Cosmo Acne Awards 2024: Expert-Tested Winners for Every Skin Type
Discover Cosmo’s definitive, editor-tested 2024 guide to the most effective acne treatments and skincare for every skin type.
Cosmo Acne Awards 2024: The Definitive Guide to Expert-Tested Products & Treatments
After testing hundreds of products, treatments, and cutting-edge innovations, Cosmopolitan editors present the only guide you need for tackling acne in 2024. Whether you’re battling hormonal flare-ups, post-inflammatory marks, or searching for non-comedogenic makeup, this thorough review covers the 71 most impactful winners—decoded for every skin type, concern, and budget.
Meet the Cosmo Testing Panel
- Julee Wilson: Beauty editor-at-large, specializes in whiteheads and hyperpigmentation. Currently obsessed with EltaMD UV Clear SPF that blends seamlessly into deeper skin tones.
- Siena Gagliano: Associate editor, deals with hormonal chin/mouth breakouts. Loves Hanni Good Aura Body Oil for its fast absorption and non-pore-clogging formula.
- Mary Fama: Art director. Occasional hormonal flare-ups. Favors COSRx toner for post-cleansing hydration.
- Emily Adar: Senior visual editor. Manages cystic, hormone-induced acne. Blush Balm Stick from Haus Labs is her new favorite for radiant skin without triggering breakouts.
- Kara Miller: Art designer, experiences hormonal breakouts. Now looks forward to sunscreen thanks to DRMTLGY SPF 45.
Testing Process Timeline
- June 2024: Team researches and individually tests over 600 products targeting acne and related concerns.
- July 2024: 215 top finalists nominated across 71 categories, spanning skincare, body care, makeup, tools, and professional treatments.
- September 2024: Editors select single category winners based on efficacy, accessibility, affordability, dermatologist input, and usability.
- November 2024: The winning list—complete with hands-on reviews and expert notes—is published for the world.
2024 Acne Awards: Product Winners by Category
The Cosmo Acne Awards encompass a spectrum of approaches, from emergency spot treatments and gentle cleansers to SPF-infused hydrators and advanced serums. Each product was not only tested for results but also evaluated for user experience, packaging design, accessibility, and price point.
Best Blemish Emergency Treatment
- The INKEY List Hydrocolloid Invisible Pimple Patches
Discreet and effective, these patches draw out pus and debris in as little as four hours, making them perfect for sudden breakouts. Editors appreciated their subtle, skin-hugging finish and effectiveness for whiteheads, supporting fast recovery before big events. - ORIGINS Clear Improvement™ Blemish Clearing Lotion
Unlike old-fashioned toothpaste or harsh spot sticks, this lotion dries and diminishes blemishes, controls excess sebum, and soothes redness even during hormonal flare-ups. Ideal for sensitive skin needing a gentle but powerful solution.
Best Barrier Protection
- DR.JART+ Ceramidin Milky Lotion
This lightweight, layerable lotion delivers intense moisture without clogging pores, promotes barrier repair, and calms irritated skin. The milky texture was a favorite of editors needing both hydration and protection from flare-ups. - Murad Multi-Vitamin Clear Coat SPF50
Combines high UVA/UVB protection with ceramide-boosting, barrier-strengthening formula. Editors highlighted its dual function as both sunscreen and skin treatment, making it a go-to for daily defense against hyperpigmentation and sun-triggered acne.
Best Cleansing Innovation
- 47 SKIN Anti-Blemish & Scar Repair Everyday Cleanser
Infused with antibacterial silver, this creamy cleanser both reduces inflammation and kickstarts skin regeneration. Not only does it wash away impurities, but it also helps diminish acne scars and redness, with daily use yielding clearer, smoother skin.
Best Hydration for Dry, Acne-Prone Skin
What others are reading
- Allies of Skin Peptides & Antioxidants Firming Daily Treatment
Fuses vitamin C, peptides, and barrier-replenishing antioxidants to tackle dullness, dry skin, and uneven texture in one step. Editors praised its glow-enhancing, redness-calming effects and pore-minimizing results, especially on combination skin.
Radiance and Glow Enhancers
- Skin Rocks The Gel Cleanser
Transforms from gel to oil to milk, dissolving makeup and impurities without stripping. The multi-texture experience impressed testers and left skin noticeably softer and clearer after one week. - CeraVe Skin Renewing 10 Pure Vitamin C Serum
Delivers 10% L-ascorbic acid for noticeable brightening, fighting dullness and evening texture without irritating sensitive or acne-prone skin. Dermatologist-approved for daily use, even on reactive skin.
How Cosmo Picks Acne Award Winners
Each product undergoes real-life, multi-week testing by a diverse panel. Evaluation criteria include:
- Efficacy: Measurable improvement in acne, texture, and redness.
- Ease of use: Packaging, instructions, and feel on skin.
- Accessibility: Availability at major retailers, affordability.
- Dermatologist insights: Every pick is cross-examined with expert input and research.
User Profiles: Real Editor Skin Stories
| Editor | Acne Type | Favorite Product | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Julee Wilson | Whiteheads, post-inflammatory marks | EltaMD UV Clear SPF | Invisible protection that doesn’t leave residue, ideal for deep skin tones. |
| Siena Gagliano | Hormonal congestion (chin/mouth) | Hanni Good Aura Body Oil | Hydrating, non-greasy, absorbs instantly, doesn’t trigger acne. |
| Mary Fama | Hormone-related flare-ups | COSRx toner | Post-cleanse glow and hydration boosts skin comfort. |
| Emily Adar | Hormonal cystic breakouts | Haus Labs Blush Balm Stick | Non-comedogenic, adds radiance, won’t settle into texture. |
| Kara Miller | Hormonal breakouts | DRMTLGY SPF 45 | Makes daily sunscreen a pleasure, lightweight feel. |
2024’s Most Innovative Acne Treatments
- Hydrocolloid patches: Fast-acting, invisible, and perfect for emergency use—no more picking.
- Multi-tasking lotions: Combine oil control and redness relief in one simple step.
- SPF treatments: Sunscreens that heal, not just protect, tackling barrier strength and post-acne marks simultaneously.
- Antibacterial cleansers: Silver-infused and gentle, helping to clear out bacteria without over-drying.
- Peptide creams: Address aging, dullness, and acne scars, delivering smooth and healthy skin for all ages.
How to Build Your Own Cosmo-Approved Acne Routine
- Start with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser to remove dirt and excess sebum.
- Apply a targeted treatment (patch, lotion, or serum) to active zits and marks.
- Follow with a barrier-repairing moisturizer to protect and replenish.
- Finish with SPF each morning to prevent sun-induced inflammation and pigmentation.
- Add a radiance booster or vitamin C serum as needed to brighten and even out skin tone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What types of acne are covered by these award-winning products?
A: The Cosmo panel tested products for all acne types: whiteheads, blackheads, hormonal breakouts, cystic acne, and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Q: Are these products suitable for sensitive skin?
A: Yes. Many picks offer gentle, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-recommended formulas, ideal for both sensitive and combination skin.
Q: How quickly will I see results from these treatments?
A: Fast-acting products, like hydrocolloid patches, may deliver results in 4 hours, though most regimens show visible improvement within 1-2 weeks of consistent use.
Q: Can I mix and match products from different award categories?
A: Definitely. Each product was assessed for compatibility; combining cleansers, treatments, and SPFs can tailor routines for unique skin concerns.
Q: Are these products budget-friendly and easily available?
A: Yes. Editors considered accessibility and price, curating options available at mainstream retailers and pharmacies, along with online shops.
Editor Tips: Maximizing Your Acne Routine
- Always patch-test new products before applying to your entire face.
- Double-cleansing can help remove stubborn makeup without stripping skin.
- Don’t skip moisturizer even if your skin feels oily; hydrated skin heals faster.
- SPF is non-negotiable; UV damage worsens acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Seek dermatologist input for persistent cystic or scarring acne.
Beyond the Awards: Pro Treatments and New Trends
- Editors are watching advances in LED therapy for at-home use, which targets inflammation and bacteria.
- Prescription retinoids and antibiotics may be needed for stubborn, cystic acne—consult your healthcare provider.
- The rise of customized skincare blends lets users fine-tune actives for faster, more reliable results.
What Makes Cosmo Acne Awards Unique
- Real-life editor testing for authentic feedback and practical results.
- Diversity of skin tones, needs, and types represented in every selection.
- Expert, dermatologist-backed recommendations—never just hype.
2024 Cosmo Acne Awards: Your Next Steps
Whether you need a spot-zapping patch for urgent blemishes, crave a multifaceted serum for glowy, hydrated skin, or want to discover a sunscreen that won’t clog pores, the Cosmo panel’s exhaustive review ensures every pick makes a visible difference—no matter your routine, skin type, or budget.
Editor’s Final Words
Acne is an evolving challenge, but with the right expert-tested tools and some award-winning formulas, clear, confident skin is closer than ever. Remember: patience and consistency are essential, and every winner on this list is chosen for lasting, practical results.
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