10 Best Acne Scar Treatments in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Salicylic acid is great for oily and acne-prone skin because it is an oil-loving, anti-inflammatory ingredient that breaks down dead skin cells and gets deep inside your pores, clearing out dirt and debris, and dissolving keratin plugs and comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). I recommend using products containing 1-2% of salicylic acid in any form that best suits your needs.

Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular weight amongst all the other alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), making penetration into the skin easy and more efficient. It breaks the bonds that hold skin cells, causing old skin cells to slough off, revealing new skin cells underneath. 

Glycolic acid can also stimulate collagen production and is good for most skin types, even those with dry skin. It is indicated for targeting uneven pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Lactic acid works similarly to glycolic acid, but it has a bigger molecular size and is unable to penetrate as deeply. This makes it more ideal for sensitive or reactive skin as it is less likely to cause irritation than other acids.

Niacinamide is beneficial in individuals with oily and acne-prone skin. One study reported that topical 4% niacinamide was effective in treating acne when used twice daily for 8 weeks, probably due to its anti-inflammatory effects and its ability to affect sebum production. 

Niacinamide also downregulates melanogenesis by interfering with the melanosome delivery that happens between keratinocytes and melanocytes. It downregulates the amount of melanosomes transferred by approximately 35–68% by interfering with keratinocyte phagocytosis, resulting in changes in pigment production and deposition.

Allantoin (aluminum dihydroxy allantoinate) is a compound extracted from plants, most often the comfrey plant, but it is also sometimes made in the labs. Allantoin is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hydrating, soothing, and healing properties. It is said to be good for all skin types and can be used on a daily basis.

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes oxidative stress and helps fight off free radicals that our body is exposed to. It is also beneficial in cell regeneration and repair and improves wound healing. When used in the morning, it offers protection against photo-aging. Vitamin C is also essential for collagen synthesis and is a good addition to an anti-aging regimen.

Creams and lotions are emulsions of oil-in-water or water-in-oil and are the most popular forms you will find in the market. Creams are generally thicker and more viscous than lotions. They can be used anywhere in the body including the face and neck. 

Gels are non-oily, non-comedogenic, easily absorbed, and are recommended for use in hair-bearing areas, and by individuals with oily skin.

Ointments, which are mostly made up of fats, waxes, oils, and hydrocarbons, are waterproof and are ideal in barrier-disrupted or really dry skin or when occlusion is required. However, they are sticky and can stain clothing, and are not recommended for use in moisture-bearing areas such as the intertriginous areas.

Serums are either water- or oil-based and are used to deliver active ingredients to the skin. They usually contain few ingredients with a specific purpose (e.g., vitamin C, peptides, etc.). Serums are usually applied to the face and neck, and they should be applied to freshly washed or cleaned skin.