Best over-the-counter acne creams

Start with a benzoyl peroxide gel. It's the best-evidenced OTC acne ingredient, and a 2.5% gel works about as well as 5% with less dryness and irritation — so Perrigo 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide Gel is my top pick: gentle enough for sensitive skin, and a thin layer over the whole breakout area beats dabbing spots.

Who the others suit:

• Rugby 5% Benzoyl Peroxide Gel — stubborn, oilier skin that has tolerated 2.5% fine.
• Face Reality 5% Acne Med — a step up in strength if you want a single daily treatment.
• Mario Badescu Drying Lotion — overnight spot treatment for the occasional whitehead, not full-face use.
• Hero Rescue Balm — post-blemish redness and scabbing, once the spot has healed.
• Succinic acid treatment — sensitive skin that flushes or stings with peroxide.
• Azelaic acid 15% cream — acne plus dark marks or uneven tone.

Give any new treatment 6–8 weeks, use a light moisturiser and sunscreen, and stop if it burns badly.