Best Overall

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

$20

$19 at Amazon$92 at Sephora$92 at Nordstrom

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, lactic acid, green tea extract | Skin Type: Combination, oily, dry | Size: 30 treatments | Cruelty-Free: Yes

These incredibly popular peel pads are soaked in a dual AHA and BHA (beta hydroxy acid) exfoliating solution to dissolve dead surface cells and improve the look of skin tone, clarity, and texture. Also included is salicylic acid, which can dissolve oil within a pore and remove blackheads and acne. Dermatologist and founder Dr. Dennis Gross told Byrdie that these peel pads are an “effective and easy treatment to target congestion and uneven skin tone without sensitizing the skin, thanks to the unique two-step peel process.” It also has thousands of positive reviews on Sephora, so we know the Alpha Beta Universal Daily is a pretty safe bet for improving blackheads.

Shannon Bauer, former associate editorial director with combination skin (not shown): “These exfoliating acid pads are gentle enough for daily use, but I see great results using them just a few times per week. The two-step system leaves no stinging feeling or redness, yet it smooths texture and clears pores. I reach for these when I want a ’your skin looks amazing’ day because the two-minute treatments make my skin look so glowy and radiant.”

Best Budget

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA

$10 at Amazon$10 at SephoraView on Ulta

Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, Tasmanian pepper berry | Skin Type: Dry, combo, oily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

“Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% is an exfoliating formula for those who are experienced users of direct acids,” says Prudvi Mohan Kaka, former chief scientific officer at Deciem. “Lactic acid is a type of alpha-hydroxy acid, which is comedolytic and keratolytic in nature. This means that they function to promote exfoliation by loosening the topmost layer of dead skin, helping to even out skin tone and reduce textural irregularities,” he adds. 

There’s also the added benefit of hyaluronic acid, a humectant that increases skin moisture, resulting in a plumper, more supple complexion. We appreciate that the texture is lightweight and effectively exfoliates the skin, though beware that it can sting a bit when first applied (especially if you have sensitive skin).

Joline, tester with dry, acne-prone skin: “After only a few uses, I noticed a difference in my post-acne pigmentation. I had a small pimple that I’d picked at that was showing all the signs of sticking around for a while, but after using the acid, I could see that it was healing up quickly. My skin stayed clear the whole time I was using the peel, and it didn’t cause any new breakouts or clogged pores.”

Best Brightening

Glossier Solution

View on Glossier

Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 4.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This hard-working liquid exfoliator from Glossier contains a cocktail of exfoliating acids, plus niacinamide, glycerin, and aloe vera, to help fade discoloration, soothe, and calm the skin. Dermatologist Dr. Shammi Theesan tells us that this solution is a great alternative to physical scrubs, but the 10% concentration of three acid groups “might be a bit too intense to use regularly,” so be sure to start slow and build up use. We appreciate that it includes glycolic acid to improve the appearance of dark spots and create an overall brighter complexion. If you’re looking for a mess-free product to swipe on quickly and easily and layer into your skincare routine, this one is a great place to start.

Jenna, tester with normal skin: “This product leaves the skin smoother, brighter, and more radiant without being overly harsh or irritating—and it certainly doesn’t hurt that it’s affordable, too.”

Best Acne Treatment

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%

View on Ulta$14 at Target$17 at Walgreens

Key Ingredients: Adapalene | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Dr. Theesan tells Byrdie that this treatment from Differin contains adapalene, “a type of retinoid that comes in 0.1% or 0.3% concentration and works to improve skin clarity, luminosity, and reduce pores.” She further explains that adapalene has a more stable chemical structure than other retinoids (like tretinoin) and does not degrade when used alongside other acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide. So, if you’re dealing with serious acne, you can use it in conjunction with other active ingredients to reduce breakouts and refine your pores. We also appreciate that this formula, on its own, can help to improve various forms of acne, like whiteheads and raised blemishes, in addition to blackheads.

Bianca, tester with sensitive, acne-prone skin: “After eight days of use, I noticed that my chest felt smoother. I also noticed there were no neck pimples the week before my cycle.”

Best Mask

Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask

$60

$40 at Amazon

$60

$42 at Sephora$60 at Ulta

Key Ingredients: Pumpkin enzymes, AHA, aluminum oxide crystals | Skin Type: Dry, oily, combo, balanced | Size: 5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Reminiscent of the scent of real pumpkin pie, this popular and delicious-smelling face mask utilizes the power of pumpkin enzymes (as well as physical exfoliants and AHAs) to remove dead cells and smooth the skin’s surface. This triple exfoliating threat buffs away dry patches and helps improve the skin’s tone and texture; we appreciate that just a little of the formula goes a long way.

Alyssa Kaplan, editor with combination skin: “I’ve been using this mask for at least five years, and it’s one of the very few products that I refuse to swap out of my skincare rotation. I’ve dealt with enlarged pores on my nose for as long as I can remember, but when I’m diligent about using this mask weekly, they appear less noticeable. I also find that using it consistently helps me to maintain incredibly smooth, soft skin.”

Best Liquid Exfoliator

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

$37

$36 at Amazon$37 at SephoraView on Dermstore

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, green tea extract | Skin Type: Combination, oily, dry, balanced | Size: 1, 4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

You’d be hard-pressed to find a liquid exfoliant with more of a fan club than Paula’s Choice 2% BHA. With promises to sweep away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and visibly smooth wrinkles, the minimalist formula is simple and highly effective. Dermatologist Dr. Jo-Ann See, M.D., says that the concentration of salicylic acid is “just right,” and it doesn’t have many other potential irritants, which means it’s an excellent choice for sensitive or reactive skin.

Bianca, tester (not shown): “After a full week of use, I could feel and see the difference in my skin texture. I felt a little tingle on my skin the first night I applied the toner, but I woke up the next morning without any irritation or visible angry bumps. Lately, I can skip foundation and only wear concealers, which is always a sign that my skin is changing for the better.”

Best Quick Fix

Fresh Umbrian Clay Facial Mask

$62 at Sephora

$62

$44 at UltaView on Fresh.com

Key Ingredients: Umbrian clay, black tea, goji fruit extract | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 3.3 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

This Umbrian clay mask promises to minimize pores and shine without stripping or dulling the skin. Dr. Theesan recommends this option as a quick fix rather than a long-term skin solution. Why? Because the ingredient profile can’t permanently clear out the pores. “This is more of a temporary indulgence, and I don’t particularly see a long-term benefit,” she explains. “The initial sebum removal might result in rebound sebum overproduction, so just be sure to follow up with lightweight moisture.” If you’re looking for a product to help reduce the appearance of your pores before a special event, this is a great option.

Julian, tester with oily skin: “This mask felt great on my skin. It went on smoothly, had a spreadable texture, and reduced the oiliness of my skin. After using, my skin felt smooth, supple, and not overly dry.”

Best Cleanser

Murad Acne Control Clarifying Cleanser

$15

$14 at Amazon$29 at Sephora$29 at Ulta

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, green tea extract, camellia extract | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Cleansing your skin of excess oil and debris is essential to maintain a clear complexion. This powerful cleanser is formulated with 1.5% salicylic acid to exfoliate and treat breakouts gently, as well as green tea extract to soothe inflamed skin. Though it’s suitable for all skin types, it can be slightly drying, so we think it’s ideal for those prone to excess oil.

Alyssa Kaplan, editor: “I’ve been using this cleanser for years, both on my face and chest to treat and prevent breakouts, and I’ve found it to be extremely effective. It feels nice and cooling on the skin, and it helps to control my greasy T-zone and keep my pores looking minimal.”

Best Cleanser, Runner-Up

Bioderma Sensibio Foaming Gel

$20 at Amazon$25 at Ulta

$20

$11 at Dermstore

Key Ingredients: Micelles, vitamin E | Skin Type: Dry, combination | Size: 16.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you’re looking for a cleanser that will tackle congestion but perhaps doesn’t contain potent active ingredients like exfoliating acids, Dr. See also loves this simple option from Bioderma. “It’s best to avoid moisturizing cleansers that have high levels of paraffin, mineral oil, or fragrant ’natural’ oils because they can block pores, which can lead to acne,” she says. “This product is suitable for congested skin, plus it’s quite conditioning.” Also nice: It uses micelle technology, so it removes makeup, dirt, and oil efficiently. We also appreciate that it’s free of strong fragrances.

Kate, tester with normal/dry skin: “This face wash was gentle with minimal scent and caused no irritation or breakouts. It rinsed off clean, and my skin did not feel dry or greasy. I love that it removed all my makeup and left my face feeling cleansed but not tight.”