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We won't sugarcoat it: Breakouts are a pain, but the best serums for acne offer a reprieve—and by that, we mean a hard-hitting ingredient lineup that treats existing acne, fades post-acne pigmentation, and helps prevent future breakouts. While certainly nourishing, a run-of-the-mill hydrating serum won't do the trick when it comes to battling enlarged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, cystic acne, and acne scars. Instead, you'll want to look for a serum that incorporates ingredients such as beta hydroxy acid (BHA), alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), retinol, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, niacinamide, and zinc PCA to promote dead skin cell turnover, unclog congested pores, dispatch acne-causing bacteria, balance oil production, and induce collagen synthesis.