I tested three spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay – with one for every budget
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE I tested three spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay – with one for every budget
SUMMER is alway a sticking point for those of us with acne.
The sweaty, humid weather and heat-proof, long-wear make-up is a recipe for blocked pores.
So I've been testing spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay.
BUDGET
The Inkey List 360 skin clearing serum, £16 for 30ml, boots.com
3
The Inkey List 360 skin clearing serum does exactly what it says on the tin
I am a huge Inkey fan. Founders Mark Curry and Colette Laxton are down-to-earth and never shy away from questions about the brand or the products they're creating, which is always a good sign.
This serum does exactly what it says on the tin, helping to control oil production, unclog pores and reduce post-breakout inflammation and scarring thanks to salicylic and lactic acid.
Despite being lightweight, it also hydrates skin, thanks to the caring squalane, glycerin and panthenol.
It's a true all-rounder and unbelievably good value for money.
MID-RANGE
Clinique anti-blemish solutions clinical advanced clearing gel, £25 for 30ml, clinique.co.uk
3
Clinique anti-blemish solutions clinical advanced clearing gel is one of the fastest-working blemish solutions I've ever tried
It has been a long time since I've used Clinique skincare. It was my mum's go-to brand when I was growing up, so there's something nostalgic and full circle about it entering my stash, even though she has a different skin type and uses different products.
This is one of the fastest-working blemish solutions I've ever tried. It reduced the redness around my spots in under an hour and helped relieve the bruised feeling of those under-the-skin spots overnight.
It is the most drying of the three, so best for those with extremely oily skin, or paired with a hydrating oil-free moisturiser – but the results are worth the extra step.
See how GK Barry totally transformed acne-prone skin using 'snake shedding' method to go make-up free on I'm a Celeb
LUXURY
Murad biome-balancing clear & prevent blemish treatment serum, £45 for 30ml, murad.co.uk
3
Murad biome-balancing clear & prevent blemish treatment serum has become one of my favourite products from the brand
Murad was my go-to brand when my skin was at its worst and I keep a couple of products for when my skin plays up.
This serum is new and has become one of my favourite products from the brand. It has a gel-like texture that absorbs in seconds and doesn't leave an oily or sticky residue.
The combination of salicylic and mandelic acids is a super gentle way to slowly, but efficiently, slough away dead skin cells while also being antibacterial and reducing acne-causing bacteria at the same time. The salicylic acid also breaks down oil.
My skin felt softer from day one and I've definitely had fewer new breakouts since using it regularly.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Scottish Sun
I tested three spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay – with one for every budget
Scroll down for our pick of the week product SPOT THE DIFFERENCE I tested three spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay – with one for every budget SUMMER is alway a sticking point for those of us with acne. The sweaty, humid weather and heat-proof, long-wear make-up is a recipe for blocked pores. So I've been testing spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay. BUDGET The Inkey List 360 skin clearing serum, £16 for 30ml, 3 The Inkey List 360 skin clearing serum does exactly what it says on the tin I am a huge Inkey fan. Founders Mark Curry and Colette Laxton are down-to-earth and never shy away from questions about the brand or the products they're creating, which is always a good sign. This serum does exactly what it says on the tin, helping to control oil production, unclog pores and reduce post-breakout inflammation and scarring thanks to salicylic and lactic acid. Despite being lightweight, it also hydrates skin, thanks to the caring squalane, glycerin and panthenol. It's a true all-rounder and unbelievably good value for money. MID-RANGE Clinique anti-blemish solutions clinical advanced clearing gel, £25 for 30ml, 3 Clinique anti-blemish solutions clinical advanced clearing gel is one of the fastest-working blemish solutions I've ever tried It has been a long time since I've used Clinique skincare. It was my mum's go-to brand when I was growing up, so there's something nostalgic and full circle about it entering my stash, even though she has a different skin type and uses different products. This is one of the fastest-working blemish solutions I've ever tried. It reduced the redness around my spots in under an hour and helped relieve the bruised feeling of those under-the-skin spots overnight. It is the most drying of the three, so best for those with extremely oily skin, or paired with a hydrating oil-free moisturiser – but the results are worth the extra step. See how GK Barry totally transformed acne-prone skin using 'snake shedding' method to go make-up free on I'm a Celeb LUXURY Murad biome-balancing clear & prevent blemish treatment serum, £45 for 30ml, 3 Murad biome-balancing clear & prevent blemish treatment serum has become one of my favourite products from the brand Murad was my go-to brand when my skin was at its worst and I keep a couple of products for when my skin plays up. This serum is new and has become one of my favourite products from the brand. It has a gel-like texture that absorbs in seconds and doesn't leave an oily or sticky residue. The combination of salicylic and mandelic acids is a super gentle way to slowly, but efficiently, slough away dead skin cells while also being antibacterial and reducing acne-causing bacteria at the same time. The salicylic acid also breaks down oil. My skin felt softer from day one and I've definitely had fewer new breakouts since using it regularly.
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
I tested three spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay – with one for every budget
SUMMER is alway a sticking point for those of us with acne. The sweaty, humid weather and heat-proof, long-wear make-up is a recipe for blocked pores. So I've been testing spot-clearing serums to help keep breakouts at bay. BUDGET The Inkey List 360 skin clearing serum, £16 for 30ml, I am a huge Inkey fan. Founders Mark Curry and Colette Laxton are down-to-earth and never shy away from questions about the brand or the products they're creating, which is always a good sign. This serum does exactly what it says on the tin, helping to control oil production, unclog pores and reduce post-breakout inflammation and scarring thanks to salicylic and lactic acid. Despite being lightweight, it also hydrates skin, thanks to the caring squalane, glycerin and panthenol. It's a true all-rounder and unbelievably good value for money. MID-RANGE It has been a long time since I've used Clinique skincare. It was my mum's go-to brand when I was growing up, so there's something nostalgic and full circle about it entering my stash, even though she has a different skin type and uses different products. This is one of the fastest-working blemish solutions I've ever tried. It reduced the redness around my spots in under an hour and helped relieve the bruised feeling of those under-the-skin spots overnight. It is the most drying of the three, so best for those with extremely oily skin, or paired with a hydrating oil-free moisturiser – but the results are worth the extra step. LUXURY Murad biome-balancing clear & prevent blemish treatment serum, £45 for 30ml, Murad was my go-to brand when my skin was at its worst and I keep a couple of products for when my skin plays up. This serum is new and has become one of my favourite products from the brand. It has a gel-like texture that absorbs in seconds and doesn't leave an oily or sticky residue. The combination of salicylic and mandelic acids is a super gentle way to slowly, but efficiently, slough away dead skin cells while also being antibacterial and reducing acne-causing bacteria at the same time. The salicylic acid also breaks down oil. My skin felt softer from day one and I've definitely had fewer new breakouts since using it regularly.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Boots No7 serum that sold 'one every seven seconds' now under £20 in 50% off deal
The No7 Future Renew Night Serum has been hailed as a 'game-changer' by shoppers and is now on sale for its lowest price ever - but only for a limited time Skincare enthusiasts can replenish their stash of a popular anti-ageing serum this weekend as it plummets to its lowest price ever. The top-selling No7 Future Renew Night Serum is up for grabs at half price for a limited period, with shoppers saying it makes their fine lines 'less noticeable'. Having made its debut in April this year, the No7 Future Renew Night Serum is still a fresh face in the skincare arena. Normally priced at £39.95, it's currently slashed to £19.97 when shoppers enter the code FRSAVE50. The deal is so good, in fact, that it's been limited to one per customer. For those looking to stock up on the serum, there is a three for two deal on, which can't be used in conjunction with the code. Instead of paying £39.95 each, it works out at £26.63 each. The product was such a hit that it sold one every seven seconds on its launch day and continues to reign as the number one bestselling night serum at Boots. As such, this limited-time offer provides an ideal chance for novices to try out the iconic serum, or for devoted users to rebuy their skincare essential. Customers can get the offer on the serum in-store and online at from Friday, August 1 until Monday, August 4, perfectly timed for payday. In previous weeks, we've seen the serum available on three for two with £10 off with the code REVERSE10, but even with these deals stacked, each of the 25ml serums would average at £23.30, making the 50% off deal better value. The No7 Future Renew Night Serum has fast become a fan favourite, adored not only for its pioneering peptide technology but also for its ability to work in harmony with the skin to reverse visible signs of damage whilst the user sleeps. The scientifically backed formula utilises chronotechnology to synchronise with the skin's natural overnight repair cycle, coupling it with powerful ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid to plump and rejuvenate the complexion, according to No7. The concoction features a world-first super peptide blend, engineered to reverse visible signs of skin damage such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone and texture, and dry skin. It also incorporates Lindera Strychnifolia, a plant extract that assists in fortifying the skin's internal clock and amplifying nighttime repair signals, along with niacinamide, vitamin C and E. Meanwhile, the Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum (£54.95, LookFantastic) employs similar technology - Chronolux Power Signal Technology - which is designed to enhance the skin's natural repair and renewal processes. For skincare enthusiasts still on the lookout for an anti-ageing product with a bit more oomph, Medik8's Crystal Retinal (£69) presents an incredibly popular, scientifically supported alternative. The hero ingredient in this is Vitamin A, which helps improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles and fine lines, and address hyperpigmentation. That said, the No7 Future Renew Night Serum has garnered an impressive 4.3 star rating from customers on the Boots website, with one commenting: 'I started using the new formula and noticed an improvement in my skin from day three. The wrinkles are not visible when I wake up in the morning.' Another said: 'I've been using this serum for 4 weeks and I've definitely noticed a difference to my skin. It's very silky on application and absorbs very quickly. A little goes a long way, I use two pumps for my whole face and neck. It's got a lovely subtle scent. I've definitely noticed my fine lines are less noticeable around my eyes. I'd absolutely recommend this to anyone starting to show signs of ageing to slow these down.' However, the product hasn't escaped criticism entirely, with several shoppers raising concerns about its price point. One buyer observed: "A very good product but the price for 25ml seems a bit steep. Doesn't last long at all and I've been very sparing." Another customer wrote: "I'm heading for my mid-70s and I really can see a difference for the better - just wish it wasn't so expensive,". One glowing five-star review stated: "My skin feels and looks healthy," before continuing: "People have noticed my facial skin and asked me if I have been on holiday. I reply no and then they ask how I have attained such lovely skin." Another said: "This is the only product that I used differently in my routine, so I know that this must be the one making the difference. My skin looks healthier and feels smoother, and my fine lines are less noticeable." In other No7 deals, the No7 Beauty Vault 8-Piece Collection, worth £104, has been slashed to £29.75 in the sale. It features five full sized products plus deluxe minis with a collection of skincare and makeup favourites to enhance a radiant, summer glow. For those looking to level up their beauty game without breaking the bank The Glow For It Travel Edit bundle could be just the ticket. Originally priced at £59.50, the set has been reduced to £35, and by our calculations, it's worth over £85. Elsewhere, the OK! Beauty Box is a monthly beauty subscription service that delivers a curated selection of beauty products for £8.99, including full-size and travel-size items, to your doorstep. It's designed as a convenient and affordable way to discover new beauty products and brands, with a focus on skincare, make-up, hair care, and wellness items However, if shoppers are keen to bag the newly discounted No7 Future Renew Night Serum, it is available for less than £20 here.
