Acne affects millions of people in India, cutting across age, gender, and skin type. Whether triggered by excess sebum, hormonal imbalances, clogged pores, sweat, humidity, or pollution—acne can feel frustrating and persistent.
Thankfully, the Indian skincare market offers highly effective acne creams formulated with clinical actives like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, retinol, and kojic acid.
This curated list covers the top 5 best acne and pimple creams in India, each known for delivering real results.
At number 5, you'll find Pure Bubbles Retinol Face Cream, recommended especially for acne-prone skin that also struggles with pigmentation and marks.
What Makes a Good Acne Cream?
Before choosing any acne treatment cream, ensure it:
-
Contains clinically proven actives
-
Targets acne-causing bacteria
-
Controls excess oil
-
Unclogs pores and prevents new breakouts
-
Reduces redness and inflammation
-
Does not irritate sensitive or oily skin
- Shows visible results with consistent use
Acne is often multi-layered, so selecting the right active ingredient is key.
Key Ingredients to Look for in Acne Creams and Gels
When buying an acne cream, look for these research-backed actives:
-
Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills acne bacteria and reduces swelling
-
Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates pores, ideal for oily and acne-prone skin
-
Adapalene: A retinoid for stubborn, recurring acne
-
Kojic Acid: Helps lighten acne marks and pigmentation
-
Glycolic Acid: Gently exfoliates and improves texture
-
Vitamin C: Brightens skin and fades post-acne spots
Top 5 Best Creams for Acne and Pimples in India
1. Benzac AC Gel (Benzoyl Peroxide)
Best For: Severe and active acne
Benzac AC Gel is widely recommended by dermatologists for moderate to severe acne. Its benzoyl peroxide concentration helps kill acne-causing bacteria, unclog pores, and reduce swelling. Best used on active, painful acne and whiteheads.
Why It Works
-
Reduces acne bacteria
-
Controls excess oil
-
Prevents new breakouts
2. Salicylic Acid Acne Control Gel (2%)
Best For: Oily skin, blackheads, whiteheads
Salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores, dissolving excess oil and dead skin cells. This gel helps control sebaceous activity and reduces comedones (blackheads & whiteheads).
Why It Works
-
Deep pore exfoliation
-
Reduces congestion
-
Prevents future breakouts
3. Differin Gel (Adapalene 0.1%)
Best For: Persistent, cystic, or hormonal acne
A dermatologist-approved retinoid, adapalene helps regulate skin cell turnover, preventing clogged pores and reducing inflammation. Effective for people who experience repeated cycles of acne.
Why It Works
-
Regulates cell turnover
-
Prevents pore blockage
-
Reduces swelling and redness
4. Kojivit Plus Cream
Best For: Acne marks and post-acne pigmentation
Kojivit Plus is formulated with kojic acid, arbutin, and vitamin C—ingredients known for reducing dark spots and brightening skin tone. This cream is best paired with acne treatments for reducing the leftover marks.
Why It Works
-
Lightens pigmentation
-
Fades acne spots
-
Evens skin tone
5. Pure Bubbles Retinol Face Cream – Best for Acne + Pigmentation + Anti-Ageing
Best For: Acne-prone skin with pigmentation, scars, dullness, or early ageing
Pure Bubbles Retinol Face Cream is a beginner-safe 0.3% retinol formula that not only prevents acne but also fades stubborn acne marks and improves skin texture. It supports barrier health while targeting multiple concerns at once.
Why It Works
-
0.3% pure retinol unclogs pores and reduces acne
-
Matrixyl 3000 and Ferulic Acid support skin repair
-
Ectoin and Shea Butter calm irritation and strengthen the barrier
-
Suitable for oily, sensitive, acne-prone, and combination skin
-
Helps with pigmentation, melasma, dark spots, wrinkles, and open pores
Who Should Use It
-
People with repeated acne flare-ups
-
Anyone with acne plus pigmentation
-
Beginners looking for a low-irritation retinol
-
Indian skin that reacts easily to strong actives
How to Use
Apply at night, 2–3 times a week. Always follow with moisturizer and use sunscreen daily.
FAQs: Best Acne and Pimple Creams in India
1. Which cream works fastest for acne?
Benzoyl peroxide-based gels like Benzac AC work quickest on active pimples by killing acne-causing bacteria.
2. Can retinol help in treating acne?
Yes. Retinol unclogs pores, reduces blackheads/whiteheads, and prevents new breakouts. Pure Bubbles Retinol Cream is ideal for acne-prone and pigmented skin.
3. Which acne cream is best for oily skin?
Salicylic acid gels (2%) and retinol creams work best for oily skin because they control oil and prevent clogged pores.
4. Can acne creams remove dark spots?
Yes, especially creams with retinol, kojic acid, and vitamin C. They fade marks and improve overall skin tone.
5. How long does acne cream take to work?
Most acne creams show results in 2–6 weeks. Retinol and adapalene may take 6–12 weeks but offer long-term benefits.