The best acne treatments for teens

NBC Selected independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.Skin CareAcne is most common in teen girls and boys — here’s how dermatologists recommend treating breakoutsThese over-the-counter products can help prevent breakouts and spot treat pimples when they pop up.Updated July 14, 2026, 7:39 PM EDTMili GodioUpdates EditorSkip to table of contents Dermatologists recommend foam-based cleansers for teens with oily and acne-prone skin. Kara Birnbaum / NBC In this articleOur top picksBest treatments for teen acneBest treatments for teen acneHow I picked the best teen acne treatmentsHow do you treat teen acne?Frequently asked questionsMeet our dermatology expertsWhy trust NBC Selected?See 5 MoreAcne affects an estimated 80 percent of people between ages 11 and 30 at some point in their lives, according to The National Institutes for Health. It’s most common in girls from the ages of 14 to 17, and affects boys a bit later (ages 16 to 19 years old).Acne can be one of the more anxiety-inducing parts of being a teenager, but most cases are entirely curable, says Dr. Mona Gohara, a dermatologist at Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut. I spoke to dermatologists about the best ways to treat teen breakouts and compiled a list of products that align with their guidance, including options we've used.Selected.Our top picksEditor's pickDifferin Acne Retinoid Treatment Gel Adapalene 0.1%$undefined$16.49AmazonLearn moreBest spot treatmentNeutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Spot Treatment Gel $9.68$13.39AmazonLearn moreBest foaming face washCeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser$undefined$16.97AmazonLearn moreTop foaming face and body washPanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash$undefined$10.67AmazonLearn moreBest exfoliating padsFirst Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads$undefined$39.00AmazonLearn moreBest pimple patchHero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Invisible+ Patch$undefined$17.99UltaLearn moreSee 3 MoreRelatedselectedselec...