Struggling with acne can be an arduous journey, but finding the right pimple cream can make all the difference. The market is flooded with countless options, but a few brands consistently stand out for their effectiveness and positive user feedback. From budget-friendly drugstore staples to high-end skincare lines, the choices cater to a wide array of needs and preferences. Curious to know which brands have made the cut and could potentially transform your skincare routine? Read on to discover the best brands for pimple cream.
Illustration of pimple cream
Best brands of pimple cream in 2025
Neutrogena
Neutrogena is a leading brand in the skincare industry, particularly renowned for its effective pimple creams. The Neutrogena Stubborn Acne AM Treatment, powered by 2.5% micronized benzoyl peroxide, has shown significant results with 91% of users seeing an improvement in pimples in just 12 weeks. This product is oil-, paraben-, phthalate-, dye-, and fragrance-free, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. Neutrogena's commitment to science-backed skincare has been a cornerstone of its success since its founding by Emanuel Stolaroff in 1954. The brand continues to innovate, offering products like the On-the-Spot Acne Treatment, which is clinically proven to start clearing skin on day one.
La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay is renowned for its effective skincare products, particularly its Effaclar Duo line, which has demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing acne lesions. In clinical studies, Effaclar Duo showed a 31% mean reduction in papules and 33% mean reduction in pustules after just three days of application, and by day 10, it resulted in significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions. This product also boosts the efficacy of benzoyl peroxide, achieving an 86% reduction in skin lesions when used in adjunct therapy. Founded in 1975, La Roche-Posay is committed to using advanced technology and clinical research to provide high-quality, fragrance-free, and paraben-free products. Their formulations, such as those containing lipohydroxy acid and micronized benzoyl peroxide, ensure deep follicular penetration and effective acne treatment.
Differin
Differin, a brand renowned for its effective topical acne treatment, utilizes adapalene, a third-generation retinoid, to treat mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Approved by the FDA and available since 2007, Differin Gel 0.3% has shown a success rate of 53% in achieving "Clear" or "Almost Clear" skin in clinical studies, with a mean reduction of 45.3% in total lesion counts after 12 weeks. It is also available over-the-counter at a 0.1% concentration, which has been shown to improve acne in 96.3% of patients with greater than 75% improvement in two-thirds of them. Differin's adapalene is noted for its stability and lower irritation compared to other retinoids, making it a preferred choice for acne treatment. The product is not recommended for severe acne, hyperpigmentation, or use during pregnancy. For more information, you can explore Differin's use for acne and common questions surrounding its application.
Paula's Choice
Paula's Choice is renowned for its effective and gentle skincare products, particularly for acne and pimple treatment. The brand's Clear line, featuring ingredients like 2% salicylic acid and 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, is highly praised for its ability to treat acne and reduce hyperpigmentation. Founded over 40 years ago by Paula Begoun, the brand is committed to using science-proven ingredients and avoiding irritating components like fragrances and essential oils. Products such as the Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which sells every 60 seconds, have garnered a cult following for their efficacy in clearing clogged pores and improving skin texture. With a focus on transparency and effectiveness, Paula's Choice offers a range of products suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin. More information can be found in this Paula's Choice review.
Clean & Clear
Clean & Clear is a highly regarded brand in the acne treatment market, known for its effective and easy-to-use products. The Clean & Clear Advantage Acne Spot Treatment, for example, contains salicylic acid and is clinically proven to show clearer skin in a short period, making it a favorite among consumers for its efficacy in reducing acne, pimples, and blemishes. The brand's products are often praised for their non-greasy and affordable nature, although they may cause temporary skin dryness. In the broader acne treatment market, Clean & Clear is part of a sector dominated by topical treatments, which accounted for approximately 59% of the revenue in 2023. North America, where Clean & Clear is popular, holds a significant share of the global acne treatment market, with 45% of the revenue in 2023.
CeraVe
CeraVe is renowned as one of the best producers of pimple cream, known for its dermatologist-recommended formulations that combine hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and other essential ingredients to provide long-lasting hydration and repair the skin's barrier. Introduced in 2005, CeraVe products are formulated with up to 3% benzoyl peroxide, which is effective in reducing acne by up to 50% in just three weeks. The brand's commitment to using non-comedogenic and fragrance-free ingredients makes it suitable for sensitive skin. CeraVe's acne treatment products are also cruelty-free and have been endorsed by the National Eczema Association. With a wide range of products, CeraVe caters to various skin types and needs.
Murad
Murad is a renowned brand in the skincare industry, particularly noted for its effective pimple creams and acne treatments. Founded by Dr. Howard Murad, a board-certified dermatologist and pharmacist, the brand has been setting standards for high-performance skincare since its inception in 1990. Murad's products, such as the 60-Day Invisiscar Acne Kit, have clinically proven results, including a 92% reduction in oil and a significant decrease in redness and pore congestion after just a few uses. Their Deep Relief Acne Treatment, containing 2% salicylic acid, has shown that 82% of participants experienced less redness and 88% reported calmed and soothed acne bumps. With a commitment to science-backed formulas and cruelty-free products, Murad continues to be a trusted name in skincare.
Proactiv
Proactiv, developed by dermatologists Katie Rodan and Kathy A. Fields and launched in 1995, is a renowned brand for treating mild to moderate acne. Studies have shown that Proactiv, which contains 2.5% benzoyl peroxide, can reduce inflammatory lesions by 39% in some cases and result in a 35-40% reduction in blemishes for around 50-66% of users over eight weeks. Despite its effectiveness, it is often more expensive than other similar products, with a two-month supply costing around $40. Celebrity endorsements have also contributed to its popularity, with stars like Justin Bieber, Avril Lavigne, and Katy Perry promoting the product. However, other products with the same active ingredient can offer similar results at a lower cost. For more detailed information, visit the Proactiv Wikipedia page.
The Ordinary
The Ordinary is renowned for its effective skincare products, particularly for addressing acne and skin texture issues. The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion, for instance, has been praised for its potent formula that reduces blemishes and improves skin texture, with noticeable results even after a few weeks of use. Their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% solution is another standout, known for shrinking pores, calming redness, and reducing acne, with visible improvements observed in just a couple of weeks. The brand's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is also highly regarded for its ability to fade acne scars and brighten the complexion. These products are often recommended by dermatologists and beauty editors, highlighting The Ordinary's commitment to high-quality, affordable skincare. For a comprehensive review, you can visit the Cosmopolitan review.
Mario Badescu
Mario Badescu is renowned for its effective pimple treatments, particularly the Drying Lotion, which contains salicylic acid, sulfur, and zinc oxide to expedite the healing of individual acne pimples. This award-winning on-the-spot treatment has been a favorite among celebrities and beauty professionals since its inception in 1967. The formula works by drawing out impurities and reducing the appearance of blemishes overnight. Despite some controversies, the brand remains popular for its targeted acne solutions, with the Drying Lotion being a best seller. It is suitable for use on all skin types and is applied directly to the blemish before bed.
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