mybest
Serums for acne-prone skin

Helping You Find the Best

Close
  1. TOP
  2. Beauty
  3. Skincare
  4. 10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
  • 10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 |  Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 |  Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 |  Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 |  Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 4
  • 10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 |  Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 5

10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Serums are a great choice for individuals with acne-prone skin as they provide a concentrated dose of active ingredients. This targeted approach helps address specific skin concerns and allows for quicker visible improvements.


We know that there's a multitude of options for serums for acne-prone skin, and choosing the best one can be overwhelming. Let's put an end to that today, as we have a buying guide with insights from Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz and our top 10 product recommendations. Now, let's get started!

Last updated 08/18/2023
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Expert
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz's Profile
…Continue reading
Editorial Team
Guide
mybest
Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

Editorial Team's Profile
…Continue reading
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Serum for Acne-Prone Skin - Buying Guide

When choosing serums for acne-prone skin, look for active ingredients that can address your skin concern, check the concentration to make sure your skin doesn't get irritated, and opt for oil-free based serums to prevent breakouts. Check out more pointers below.

1

Look for Active Ingredients That Can Address Your Skin Concern

The active ingredients in your serum are the stars of the show since they are what makes your serums work well for you. Remember to check what the bottle contains to see if the serum will truly be able to address acne-prone skin.

Retinol Can Help Unclog Pores and Control Sebum Production

Retinol Can Help Unclog Pores and Control Sebum Production

Acne usually occurs because of oil and dirt blocking the pores. This makes retinol an excellent ingredient because it unclogs pores and enables your skin to heal itself. It also reduces sebum production, which means that it controls the oil on your skin so that you will get fewer breakouts.


Retinol also reduces swelling and smoothens the skin, helping improve the appearance of acne marks and scars. Aside from treating acne, other benefits that you can get from retinol include reducing pigmentation and improving skin elasticity. 


Something to keep in mind, though, is that it’s a strong ingredient, so be careful when using it. For a gentler ingredient that can help calm acne, you can look for tea tree oil, witch hazel, and Centella Asiatica.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Acne 101: How does acne form?
  1. Skin cells accumulate in the pores
  2. Increased sebum/ oil production
  3. Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) thrive
  4. Inflammation develops

The great thing about retinoids (retinol included) is that it increases the cell turnover of the skin and controls oil production, thus, addressing step 1 and 2 in acne formation.

Exfoliate and Improve Skin Texture With AHAs and BHAs

Exfoliate and Improve Skin Texture With AHAs and BHAs

AHAs and BHAs are chemical exfoliators that remove dead skin cells for improved skin texture and decreased inflammation. AHAs slough off the top layer to reveal smoother skin and stimulate collagen production. A good AHA for acne is glycolic acid since it unclogs pores without drying out your skin.


Meanwhile, BHAs go deep into the surface of your skin to decrease oil production. It’s great for acne-prone skin because it addresses both excess sebum and clogged pores. It calms down skin redness and inflammation, too. Salicylic acid is a common BHA found in many products and is widely known to treat mild to moderate acne.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

AHAs such as glycolic acid work as great exfoliants. Did you know it reduces unwanted discoloration, stimulates collagen production, and hydrates the skin, too? BHA, like salicylic acid, is another mainstay in acne treatment, given its ability to reach deeper into those pores.

The new kid on the block is PHAs which act similarly to AHAs and BHAs but are particularly useful for those with sensitive skin. It has a larger molecular size, thus, penetrating the skin at a slower rate for less irritation.

Control Oil and Address Pigmentation Using Niacinamide

Control Oil and Address Pigmentation Using Niacinamide

Known as a star ingredient, niacinamide has a lot of good benefits for your skin, including treating acne. This is because it’s an anti-inflammatory agent and can inhibit oil production. Aside from that, it’s non-drying and less irritating compared to other anti-acne ingredients, so it’s safer for those with sensitive skin.


It can also reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, so niacinamide can address multiple skin concerns. If you’re not ready to try stronger ingredients or you just have mild acne, this is a good and gentle one to start with.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Niacinamide is dubbed the "jack-of-all-trades" in skincare, given its multiple benefits. However, remember niacinamide is not for everyone. Make sure to check the concentration of niacinamide. Studies have shown that for niacinamide, higher is not always better. Use tests have shown no irritation in concentrations up to 5% only.

Hyaluronic Acid Can Keep All Skin Types Hydrated

Hyaluronic Acid Can Keep All Skin Types Hydrated

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, which means that it brings moisture to the surface of your skin to make sure that it stays hydrated. Thus, it improves skin elasticity and helps the skin appear dewy and youthful. It works well with other ingredients, too, like other anti-acne acids or products.


Since keeping your skin moisturized is still a must no matter what your skin type is, hyaluronic acid is good to have in your arsenal of skincare products. This is especially important if you’re using topical treatments for your acne since those tend to be pretty powerful and can really dry out your skin.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

The tip for hyaluronic acid is to read the label! Hyaluronic acid comes in different sizes —higher molecular weight HA and lower molecular weight HA. In general, high molecular weight HA does not penetrate the skin as deeply compared to low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (e.g., sodium hyaluronate). If your skin is extra dry after applying a hyaluronic acid serum, you can even seal in the moisture by applying a moisturizing cream after!

Vitamin C for Healing Scars and Lightening Blemishes

Vitamin C for Healing Scars and Lightening Blemishes

Vitamin C has many benefits for your body, including your skin. First, it treats acne scars by increasing collagen production, which is vital for healing wounds and rebuilding new skin cells. It’s also a brightening agent that can address hyperpigmentation, so it can lighten dark marks brought about by acne.


It’s an anti-inflammatory agent as well and can help reduce redness and swelling. Overall, vitamin C is an all-around active ingredient that can address acne in multiple ways. Glutathione is another ingredient that can help lighten the skin, on top of other benefits.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Vitamin C is a crowd favorite amongst the topical vitamins of the skin and for a good reason! The great thing about vitamin C is it possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, at the same time, it can help reduce pigmentation. However, it is best to do a patch test first! Not everyone can tolerate Vitamin C, so you might want to start low by trying out 5% first

2

Check the Concentration of Your Serum to Make Sure Your Skin Doesn't Get Irritated

Check the Concentration of Your Serum to Make Sure Your Skin Doesn't Get Irritated

It’s important to check the concentration of your serum, more so if you’re new to using it. You need to start small and slow in introducing new products to your skin to avoid aggravating it. Use serums with lower concentrations of active ingredients before using ones with higher concentrations.


Make sure to do your research on the minimum concentration of the active ingredients that your serum has. For example, retinol will already be effective in concentrations as low as 0.01% to 0.03%. Meanwhile, hyaluronic acid is best used in concentrations lower than 2%. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Definitely checking the concentration of certain ingredients in skincare products is important. Remember, higher is not always better! Ingredients incorporated into skincare products typically undergo use tests that show at what percentage certain ingredients are effective without causing adverse effects such as irritation.

3

Steer Clear of Oil-Based Serums to Prevent Breakouts

Steer Clear of Oil-Based Serums to Prevent Breakouts

If you have acne-prone, oily, or even sensitive skin, it’s best to stay away from oil-based serums and make sure that the product you choose is non-comedogenic. This is to ensure that it won’t clog your pores and give you more breakouts. Instead, it’s best to go for water-based or oil-free serums.


Furthermore, it would be good if your serum only has a few ingredients or additives because the active ingredients are the most important components. To find out what type of serum a product is, read its description or packaging in full.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

In general, people with acne-prone and oily skin types would not only be able to benefit more but also generally tolerate water-based serums better. At the end of the day, it all boils down to listening to your skin!

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
Details
Amount
Active Ingredients
Concentration
Oil-Free
1

The Ordinary

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% 1枚目

Clears Out Pimples and Acne Marks for Blemish-Free Skin

60ml

Niacinamide, Zinc PCA

10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc

Yes

2

Good Molecules

Niacinamide Serum

Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum 1枚目

Get That Glow With A Weightless Serum that Melts Into Your Skin

30ml

Niacinamide, Tocopherol

10% Niacinamide

Yes

3

CeraVe

Resurfacing Retinol Serum

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum 1枚目

A Mild Yet Effective Retinol Serum for Sensitive Skin

30ml

Niacinamide, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramides

0.3% Retinol

Yes

4

Oxecure

Acne Defense Prebio Serum

Oxecure Acne Defense Prebio Serum 1枚目

Fade Post-Acne Marks Faster With a Gentle Serum

20ml

Botanical Extract Complex B, Dragon's Blood Extract, Encapsulated Prebiotics, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tea Tree Oil

Not Applicable

No

5

La Roche-Posay

Effaclar Ultra Concentre Face Serum

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Ultra Concentre Face Serum 1枚目

Combines Powerful Exfoliants to Reveal a Flawless Glow

30ml

Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Niacinamide

4.5% Tartaric Acid, 1.5% Salicylic Acid, 0.45% Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, 2% Niacinamide

Yes

6

Garnier

Bright Complete Anti-Acne Serum

Garnier Bright Complete Anti-Acne Serum 1枚目

Packed With Countless Benefits for Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin

15ml

Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Vitamin C, Lactic Acid, Phytic Acid

4% Vitamin C

Yes

7

COSRX

AC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum

COSRX AC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum 1枚目

Infused With Propolis to Help You Achieve Glass Skin

40ml

Propolis Extract, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tea Tree Leaf Oil

85.6% Propolis Extract, 4% Niacinamide

No

8

Some By Mi

AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Light

Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Light 1枚目

Exfoliate With AHA, BHA, and PHA to Clear Your Skin

50ml

Tea Tree Leaf Water, Cica Extract, Niacinamide, Madecassoside, Willow Bark Extract, Salicylic Acid, Lactobionic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Peppermint Oil

10,000ppm Tea Tree Leaf Water, 14.5% Centella asiatica

Yes

9

Face Republic

Calming Blemish Madecassoside Serum

Face Republic Calming Blemish Madecassoside Serum 1枚目

Say Goodbye to Troubled Skin With This Natural Solution

45ml

Tea Tree Leaf Extract, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Madecassoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cica Extract

1,000ppm Madecassoside, 5,000ppm Tea Tree Leaf Extract

Yes

10

Céleteque® DermoScience™

Acne Solutions Pore Minimizing Serum

Céleteque® DermoScience™  Acne Solutions Pore Minimizing Serum 1枚目

Infused With Japanese Rose Fruit to Improve Skin Texture

20ml

Japanese Rose Fruit Extract, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid

Not Applicable

Yes

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

The OrdinaryNiacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% Image 1
Source:kbeautycafe.com.ph
Reference price
From ₱860
Reference price
From ₱860

Clears Out Pimples and Acne Marks for Blemish-Free Skin

This serum is perfect for everyone, regardless of their skin type, because it's not greasy at all and gets absorbed quickly into the skin—thanks to its water-based formula. Plus, it contains two important ingredients, namely niacinamide which reduces inflammation and improves hyperpigmentation, as well as zinc PCA, which regulates oil production and fights off acne-causing bacteria. Best of all, it's free from irritating ingredients like alcohol, oil, and fragrance!

Reviews confirmed that this product delivers on all its promises to diminish acne scars, dark spots, and pores. However, this serum contains a high concentration of active ingredients, so it's important to start using it slowly and gradually. Apply a small amount to your face once a day and see how your skin reacts. If you experience any irritation, stop using the serum or dilute it with a moisturizer.

Amount60ml
Active IngredientsNiacinamide, Zinc PCA
Concentration10% Niacinamide, 1% Zinc
Oil-FreeYes
Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Good MoleculesNiacinamide Serum

Reference price
From ₱395

Get That Glow With A Weightless Serum that Melts Into Your Skin

Achieving a smooth and even complexion is effortless with Good Molecule’s Niacinamide Serum. This serum reinforces your skin barrier, shielding it from moisture loss and environmental damage. Additionally, it refines pores and enhances skin texture for a radiant and healthy appearance.

It also helps with acne as it controls sebum and has anti-bacterial properties to help fight breakouts. It has a lightweight texture that melts gently into the skin, allowing easy layering of other skincare products. However, note that this contains 10% niacinamide, so doing a patch test is advised before incorporating this into your routine to check for any irritation.
Amount30ml
Active IngredientsNiacinamide, Tocopherol
Concentration10% Niacinamide
Oil-FreeYes
No.3

CeraVeResurfacing Retinol Serum

Reference price
From ₱499

A Mild Yet Effective Retinol Serum for Sensitive Skin

If you're interested in trying retinol but have sensitive skin, this serum may be perfect for you. It contains gentle retinol that's less likely to cause irritation, as well as licorice root extract, which brightens the skin, and three essential ceramides, which help restore the skin's natural barrier. Plus, its lightweight and non-greasy texture makes it ideal for acne-prone and oily skin as well.

If you're new to using retinol, CeraVe recommends using this every third evening to avoid side effects such as redness and drying. Once you've built up tolerance, you can then increase use. Many satisfied users noticed smoother skin and improved appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with continued use.

Amount30ml
Active IngredientsNiacinamide, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramides
Concentration0.3% Retinol
Oil-FreeYes
No.4

OxecureAcne Defense Prebio Serum

Reference price
From ₱499

Fade Post-Acne Marks Faster With a Gentle Serum

If you're looking for a fragrance-free serum for your combination to oily, acne-prone skin, this prebiotic serum is for you. Formulated with Botanical Extract Complex B, Dragon's Blood, Encapsulated Prebiotics, Aloe vera extract, and Hyaluronic Acids, it reduces acne, fades dark spots, hydrates the skin, and improves skin health.

Users claimed that their post-acne marks are fading faster than they used to while using their product. They also said that it's natural to feel skeptical about trying a new product on sensitive skin, but you have nothing to worry about with this gentle serum that doesn't cause skin irritation. However, it's important to note that results may vary, so make sure to perform a patch test before use.

Amount20ml
Active IngredientsBotanical Extract Complex B, Dragon's Blood Extract, Encapsulated Prebiotics, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tea Tree Oil
ConcentrationNot Applicable
Oil-FreeNo
No.5

La Roche-PosayEffaclar Ultra Concentre Face Serum

Reference price
From ₱539.1

Combines Powerful Exfoliants to Reveal a Flawless Glow

This non-comedogenic, concentrated serum is specifically designed to be your ultimate ally in the battle against acne, giving your skin a beautiful glow. Packed with three powerful exfoliating acids (salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lipohydroxy acidーa salicylic acid derivative), as well as niacinamide, it's a real game-changer for acne-prone skin. These ingredients team up to gently dissolve those pesky dead skin cells and excess oil, effectively exfoliating the surface of your skin.


But there's more! Reviews claimed that it also does wonders in reducing the appearance of acne marks and scars. It's like a magic potion that fades past breakouts, leaving your skin looking smoother and clearer than ever. Just a heads up, you may experience some dryness or peeling at first, but this should subside after a few days.
Amount30ml
Active IngredientsGlycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Niacinamide
Concentration4.5% Tartaric Acid, 1.5% Salicylic Acid, 0.45% Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, 2% Niacinamide
Oil-FreeYes
No.6

GarnierBright Complete Anti-Acne Serum

Reference price
From ₱355.1

Packed With Countless Benefits for Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin

Whether you're looking to tackle dark spots and clogged pores or simply desire a radiant complexion, this serum can be your go-to solution. Its powerful formula combines four key active ingredients: vitamin C for brightening, salicylic acid for unclogging and refreshing your pores, niacinamide for soothing and reducing inflammation, and AHA for exfoliation, resulting in smoother and even-toned skin.

Based on reviews, it's clear that this serum is truly impressive as an all-in-one solution, particularly for individuals with sensitive and acne-prone skin. They noticed remarkable improvements in their skin, including reduced acne and diminished dark spots. However, some individuals expressed a demand for a fragrance-free version of the product that retains the same effective formula.
Amount15ml
Active IngredientsNiacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Vitamin C, Lactic Acid, Phytic Acid
Concentration4% Vitamin C
Oil-FreeYes
No.7

COSRXAC Collection Blemish Spot Clearing Serum

Reference price
From ₱945

Infused With Propolis to Help You Achieve Glass Skin

This lightweight serum harnesses the power of nature, featuring Cica, propolis extract, and niacinamide. Not only does it clear up acne but it also moisturizes, brightens, and soothes irritated skin and promotes cell regeneration. It contains madecassic acid, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid as well, which protect and strengthen the skin barrier. And you'll love that it's free from parabens, artificial fragrances, and artificial colors, and it won't clog your pores.

To use, simply apply a few drops to cleansed and toned skin, and feel free to use it as often as needed. People with a long-standing struggle with acne expressed their frustration at having tried numerous remedies over the years, yet this serum is the first thing that actually worked for their skin. They also discovered that propolis is actually highly effective in achieving clear and smooth skin.
Amount40ml
Active IngredientsPropolis Extract, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tea Tree Leaf Oil
Concentration85.6% Propolis Extract, 4% Niacinamide
Oil-FreeNo
No.8

Some By MiAHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum Light

Reference price
From ₱681

Exfoliate With AHA, BHA, and PHA to Clear Your Skin

The new and improved Some By Mi Miracle Serum is now lighter, which is gentle enough to use daily. Plus, it's free from harsh chemicals and irritants! This serum is made with tea tree leaf water and 14.5% Cica, which are regarded for their calming and anti-inflammatory properties. But that's not all! It also includes AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs that gently remove dead skin cells and unclog the pores.

There are a ton of positive reviews for the new formulation of this product. Users are particularly thrilled with how quickly it absorbs into their skin, leaving no greasy or oily residue behind, only a cooling sensation. Additionally, they appreciate its non-comedogenic formula, so they don't have to worry about clogged pores while using this serum.
Amount50ml
Active IngredientsTea Tree Leaf Water, Cica Extract, Niacinamide, Madecassoside, Willow Bark Extract, Salicylic Acid, Lactobionic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Peppermint Oil
Concentration10,000ppm Tea Tree Leaf Water, 14.5% Centella asiatica
Oil-FreeYes
No.9

Face RepublicCalming Blemish Madecassoside Serum

Reference price
From ₱594

Say Goodbye to Troubled Skin With This Natural Solution

Looking for a soothing serum for troubled, acne-prone skin? Face Republic's Calming Blemish Madecassoside Serum is the answer! Formulated with natural ingredients like madecassoside, tea tree extract, and Cica extract, this serum calms inflammation, reduces blemishes, and controls sebum production. Plus, it contains sodium hyaluronate to hydrate the skin. Also, its gentle formula is ideal for sensitive skin, as it's free from artificial fragrances and colors.

Just add it into your daily skincare routine after cleansing and toning, both in the morning and at night, to witness remarkable results. This product has been a game-changer for many users. They shared their experience, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing pimples and skin redness. They highly recommend it, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin.
Amount45ml
Active IngredientsTea Tree Leaf Extract, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Madecassoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cica Extract
Concentration1,000ppm Madecassoside, 5,000ppm Tea Tree Leaf Extract
Oil-FreeYes
No.10

Céleteque® DermoScience™ Acne Solutions Pore Minimizing Serum

Reference price
From ₱325

Infused With Japanese Rose Fruit to Improve Skin Texture

Combining the exfoliating power of salicylic acid and glycolic acid, this serum reduces acne and wrinkles at the same time. With the added benefits of Japanese rose fruit extract and witch hazel leaf extract, it tightens your pores and controls oil production. It shields your skin from free radicals, plus, it's suitable even for sensitive skin. Simply apply it after cleansing and toning, follow it up with moisturizer, and use it twice daily.

Reviews have raved about this holy grail product, particularly for those who have received recommendations from their dermatologists to opt for gentle solutions for acne. They noticed a significant improvement in their skin texture after using the serum. Another thing they loved was the absence of added fragrance in the formula.

Amount20ml
Active IngredientsJapanese Rose Fruit Extract, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid
ConcentrationNot Applicable
Oil-FreeYes

Expert's Comment About the Top 10 Products

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Applying skincare products in a particular order helps you reap the most benefits from the products. I highly recommend applying a moisturizer after your serum to ensure the actives in your serum are absorbed well into your skin, not to mention to lock in that extra moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz

Looking for more answers to your skin woes? We've got you covered! Read below for expert advice on how to stay on top of your skincare game.

What to Do Before Buying a Serum?

It's always a good idea to consult your board-certified dermatologist of choice before incorporating new products into your skincare regimen. So many factors come into play in selecting products that would suit each individual's skin and skin concerns—and they would be in the best position to give you advice.

Is It Better to Use a Different Serum in the Morning and at Night?

You can definitely maximize the benefits you get from certain ingredients incorporated into serums by applying them at a particular time of the day. For instance, applying Vitamin C in the morning enables you to maximize its antioxidant properties which help reduce UV-related sun damage.

Aside From Using Serums, What Else Can You Do to Care for Acne-Prone Skin?

Sunscreen and moisturizer are musts! Sunscreens are essential to provide the skin with the necessary protection from the harmful rays of the sun. Not to mention, they can help prevent the worsening of residual hyperpigmentation.

Moisturizers are equally important as they can help restore the natural barrier of the skin. Also, some of the serums containing retinol and/or AHAs or BHAs can be slightly drying, so adding a moisturizer would balance these effects out.

What Are Some "Don'ts" When Using Serums for Acne-Prone Skin?

Don't overdo it! Most of the time, people want a quick fix or immediate results. The best results come with patience and consistency.

Skincare Essentials for Acne-Prone Skin

Author: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz

Editor: R. Umlas

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Serums for Acne-Prone Skin

No. 1: The OrdinaryNiacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

No. 2: Good MoleculesNiacinamide Serum

No. 3: CeraVeResurfacing Retinol Serum

No. 4: OxecureAcne Defense Prebio Serum

No. 5: La Roche-PosayEffaclar Ultra Concentre Face Serum

View Full Ranking

When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
  1. TOP
  2. Beauty
  3. Skincare
  4. 10 Best Serums for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Search by category