15 TOP pharmaceutical products for acne and spots (traces) on the face and back: the best effective budget options

Updated: 02/21/2021 14:00:13

Expert: Daria Alekseevna Litvinova

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Taking care of problem skin and getting rid of acne is not an easy task. But if you don’t make an effort, it will be even more difficult to eliminate the effects of acne or minimize them. Not every pimple leaves marks (post-acne). But if scars do appear, then getting rid of them can be very problematic.

Acne marks indicate deep, prolonged inflammation. They can be localized on the face, neck, back, shoulders, chest. Unattractive scars occur if both the outer layers of the skin and the deeper ones are affected. The skin cannot independently restore itself to its original state. The pimples go away, but the replacement tissue at the site of the damage remains noticeable.

Types of acne marks

Acne marks most often involve hyperpigmentation (normal areas of the skin alternate with darker ones). Stagnant red spots, enlarged pores filled with sebum, or pathological scars may also appear. When the excretory duct of the sebaceous glands is blocked, atheromas (cysts filled with fat) or milia (whiteheads) develop.

Old scars and scars after purulent acne are divided into the following forms:

1. dimples, isolated fragments of skin (atrophic);
2. lumps, convex lesions accompanied by erythema (hypertrophic);
3. certain areas of the skin have increased pigmentation (dyschromia).

Most often, post-acne appears in the form of atrophic scars. They can be round, square or chipped in shape. The first two types can be eliminated quite easily. And chipped ones are the most problematic, since their base is localized deep in the dermis.

Post-acne treatment

Doctors at our center individually determine the number of laser procedures depending on the severity of scar changes and the characteristics of the patient’s skin. In some cases, 1 session is enough, while in others, the desired result can be achieved only after 3-4 repetitions. If you follow the above recommendations, laser correction of acne marks gives a pronounced effect at any time of the year.

In our clinic, all manipulations are carried out by qualified cosmetologists using advanced equipment and sterile consumables. Just a few procedures performed by professionals will help significantly improve the condition of your skin and get rid of complexes associated with post-acne.

Options for dealing with acne marks

The problem of acne marks is solved in various ways. The success of manipulation depends on the age of the pathological elements, their size and shape. Regardless of the chosen treatment method and remedy, you should understand that the process of getting rid of acne marks is not quick. In addition, it is advisable to consult a cosmetologist and dermatologist about this.

First of all, if you have acne marks, it is important to learn how to deeply cleanse the skin and stimulate its renewal. Particular attention should be paid to enlarged pores and wisely select products that regulate sebum secretion. Although skin with post-acne elements needs high-quality cleansing, it is important that it is not aggressive. You need to choose products with clay or acids, without large and sharp abrasive particles.

If dyschromia bothers you after acne, then it is advisable to use peels with acids, as well as cosmetics containing lightening ingredients. The components of such products must be non-comedogenic so that new rashes are not provoked. Acne scars are more difficult to deal with, but it is quite possible, you just have to be patient. In our review, we have collected the best pharmaceutical and cosmetic products for acne marks.

The best pharmaceutical remedies for acne marks

Pharmacies sell special gels, creams and ointments that effectively combat skin imperfections, including the presence of acne marks. They can be purchased without a prescription, but it is still better to consult a dermatologist or family doctor about them first.

Contractubex

Rating: 4.9

The German pharmaceutical company Merz Pharma produces the drug Contractubex. It contains 3 active ingredients: liquid onion extract, heparin, allantoin. This remedy effectively eliminates inflammation, resolves blood clots, and exfoliates dead cells from the surface of the skin. The drug has a wide range of uses, including atrophic scars (acne marks).

Contractubex is available in aluminum tubes of 20 or 50 g. The product is a matte gel of yellowish or light brown color with a characteristic odor. It spreads easily and dries quite quickly on the skin, forming a thin transparent film. This drug is used sparingly. However, if you have old and pronounced acne marks, this remedy will have to be used for quite a long time.

According to reviews, Contractubex copes quite effectively with marks that appear after acne or furunculosis. The bluish and red marks after acne noticeably fade within the first month of using this drug. And if you continue to use it, you can significantly even out the relief of the skin. This gel is usually well tolerated, but some individuals may experience itching and erythema at the site of application.

Advantages

• well thought out composition;
• the gel is easily distributed over pathological lesions;
• is used sparingly;
• lightens acne marks;
• with prolonged use, it evens out the relief.

Flaws

• may cause itching and erythema at the site of application.

Solcoseryl

Rating: 4.8

A Swiss pharmaceutical company produces the drug Solcoseryl. It contains deproteinized dialysate from the blood of dairy calves, which activates repair and regeneration processes in damaged tissues. This remedy has many indications for use. Among other things, some use it to remove acne marks.

Solcoseryl is a homogeneous, fairly dense gel. It is colorless and transparent. It has a specific, characteristic smell of meat broth. It is placed in aluminum tubes of 20 g. The gel is easily distributed over the skin, is quickly absorbed, and after drying forms a thin, transparent film. The consumption of the product is quite economical.

In reviews, consumers report that Solcoseryl is ideal in cases where a pimple has been squeezed out, and in its place a wound has formed that constantly bleeds and does not heal. With this gel, such lesions are regenerated in a week, and after a month there are no traces left of them. Usually, using this product is very comfortable, but occasionally a short-term burning sensation may be observed at the site of application.

Advantages

• actively repairs and regenerates damaged tissues;
• comfortable gel to use;
• economically used;
• copes with long-term non-healing wounds after acne.

Flaws

• may cause a short-term burning sensation.

Allergy to facial cosmetics

No one is immune from an allergic reaction to cosmetics. It can appear only once when using a new remedy or as a persistent manifestation.

The average number of cosmetics a person uses per day is increasing. And the number of allergic reactions to them logically increases. Allergy sufferers, as well as people with dry, thin and hypersensitive skin, are at risk.

An allergy to cosmetics can occur in any part of the body, but more often a local reaction to the use of a cosmetic product occurs. And this is usually the skin of the face. After all, it is she who is tested every day, especially among the fair sex who use decorative cosmetics regularly:

• blush;
• ink;
• contour pencil;
• eyeliner and lip liner;
• eye shadow;
• lipstick.

Consumers often take recommendations for the use of cosmetics lightly.

For example, on a jar of cream or a tube of mascara there is a designation in the form of a round box with a slightly open lid. This box is always marked with a number (usually 6m or 12m), which indicates the maximum period for using the product after opening the package. The shelf life may be several years, but after opening such cosmetics can only be used for 6 or 12 months. Violation of deadlines often provokes skin irritation.

The body's negative reaction to cosmetics varies from person to person. For some, it occurs even with proper use. However, allergies do not always appear immediately. Several hours and days may pass from the moment you use the wrong mascara or cream. In such cases, it is very difficult to immediately understand what exactly the reaction was.

The main symptoms that indicate involvement in the occurrence of allergies:

• redness of the skin (may be accompanied by itching);
• tingling or burning (both symptoms may occur at the same time).
• swelling (most often in the eye area);
• lacrimation, conjunctivitis (the white of the eye becomes covered with a fine network of red vessels, purulent discharge appears).

Allergic manifestations are divided into two types - uncomplicated and allergic dermatitis. The simple form is more common.

Simple dermatitis is more common. Among its symptoms:

• increased sensitivity of the skin, as with a minor burn;
• There may be slight swelling of the affected areas, dryness and flaking of the skin, a small pink rash, and watery blisters.

The listed manifestations can occur either individually or all at once, or alternate.

Allergic dermatitis does not depend on the shelf life, and manifests itself as a result of a special reaction of the body to a specific component. Symptoms resemble simple dermatitis, but with an allergic runny nose, lacrimation and dark circles under the eyes. And the manifestations are not limited only to the place where the cosmetic product is applied: spots, rashes, and swelling are observed throughout the body.

Allergies to some substances occur most often:

Preservatives

Preservatives are aggressive allergenic substances. They are used to extend shelf life. Most often, manufacturers prefer salicylic or benzoic acids.

Dyes

Not a single cosmetic product can do without them. The more intense the color of lipstick, eye shadow or blush, the more aggressive the allergen. People with dry, sensitive skin and allergy sufferers should choose cosmetics based on natural ingredients. In this case, the tone of lipstick, eye shadow or blush should be neutral. The lighter the product, the less dyes and risks of irritation1.

Whitening agents

Elements for lightening and whitening the skin are contained in special creams and lotions for the face. Cosmetics manufacturers use hydrogen peroxide and hydroquinone as bleaches, which have already been banned in some countries due to increased toxicity. When choosing whitening creams, pay special attention to the composition of the product.

Fragrances

Fragrances give products a pleasant aroma. They are natural and artificial. The first ones, as a rule, are hypoallergenic, but among them there are substances to which allergies can occur.

Artificial components are more aggressive. Professionals recommend taking the choice of cosmetics very seriously. The likelihood that the fragrance is synthetic increases in proportion to the decrease in the cost of the product.

Dietary supplements

Dietary supplements that are added to cosmetic products can cause allergies, even if they are natural. The principle of production of dietary supplements is the concentration of substances from plants, seeds and fruits. There are extracts of animal origin. In the cosmetic industry, bioadditives are used in the production of anti-wrinkle creams and are designed to activate natural regenerative processes in the subcutaneous layers. This is not bad, but you need to remember that hyaluronic acid and collagen can cause severe irritation in people prone to allergies.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a volatile chemical compound. Found in medicinal nail coatings. On the one hand, varnish has nothing to do with facial cosmetics, on the other hand, formaldehyde vapors enter the respiratory tract and cause negative consequences. In extreme cases, this can even lead to angioedema or anaphylactic shock2.

The best cosmetics for acne marks

Various cosmetic companies produce all kinds of products aimed at combating acne marks. The range of such products includes serums, gels, creams. Everyone will be able to choose the best option for themselves.

Clarins Mission Perfection Serum

Rating: 4.9

The French brand Clarins has developed a serum to even out skin tone, Mission Perfection Serum. It contains ginkgo biloba extract, which improves local blood circulation, soothes damaged skin and has an antioxidant effect. Wild cherry extract effectively evens out skin tone, eliminates acne marks, and enhances light reflection.

Serum from Clarins is in a plastic tube (30 ml) with a pump dispenser. The product has a pleasant, light coral-colored texture with small reflective particles. The aroma of the serum is unobtrusive, very pleasant, floral. The product is very quickly absorbed by the skin without leaving a sticky residue. It is used quite economically.

From the experience of consumers, we can conclude that this product is better suited for those with dry skin types, but for oily skin types it will be a little heavy. This product perfectly evens out the tone and adds radiance without changing the natural shade of the skin. If you have old acne marks, it will take longer to see results, but they will definitely come.

Advantages

• good combination of active ingredients;
• pleasant texture and aroma;
• convenient bottle with dispenser;
• is used sparingly;
• absorbs quickly without traces of stickiness;
• makes the skin velvety and soft;
• Lightens old acne marks.

Flaws

• not suitable for oily skin.

Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

Rating: 4.8

The legendary American brand Kiehl's produces Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution facial serum. This product includes: ascorbic acid (evens out tone, improves complexion), white birch extract (replenishes moisture and essential nutrients), peony extract (regulates melanin production). It does not contain: silicones, parabens, synthetic dyes, fragrances.

This product from Kiehl's comes in a 30 ml clear glass bottle. It has a dosing pipette, but the rubber on it becomes deformed over time, so it may be difficult to open the bottle and can even be damaged if moved carelessly. It is recommended to store the bottle in a place protected from light. The consistency of the serum is viscous, the color is transparent, the smell is light, floral. It is recommended to apply the product directly to acne marks.

According to reviews, if the stain appeared recently, it becomes lighter after 1-2 applications. Week-old marks are lightened in 7-10 applications. When using this serum during the day, be sure to apply Sanskrins on top of it. The product is easy to apply, quickly absorbed, and does not leave a sticky film. It heals traces of inflammation and visibly evens out the complexion.

Advantages

• contains powerful antioxidants;
• there are no harmful components in the composition;
• spreads easily over the skin;
• absorbs quickly without sticky film;
• lightens acne marks well;
• evens out skin tone.

Flaws

• The elastic band on the pipette becomes deformed over time.

The Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2%

Rating: 4.7

Canadian brand The Ordinary has developed a brightening facial serum, Alpha Arbutin 2%. This product contains alpha arbutin, which lightens age spots caused by hormonal imbalance, acne, and improves skin tone. To achieve maximum results, it is advisable to combine this serum with products that contain vitamin C.

This cosmetic product from The Ordinary is produced in a glass tube (30 ml) with a screw-on pipette cap. The consistency of the serum is quite thick, colorless, and transparent. The product does not have a strong odor. This product is easy to apply to the skin. But after it is absorbed, a slight feeling of tightness and stickiness remains. This discomfort goes away if you apply cream on top.

According to reviews, this serum from The Ordinary does a good job of lightening acne marks. This product has a noticeable anti-inflammatory effect. It lightens age spots, whitens and evens out skin tone. Some consumers even note that this serum helped them smooth out shallow wrinkles.

Advantages

• contains alpha arbutin;
• convenient bottle with pipette;
• spreads easily over the skin;
• It does a good job of lightening acne marks;
• has an anti-inflammatory effect;
• smoothes out shallow wrinkles.

Flaws

• It tightens the skin a little after application.

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo +

Rating: 4.7

The French dermatocosmetics brand La Roche Posay produces the Effaclar Duo + corrective product. Among its active ingredients are the following: thermal water, glycerin of plant origin, niacinamide, zinc, procerad (helps reduce post-acne marks in the form of red and dark spots), mannose, lipo-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid, piroctone olamine. This product solves various problems of oily skin.

La Roche Posay Effaclar Duo + is available in plastic tubes of 15 or 30 ml. They have a long spout for easy dosing. The product has a light texture, with a consistency reminiscent of a cream-gel. The smell of the product is not intrusive, but quite specific. The cream-gel spreads easily over the skin. After it is absorbed, there is no sticky film or greasy shine left.

This French cosmetic product effectively eliminates all possible manifestations characteristic of problem skin. It perfectly cleanses clogged pores and makes the skin smoother. The cream-gel copes with severe forms of acne and eliminates acne marks. Due to the presence of thermal water, it effectively softens and soothes the skin.

Advantages

• all components of the composition complement each other well;
• the texture is very light;
• comfortable tube with a long spout;
• absorbed by the epidermis very quickly;
• does not make the skin sticky or oily;
• corrects severe forms of acne;
• eliminates acne marks.

Flaws

• at the beginning of use, it may worsen rashes on the face.

Avene Cuivre-Zinc Cicalfate Repair Cream

Rating: 4.7

The French brand Avene produces Cuivre-Zinc Cicalfate restorative cream. This product is enriched with the following components: thermal water, copper sulfate, zinc sulfate, micronized sucralfate. It is suitable for sensitive, irritated, damaged skin of both adults and children. Some people use it to combat acne marks.

This product from Avene is available in a metal tube (40 ml) with a fairly wide neck and a screw cap. The product has a very thick, white consistency. The product does not have a pronounced odor. The cream spreads easily over the skin, but takes quite a long time to absorb (about 10 minutes). It is used very economically.

According to reviews, this product from Avene has excellent healing functions. It quickly returns a feeling of comfort to damaged skin, eliminating itching, peeling, and irritation. This product does not completely get rid of post-acne marks, but it does lighten them significantly. But consumers note that it is better to use it spot on and at night. This cream is a bit heavy for daytime use.

Advantages

• intensively restores damaged skin;
• has no smell;
• is used sparingly;
• perfectly heals damaged skin;
• smooths out acne marks.

Flaws

• takes a long time to absorb.

Arabia Regenerating Azelaic Elixir

Rating: 4.6

The Russian brand Aravia produces regenerating gel Regenerating Azelaic Elixir. This cosmetic product contains: azelaic acid, a complex of fruit AHA acids and allantoin. This product actively fights germs and relieves inflammation on problem skin. It stimulates regeneration processes and activates the renewal of dermal cells.

Regenerating Azelaic Elixir is sold in a white plastic bottle with a pump dispenser. The latter has a convenient groove for the finger, but since it is quite tight, you need to get used to it. The consistency of the product is gel-like, quite dense. It is white and translucent. The aroma is pleasant, reminiscent of grapefruit. The product is easily distributed over the skin. A slight tingling sensation may be felt during use.

Consumers share that after using this gel, the skin becomes smooth and soft, and there is also a slight peeling effect. With regular use of this product, acne marks will noticeably lighten. This cosmetic gel reduces the rate of sebaceous secretion, as a result of which the skin remains clean and fresh, and acne does not develop.

Advantages

• has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects;
• pleasant aroma;
• easily distributed over the skin;
• significantly lightens acne marks;
• makes skin clean and fresh.

Flaws

• you need to adapt to the dispenser.

Mizon Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot

Rating: 4.5

The Korean brand Mizon has developed a medicinal product, Acence Blemish Out Pink Spot. This cosmetic product is two-phase. It consists of lotion and powder. The liquid part contains: salicylic, glycolic acids, as well as extracts of lemon, raspberry, ivy. The powder contains zinc and iron oxides, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.

This product from Mizon is sold in small bottles (30 ml) made of frosted glass. The product must sit before use. Then the cotton swab is immersed in the bottle. The liquid lotion is absorbed into the entire cotton wool, and the pink powder is collected only on the tip. The product is applied pointwise to inflammation or acne marks, leaving dense beige-pink spots.

This Korean remedy dries and soothes the skin. Its effect is especially noticeable on pimples that become weeping and persist for a long time. This product does not irritate or dry out the skin. It effectively eliminates old acne marks. The product prevents the development of inflammation in the future.

Advantages

• powerful components of the composition;
• unusual two-phase consistency;
• is used sparingly;
• dries quickly on the skin;
• eliminates acne marks;
• has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Flaws

• has a rich camphor aroma.

Janssen Cosmetics All Skin Needs Scar Cream

Rating: 4.5

The German brand Janssen Cosmetics produces a cream for scarring on the skin All Skin Needs. This product contains: oriental sigesbeckia, vitamins C and E, oily mango seed extract, octyldodecanol. This cosmetic product can be used to care for damaged skin. Its use is also appropriate in the fight against acne marks.

Cream from Janssen Cosmetics is sold in plastic tubes (75 ml). It is extracted from it using a lid with a flip-top system. The product has a light, creamy texture. It is very pliable when applied to the skin. This cream is recommended to be used after cleansing and toning, directly on the area of ​​pronounced acne marks. It should be rubbed in with gentle, massaging movements.

Many speak well of this German remedy. They love how this cream improves the condition of the skin in areas of scarring. This product effectively eliminates inflammatory processes, perfectly nourishes the skin and makes it softer. This product is comfortable to use - it does not cause irritation, peeling of the skin, and does not leave a sticky film.

Advantages

• pleasant texture to use;
• unobtrusive fragrance;
• economically used;
• effectively fights acne marks;
• moisturizes and softens the skin.

Flaws

• not identified.

Levrana Re-Fresh

Rating: 4.4

The Russian brand Levrana produces Re-Fresh facial serum. This product contains lactic acid, which very gently exfoliates the stratum corneum, makes the skin tone more even, helps eliminate acne marks, and reduces hyperpigmentation. And aloe vera gel and calendula hydrolate present in the composition relieve the inflammatory process and also reduce irritation caused by lactic acid.

Levrana serum is sold in dark glass bottles with a special pipette for collecting the product. The consistency of the product resembles viscous, cloudy water. The smell of this serum is quite strong and pharmaceutical. This product is quickly absorbed, but after it a feeling of tightness appears on the face and the skin needs to apply cream.

The serum from Levrana guarantees excellent results, but you need to be patient. With a course of use of this product, the relief of the skin becomes smooth, unpleasant bumps disappear, and the skin becomes smooth and pleasant to the touch. Even old acne marks lighten and completely disappear with the systematic use of this serum.

Advantages

• convenient bottle with pipette;
• can be used for any skin type;
• regulates sebum secretion;
• eliminates major skin problems;
• makes the terrain more even.

Flaws

• specific aroma.

Important!

In a beauty salon, pigment spots that have formed from ultraviolet rays are removed. Sometimes pigmentation appears as a result of internal changes in the body. This may be due to gynecology, cholecystitis or intestinal dysbiosis. In this case, the cosmetic procedure will relieve stains only for a short time. A preliminary examination will allow you to achieve a longer lasting result.

It is better to undergo the pigmentation cleaning procedure in autumn or winter. It is important that the sun does not fall on your face after the procedure. Otherwise, the skin will turn white and the spots will remain forever. After the procedure, you need to carefully monitor your face. The skin should be lubricated with sunscreen several times a day. If you ignore regular care, you will have to make another appointment with a cosmetologist. There is a high risk of getting even more age spots.