Struggling with acne scars at any age is an ongoing struggle, and finding the best acne-prone skincare may make the slope feel even harder. There are several types of acnes — mainly cystic, fungal acne, hormonal breakouts, blackheads, closed comedones, and whiteheads, each with its own set of causes. That is why it is critical to use skincare that can target the source of your acne and provide treatments to clear it up, including the scars. 

Once you’ve determined the sort of acne you’re dealing with, you’ll discover that there are several product choices available in the market that target specifically to that problem. Following that, you’ll want to figure out what sorts of chemicals and acne solutions will work best to clean up scars, breakouts, and block new pimples from forming.

Below, Beauty Insider breaks down some of the best products for acne scars problems to add to your new regimen, from cleansers, serums, pimple patches, and more. However, if you find it hard to treat those acne scars away, we suggest you book an appointment with a dermatologist, as they can help to aid in critical skin conditions. 

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What To Look For in Skincare

Cleanser

When seeking acne-fighting ingredients, look for salicylic acid, beta-hydroxy acid, and benzoyl peroxide, an antimicrobial compound that acts to destroy germs. Other beneficial elements include vitamin C, an enzyme that gradually lightens post-acne discolouration and scars. Niacinamide also helps to balance out skin texture and colour. Peptides and ceramides are excellent for preserving the skin barrier to prevent acne and irritation, while soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, panthenol, and green tea help relieve redness and irritation.

Exfoliator

Exfoliants can help remove acne scars by increasing cell renewal, which clears the pores of dirt and reveals cleaner, brighter skin. However, as you all already know, exfoliate or scrubbing should be done only once or twice a week. Excessive exfoliate and scrubbing can scrap out your skin layer and its natural oils, which leads to even more acne.

Exfoliants can be classified into two types — physical and chemical. Physical exfoliants exfoliate the skin with materials such as jojoba beads, sugar, or coffee. This may not be the best solution if you have sensitive skin, as harsh exfoliants can literally create micro tears in the skin (remember the great St Ives Apricot Scrub gate?) Chemical exfoliants on the other hand, such as glycolic, lactic, and citric acids are light superficial acids that can enzymatically exfoliate your skin. 

Serum & Gel 

Spot treatments and acne scar gels have the largest amounts of active compounds, making them an important aspect to tackle pimples and acne scars. Spot treatments contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulphur, and are better for stray pimples rather than treating a whole area of acne. Meanwhile, serums include larger concentrations of active substances and may be tailored to your unique skincare requirements. Vitamin C serums can also prevent melanin synthesis, making them useful for treating discolouration and levelling out skin tone.

Best Skincare For Acne

1. Mentholatum Acnes Whitening Mild Cleanser

The Whitening Light Cleanser, as the name implies, is a mild and gentle cleanser that contains Amino Acid as its main component. It features a soap-free formulation with a pH level comparable to that of the natural skin. 

The ingredient list includes salicylic acid, a powerful acne-fighting agent capable of unclogging your pores, and is designed to prevent acne and reduce oil production of the skin. Furthermore, the ingredient list contains more than 95% pure Centella Asiatica Extract, which helps to improve your skin from blemishes and pimples while easing any discomfort.

Why we love it 

  • Contains Amino Acid, Salicylic Acid, Centella Asiatica Extract & Vitamin C
  • Free from Soap, SLS, SLES, Fragrance, Alcohol, Paraben, Colourants & Silicone
  • Suitable for daily use

Price: RM 20.90

Where to buy: Shopee

2. Huda Beauty Wishful Yo Glow Enzyme Scrub

We know exfoliants get a bad rep, but the Wishful Yo Glow Enzyme Scrub truly deserves the hype. It’s made with Papaya & Pineapple Fruit Enzymes to unclog the pores and exfoliate from deep within, which results in clearer skin that’s free from acne and acne scars with consistent use. This cleanser has a unique gel-to-peel consistency, and it works in three ways; as a physical, chemical, and enzymatic exfoliant. If you have clogged pores, then you need to try this.

Why We Love It 

  • Contain Papaya & Pineapple Fruit Enzymes to smooth and improve skin clarity
  • Vegan-friendly, sulphate-free, paraben-free
  • Exfoliates dead skin and promotes even skin texture

Price: From RM 108

Where To Buy: Sephora

3. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Does anybody else feel like a chemist or a wizard concocting potions when they use products buy the Ordinary? The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% face serum is one of the most highly-rated items from the Ordinary. This product is amazing, targeted for acne-prone skin, red patches, or uneven skin tone. It efficiently shrinks enlarged pores and reduces greasy skin, which is the main reason for clogged pores that lead to acne and acne scars. Before using any thick moisturiser, apply this serum both morning and night. 

Why We Love It 

  • Non-sticky, and non-greasy
  • Suitable for oily or acne-prone skin
  • Sulphates and paraben-free

Price: RM 35.00

Where To Buy: Zalora

4. Benzac Ac Gel 5%

This trusted 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 fight 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. If you’re new to benzoyl peroxide however, it’s best to start slow to build tolerance to it.

Why We Love It 

  • Unblocks pores and has anti-inflammatory properties
  • Reduces the production of sebum
  • Kills 94% of acne bacteria in 7 days

Price: RM 44.30

Where to buy: Alpro Pharmacy

5. Origins Spot Remover™ Acne Treatment Gel (discontinued)

With just one dot of Origin’s Spot Remover, feel its anti-spot technology as it helps to visibly reduce inflammation from acne and correct post pimple darkening like discolouration and scars. Say bye-bye to that irritating redness you see because the caffeine and red algae will make it disappear. The super exfoliators in this product will work to lesser excess oils and pore-clogging debris.

Why We Love It 

  • Suitable for day and night
  • Prevents excess oils and pore-clogging debris
  • Does not sting your skin

Price: RM 91.00

Where To Buy: Sephora

6. OXY Acne Patch 

OXY is a well-known and well-loved skincare brand that features quite a lot of blemish solutions. Besides their most famous OXY creams, the OXY Acne Patch 0.03cm are also considered the best-medicated acne patches. It is suitable for those with cystic acne as it contains antibacterial properties! Killing bacterias that cause acne and absorbing any excess oils.

Why We Love It 

  • Sweat-proof
  • Retains moisture
  • Looks invisible on the skin

Price: RM 16.90

Where To Buy: BIG Pharmacy

Best Skincare For Acne Scars

1. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil

This specialist skincare product helps reduce the risk of stretch marks from forming, and reduces the appearance of existing stretch marks and scars. Clinically proven, Bio-Oil Skincare Oil contains 4 essential oils including Chamomile, Calendula, Lavender and Rosemary as well as vitamins A & E, which effectively keeps skin hydrated and supple, allowing the skin to stretch and recover beautifully. It’s incredibly lightweight, making it really easy to apply on top of your moisturiser to add another layer of moisture and protection.

Why we love it 

  • Delivered deep into the skin to repair cells
  • Non- comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin
  • Suitable for everyday use

Price: From RM 34.78

Where to buy: Watsons

2. MissOLUMES Botanic Bio Placenta Serum

MissOLUMES Botanic Bio Placenta Serum is a groundbreaking serum formulation to address and improve the look of scars, acne, minimise post-blemish scarring and revive your complexion. 

Formulated with Rye (type of grass, from Wheat family) Phyto-placenta which is extracted from the plant cells itself and then fermented with Mushroom extract, alongside Kalalit extract to combat scarring, diminish acne, boost cell regeneration and prevent further skin damage. This is a must have serum for those struggling with acne scars. 

Why we love it 

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Reduces acne and acne scars
  • Rejuvenates skin cells and boosts circulation

Price: RM 49.90

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3. Some By Mi AHA.BHA.PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Essence

If you have discolouration, dark spots, or uneven texture, then give the AHA.BHA.PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Essence by Some By Mi a try. It works by effectively clearing out any existing acne, while simultaneously exfoliating the dead skin cells to reveal radiant skin underneath. Great for acne-prone skin, this serum is packed with natural tea tree leaf water, centella asiatica and three types of chemical exfoliants. It also fades blemishes and brightens skin!

Why we love it:

  • Fades blemishes and dark spots
  • Reduces appearance of textured skin
  • Reduces acne

Price: RM 109

Where to buy: Watsons

4. Paula’s Choice Vitamin C15 Super Booster Serum

Suitable for all skin types, the Vitamin C15 Super Booster Serum by Paula’s Choice is a great product to fade acne scars and blemishes. Jam-packed with vitamin C, E and Ferulic Acid, these ingredients work amazing to brighten up the skin and lighten dark spots. It’s great to correct uneven skin tone, protect your skin against environmental stressors, and has tons of anti-ageing properties. You’ll be glowing in no time.

Why we love it:

  • Brightens dull skin
  • Promotes even skin tone
  • Protects the skin

Price: RM 255

Where to buy: Zalora

5. Clinique Even Better Clinical Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter Serum

Fade dark spots and acne scars in no time with the Even Better Clinical Radical Dark Spot Corrector + Interrupter Serum by Clinique! A serum that’s packed with skin-loving ingredients like salicylic acid, glucosamine, and yeast extract, this powerhouse has been clinically proven to visibly reduce dark spots by -39% after consistent use. Suitable for dry, oily, and combination skin, use this serum twice a day, and follow up with sunscreen when you use it during the day.

Why we love it:

  • Suitable for daily use
  • Reduces visible marks by -39%
  • Prevents future blemishes

Price: From RM 101

Where to buy: Clinique

6. Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Gel Wash 

Looking for a cleanser that can get rid of the impurities while brightening the skin? The Garnier Bright Complete Vitamin C Gel Wash is gentle and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Made with real lemon extract, it’s dermatologically-tested and free from paraben and silicon. Affordable and effective, this is a winner.

Why we love it:

  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Gentle
  • Free from paraben and silicon

Price: RM 35.90

Where to buy: Guardian

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