The star ingredient in this gentle-but-effective acne serum is something you've likely heard of if you've spent any time Googling acne advice: salicylic acid.

When mixed with other hardworking, natural ingredients like cane sugar and marine plankton, this serum both hydrates and calms your pores, making them smaller and less prone to bacteria build-up. It's also a good addition to your normal moisturizing routine, since botanical extracts and essential oil ingredients offer a natural, nourishing approach to acne.

Rarely do people warn you about the sad truth of hormonal acne: Unlike other types of acne that disappear after puberty, hormonal acne can stick around until menopause.

If you're trying to prevent aging and clear your skin, this multitasking hyaluronic serum from Kerstin Florian is the one-two punch you're looking for. It helps to protect skin from free radicals, while also alleviating inflammation. The added proteins and botanicals will keep your skin looking youthful.

This small-but-mighty serum was created by derms and promises to improve your skin within three weeks of treatment. The natural approach to ingredients -- bee venom, honey and royal jelly, to name a few -- uses organic enzymes alongside hyaluronic acid and glucosamine to reduce inflammation and improve scarring. In the serum world, this price point isn't too shabby, either.

A few drops goes a long way with this pimple- and wrinkle-busting serum. A brand known for its gentle approach to skin care, Clinique pairs hydration with allergy-tested and 100 percent fragrance-free ingredients in their blemish-control line. The salicylic acid will tackle those breakouts while many extracts, oils and even caffeine will leave skin looking fresh and plump.

So while technically not a serum, this new acne-fighting lotion is getting rave reviews and quickly attracting a mass following. The Nerd Skincare acne line includes everything from a cleanser to a cream, and this light, serum-like lotion is queen for helping you battle breakouts. It has all of the good stuff that serums have: glycerin, protein and plenty of natural ingredients, but none of the tough stuff that sets sensitive skin aflame. Instead of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, Nerd uses sulfur to clear breakouts and cultivate a strong skin barrier.