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Bargain Acne Spot Treatments
The Best OTC Acne Spot Treatments for Under $20

By Angela Palmer, About.com

Updated December 10, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

For that annoyingly red pimple, it's acne spot treatments to the rescue. Spot treatments are used directly on breakouts. While they won't stop new pimples from forming, they can help that existing blemish to heal more quickly.

Remember, don't apply any spot treatment too often, or you'll end up with a red and peeling patch. And if you are currently under a doctor's care for your acne, get his approval before using a spot treatment.

Almay Blemish Healer for Oily Skin

Active ingredient: salicylic acid

This inexpensive spot treatment also contains witch hazel, and meadowsweet. Witch hazel is often used as an astringent. Meadowsweet, a perennial herb, is claimed to have refreshing and purifying effects on the skin.

This spot treatment absorbs fully into the skin, so makeup goes on over it smoothly. And, like all Almay products, this treatment is hypoallergenic and fairly gentle for sensitive skin.

Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Treatment

Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne TreatmentPhoto © Pricegrabber
Active ingredient: 2.5% benzoyl peroxide

This formulation is said to give the power of a 10% benzoyl peroxide but with less irritation. The cream itself is white, but dries clear on the skin. Unfortunately, makeup doesn't go on smoothly over the treated spot, so you'll probably want to put this one on before bed.

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Clean and Clear Advantage Spot Treatment

Clean and Clear Advantage Spot TreatmentPhoto © Pricegrabber
Active ingredient: 2% salicylic acid

Dries clear on the skin, but makeup may not go smoothly over the top. It does tend to sting when first applied, but it goes away after a few minutes. Most people are willing to tolerate the stinging because this product makes pimples smaller overnight.

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Nature's Gate Natural Results Extra Strength Spot Corrector

Nature's Gate Natural Results Extra Strength Spot CorrectorPhoto © Pricegrabber
Active ingredient: 2% salicylic acid

Looking for eco-friendly skin care? This product is for you. It is paraben-free, and all added botanical extracts are certified organic. No animal byproducts are used, nor has the product been tested on animals. And the packaging is completely recyclable. Good for your skin and good for the earth.

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AcneFree Clear Skin Treatments Acne and Blackhead Terminator

AcneFree Clear Skin Treatments Acne and Blackhead TerminatorPhoto © Pricegrabber
Active ingredients: 1.5% salicylic acid and 1% benzoyl peroxide

Such a great product, we'll forgive them the clunky name. Containing two super effective acne-fighting ingredients, this spot treatment works to reduce redness and unclog pores. It's like getting two treatments for the price of one. But don't apply it too often, or you'll end up with an irritated, peeling spot.

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