Collection: Acne

There is no legal definition or certification process for 'clean' products. However, at Credo Beauty, the clean acne products we carry adhere to our Credo Clean Standard™, avoiding over 2700 potentially harmful ingredients. Natural acne products may use ingredients that are plant-based or naturally derived, but also do not have a standardized definition. Organic acne products, on the other hand, must meet strict standards which are established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture via the USDA Organic program.

At Credo Beauty, our rigorous standards and vetting process ensure that our products are not only effective, but also safer and more sustainable. Every clean acne product we stock meets our strict clean criteria, meaning they are free from ingredients associated with negative effects on the skin or on the environment. Most regular skin care products for acne include benzoyl peroxide, an effective but potentially harsh and drying ingredient that can have a negative impact on your skin tone. Clean skin care for acne, however, has safer alternatives like salicylic acid or tea tree oil. They are less likely to cause irritation or disrupt the skin barrier. In the long run, clean acne products can promote clearer skin without compromising overall skin health.

At Credo Beauty, we aim to deliver the best in clean beauty. We only work with brands who adhere to our strict standards, meaning all the best clean acne skin care options are readily available on our website. Customers love brands like OSEA Malibu, which offers a multi-step acne system that includes organic and marine-based activities for a results-oriented clean approach. You could also try The Ordinary, who offer a range of clean, single-ingredient serums targeting acne, like salicylic acid or niacinamide. Remember, experimentation is key to finding the perfect clean skin care routine.

When buying skin products for acne, be sure to look for products that include ingredients such as witch hazel, a natural astringent that tightens pores and reduces excess oil, and niacinamide that minimizes redness, and promotes a healthy skin barrier. It is also beneficial to buy face products for acne that include salicylic acid, to help exfoliate pores and reduce inflammation, and tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic that combats blemish-causing bacteria. By incorporating these into your clean skin care routine, you can achieve clear healthy skin without harsh chemicals. At Credo Beauty, we consistently push for greater transparency at all levels in the industry, which should help pinpointing such ingredients more easily.

Tea tree oil, a natural antiseptic with antibacterial properties, has been shown in studies to be effective against mild to moderate acne. It has astringent properties that help tighten pores and reduce excess oil. Research found tea tree oil to be comparable to benzoyl peroxide in reducing acne lesions, meaning that clean skin care products for acne can offer an effective yet gentler, well-tolerated approach to acne management.

When it comes to acne skin care that tackles scars, look for products with ingredients like AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid). These exfoliate dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover to reveal smoother skin. AHAs work on the surface, while BHAs penetrate deeper to clear clogged pores. By stimulating collagen production and encouraging healthy cell renewal, these clean ingredients can minimize the appearance of acne scars, revealing a more even-toned complexion.

Many vegan and cruelty-free brands prioritize natural ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil, which studies have shown to be beneficial for acne. Additionally, opting for our products means that they are free from harsh chemicals and irritants as defined in our Dirty List, which can help clear up acne-prone skin without disrupting its natural balance.