While most people experience acne as teenagers, it can be frustrating to find that those breakouts don’t stop in adulthood. According to clinical research, acne affects as much as 50% of women and 40% of men over the age of 25 [1]. So, it’s safe to say that those of us with acne-prone skin as an adult are in good company.
But, that’s not to say that you’re stuck with acne for life. Thanks to constant advancements in the skincare industry, there are numerous products for acne-prone skin that can simultaneously fight breakouts and signs of aging.
Here, we’re happy to introduce you to the best anti-aging products for acne-prone skin. By incorporating some of these skincare solutions into your beauty regimen, you can start working toward clear, youthful-looking skin.
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Contents
- The Best Anti-Wrinkle and Anti-Blemish Treatment: LifeCell All-In-One Skin-Tightening Treatment
- The Best Anti-Aging Serum With Retinol and Vitamin B3: La Roche-Posay Retinol B3
- The Best Salicylic Acid Serum for Aging Skin: Dermalogica Age Bright Clearing Serum
- The Best Vitamin C Serum for Aging, Acne-Prone Skin: Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
- The Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Oily Acne-Prone Skin: Murad Anti-Aging Moisturizer For Blemish-Prone Skin
- The Best Oil-Free Anti-Aging Moisturizer: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
- The Best Non-Comedogenic Anti-Aging Cream To Wear at Night: Olay Regenerist Retinol24 + Peptide Night Moisturizer
- The Best Mature Skin Acne Treatment for Breakouts: Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment
- The Best Face Mask for Skin Irritation and Signs of Aging: First Aid Beauty 5-in-1 Bouncy Mask
- The Best Skin Care Line for Aging and Acne: Clinique Acne Solutions
- The Most Effective Ingredients for Acne, Redness, and Aging Skin
- FAQ
- Conclusion: Selecting Products To Fight Acne and Aging in Your Skincare Routine
The Best Anti-Wrinkle and Anti-Blemish Treatment: LifeCell All-In-One Skin-Tightening Treatment
The LifeCell All-In-One Skin-Tightening Treatment is a unique product that tackles skin aging from multiple angles. The cream is appropriate for all skin types, making it a smart choice for adults suffering from both acne and signs of aging. Rest assured, the formula is non-comedogenic, meaning that it won’t clog pores.
LifeCell has packed some of the most potent anti-aging ingredients into this all-in-one treatment, including:
- DMAE
DMAE is short for dimethylethanolamine. This compound is naturally found in the body, but it’s also administered as a supplement to help treat conditions including depression, ADHD, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. This is because it’s thought to provide memory and mood-boosting benefits [2].
In the world of skincare, DMAE is thought to improve skin firmness, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and have anti-inflammatory benefits [3].
- Retinol
Retinol is a form of vitamin A and a type of retinoid. It’s considered one of the top skincare ingredients for both signs of aging and acne.
When it’s used regularly, retinol fights free radical damage, boosts elastin and collagen production, and speeds up skin cell turnover. These effects help heal the skin, regulate the skin cell cycle, and reduce the appearance of imperfections (such as fine lines and hyperpigmentation) [4].
- Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the body. Its primary function is to keep tissue cells hydrated. When it’s applied to the skin, hyaluronic acid acts as a powerful moisturizing ingredient.
As people age, their bodies naturally produce less hyaluronic acid. By adding it to your skincare routine, you can prevent dry skin and decrease the appearance of fine lines [5].
- Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that brightens, heals, and reduces inflammation in the skin. It can diminish the appearance of acne scarring while restoring the skin’s youthful glow [6].
In addition to these proven rejuvenating ingredients, the LifeCell All-In-One Skin-Tightening Treatment contains microfillers and light-reflecting microtechnology to further diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Safe for all skin types
- Non-comedogenic
- Contains potent anti-aging ingredients including DMAE, retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid
Cons:
- More expensive than other products on this list
- Retinol increases sun sensitivity
The Best Anti-Aging Serum With Retinol and Vitamin B3: La Roche-Posay Retinol B3
For a highly concentrated anti-aging serum to help prevent breakouts, the Retinol B3 Serum from La Roche Posay is a great option. This concentrated anti-wrinkle serum is designed to reduce signs of premature skin aging with a soothing, resurfacing formula.
The key ingredients in the Retinol B3 Serum are, as you likely guessed, pure retinol and vitamin B3. However, it also contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, dimethicone, and La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water.
- Retinol improves skin cell turnover and reduces the appearance of fine lines.
- Vitamin B3 in the form of niacinamide has a soothing effect on the skin. It can restore the skin barrier and diminish discoloration.
- Hyaluronic acid improves the skin’s ability to retain moisture.
- Dimethicone acts as a skin protectant and prevents water loss.
- La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water is rich in minerals, trace elements, and selenium, which has antioxidant properties.
La Roche-Posay recommends that users apply 3 to 4 drops of this serum to the face and neck every evening. With consistent use, the Retinol B3 Serum can smooth, soothe, and resurface the skin.
Pros:
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben-free and gluten-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Lightweight formula
- Pure retinol and vitamin B3 can improve the look and feel of aging, acne-prone skin
Cons:
- Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin
- Retinol increases sun sensitivity
The Best Salicylic Acid Serum for Aging Skin: Dermalogica Age Bright Clearing Serum
The Dermalogica Age Bright Clearing Serum tackles both hormonal acne breakouts and signs of aging in one topical product. Clinical results from Dermalogica have shown that this highly-concentrated serum can give the skin a more radiant, uniform, and clear complexion within 4 weeks [7].
There are 4 key ingredients in the Dermalogica Age Bright Clearing Serum:
- Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is commonly used to treat acne because it can reduce inflammation and redness while unclogging pores.
- AGE Bright™ Complex
Unique to Dermalogica, the AGE Bright™ Complex can help clear and brighten your complexion. It works with your skin’s natural microbiome, which consists of trillions of microorganisms. By maintaining a healthy skin microbiome, you can keep inflammation in check [8].
- Phytoactives from the Resurrection Plant
The resurrection plant is a desert plant species that can withstand severe dehydration [9]. Phytoactives from this plant are included in the Age Bright Clearing Serum to deeply hydrate the skin.
- Niacinamide and white shiitake mushroom
Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, and white shiitake mushroom, a rich natural source of kojic acid, work together to create a brighter, more even skin tone [10].
Pros:
- Paraben-free and gluten-free
- Contains salicylic acid, a proven acne treatment
- The AGE Bright™ Complex works with the skin microbiome
- Niacinamide, white shiitake mushroom, and plant phytoactives help brighten, hydrate, and even out the skin
- Can provide visible results in as little as 4 weeks
Cons:
- Has a sticky texture
- More expensive than other products on this list
The Best Vitamin C Serum for Aging, Acne-Prone Skin: Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is a powerhouse ingredient for both acne-prone and aging skin. The Mad Hippie Vitamin Serum harnesses the power of this redness-reducing antioxidant in a concentrated, award-winning serum.
The Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum contains vitamin C in the form of sodium ascorbyl phosphate. This is a less common form of vitamin c – most skincare products contain L-ascorbic acid instead. But, sodium ascorbyl phosphate is more stable, providing a lower risk of irritation and oxidation.
Along with sodium ascorbyl phosphate, this serum contains:
- Vitamin E, an antioxidant that can help fade discoloration and facial lines
- Ferulic acid, a natural antioxidant found in plants that can have compounding antioxidant properties with vitamins C and E
- Hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and plumps the skin
- Konjac root, a nutrient-rich flower that smooths, softens and protects the skin
- Chamomile extract, a calming and protective ingredient
- Clary sage, which serves as a natural toner and astringent
Pros:
- Paraben-free and gluten-free
- Oil-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Rich in antioxidants that fight free radical damage and brighten the skin
- Contains sodium ascorbyl phosphate, a more stable form of vitamin C
Cons:
- May not remain smooth under makeup
The Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Oily Acne-Prone Skin: Murad Anti-Aging Moisturizer For Blemish-Prone Skin
The Murad Anti Aging Moisturizer SPF 30 PA++ For Blemish Prone Skin is a 3-in-1 product for deep hydration, acne control, and protection against premature aging. It features a lightweight, non-greasy formula with various anti-aging ingredients that won’t irritate acne-prone skin.
This skincare product is designed to protect the skin against UVA and UVB radiation with SPF 30 PA++. PA++ is a designation that’s used around the world to identify a high degree of protection against UVA rays, which are known to trigger premature skin aging.
Notable ingredients in the Murad Anti Aging Moisturizer For Blemish Prone Skin include:
- Kombucha defense with black tea ferment: a nutrient-rich ingredient that can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Phospholipids: naturally occurring fats that deeply hydrate the skin
- Yeast amino acids: a calming ingredient that can brighten, hydrate, and protect the skin against oxidative stress [11]
- Argan oil and sesame seed oil: natural oils with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Tea tree oil: a commonly-used ingredient in acne treatments that can manage bacteria and inflammation in the skin
Pros:
- Paraben-free
- Formulated specifically for acne-prone skin
- Contains SPF 30 PA++ for protection against sun damage
- Contains hydrating ingredients with anti-aging properties
Cons:
- Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin
The Best Oil-Free Anti-Aging Moisturizer: CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30 is an oil-free cream designed with sensitive, acne-prone skin in mind. It’s non-comedogenic, so you can count on it to not cause clogged pores or breakouts.
This daily moisturizer from CeraVe contains a variety of ingredients designed to restore and protect the skin’s moisture barrier. These include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and 3 essential ceramides. Keeping the skin barrier intact is especially important for people using prescription acne medications, which can cause redness, dryness, and irritation.
- Hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the skin and throughout the body. It helps keep your skin plump, smooth, and hydrated.
- Niacinamide, or vitamin B3, bolsters the skin barrier and prevents moisture loss [12].
- 3 essential ceramides (which are found in all CeraVe products) further work to protect the skin barrier. CeraVe uses patented MVE technology to encapsulate ceramides, allowing for a slow, gradual release and efficient delivery.
The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion also contains broad-spectrum SPF 30 with InVisibleZinc™ Technology. This technology, which uses microfine zinc oxide, gives the cream a smooth, non-chalky finish.
Pros:
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Contains ingredients that protect the skin barrier
Cons:
- May not remain smooth under makeup
The Best Non-Comedogenic Anti-Aging Cream To Wear at Night: Olay Regenerist Retinol24 + Peptide Night Moisturizer
Aging, acne-prone skin needs a nourishing night cream to remain bright and healthy. The Olay Regenerist Retinol24 + Peptide Night Moisturizer is one night cream option that offers the benefits of retinol, peptides, and niacinamide.
This Olay moisturizer contains a proprietary formula with vitamin B3, retinol, and amino peptides. The cream is absorbed into the skin’s deep layers to gradually improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brighten age spots, and tighten pores.
- Olay’s proprietary retinoid complex can brighten and smooth the skin within 24 hours by increasing skin cell turnover and collagen production.
- Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) improves the skin’s moisture retention and helps remove dead skin cells
- Amino peptides help the skin produce essential proteins including collagen and elastin for stronger, healthier skin [13].
Pros:
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free and gluten-free
- Oil-free
- Contains retinol and vitamin B3, which can visibly brighten and rejuvenate the skin while preventing breakouts
Cons:
- Retinol increases sun sensitivity
The Best Mature Skin Acne Treatment for Breakouts: Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment
If you’re searching for an effective treatment for active breakouts, the Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment is an option to consider. It mimics in-office dermatologist light therapy for acne by using blue and red light wavelengths. But, unlike professional treatments, it’s highly affordable and easy to use from the comfort of your home.
This chemical-free, UV-free, and sensitive skin-friendly acne treatment works in two key ways:
- Blue light targets and fills acne-causing bacteria.
- Red light soothes inflammation to help the skin heal.
As an FDA-cleared, clinically-proven acne treatment, this Neutrogena light therapy tool can help women with aging skin safely manage breakouts.
Pros:
- Uses proven technology to fight acne breakouts
- A portable, affordable version of in-office dermatologist treatments
- Chemical-free
- UV-free
- FDA-approved
Cons:
- Doesn’t target signs of aging
- Results can vary from person to person
The Best Face Mask for Skin Irritation and Signs of Aging: First Aid Beauty 5-in-1 Bouncy Mask
The 5-in-1 Bouncy Mask from First Aid Beauty is designed to enhance the skin in 5 key ways: nourish, calm, firm, plump, and refine. With results in as little as 10 minutes, this sensitive skin-friendly mask leaves the skin looking plump and hydrated with a youthful glow.
The most notable ingredients in this dermatologist-tested face mask include:
- Rosebud extract
Rosebud extract is a natural botanical that helps shrink pores.
- Marine botanicals
Marine botanicals, namely benoitine, improve skin texture and diminish enlarged pores.
- Vitamin C
Vitamin C provides antioxidant properties for brighter, smoother, and wrinkle-free skin.
- Pepha®-Tight
This innovative, natural skincare ingredient contains microalgae that are cultivated in specialized photobioreactors. This results in a high concentration of amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, which help tighten and firm aging skin [14].
Pros:
- Paraben-free and gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Can soothe and calm acne breakouts
- Has a cooling effect on the skin
Cons:
- With marine ingredients, this mask has a slightly fishy smell, which is unpleasant for some users.
The Best Skin Care Line for Aging and Acne: Clinique Acne Solutions
If you’re seeking a complete skincare line to tackle aging, acne-prone skin, Clinique Acne Solutions is an option to consider. The line features a 3-step Clear Skin System with corresponding products, including:
- Cleansing Foam
This medicated cleanser contains 2% salicylic acid and acetyl glucosamine, both of which help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and manage breakouts. Laminaria saccharina extract also helps prevent excess oil, while caffeine, sea whip extract, and kola nut extract soothe the skin.
- Clarifying Lotion
This product is a liquid exfoliant designed to manage excess oil and unclog pores. It contains salicylic acid, acetyl glucosamine, and silica.
- Clinical Clearing Gel
This gel is a topical acne treatment that uses salicylic acid, laminaria saccharina extract, witch hazel, and benzalkonium chloride. The formula treats existing blemishes while preventing future breakouts.
Clinique offers 6 additional Acne Solutions products to complement the daily regimen, including:
- Cleansing Gel
- All-Over Clearing Treatment
- Acne + Line Correcting Serum
- Liquid Makeup
- Cleansing Bar For Face and Body
- Oil-Control Cleansing Mask
Pros:
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Contains salicylic acid, a proven acne treatment
Cons:
- Doesn’t directly target the aging process
- May dry out sensitive and dry skin types
The Most Effective Ingredients for Acne, Redness, and Aging Skin
Some of the best ingredients to look for in a moisturizer if you struggle with acne and signs of skin aging include:
Retinol
Retinol is recommended by dermatologists for both aging skin and acne breakouts. A natural form of vitamin A, retinol prevents acne by exfoliating the outer layer of the skin, which regulates skin cell turnover and prevents clogged pores. Retinol also stimulates collagen production in the skin, which helps diminish fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
Vitamin C and Vitamin E
Vitamin C and vitamin E are both powerful antioxidants that can brighten, soothe, and help heal the skin.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide supports skin cell development and is particularly helpful for inflammatory acne. It also protects against oxidative stress [15].
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid deeply hydrates and plumps the skin. It can also help limit sebum production to prevent acne [16].
FAQ
How do you treat aging acne-prone skin?
Aging, acne-prone skin can be effectively treated with ingredients that boost skin cell turnover, like retinol.
Which brands are the best for aging skin with breakouts?
The best brands for aging skin with breakouts are those that feature non-comedogenic products with anti-aging ingredients, such as LifeCell, La Roche-Posay, and CeraVe.
What’s the typical pricing for anti-aging products?
Anti-aging products can range from around $20 to over $100 in price.
Conclusion: Selecting Products To Fight Acne and Aging in Your Skincare Routine
Although adult acne can be discouraging, it’s manageable with a thoughtful skincare regimen. Here, we’ve detailed the best anti-aging products for acne-prone skin on the market today. Each of these products provides unique benefits for the health of your skin.
With powerhouse products like the LifeCell All-In-One Skin-Tightening Treatment in your beauty routine, you can retain a youthful look while saying goodbye to acne once and for all.
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References
[1] https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/479093#ref-dob10212-2
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/senior-health/dmae#_noHeaderPrefixedContent
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15675889/
[4] https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-does-retinol-work#how-it-works
[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326385#uses-and-benefits
[6] https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-to-know-about-vitamin-c-serum-for-acne#:~:text=Vitamin%20C%20contains%20anti%2Dinflammatory,It%20may%20help%20reduce%20hyperpigmentation.[7] https://www.ulta.com/p/age-bright-clearing-serum-pimprod2006838
[8] https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/skin-microbiome
[9] https://www.britannica.com/plant/resurrection-plant
[10] https://www.dermstore.com/blog/top_ten/mushroom-benefits-for-skin/
[11] https://www.wellandgood.com/yeast-skin-care-products/
[12] https://www.cerave.com/ingredients-in-
[13] https://www.healthline.com/health/peptides-for-skin#:~:text=Peptides%20are%20amino%20acids%20that%20are%20the%20building%20blocks%20of,and%20maybe%20even%20fewer%20breakouts.cerave/niacinamide
[14] https://www.dsm.com/personal-care/en_US/products/skin-bioactives/pepha-tight.html
[15] https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/niacinamide#:~:text=Niacinamide%20helps%20build%20cells%20in,lesions%20and%20improved%20skin%20texture.
[16] https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/hyaluronic-acid-for-acne
