Best Acne Scar Treatments (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed

Acne scars can persist long after breakouts clear, affecting skin texture and confidence. The best acne scar treatments combine exfoliating acids, retinol, and brightening ingredients to fade discoloration, smooth texture, and promote skin renewal. This guide features effective products that address both post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) and textural scarring, helping you achieve smoother, more even-toned skin.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

• Best Overall: The INKEY List SuperSolutions 1% Retinol Serum – powerful scar fading
• Best Value: QRxLabs 15% Glycolic Acid Serum – effective exfoliation and brightening
• Best Premium: The INKEY List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum – advanced brightening

Quick Comparison

Product	Key Ingredients	Form	Scar Type	Best For
The INKEY List 1% Retinol Serum	Retinol, Peptides	Serum	All types	Texture and discoloration
QRxLabs 15% Glycolic Acid Serum	Glycolic Acid 15%	Serum	Dark spots, texture	Brightening and smoothing
The INKEY List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum	Vitamin C, EGF	Serum	Hyperpigmentation	Dark spot reduction
The INKEY List Azelaic Acid 10% Serum	Azelaic Acid 10%	Serum	Dark spots, texture	Gentle fading
Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum	Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide	Serum	Hyperpigmentation	Dark marks
QRxLabs Salicylic & Glycolic Acid Pads	2% Salicylic, 10% Glycolic	Pads	Texture, mild scars	Convenient exfoliation
Cetaphil Gentle Clear Acne Moisturizer	Kojic Acid, Licorice Root	Gel-Cream	Dark spots	Daily prevention + fading

1. The INKEY List SuperSolutions 1% Retinol Serum – Best Overall

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This clinical-strength retinol serum accelerates cell turnover to fade scars, smooth texture, and improve overall skin appearance.

Retinol is the gold standard for treating acne scars because it stimulates collagen production and speeds up skin renewal. The 1% concentration is powerful enough to deliver visible results while the peptides provide additional firming and smoothing benefits. Use it consistently for 12+ weeks to see significant improvement in both textural scars and dark spots.

What We Like

• Clinical-strength 1% retinol for proven results
• Addresses both texture and discoloration
• Peptides enhance skin renewal

What Could Be Better

• May cause initial sensitivity and purging
• Results take 8-12 weeks to appear

Bottom Line: The most effective over-the-counter treatment for improving acne scars and overall skin texture.

2. QRxLabs 15% Glycolic Acid Face Serum – Best Value

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This high-concentration glycolic acid serum exfoliates the skin’s surface to fade dark spots and smooth textural irregularities.

Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid that removes dead skin cells and promotes new cell growth. The 15% concentration is strong enough to deliver visible brightening and smoothing results without the irritation of professional peels. Regular use helps fade post-acne hyperpigmentation and improve overall skin clarity.

What We Like

• High 15% glycolic acid concentration
• Brightens and smooths simultaneously
• Excellent value for the concentration

What Could Be Better

• May cause tingling on sensitive skin
• Requires diligent SPF use

Bottom Line: An affordable, effective chemical exfoliant that visibly improves acne scar appearance with consistent use.

3. The INKEY List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Serum – Best Premium

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This potent serum combines 15% vitamin C with epidermal growth factor to reduce hyperpigmentation and support skin renewal.

Vitamin C is one of the most effective ingredients for fading dark spots from acne. The high 15% concentration inhibits melanin production while providing antioxidant protection. EGF supports cellular renewal and repair, helping to improve both discoloration and texture for more even, rejuvenated skin.

What We Like

• High 15% vitamin C concentration
• EGF supports cellular renewal
• Provides antioxidant protection

What Could Be Better

• Vitamin C can oxidize over time
• May cause tingling on sensitive skin

Bottom Line: A sophisticated brightening treatment that targets post-acne dark spots with proven, potent ingredients.

4. The INKEY List SuperSolutions Azelaic Acid 10% Serum – Best for Sensitive Skin

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This gentle yet effective serum uses 10% azelaic acid to fade acne scars without the irritation of harsher treatments.

Azelaic acid is ideal for sensitive skin because it provides powerful brightening and texture-improving benefits without causing significant irritation or dryness. It inhibits melanin production to fade dark spots while also improving overall skin texture. You can use it both morning and night for faster results.

What We Like

• Gentle enough for sensitive skin
• Fades dark spots without irritation
• Improves texture and tone

What Could Be Better

• Results appear more gradually than retinol
• May cause slight tingling initially

Bottom Line: The best option for fading acne scars if you have sensitive or reactive skin that can’t tolerate retinol.

5. Good Molecules Discoloration Correcting Serum – Best for Dark Spots

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This specialized serum targets post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation with tranexamic acid and niacinamide for visible brightening.

Tranexamic acid is a powerful ingredient for fading dark spots that’s gentler than many alternatives. Combined with niacinamide, which also brightens and strengthens the skin barrier, this serum provides effective treatment for the dark marks acne leaves behind. It’s suitable for all skin types and won’t cause irritation.

What We Like

• Specifically targets dark marks
• Gentle formula for all skin types
• Affordable for quality ingredients

What Could Be Better

• Doesn’t address textural scarring
• Results require 6-8 weeks

Bottom Line: An effective, gentle solution specifically for fading the dark spots that acne leaves behind.

6. QRxLabs Salicylic & Glycolic Acid Acne Clearing Pads – Best Convenient Option

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These pre-soaked pads combine 2% salicylic acid with 10% glycolic acid for convenient exfoliation that fades scars.

The dual-acid formula works on both the surface and inside pores to improve texture and fade dark spots. Salicylic acid penetrates pores to prevent new breakouts while glycolic acid exfoliates the surface to smooth scars and even tone. Green tea and aloe vera soothe irritation, making regular use more comfortable.

What We Like

• Pre-soaked pads for easy application
• Dual acids address multiple concerns
• Soothing botanicals reduce irritation

What Could Be Better

• May be too strong for very sensitive skin
• Daily use can cause dryness

Bottom Line: A convenient, effective option for regular exfoliation that gradually improves acne scar appearance.

7. Cetaphil Gentle Clear Mattifying Acne Moisturizer – Best Daily Prevention

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This daily moisturizer incorporates kojic acid and licorice root extract to fade dark spots while preventing new breakouts.

While primarily an acne treatment and moisturizer, this formula includes specific ingredients that target post-acne marks. Kojic acid inhibits melanin production to lighten dark spots, while licorice root extract provides additional brightening benefits. Use it daily to gradually fade existing scars while preventing new ones from forming.

What We Like

• Combines treatment, prevention, and hydration
• Kojic acid specifically targets dark spots
• Gentle enough for daily use

What Could Be Better

• Lower concentration than dedicated treatments
• Results appear more gradually

Bottom Line: An easy way to incorporate scar-fading ingredients into your daily routine without extra steps.

How to Choose the Best Acne Scar Treatment

First, identify what type of scarring you’re dealing with. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) responds well to brightening ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and kojic acid. Textural scars (indented or raised marks) need resurfacing treatments like retinol or strong acids. Many people have both types and benefit from combining treatments.

Consider your skin’s tolerance level. If you have sensitive skin, start with gentler options like azelaic acid or niacinamide. More resilient skin can handle stronger treatments like 1% retinol or high-concentration glycolic acid. Always introduce new treatments gradually—start with 2-3 times per week and increase as your skin adjusts.

Think about your timeline and commitment level. Topical treatments require consistency for months to show significant results. If you want faster improvement, professional treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy may be worth considering. However, home treatments are effective if you’re patient and consistent.

Factor in your other skincare needs. If you’re still experiencing active breakouts, choose treatments that address both acne and scarring, like retinol or salicylic acid. For dry skin, look for treatments that include hydrating ingredients. Always pair scar treatments with excellent sun protection, as UV exposure can worsen dark spots.

Benefits of Acne Scar Treatments

Fading dark spots is often the most visible and motivating result. Hyperpigmentation from acne can persist for months or even years without treatment. The right products can significantly reduce these dark marks within 8-12 weeks, revealing more even, uniform skin tone that looks clearer and healthier.

Improved skin texture makes a dramatic difference in how smooth and refined your skin looks. Textural scars create an uneven surface that catches light differently, making skin look rough. Treatments that promote cell turnover and collagen production gradually smooth these irregularities for a more polished appearance.

Preventing new scars is just as important as treating old ones. Many acne scar treatments also prevent breakouts, creating a dual benefit. By keeping skin clear and treating blemishes quickly when they do appear, you minimize the chance of developing new scars while fading existing ones.

Enhanced confidence often follows visible skin improvement. Acne scars can be a source of self-consciousness that affects how you present yourself. As your skin becomes clearer and smoother, many people report feeling more comfortable in their skin and more confident in social and professional situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to fade acne scars?

Results vary based on scar type and treatment used. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) typically shows improvement within 6-8 weeks with consistent treatment, with significant fading by 12-16 weeks. Textural scars take longer—expect 3-6 months for noticeable improvement with retinol or acids. Deep, pitted scars may require professional treatments for significant improvement.

Can acne scars completely disappear?

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can fade completely with proper treatment and time. However, true textural scars (pitted or raised) usually improve but rarely disappear entirely with topical treatments alone. Professional procedures like laser therapy, microneedling, or chemical peels can provide more dramatic improvement for textural scars.

Should I use retinol or vitamin C for acne scars?

Ideally, use both but at different times. Vitamin C in the morning provides antioxidant protection and brightens dark spots. Retinol at night promotes cell turnover and collagen production to improve texture. This combination addresses both discoloration and textural issues. If you must choose one, retinol is more versatile for overall scar improvement.

Can I use scar treatments while still getting breakouts?

Yes, and you should. Many effective scar treatments (like retinol and salicylic acid) also prevent new breakouts, making them ideal for active acne. Just be cautious not to over-treat your skin with too many active ingredients at once. Layer products carefully and moisturize well to maintain your skin barrier.

Why are my acne scars getting darker?

Dark spots can worsen with sun exposure. UV radiation stimulates melanin production, making hyperpigmentation darker and more persistent. Always wear broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher when using scar treatments, especially acids and retinol that increase sun sensitivity. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.

Do natural remedies work for acne scars?

Some natural ingredients like rosehip oil, vitamin E, and aloe vera can provide mild improvement, but they’re generally less effective than proven active ingredients. If you prefer natural options, look for products with high concentrations of proven botanicals. However, for significant results, clinically proven ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, and acids are more reliable.

Can makeup make acne scars worse?

Makeup itself doesn’t typically worsen scars, but heavy, pore-clogging formulas can cause new breakouts that lead to more scarring. Choose non-comedogenic makeup and remove it thoroughly every night. Color-correcting concealers and foundations with buildable coverage can help minimize the appearance of scars while you’re treating them.

Should I see a dermatologist for acne scars?

If over-the-counter treatments haven’t improved your scars after 3-4 months of consistent use, consult a dermatologist. They can prescribe stronger retinoids, perform in-office procedures, or recommend treatments like laser therapy or microneedling. Deep, pitted scars almost always require professional treatment for significant improvement.

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