Top 4 Face Serums for Acne Scars, Pores & Radiant Skin

If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for that one product that will finally smooth your skin, fade acne marks, and give you that healthy, radiant glow. After testing a handful of cult-favorite serums, I found four that stood out — not just for their ingredient lists, but for how they actually performed on real, often finicky skin. From brightening to pore refining, here’s my honest take on four standout serums from COSRX, Good Molecules, CeraVe, and ANUA.

1. COSRX 15% Niacinamide Face Serum

Best for: Oily skin, enlarged pores, redness

Let’s start strong with the COSRX 15% Niacinamide Serum, a K-beauty powerhouse known for its high concentration of niacinamide paired with Zinc PCA. It’s a no-nonsense, fast-acting formula that noticeably tightened the appearance of my pores and helped calm redness in just a few uses.

The texture is lightweight but not watery, and it absorbs beautifully without any sticky residue. If you’re dealing with excess oil, bumpy texture, or inflamed breakouts, this one’s worth adding to your routine — just don’t forget to pair it with SPF in the morning.

COSRX 15% Niacinamide Face Serum, 0.67 fl oz, Pore Minimizer Serum for Face, Even Skin Tone, Korean…

Achieve clearer, more radiant skin with The Niacinamide 15 Serum by Cosrx. This 0.67 oz serum contains a high…

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2. Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum (10%)

Best for: Budget-conscious skincare lovers, sensitive skin, early breakouts

For a more budget-friendly option, the Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum delivers serious value without compromising quality. With 10% niacinamide and a minimalist ingredient list, this serum gently evens out skin tone, reduces shine, and supports a healthy skin barrier.

What I love most? It’s non-drying and doesn’t trigger irritation — making it ideal for daily use, even on sensitive or acne-prone skin. It might not give overnight results, but it’s a slow-and-steady kind of product that builds better skin over time.

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3. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

Best for: Post-acne marks, uneven texture, barrier repair

If you’re struggling with stubborn acne scars or textural issues, CeraVe’s Resurfacing Retinol Serum might be your holy grail. It combines encapsulated retinol with licorice root extract and niacinamide for a triple punch against dark spots and dull skin.

Despite having retinol, this formula is gentle enough for regular use (especially if you’re new to retinoids). I noticed a visible improvement in my post-acne marks within a couple of weeks, and thanks to CeraVe’s signature ceramides, my skin barrier stayed happy and hydrated the whole time.

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum For Post Acne Marks, Formulated With Licorice Root Extract &…

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4. ANUA Niacinamide 10 + TXA 4 Serum

Best for: Brightening, glass skin glow, hydration

If “glass skin” is the goal, ANUA’s Niacinamide + TXA serum is here to deliver. With a brightening blend of 10% niacinamide, 4% tranexamic acid, and 2% arbutin, this Korean formula targets dark spots and dullness like a pro. Add in hyaluronic acid and ceramides, and you’ve got a hydrating, barrier-loving blend that’s gentle enough to use both morning and night.

What really sold me? The lightweight, watery texture and subtle pink hue (from Vitamin B12) make it feel like a treat to apply. It layers beautifully with other products and gives your skin that dewy, lit-from-within look without clogging pores.

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Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

For oily, breakout-prone skin: Go with COSRX for serious oil control and redness relief.

For sensitive skin or beginners: Good Molecules is affordable, gentle, and effective.

For acne scars and bumpy texture: Try CeraVe’s retinol — especially if you want results without the harsh side effects.

For that radiant, K-beauty glow: ANUA’s blend of brighteners and hydrators is a dream.

No matter your skin type, there’s a serum on this list that can help you step up your glow game. Just remember: consistency is key, and sunscreen is non-negotiable.