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How Do I Choose the Best Blemish Body Wash?

Erin J. Hill
Erin J. Hill

When choosing a blemish body wash, it's important to choose an option that's made for your skin type. Before doing anything, though, make sure your skin problems are actually caused by acne or another minor skin irritant. There are other skin conditions which can cause similar breakouts, and an over the counter blemish body wash won't work at treating them. If you have eczema or another skin condition, you may be able to find a body wash specified just for your particular issue.

The use of a blemish body wash is intended to help clear up pimples found on the back, torso, or anywhere aside from the face and neck. They often have an exfoliating substance to help slough away dead skin cells and impurities. Blemish body wash is often much more abrasive than washes intended for your face, and using it on your face can lead to skin injury.

Bottles of pink and orange body wash.
Bottles of pink and orange body wash.

You should look for a blemish body wash that is made to work with your skin type. If you have oily skin on your entire body, you'll need to choose one that reduces oil and dries out acne pimples. These will usually contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or a combination of them both. Dry skin types can also have skin imperfections, but they may require different types of treatment. For instance, dry skin that becomes cracked may be more prone to skin infections, leading to breakouts. To treat this, you should consider a moisturizing body wash that also has antibacterial properties.

The best blemish body wash will vary depending on the individual's skin type.
The best blemish body wash will vary depending on the individual's skin type.

Other factors you should consider are the fragrance of the body wash, and the consistency. Fragrance is really a matter of opinion, so there is no right or wrong answer where that is concerned; just smell various options until you find one that you like. Consistencies will vary, and some are better than others for certain skin types. For instance, you might go for a cream-based body wash if you have dry skin, and an exfoliating body wash if you have very oily skin. Keep in mind that exfoliating too often can strip the skin of too much oil, and lead to damage.

The most effective way to choose the right body wash is through trial and error. You may not find just the right product the first time around, so it's important that you practice patience and keep looking until you find something that works for you. Be sure to give each body wash at least a couple of weeks to work, unless it causes an allergic reaction or further irritation. If this occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult your doctor.

If your breakouts are very severe, or if over the counter methods of treatment do not work, you should see a dermatologist for a checkup. You may have a condition aside from acne, and he or she can give you specific treatment. It's also possible that you have a very severe form of acne, and prescription strength medication is needed to fully eradicate it.

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    • Bottles of pink and orange body wash.
      By: Dessie
      Bottles of pink and orange body wash.
    • The best blemish body wash will vary depending on the individual's skin type.
      By: Iurii Sokolov
      The best blemish body wash will vary depending on the individual's skin type.