Choosing the best blemish gel often requires careful consideration of the type of acne you have. Mild to moderate cases of basic pimples may benefit from the use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. More severe cases of acne and those that involve cysts, however, are more likely to require treatment by a dermatologist, as they may not respond as well to OTC remedies. In fact, a person with more severe acne might not use a gel at all but instead might rely upon injections, peels, and internal medications to treat his skin. Ultimately, the best blemish gel is likely to be the one that works best for your particular case.
When you want to choose the best blemish gel, you might consider using benzoyl peroxide, which you can purchase over the counter. This remedy is often used for mild to moderate eruptions of pimples and works by killing bacteria on the surface of the skin as well as by drying out the blemishes. This type of medication also has a peeling effect. Often, this is among the first treatments people try for acne, but if it irritates your skin or fails to work, you may do well to move on to another option.
Salicylic acid can also prove to be a good choice for mild to moderate acne, though it is considered particularly helpful for dealing with whiteheads and blackheads. This type of medication also is beneficial when dealing with acne that develops because of the overly rapid shedding of one's skin cells. Sometimes, this medication can cause the skin to turn red or sting after use, but it is otherwise unlikely to cause troubling side effects.
Sulfur is also included in some OTC medications. When included in a blemish gel, it works by drying the affected area and causing the skin to peel. This medication is considered particularly effective for the treatment of blackheads and whiteheads, but it can also help with preventing new breakouts. Though this treatment can irritate the skin and cause redness, it is sometimes recommend for people who seem very sensitive to benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, or for those who do not respond well to them.
Some types of acne may not respond well to blemish gel. Severe cases of acne and those that involve cysts may require other forms of treatment. Often, people with these problems seek evaluation and treatment from a dermatologist. Options such as injections, oral medications, and peels are often more effective in these cases.