9 Best Night Creams For Acne Scars Recommended By Dermatologists
Surprise yourself overnight with clear skin due to naturally gentle formulations.
This might come as a shock but dermatologists do suggest the best night creams for acne scars. Yes, moisturizers are the last things you want to slather on your oily, acne-battered skin. But hear us out. Acne is a chronic inflammatory disease. Along with treatment to target acne pathology, dermatologists recommend patients to use moisturizer as an adjunctive therapy (fancy name for additional therapy that works in tandem with the primary treatment). Moisturizers neutralize the irritation caused by the tropical therapies and help improve the skin condition to prevent future acne-flares (1). Also, they create a barrier over the skin, preventing moisture loss.
To help you find the best night cream for acne scar reduction, we have rounded off the list of the 9 best products. So, scroll down now and pick the right product for yourself.
In This Article
9 Best Night Creams For Acne Scars
1. Best Overall:CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream is a cult favorite for reducing dark marks of acne. It is infused with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides that hydrate the skin while boosting cell renewal rate for faster skin rejuvenation and healing. Niacinamide brightens the skin and controls acne-flare. The hyaluronic acid and ceramides infused in the formula moisturize the skin and make it plump and soft. The patented MVE technology takes the help of ceramides for repairing skin barriers and preventing moisture loss while ensuring long-lasting hydration. The best thing about this cream is that it is also tested for potential allergic reactions to protect your skin from damage. If you want a detailed review of this expert-recommended product, make sure to take a look at this video.
Key Ingredients: Biomimetic peptide, Shea butter, Ceramide, Hyaluronic acid, and Niacinamide
Pros
- Long-lasting moisturization
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Non-greasy formula
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Spreads easily
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
2. Best Organic Formula:Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer Age-Defying Solution
Retinol, or pure vitamin A, is one of the most researched skin care ingredients. Among other benefits, retinol helps control sebum production and promote cell regeneration. This advanced retinol daytime moisturizer from Kleem Organics helps heal your acne-battered skin and give it a do-over. Plus, it is a potent anti-aging agent that helps fade fine lines and wrinkles. Moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, sunflower oil, palm oil, and jojoba oil hydrate the skin and make it soft and plump. Plus, hyaluronic acid works as a humectant and prevents moisture loss. And antioxidant-rich green tea and vitamin E shield the skin from free radicals and skin damage. According to a tester’s experience, there was a significant improvement in skin hydration and a reduction in fine lines in three weeks.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Sunflower oil, Palm oil, Hyaluronic acid, Retinol, Vitamin E, Senna, Jojoba Oil, Green tea, Propolis, Shea Butter, Vitamin B5, and Rose ether
Pros
- Light moisturizer
- Fades hyperpigmentation
- Anti-aging benefits
- Non-greasy texture
- Enhances skin elasticity
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-acnegenic
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
Make sure to cleanse your skin before applying the night cream. This will help remove dirt and oil and allow the night cream to be more effective.
3. Best Non-Comedogenic:Differin Restorative Night Moisturizer
Hyaluronic acid and ceramide infused Differin Restorative Night Moisturizer hydrates, softens, and nourishes your acne-battered skin. The niacinamide in the formula helps in reducing the acne scars, soothing the skin inflammation, and brightening your dull face. Niacinamide aids in controlling excess sebum production, preventing future acne flares. The combination of natural emollients like glycerin, sunflower seed oil, and shea butter moisturize and heal your flaky skin, while tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) and caffeine fight free radical damage. Reviewers consistently highlight the night cream’s proven efficacy in improving uneven texture.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Sunflower seed oil, Shea butter, Niacinamide, Tocopheryl acetate, Caffeine, Sodium hyaluronate, and Ceramide
Pros
- Enhances skin radiance
- Heals moisture barriers
- Fight free radical damage
- Non-comedogenic
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Can cause breakouts
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream Best Overall | Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer Age-Defying Solution Best Organic Formula | Differin Restorative Night Moisturizer Best Non-Comedogenic | |
---|---|---|---|
Dimensions | 8 x 2.63 x 2.19 inches | 2.44 x 2.44 x 2.87 inches | 1.69 x 1.89 x 5.32 inches |
Weight | 1.69 Ounces | 1.7 Ounces | 0.01 Ounces. |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 31,099 | 8,487 | 385 |
Price | $15.38 | $26.97 | $11.99 |
4. Best Non-Greasy Formula:Mederma PM Intensive Overnight Scar Cream
Your skin does maximum healing during the night when you are asleep. This overnight scar cream from Mederma expedites the process and helps your skin to heal faster. The formula is infused with tripeptol, a blend of peptides, collagen, and antioxidants, that helps heal the scars. Other ingredients like antioxidant-rich copper tripeptide-1, tocopherol acetate, and lysine hydrochloride protect the skin from free radicals. Plus, copper tripeptide-1 breaks down scar tissues and replenishes the loss of collagen to boost the wound-healing process. Humectants like glycine, alanine, aspartic acid, and valine are also infused in the formula to create a natural barrier over the skin and prevent moisture loss, without being too greasy. You can also check this YouTuber’s detailed review to know more about the clinically proven results after using this product.
Key Ingredients: Copper tripeptide-1, Aspartic Acid, Glycine, Tocopherol acetate, L-Isoleucine, Lysine hydrochloride, Copper tripeptide-1, Alanine, Phenylalanine, Valine, Copper Tripeptide-1, Panthenol, and Pro vitamin B5
Pros
- Quick absorbing
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-greasy formula
- Heals moisture barriers
- Fight environmental aggressors
- Recommended for fading stretch marks
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
5. Best For Mature Skin: Eve Hansen Vitamin C Night Cream
The Eve Hansen Vitamin C Night Cream is a dermatologist-tested cream that promotes dead skin cell regeneration and boosts skin cell turnover to reduce deep acne scars. It is enriched with vitamin E, vitamin C, green tea extract, and shea butter that together increase collagen production, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and hydrate skin. These skin-loving ingredients are also known for improving skin texture and promoting even-toned skin. This lightweight night cream works gently on the skin and penetrates deeply into the skin to tackle common skin concerns like dullness, which in return increases skin elasticity and bestows natural radiance. Whether you find yourself struggling with acne scars or sun spots, this product can be your ultimate solution to all skin woes. Numerous customer reviews attest to the proven efficacy of this night cream for its skin-firming and smoothing properties.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin B5, Organic aloe vera, Green tea extract, and Shea butter
Pros
- Gentle
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hydrating formula
- Fights free radicals
- Tackles discoloration
- Imparts natural glow
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin type
6. Best In K-Beauty:Crazy Skin Trouble Care Sleeping Cream
The organic overnight cream from Crazy Skin moisturizes and brightens acne-battered skin type, fading the scars, marks, and hyperpigmentation to give an even complexion. The formula maintains the pH balance of the skin and soothes inflammation to prevent potential acne sprouts. Salicylic acid exfoliates the clogged pores, while eggplant extract and niacinamide repair and brighten the damaged skin. The combination of silver birch, lady’s mantle, and aloe vera infused in the formula soothes dry skin. The product’s formula has been proven to deliver visible results, as evidenced by the noticeable reduction in dryness and inflammation reported by several reviewers on e-commerce websites.
Key Ingredients: Eggplant extract, Salicylic acid, Niacinamide, Silver birch, Lady’s mantle, Aloe vera, and Madecassoside
Pros
- Non-greasy texture
- Quick absorbing
- Refreshing fragrance
- Soothing
- Exfoliates the skin
Cons
- None
7. Best Multipurpose:Yoocoi Retinol Collagen Day & Night Anti-Aging Cream
The multipurpose antiaging cream infused with the goodness of retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C renews your skin. Its anti-aging formula lightens scars, brightens the skin, and provides it with ample moisturization. Vitamin E helps fight free radicals. If you are not sure about the skin care product, check out some customer reviews to gauge its effectiveness.
Key Ingredients: Retinol, Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Non-greasy formula
- Anti-aging benefits
- Fights free radicals
Cons
- None
Apply the night cream in a thin layer and allow it to absorb into your skin before bed. Also, remember to apply sunscreen in the morning before leaving the house.
8. Best Cruelty-Free:Clearbody Organics Chlorophyll Clear Vitamin-Rich Acne Cream
The ultra-moisturizing Clearbody Organics Chlorophyll Clear Vitamin-Rich Acne Cream helps clear acne scarring, blackheads, and wrinkles. It is infused with skin-loving chlorophyll drops that help clear all types of acne scars, brighten your uneven skin tone, and make it soft. This component also stabilizes sebum production, preventing potential acne sprouts. The blend of moisturizing natural ingredients like babchi oil, sunflower oil, and calendula keep your skin moisturized, while antioxidant-rich passion and acai fruits fight free radical damage. Tea tree oil neutralizes active acne and aloe vera soothes your skin. According to multiple reviewers, the night cream has demonstrated its proven efficacy by reducing acne breakouts and providing amazing hydration.
Key Ingredients: Pure chlorophyll, Tea tree oil, Aloe vera, Babchi oil, Passion fruit, Acai fruit, Sunflower oil, and Calendula
Pros
- Brightens skin
- Neutralizes acne
- Fights free radical damage
- Fades wrinkles
- Lightens hyperpigmentation
- Fragrance-free
- Comes with lifetime money-back guarantee
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
9. Best For Body Acne:Shvyog Butt & Thigh Acne Removing Cream
Although butt acne is common and normal, we know you do not appreciate its occasional visit. This anti-acne cream from Shvyog is infused with potent ingredients that reduce zits, pimples, and blackheads on your thighs, butt, and legs. The 2 % Salicylic acid infused in the formula gently exfoliates the skin, while witch hazel shrinks the pores. Skin-soothing, antioxidant-rich ginger, centella asiatica, and aloe vera tame inflammation and redness caused by acne. The combination of olive oil and sorbitan promotes hydrated skin texture and makes it soft and flake-free. Conduct a patch test before use in case you are allergic to any of the ingredients used in the formulation of the product.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Glycerin, Centella asiatica, Witch hazel, Ginger, Aloe vera, Peony, Green tea, Chinese sophora, Cayenne pepper, Kava, Olive oil, and Sorbitan
Pros
- Exfoliating
- Soothes skin
- Quick absorbing
- Non-greasy formula
- Helps with ingrown hair
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- None
Picking these overnight creams can immensely help you skin to heal and revive. But all night creams are not meant for everyone. To help you find the right moisturizer for your p.m. routine, here is a buying guide specially meant for you.
How To Select Best Night Cream For Acne Scars?
- Ingredients For Scars
Look for night creams with active ingredients that can neutralize inflammation and heal the scars. Ingredients like niacinamide breakdown the scar tissues and promote collagen production that enhances skin healing.
- Exfoliating Ingredients
Acne is often caused due to clogged pores. Exfoliating ingredients help gently unclog the pores to remove trapped dirt and grime, preventing potential acne sprouts. Some popular ingredients for exfoliation are salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid.
- Non-Comedogenic
Heavy moisturizers can clog your pores, leading to pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. Look for non-comedogenic night creams that keep your skin hydrated without blocking the pores.
- Other Features
Infographic: Night Creams For Acne Scars: Things To Know, Key Ingredients, & How To Use
Acne is one of the most common skin issues, and it leaves lasting scars and bumps on the face. Minimizing these scars is possible if you use the right night creams. Check out the infographic below to learn about key ingredients in such creams for acne scars, their benefits, and the application procedure. Scroll down for more information.
Things like fragrances can irritate your skin, heighten sensitivity, and inflammation. Avoiding them can help your skin heal better.
The Bottom Line
Night creams work in tandem with your acne scar treatment to neutralize zits and promote faster healing. Plus, they prevent moisture loss during the night and make your skin soft and supple the following day. After you are done with your night-time skin care routine, apply a dime-size of the moisturizer on your face and hit the bed. The CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream can be a great choice to restore ceramides and peptides that repair the skin barrier and ensure long-lasting hydration, while the Kleem Organics Advanced Retinol Moisturizer defies aging with retinol and hyaluronic acid and heals acne prone skin. But, if you are seeking a non-greasy formula that helps heal scars and fights free radicals, then try Mederma PM Intensive Overnight Scar Cream. However, if you are sensitive to strong fragrances, steer clear of the formulas that have an overpowering smell.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach and loves to write detailed beauty content for her readers. She conducted a thorough research of the ingredients used in the products and checked numerous user reviews on trusted online forums to curate this list of the best night creams for acne scars. Her recommended products have non-greasy, quick-absorbing formulas that are non-comedogenic and are recommended by dermatologists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do night cream prevent acne scars?
Overnight creams infused ingredients like niacinamide, or copper tripeptide-1 can help in prevent acne scars.
Are acne scars permanent?
Not all acne scars are permanent and can be healed with right treatment.
What night creams do dermatologists recommend?
Niacinamide, tea tree oil, and retinol are some of the key ingredients that dermatologists suggest in night creams. You can opt for the Differin Restorative Night Moisturizer with niacinamide for the best results.
How often should you use night cream for acne scar?
You can use it every day as a part of your night skin care routine.
How long does it take to see results from night cream for acne scars?
It can take 3-6 months to see visible results from night cream for acne scars.
Can I use night cream after serum?
Yes, your night cream works as a moisturizer so apply it after using serum.
Will night cream remove dark spots?
Yes, night creams that work for acne scars also help reduce dark spots.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Moisturizers for Acne The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/pmc/articles/PMC4025519/
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