12% Niacinamide Clarifying Serum

Salicylic Acid — A beta-hydroxy acid that dissolves oil and dead skin inside the pore, so it's the go-to for blackheads, congestion and oily-skin breakouts. The strength is not printed, so we cannot judge the dose; that counts against the brand. Works from ~1%. OTC cap 2%. Give it 8–12 weeks for congestion & blackheads. Best for Oily, Combination. An oil-soluble exfoliant — brilliant on oily, congested skin. On dry or reactive skin it can strip and sting, so ease in slowly.

Niacinamide — Vitamin B3 — a broadly-tolerated all-rounder that strengthens the skin barrier, evens tone and helps regulate oil. The label states 12%. Works from ~5%. OTC cap 10%. Give it 8–12 weeks for tone. Suits all skin types. One of the best-tolerated actives there is — fine for every skin type, and especially handy for oil and uneven tone. Good value: beats 93% of the 15 Niacinamide serums that state their strength.

Azelaic Acid — A multitasker for pigmentation, bumpy texture and redness — unusually gentle, and one of the few actives generally considered pregnancy-safe. The strength is not printed, so we cannot judge the dose; that counts against the brand. Works from ~10%. OTC cap 20%. Give it 8–16 weeks for pigmentation & redness. Suits all skin types. Unusually gentle — one of the few actives that suits sensitive and redness-prone skin while still fading marks.

Betaine — A sugar-beet humectant — steady, gentle hydration for any skin. The strength is not printed, so we cannot judge the dose; that counts against the brand. Works from ~5%. OTC cap 5%. Best for .

Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris ›

Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Review ›

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of topical pharmacological, oral pharmacological, physical and combined treatments for acne vulgaris ›