The Best Acne Products for Stressed-Out Skin

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Power-Cream Face Wash ($13)

This face wash aims to break the stressful cycle of acne by treating blemishes before they even emerge. The unique MicroClear Technology is clinically proven to enhance the delivery of acne medicine by unclogging pores. It also reduces the redness and irritation that often come with stress acne.

Peach Slices Acne Spot Dots ($5)

Founder Alicia Yoon previously told us this is the number-one best-selling product in the acne aisle at CVS. These tiny yet powerful patches use pharmaceutical-grade hydrocolloid to flatten most pimples within 48 hours.

Tower 28 SOS (Save. Our. Skin) Daily Rescue Facial Spray ($28)

The CEO of Tower 28, Amy Liu, previously told us this spray is “a super gentle PH balanced hypochlorous acid spray that works wonders on angry, stressed out skin from head to toe.” It’s a daily spray to help soothe, purify and repair stressed skin. Recipient of a National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance, we know it’s safe for all inflamed, problem skin—even for those on the more sensitive side.

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser ($48)

This cleanser is a great choice if you’re trying to combat current breakouts and also wipe away the evidence of breakouts past. While cleansing and exfoliating the skin, it also improves the appearance of skin texture, tone and smoothness. When I recently told a facialist I use this product, she remarked, “It really works.”

Dr. Dennis Gross B3 Adaptive Superfoods Stress Rescue Super Serum ($74)

This serum has the power to reduce stress-induced flare ups, compromised skin, worry lines and dullness. While this product is not designed with acne as its main target, it helps correct and prevent visible signs of stress in general, so it’s a good product to fold into your routine if you’re prone to stress acne.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Serum ($40)

This dermatologist-beloved serum targets not only blemishes and pores but also lines and post-acne marks. The improvement in skin is noticeable quick.

Violette_Fr Sérum Superlatif Blemish Rescue ($46)

This breakout-calming serum helps relieve pimples caused by “hormones, stress, or other life situations.” Rose myrtle and mushroom extract with zinc soothe, balance sebum and calm breakouts.

CeraVe Acne Foaming Cleanser ($19)

CeraVe knows a thing or two about acne control, so it’s safe to trust them with stress-related breakouts. This foaming cream cleanser includes benzoyl peroxide, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to combat acne while leaving the skin healthy and moisturized. It also works ahead of time to prevent acne from forming in the first place.

Honest Get Clarity Foaming Acne Cleanser ($18)

This cleanser is packed with interesting acne-fighting ingredients like colloidal sulfur and apple AHAs (malic, glycolic lactic and citric acid). It promises to reveal a happy, healthy-looking glow. It helps prevent and control breakouts while managing irritation. Founder Jessica Alba says she loves that “it works so well without feeling harsh.”