Whatever the cause is—stress (hello, finals), PMS, a bad breakup, the works—acne is never a welcome guest on our otherwise ***flawless faces. We all know that picking or popping is a big no-no when it comes to blemishes, but sometimes we’re that anxious for a solution.
With this in mind, we asked collegiettes from across the country to weigh in on what their favorite acne-banishing products are, since we don’t want a bothersome zit to stop you from living your life to the fullest! Next time you’re having an acne dilemma, reach for one of these tried-and-true products to start healing your breakout in no time!
Alexandra Blessing, a junior at Millersville University: Biore Charcoal Cleanser ($8)
“I can actually feel it working! It makes your face feel so refreshed and I’ve seen the blackheads around my nose disappear after just a few uses.”
Anabella Tourkman, a sophomore at George Mason University: Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Spot Treatment ($18)
“Super affordable and heals trouble spots practically overnight! This spot-treatment is my go-to and one of few items I always re-purchase.”
Samantha Sasso, a junior at St. John’s University: Clean & Clear Advantage Spot Treatment ($8)
“My holy grail spot treatment for pimples that pop usually around my period or like finals because of stress is this product. It works better than any high-end product I’ve used for spot treatments and doesn’t scar my sensitive skin. The blemish is usually gone overnight or within a day.”
Rachel Lewis, a senior at Elon University: Handmade Natural Lavender and Tea Tree Oil Soap ($6)
“This is a product I swear by when it comes to getting rid of acne. I bought mine at a market in Philly, but you can find it on Etsy as well. This soap is easy on your skin (and not drying!) and will make your skin soft, smooth, and most importantly, clear.”
Shannon Zhu, a junior at NYU: Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel ($25)
“Hands down, I can’t live without this. I put it on full face at night to combat any acne and spot treat in the morning. Warning, the formula is strong and almost alcohol-ish, but banishes my acne every time without fail.”
Morgan Dux, a senior at Juniata College: Neutrogena’s Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Anti-Blemish Face Wash ($6.50)
“I love this face wash. It has salicylic acid, which works really well with my skin! I’ve been using it, religiously, since freshman year and it is one of my all-time favorite products.”
Lindsey Murray, a senior at Temple University: Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask ($7)
“I use it as an everyday face wash, but it’s really great when I’m super stressed and breaking out a lot because I can use it as a deep cleansing mask to clear up acne overnight!”
Brooke Pompeo, a junior at Messiah College: Stridex Daily Care Acne Pads with Salicylic Acid ($4)
“These Stridex pads do not dry out my skin when combined with the prescription medicine I use for my acne. Other products I’ve used would dry out my skin, which was painful, especially in the winter!
What are your fave acne-banishing products, collegiettes? Have you tried any of these methods above?