleanser is key.
Formulated with maximum strength salicylic acid, this oil-free cleanser gently works to clear breakouts and defends the skin against forming new ones. Great for treating and preventative care. Neutrogena Acne Proofing Gel Cleanser ($10).
The right scrub can help clear your dark spots.
This gentle face polish treats hyperpigmentation and manchas that result from breakouts, leaving skin, clearer, brighter and a lot more even. L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Brightening Daily Scrub ($6).
Invest in a fading treatment.
This acne scar spot treatment leaves manchas visibly lighter post-breakout. All you have to do is a apply a thin layer on clea skin every night before bed. Renee Rouleau Post-Breakout Fading Gel ($40).
Treat white heads with a spot treatment.
There’s a reason why this drying lotion has become such a cult favorite. It helps dry up pimples overnight. It works magic! Mario Badescu Plastic Bottle Drying Lotion ($17).
Treat your skin to some good ol’ vitamin C.
These vitamin C-infused pads don’t just clear breakouts and fade dark spots, but they also leave skin looking calmer and glowy AF. Dr. Dennis Gross DRx Acne Eliminating Pads ($38).
Use the right toner.
Yes, toner is a necessary part of your skincare regimen. But you want to look for one that’s going to help balance your skin’s PH level as well as reduce the appearance of pores. This botanical herb-infused formula leaves skin clear and matte. Be The Skin Botanical Pore Toner ($21).
Get a good peel.
This gentle peel is loaded with glycolic alpha hydroxyl acid (AHA) and vitamin C that works to reduce the appearance of dark spots and evens skin tone while you sleep, without leaving skin, dry or irritated. Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Overnight Leave-On Peel ($13).
Try light treatment.
This two minute spot treatment is designed with dermatologist-tested technology. The red and blue lights help to reduce breakouts but don’t leave skin flaky or burned. Did I mention it’s crazy affordable? Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment ($20).
Use a good clay mask.
This purifying clay mask works to help balance and clarify your skin. Use once or twice a week for noticeable results. Fresh Umbrian Clay Purifying Mask ($62).
You can get this prescription acne treatment OTC now.
This treatment gel used to only be prescribed by doctors but the FDA-approved retinoid prescription is finally available at drugstores and online for less than 20 bucks. Differin Acne Treatment ($12).
