The 15 Best Products to Get Rid of Acne Scars, According to Dermatologists

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A quick look at the best products for acne scars

• Best OTC retinoid for acne scars: Differin Gel Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
• Best skin toner for acne scars: Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Toner
• Best exfoliating peel pads for acne scars: skinbetter science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
• Best exfoliating cleanser for acne scars: SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
• Best exfoliating body cleanser for sensitive skin: Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash
• Best retinol serum for acne scars: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum 
• Best sunscreen for acne scars: EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
• Best oil-free serum for acne scars: SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense
• Best overnight retinol for acne scars: RoC RETINOL CORREXION Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules
• Best glycolic acid at-home treatment for acne scars: Alpha-H Liquid Gold with Glycolic Acid
• Best post-breakout treatment for acne scars: Naturium Tranexamic Acid Topical Acid 5%
• Best acne scar treatment with vitamin C: Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment
• Best budget product for acne scars: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
• Best peel pads with retinol for acne scars: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
• Best acne scar product for dark spots: Dermalogica Age Bright Spot Fader

Acne can affect teens and adults alike, thanks to a variety of causes: hormonal changes, medications, diet, and genetics, to name a few.

Besides being a nuisance, acne can also cause scarring, especially when breakouts are picked or popped.

While some scars fade over time, others may be permanent. However, with some dermatologist-recommended products that help treat acne scars, you can lessen the damage caused by breakouts.

Types of acne scars

There are several types of acne scars. According to Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in New York City, acne scarring usually presents as:

• Hyperpigmentation: This may be brown or red discoloration.
• Depressed scars: Also known as atrophic scars, these include ice pick scars (narrow and deep), boxcar scars (shallow with sharp edges), and rolling scars (shallow with smooth edges).
• Raised scars: These are also known as hypertrophic, or keloidal, scars.

“Severe acne has a greater chance of leaving permanent scars while it heals,” Garshick adds. She also notes that topical treatments can only take you so far. Chemical peels and microneedling are also beneficial in diminishing acne scarring.

Joshua Zeichner, MD, the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology, adds, “Unfortunately, topical treatments have limited use in treating acne scars, and physical modalities, like lasers, are often needed.”

Zeichner says depressed scars usually benefit more from lasers, thick and raised scars are treated with cortisone injections, and ice pick scars are usually removed with a minor surgical procedure.

Why do acne scars happen?

Scarring occurs as a result of injury to the skin and excess oil production, bacteria, and inflammation.

Zeichner explains, “Inflammation in the skin tells our pigment-producing cells to become overactive, explaining why pimples leave behind dark spots.”

The hyperpigmentation that remains isn’t permanent, but it can be uncomfortable for some people. It can also present differently, depending on your complexion.

“[Hyperpigmentation] is more common in patients with darker skin tones,” he adds. “Whereas, [lighter-skinned] patients are often left with pink or red spots in areas where there used to be pimples. This post-inflammatory erythema heals on its own over several weeks.” 

Although most superficial breakouts heal on their own without leaving a significant mark, there are others that leave a more noticeable scar behind.

“This is why it’s advised to avoid picking pimples. It can lead to more injury to the skin, which can lead to a greater chance of a scar,” Garshick says.

How we chose the best products to get rid of acne scars

To create this list, we asked dermatologists which products they swear by for the different types of acne scarring.

They took into consideration:

• skin type
• efficacy of the products
• any safety concerns patients should be mindful of

Keep in mind that some scarring can be treated at home, but it’s best to talk with a dermatologist about severe scarring. Aside from over-the-counter (OTC) products that you can pick up at major retailers, there are other ways to help fade acne scars. It’s a good idea to talk with your dermatologist about these alternatives during your appointment.

Pricing guide

Skin care products can range as low as $10 or as high as $100. Our experts suggested both cost-effective and splurge-worthy products.

• $ = under $20
• $$ = $20–$50
• $$$ = over $50

Healthline’s picks for the best products to get rid of acne scars

Best over-the-counter (OTC) retinoid for acne scars

Differin Gel Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

• Price: $
• Best for: all types of acne scars
• Skin type: normal, acne-prone, oily, combination
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: adapalene 0.1% (retinoid)
• Product size: 0.5-ounce (oz) tube
• Use: once daily

Differin gel is an OTC retinoid treatment that has been on the market for some time. The active ingredient is adapalene, which helps decrease swelling and inflammation, prevent breakouts, and treat scarring.

According to Garshick, “it can help discoloration and textural changes that go along with acne scars by evening out the skin tone and boosting collagen production.”

She adds that it’s safe to use once daily, but it’s best to start just a few times per week and increase the frequency as tolerated. 

Reviewers say the product gently helped clear up all kinds of acne (including cystic acne), and they saw improvement with their skin in about 12 weeks.

Best skin toner for acne scars

Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Toner

• Price: $
• Best for: all types of acne scars
• Skin type: acne-prone
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: no
• Key ingredients: 2% salicylic acid
• Product size: 8-oz bottle
• Use: 1–3 times daily

Toning is a key part of your skin care routine that’s done after cleansing. While there are many types of toners, Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade toner is a fan favorite for fighting acne.

The toner contains salicylic acid, which is known to help reduce breakouts and fade discoloration caused by breakouts.

Garshick says the glycolic acid in the toner also helps get rid of dead skin cells, and the Glyctone Enhance Brightening Complex combined with azelaic acid aids in brightening the skin.

“Because both azelaic acid and glycolic acid may be considered pregnancy-safe, this may be an option for pregnant or nursing moms dealing with acne and hyperpigmentation,” Garshick suggests.

But she says it’s always best to check with your doctor first.

Reviewers on the Neutrogena website say this toner is rapid-acting. Some saw results overnight, while others say they saw improvement in a matter of weeks.

Best exfoliating peel pads for acne scars

skinbetter science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads

• Price: $$$
• Best for: all types of acne scars
• Skin type: all skin types
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid
• Product size: 30 peel pads
• Use: up to 3 times weekly

This product falls on the pricier side of this list (a pack runs you about $100), but you only need to use them one or two times per week.

The pads contain hydroxy acids, including lactic acid, salicylic acid, and glycolic acid, in combination with AlphaRet, a retinoid that helps boost collagen.

“It’s easy to use and a great option for those looking for an exfoliant to help brighten the skin and improve the skin tone and texture associated with acne scars,” Garshick says.

Two of the acids — glycolic acid and lactic acid — help with lightening discoloration, while salicylic acid helps unclog pores.

Reviewers enjoy how well this product exfoliates their skin in between dermatologist visits and how convenient it is to carry, even while traveling.

Best exfoliating cleanser for acne scars

SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser

• Price: $$
• Best for: all types of acne scarring
• Skin type: all skin types
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: no
• Key ingredients: salicylic acid, licorice root extract, glycerin
• Product size: 6-oz bottle
• Use: day and night routine, as tolerated by skin

This cleanser exfoliates and cleanses all at once. The ingredients include a mix of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), including lactic acid, glycolic acid, citric acid, and malic acid. These help to improve skin tone and texture and prevent breakouts.

“This combination makes the cleanser a great option for those with acne scars and blemishes, as it helps to improve skin tone,” Garshick explains.

Reviews show that, even as an exfoliant, it’s still gentle enough to use on a regular basis. Those with sensitive skin should be mindful of temporary redness after exfoliating.

One note: Be sure to use sunscreen after using this cleanser. AHAs can increase your chances of sunburn. 

Best exfoliating body cleanser for sensitive skin

Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash

• Price: $
• Best for: all types of acne scars
• Skin type: normal, dry, combination, mature
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: no
• Key ingredients: stearic acid, palmitic acid
• Product size: 22-oz bottle
• Use: safe for daily use if needed

Although acne is relatively common on the face, it can show up on your body, including your back and chest, too.

Those with scarring from body acne will appreciate the results from this budget-friendly cleanser. It’s made with sensitive skin in mind, gently exfoliating the skin and leaving it smooth and moisturized.

Garshick recommends this cleanser because it’s good for those who can’t tolerate a chemical exfoliant.

“This gentle exfoliating wash helps to get rid of dead skin cells, improving the appearance of dark spots, blemishes, and acne scars,” she says.

Reviewers with skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, say they benefitted from using this Dove cleanser.

Best retinol serum for acne scars

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

• Price: $$
• Best for: all types of acne scars
• Skin type: oily, dry, combination, acne-prone, mature
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: licorice root extract, ceramides, niacinamide, retinol
• Product size: 1-oz bottle
• Use: daily

This CeraVe retinol serum is great for all types of acne scars, especially if you’re new to retinol. Retinol helps resurface skin texture, while licorice root extract brightens the skin and improves its overall appearance.

“This serum contains ceramides and niacinamide, so it’s both gentle and soothing on the skin,” Garshick explains.

The ceramides aid in restoring and maintaining the skin’s natural barrier, while the niacinamide brings down inflammation and calms the skin.

Customer reviews show that this retinol leaves their skin smooth, and it’s even gentle enough for sensitive skin. Unlike other forms of retinol, reviewers say this one is moisturizing and doesn’t leave dry patches.

Best sunscreen for acne scars

EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40

• Price: $$
• Best for: discoloration
• Skin type: combination, normal, post-procedure
• Vegan: yes
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: 9% zinc oxide, 7.5% octinoxate, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
• Product size: 1.7-oz bottle
• Use: daily (reapply every 2 hours)

Sunscreen is a must no matter what your skin care routine is. But when it comes to dealing with acne, sunscreen also plays a key role in preventing scars from becoming darker.

This popular EltaMD sunscreen contains niacinamide, which helps soothe the skin, calms any possible redness, and improves discoloration.

“I especially love this sunscreen for those with acne-prone skin or discoloration. It’s a lightweight, oil-free sunscreen that won’t leave the skin feeling greasy.” Garshick says.

Reviewers love that this sunscreen is good for sensitive skin and wears well under makeup. Even though some customers say it’s on the pricier side, they believe it’s worth every penny because of how effective it is.

The brand even offers a tinted version for those who want a sheer tint without using foundation.

Best oil-free serum for acne scars

SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense

• Price: $$$
• Best for: discoloration, anti-aging
• Skin type: acne-prone, oily, combination, mature
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: salicylic acid, dioic acid, glycolic acid
• Product size: 1-oz bottle
• Use: day and night routine

This dual-performing oil-free face serum is expensive but highly rated.

It combines 2% dioic acid with salicylic acid and glycolic acid. The dioic acid reduces sebum. The salicylic and glycolic acids help reduce breakouts, as well as post-acne marks, by brightening the skin and improving the skin’s texture.

According to Garshick, “this can be used for all acne scars and can be especially helpful for someone who’s also looking to improve signs of aging.“

Reviewers say this product does a good job at keeping all types of acne at bay and has helped prevent maskne. Some even say they saw results in a matter of a week.

Note that, if you have dry or sensitive skin, it’s important to use a good moisturizer after this product. Some customers experience peeling and say it can be a little drying.

Best overnight retinol for acne scars

RoC RETINOL CORREXION Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules

• Price: $$
• Best for: depressed or rolling scars
• Skin type: mature
• Vegan: plant-based product, not vegan certified
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: antioxidant dimethylmethoxy chromanol, retinol
• Product size: 30 capsules per 0.35-oz jar
• Use: nightly

This retinol comes in capsule form and is a favorite of Zeichner’s for his patients.

“Retinol is known to enhance cell turnover, stimulate collagen, and improve the appearance of mild scars,” he says.

RoC’s retinol is especially good, because it contains stabilized retinol in a single-use capsule. It can also benefit those who have depressed or rolling scars, and it must be used regularly (several weeks to months) to really work.

Customers love how smooth each capsule leaves their skin overnight and how it quickly reduces the appearance of fine lines.

Best glycolic acid at-home treatment for acne scars

Alpha-H Liquid Gold with Glycolic Acid

• Price: $$$
• Best for: discoloration
• Skin type: all skin types, especially mature
• Vegan: not certified vegan
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: glycolic acid, licorice root extract
• Certifications: cruelty-free, paraben-free
• Product size: 3.38-oz bottle
• Use: every other night

Glycolic acid is a key ingredient when it comes to acne scarring. Zeichner explains that, “exfoliating ingredients, like salicylic acid and glycolic acid, are useful by helping the skin to shed darkly pigmented cells.”

He says this specific glycolic acid is potent, but in a good way, because it helps brighten, strengthen, and even skin tone.

The product is good for normal, oily, combination, and dry skin types.

Reviewers say the glycolic acid keeps their skin soft while fading some dark spots, and it even improves their skin texture.

If you have sensitive skin, you may want to slowly introduce this product into your routine and limit the number of days you use it. Some customers with sensitive skin say it’s too harsh for them to use on a daily basis.   

Best post-breakout treatment for acne scars

Naturium Tranexamic Acid Topical Acid 5%

• Price: $$
• Best for: discoloration or post-inflammatory erythema
• Skin type: all skin types
• Vegan: not vegan certified
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, licorice root extract
• Product size: 1-oz bottle
• Use: as tolerated by skin

This affordable topical acid contains a combination of tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, and licorice root. These ingredients help brighten the skin and improve discoloration and dark marks.

Zeichner recommends this product because of its effectiveness with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It’s gentle enough for any skin type and can be applied underneath a moisturizer. 

Reviewers say the tranexamic acid helps with lightening melasma and hyperpigmentation. Some claim this product works better than other ones they tried with the same active ingredients.

One reviewer says she had bad acne marks before using this product, and, after one use, she saw the redness disappear and the marks fade significantly.

Best acne scar treatment with vitamin C

Murad InvisiScar Resurfacing Treatment

• Price: $$–$$$
• Best for: depth, texture, and discoloration
• Skin type: oily, combination, dry, and sensitive
• Vegan: no
• Fragrance-free: no
• Key ingredients: salicylic acid, Centella Asiatica, vitamin C
• Product size: 0.5-oz bottle, 1-oz bottle
• Use: morning and night

This acne scar treatment contains vitamin C, a skin care ingredient popular for smoothing, hydrating, and for improving skin’s surface. It also contains exfoliating salicylic acid to help with scar texture.

The formula also includes an ingredient called Centella asiatica, an extract with anti-inflammatory properties that’s been shown to increase skin surface hydration.

Reviewers highly rate this pick for its help fading scars, but many mention that the bottle sizes are small for the price points. Plus, some point to issues with the bottle, saying it clogs with the product.

According to the brand, it’s safe for use on sensitive skin and should be used morning and night.

Best budget product for acne scars

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

• Price: $
• Best for: smoothing, brightening, improving dryness and texture
• Skin type: all skin types
• Vegan: yes
• Fragrance-free: yes
• Key ingredients: niacinamide, zinc
• Product size: 1-oz bottle
• Use: morning and night

This budget-friendly serum is designed for blemish-prone skin. It’s a water-based formula that the brand says can be used on all skin types.

It contains soothing and brightening niacinamide at 10% concentration and zinc — an ingredient thought to help scarring and inflammatory acne, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. 

Many reviewers rave about this product’s effectiveness, but it seems a small number of reviewers experience a “purge” period where acne increases before it gets better.

The brand says on its website that this serum shouldn’t be considered a treatment for persistent acne. The company recommends seeing a dermatologist for acne treatment.

Best peel pads with retinol for acne scars

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

• Price: $$$
• Best for: dull and uneven texture
• Skin type: oily, normal, combination 
• Vegan: yes
• Fragrance-free: no
• Key ingredients: alpha beta acids, chamomile, retinol, green tea extract
• Product size: 30 treatment pads, 60 treatment pads
• Use: morning or night (once daily)

This option by Dr. Dennis Gross is a two-step, predosed daily peel pad.

It’s on the pricier side of our list, but reviewers are pleased with the results. The formula contains a mix of alpha-hydroxy acids and beta-hydroxy acids for smoothing.

It also contains retinol, which we mentioned is a skin care mainstay thanks to its ability to resurface skin texture.

Using this product is relatively simple. You’ll apply the “step one” wipe to your face first, waiting for it to dry before applying the “step two” wipe. You’ll finish things off with a facial moisturizer.

You’ll need to remember to use facial SPF while using this product. Not only does daily SPF work to protect your skin from skin cancer and visible signs of sun damage, but it’s also necessary while using retinol since retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Best acne scar product for dark spots

Dermalogica Age Bright Spot Fader

• Price: $$
• Best for: dark spots, hyperpigmentation, current breakouts
• Skin type: all skin types
• Vegan: not vegan certified
• Fragrance-free: not listed
• Key ingredients: salicylic acid, niacinamide, hexylresorcinol
• Product size: 0.5-oz tube
• Use: apply immediately during a breakout, reapplying twice daily until the spot fades

This option is said to help clear up active breakouts (thanks to acne helpers salicylic acid and niacinamide), and it’s also said to work quickly on post-breakout dark spots.

The formula uses a complex from the brand that it says can help signs of aging skin without a drying effect. This may not be the ideal choice for acne scars that have stuck around for a while, however.

How the best products for reducing acne scars compare

How to choose

Sifting through all the acne scar products available can get frustrating. There are slews to choose from. It’s a good idea to visit your dermatologist before you start a routine with your new OTC routine for acne scars.

Your doctor can help you narrow down which acne scar types you experience and offer information on your skin type. Overall, the best approach is to choose a product that targets the type of acne scar you experience — raised acne scars, depressed scars, hyperpigmentation, etc. Many products are designed to treat certain acne scar types and address certain skin types.

Read product labels carefully before using them for the first time, looking for any ingredients you may be allergic to or sensitive to. For example, some products include fragrance or alcohol, and these can be too irritating or drying to certain skin types.

Performing a patch test using your acne scar product is a good idea. Apply a small amount of it to your inner wrist and watch for signs of irritation for 24 hours. You can test the product out on your face if no irritation pops up.

It’s also a good idea to look over product reviews and make sure the brand you’re shopping from has a positive reputation.

How to get the most out of an acne scar-reducing product

Besides using these products to improve acne scars, there are a few other changes you may want to make to your skin care routine.

Use sunscreen

Garshick says sunscreen should be used daily for added protection.

“While some topical treatments may help to lighten the marks, with unprotected sun exposure the marks can darken again,“ she explains.

Dr. Mary Ramirez, a board certified dermatologist in Austin, TX, says sunscreen is the most important daily step to help prevent and treat post-inflammatory erythema (red), post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark), and post-inflammatory hypopigmentation (light) changes to the skin.

“The use of a broad spectrum, oil-free sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat can help with these types of changes post-acne,” she says.

Don’t over apply

The number of applications per week varies based on the product. Some products are meant to be used daily, while others should only be used a couple times per week.

Garshick warns to avoid applying too much product too soon. This will help minimize irritation or dryness.

If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to only use one product at a time.

Cleanse and moisturize

“In general, it’s often best to cleanse prior to applying any leave-on or topical products, and apply moisturizer after use, unless otherwise directed,“ Garshick advises.

Additionally, she recommends applying a thin layer and avoiding multiple harsh active ingredients all at once, leading to dryness and heightened sensitivity.

Talk with your doctor

If you’re pregnant, be sure to talk with your doctor about which products are safe to use and which you should avoid.

Side effects and risks of acne scar treatments

“While OTC acne scar treatments might lessen the look of acne scars, there could be side effects,” says Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

These possible side effects include:

• dry skin
• irritation
• redness
• burning
• peeling

Graf explains that these products can have a high percentage of active ingredients that can cause side effects for sensitive skin.

“It’s best to start by using these products in small amounts so the skin can get used to them and if you’re concerned about irritation, test it on a small patch of skin before using,” she says.

Frequently asked questions about acne scars

Do acne scars go away on their own?

According to Graf, acne scars will fade with time but may not completely go away on their own. 

“Sometimes, it can take 4 to 6 months for acne scars to fade on their own. Since acne scars are skin damage that has affected the texture and color of the skin, acne scar treatments can help lessen these effects with active ingredients and exfoliants,” she says.

Are products for acne scars actually effective?

Acne scar products that contain the right ingredients can be effective.

“Retinoid gels will speed up skin cell turnover and decrease the swelling of the skin and will effectively fade acne scars,” Graf explains.

AHA and BHA products, as Graf points out, can help improve the texture of the skin and even out the skin tone.

“Salicylic acid will brighten the skin, exfoliate it, and prevent new acne scars.,” she says.

How can I lighten acne scars fast?

To speed up the process of lightening acne scars, Graf suggests using products with active ingredients, like AHA and vitamin C.

“Both of these ingredients will work together to lighten, exfoliate, even out skin pigmentation, and renew the surface of the skin. This will reduce the look of your acne scars at a faster rate,” she says.

Takeaway

Some types of acne scarring, like discoloration, may be treatable at home.

However, OTC topical treatments can only do so much. If you have severe scarring, it’s best to seek the help of a dermatologist.