Blemish Control Gel

CeraVe Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel is a lightweight, hydrating full-face AHA/BHA gel designed for oily skin prone to mild acne. Its formula combines salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid, BHA) with a blend of alpha hydroxy acids — glycolic acid and lactic acid — to exfoliate at multiple levels of the skin, helping to target active blemishes, prevent future breakouts, and visibly reduce the appearance of pores and blackheads. Three essential ceramides support the skin's moisture barrier throughout the exfoliation process, while niacinamide helps to comfort the skin. The gel is oil-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free from drying denatured alcohol, leaving skin looking more radiant, smooth, and visibly clearer. It is developed with dermatologists.

CeraVe Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel is specifically formulated for those with oily skin prone to mild acne who want to reduce the appearance of blemishes, blackheads, and enlarged pores. It is not recommended for those with dry or sensitive skin, or those who have not previously used exfoliating acids, without first patch testing or consulting a dermatologist. Because the formula contains both AHA and BHA — active exfoliating acids — it increases skin sensitivity to the sun, so consistent daily use of SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential. It is not suitable for use on broken, irritated, or sunburnt skin. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use. Not recommended for children under 12 years of age without medical advice.

The formula contains a combination of AHA and BHA exfoliants that target the skin at different levels. Salicylic acid (BHA) is oil-soluble and penetrates into the pore lining to dissolve the sebum and dead skin cell build-up that causes blackheads and blemishes. Glycolic acid and lactic acid (AHAs) work on the skin's surface to promote cell turnover, smooth texture, and enhance radiance. Three essential ceramides (ceramide NP, ceramide AP, and ceramide EOP) help restore and maintain the skin's protective moisture barrier, which is particularly important when using active exfoliating ingredients. Niacinamide (vitamin B3) helps to comfort the skin and has oil-regulating properties. Hyaluronic acid (as sodium hyaluronate) provides lightweight hydration. The formula is free from fragrance, parabens, and drying denatured alcohol.

Cleanse the skin thoroughly before applying. Cover the entire face with a thin layer of CeraVe Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel, avoiding the eye area and lips. While it can be used morning and/or night, it is most commonly recommended for once-daily evening use to minimise daytime UV sensitivity. Because the AHA and BHA formula increases the skin's sensitivity to the sun, it is essential to apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every morning. CeraVe recommends using this gel as part of an acne-prone skincare routine alongside CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser for cleansing and CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion with SPF 15 or SPF 50 as a daytime moisturiser with sun protection. Discontinue use if irritation or discomfort occurs and consult a dermatologist.

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) exfoliate the skin in complementary ways. AHAs — in this formula, glycolic acid and lactic acid — are water-soluble and work primarily on the skin's surface, loosening the bonds between dead skin cells to promote cell turnover, smooth texture, and improve radiance. BHA — salicylic acid — is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the pore lining to dissolve the sebum and keratin plugs that contribute to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. Together, they provide a comprehensive exfoliation approach: surface smoothing from the AHAs and pore-clearing action from the BHA. This dual-acid approach helps target different aspects of acne-prone, congested skin simultaneously while the ceramides and niacinamide in the formula support barrier health and skin comfort.

Care should be taken when layering this gel with other active ingredients. Because the formula already contains a combination of AHA and BHA exfoliants, adding other exfoliating products — such as additional retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or high-concentration AHA/BHA toners — may cause over-exfoliation, irritation, and compromise the skin barrier. If you are using prescription acne treatments, consult your dermatologist before incorporating this product into your routine. The gel pairs well with gentle, barrier-supporting products: use CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser before application, and follow with a non-comedogenic moisturiser. Daily SPF 50+ sunscreen is non-negotiable when using AHA and BHA products given Australia's high UV levels.

CeraVe Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel is formulated for oily, acne-prone skin and is not specifically designed for sensitive skin. While it is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and free from drying denatured alcohol — all of which make it more tolerable than many AHA/BHA treatments — the combination of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid makes it a moderately potent exfoliant that may cause irritation, tingling, or redness in those with reactive or sensitive skin types. Those with sensitive but acne-prone skin are advised to patch test first, introduce the product gradually (beginning with less frequent use), and consult a dermatologist if persistent irritation occurs.

Both products are designed for oily and mild acne-prone skin and contain salicylic acid, but they serve different steps in a skincare routine and have different formulations. CeraVe Blemish Control Cleanser is a rinse-off gel cleanser used to cleanse the skin and remove dirt, oil, and impurities — its salicylic acid and purifying clay work briefly during the cleansing step before being washed away. CeraVe Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel is a leave-on treatment applied after cleansing; its full-face AHA/BHA formula remains in contact with the skin to provide sustained exfoliation and blemish control throughout the day or overnight. For a comprehensive acne-focused routine, CeraVe recommends using the Blemish Control Cleanser first, followed by the Blemish Control Salicylic Acid Gel as the leave-on treatment step.