Acne cream

The base matters as much as the active. Cream vehicles contain oils, emollients and water, so they buffer the dryness and stinging that acne actives can cause. That makes them a common choice for dry, mature or sensitive acne-prone skin, and for winter, when gel formulas can feel stripping.

The trade-off is finish: creams sit heavier, take longer to absorb and can feel occlusive on very oily skin. Look for non-comedogenic labelling, and note that benzoyl peroxide can bleach fabric, so older pillowcases and towels are a practical precaution.

Apply to clean, dry skin — usually a thin layer across the affected area rather than a single spot dab — and pair it with a plain moisturiser and daily sunscreen, since many acne actives increase sun sensitivity. Introduce one product at a time, patch test first, and see a dermatologist for painful, deep or scarring acne. Retinoid creams are not used in pregnancy.