When pimples begin to break through the skin, most of us decide to get into an instant fighting mode. Forget about allowing things to take ‘’their natural course’’. In this generation, it is all about moving quickly and unleashing heavy weaponry, and this includes finding the best acne spot treatments and gels we can find to banish the pimples in an instant. 

However, when it comes to acne gel, do note that the majority of them include variable quantities of active components Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide to cure pimples. And not every skin type will react the same way. So make sure that you are well educated about your skin types and concerns before blindly purchasing random skincare items. 

Beauty Insider helps break down the best acne gel to combat pimples overnight, what ingredients to look into and most importantly, they won’t strip your skin in the process. 

Source: Free Images

What Really Causes Acne? 

Everyone deals with acne differently. So, the term ‘’acne’’ may vary for different people. However, the best way to detect if you’re facing hormonal acne—or mostly referred to as adult acne—is when you are going through a cycle of periods, pregnancy, or menopause. Basically a time where your hormones play a vital role in changing the state of your biology. For example, hormonal imbalances, your PMS and even environmental contamination can all lead to the ‘’construction’’ of these stubborn acne. 

Moreover, hormonal acne often comes along with a few other annoying nibs, which are irregular periods, weight gains and excessive oil production. Other causes that lead to the growth of acne would include, dirty pillowcases, dirt, pollutants, stress, and of course, dietary imbalance. 

What Ingredients To Look For?

Salicylic acid is an extremely effective chemical exfoliant. It removes some of the extracellular ‘’glue’’ that binds skin cells together after it has infiltrated the skin. As a result, it’s excellent for healing pimples produced by blocked pores, such as blackheads, whiteheads, and others. 

Benzoyl peroxide, on the other hand, inhibits the germs that create pimples in the first place, making it an excellent agent for treating inflammatory acne blemishes. To prevent the terrible dry-out, the finest acne gel solutions usually combine zit-zapping operations (Benzoyl) with skin-healing components (Salicylic).

Best Acne Gel in Malaysia

1. Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%, which contains sodium hydroxide that can help to dismiss the appearance of acne, even the most stubborn one! When it comes to texture-wise, this Differin Gel Adapalene Gel 0.1% feels super lightweight, non-greasy or sticky—which is really a good point. This gel is in clear-coloured, kind of transparent in look. It glides smoothly on every perimeter of your skin.

Why we love it: 

  • Acne Cleansing Gel with 0.1% ADA
  • Prevents breakouts and blemishes
  • Can restores skin tone by clearing acne

Price: Starts from RM42.00

Where to buy: Shopee

2. Neutrogena On-The-Spot Acne Treatment

Another must-have Benzoyl Peroxide product. This Neutrogena On-The-Spot treatment contains 2.5% powerful force that is clinically proven to treat even the most stubborn acne or cyst problems. Make sure to apply this before you go to bed, you will wake up the next morning with a clearer skin. 

Why we love it: 

  • Removes dirt, oil and dead skin cells.
  • Provides long-lasting oil control to improve the look and feel of skin.
  • Oil-free, dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic.

Price: Starts from RM 45.00

Where to buy: Shopee

3. NUViT Acne Purifying Gel

Are inflamed acne bumps causing you frustration? Discover the hidden secret to clearer, flawless skin with NUViT Acne Purifying Gel. This remarkable gel provides instant relief from acne, accelerates wound healing, and prevents scarring. Its powerful formula combines AC. Net, salicylic acid, witch hazel extract, meadowsweet extract, tea tree oil, aloe vera, and vitamin C. These high-performance ingredients work together to prevent acne recurrence and minimise the appearance of enlarged pores, resulting in a smoother complexion. With its exclusive AC-Pure™ technology, it effectively addresses oily skin concerns, reducing the likelihood of acne, scarring, and comedones. Simply apply it to targeted inflamed acne, and witness visible improvements in no time.

Why we love it:

  • Alleviates acne inflammation instantly 
  • Minimises acne scars
  • Promotes wound healing

Price: RM 35.40

Where to buy: Watsons and NUViT Partnered Pharmacies

4. Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion 

Lightweight, quick-absorbing and non sticky. This lotion is specifically designed to target large, under-the-surface bumps. Suitable for acne prone skin, this buffering lotion from Mario Badescu works overnight to help reduce the appearance of existing troubled skin. Contain soothing ingredients like Allantoin and Niacinamide to help rebalance your skin. 

Why we love it: 

  • Specifically designed to treat cystic acne
  • Contains Vitamin B and Amino Acid
  • Best to help in reduce irritation and redness

Price: RM 103.00

Where To Buy: Sephora

5. Benzac Ac Gel 5%

This trustee Benzoyl peroxide is a well-known ingredient for fighting acne. This ingredient comes in different concentrations to treat any kind of breakout from mild to moderate. It can effectively helps to get rid of bacteria and dead skin cells that clog your pores. This Benzoyl Peroxide works particularly well for inflammatory acne, including pustules, papules, cysts, and nodules.

Why we love it: 

  • Has anti-inflammatory properties
  • Reduce the production of sebum
  • Kills 94% of acne bacteria in 7 days

Price: RM 40.68

Where to buy: Guardian

6. OXY 10 Lotion

OXY 10 is a trustee acne medication containing 10% Benzoyl Peroxide to treat the most stubborn breakouts and acne that do not respond to mild acne treatments. This product also works wonders to prevent bacteria from within that causes pimples. 

Why we love it: 

  • Contains Benzoyl Peroxide
  • Oil free products
  • Prevent new pimples from forming

Price: RM 26.00

Where to buy: Guardian

7. HIRUSCAR Anti-Acne Spot Gel

A new acne gel has joined the group! Hiruscar Anti-Acne range is lightweight, allowing for rapid absorption into the skin. It is mild and does not irritate the skin. This gel immediately dissolve pimple appereance and minimises black markings. You’ll notice a difference in your skin.

Why we love it: 

  • Cleanses without drying the skin
  • Removes excessive dirt and sebum
  • Balances the skin’s moisture

Price: RM 29.50

Where to buy: Watsons

8. Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel

Acne clearance results comparable to a popular topical prescription. Upon use, Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel daily treatment gel begins to remove blemishes. It aids in preventing the appearance of new ones. After cleaning, apply a thin layer to the entire face twice a day.

Why we love it: 

  • Helps prevent new pimples from forming
  • Works on every skin types including sensitive skin
  • Suitable for everyday use

Price: RM 107.00

Where to buy: Clinique

For more beauty infos, make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Also, visit our Insider Mall to shop and get rewarded!