There are a number of treatments available for acne treatment; however, not all of them are to be trusted as affective and helpful. Most of them have severe side affects along, if not used under proper medical supervision. Many people simply take up these over the counter drugs to treat any breakouts that occur, and this may result in more irritation of the skin as well as allergic reactions. Antibiotics, gels, creams, herbal medications are all available over the counter, but instead of grabbing all of them at once, use the lighter, basic ones first.

Before using acne treatments, you have to understand the skin type and which treatment would suit your skin. Acne that is not inflamed can use SALICYLIC ACID products. Use it according to the instructions and if after weeks you still find the condition the same, then you can move on to another product. Acne which is inflamed and give a reddish look can be treated by benzoyl peroxide, the most commonly used over the counter acne treatment. The lotion can be applied for weeks and also mixed with salicylic acid.

Common over the counter acne treatments are products related to BENZOYL PEROXIDE, SALICYLIC ACID, SULFUR & RESORCINOL, ALCOHOL and ACETONE. These come in different strength level ranging from 2.5% to 10% and are packed under products named as PROACTIVE, BENZADERM GEL, GLYTON and many other creams. Sulfur products come with strength level of 2% to 8% and have products such as Clearasil Medicated Blemish Cream, Rezamid Lotion, Glytone Flesh Tinted Acne Treatment Lotion. Salicylic acid has Noxzema Anti-Acne Gel and Dermalogica Medicated Clearing Gel.

Other than the regular acne, if you are suffering from severe acne that doesn’t seem to get over with the regular lotions and gels, then it’s time to take antibiotics. These will help to eliminate the bacteria causing the acne. But before using antibiotics, you will need to consult with a doctor, as these cause severe side affects of vomiting, nausea, lethargic, depression and other factors. Pregnant women who get acne should strictly consult a doctor as drinking these antibiotics may cause severe birth affects.

About Author:
Alice has been an expert in skin health writing specifically on the subject of acne. Her work has been published on various websites and magazines and provides insightful advice for natural acne treatment, skin regimes etc. For more articles on acne and its causes please visit http://www.naturalacneremedy.com/

Self-treatment of acne is the most common situation. Most acne is mild enough that over the counter, non-prescription medications work fine. Combined with a regimen of overall good skin care, they will do an effective job of clearing up acne in as short a time as possible.

Benzoyl Peroxide

One of the most common - and most effective - treatments possible for mild acne, benzoyl peroxide is used daily by millions. It works by helping combat the bacteria that is partly responsible for acne in the first place: Propionibacterium acnes. It also helps to remove dead skin cells from the area. If those don't move to the surface where they can be sloughed or washed off, they can accumulate, upping the odds of getting acne.

Benzoyl Peroxide has been in use for decades so the pros and cons are well known. One possible side effect is excessive drying of the skin. It can also bleach fabric, and so should be used with care when treating acne while dressed.

The risk of side effects can be minimized by using the proper amount. If a 2.5% concentration is working, don't assume that 10% is better, or will work faster. Higher dosage only increases the odds of side effects without any compensating value.

Salicylic Acid

This is the active ingredient in aspirin and part of the reason this simple compound is sometimes called a miracle drug. It has many uses and is safe and effective, used properly.

Often coming in the form of soaked pads, salicylic acid helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. It slows down the process of shedding dead skin cells inside the follicle, making build up and compaction less likely. It also helps remove them. This helps prevent bacteria build up in the sebum (skin oil) inside the pore.

It should not be combined with other treatments, unless recommended by your dermatologist. Excessive skin irritation can occur.

Resorcinol

Resorcinol is another popular OTC medication and is effective in many cases, especially when combined with other compounds such as sulfur. It functions by breaking down hardened skin, leading to more effective removal from the follicle and the area outside. That also produces lower odds of clogging, a major factor in acne formation.

It should not be used in conjunction with astringents such as alcohol.

Alcohol and Acetone

Both of these common chemicals are safe, but are generally much less effective than more modern treatments. Alcohol is a mild antibacterial and helps remove oil from the surface. Similarly, acetone is a degreasing agent and helps keep the surface clear. But the excess oil (sebum) that contributes to acne lies well under surface where it lends a growth medium for bacteria and helps clog pores. Removing surface oil is of limited benefit.

The small savings over other treatments is generally money wasted, except as part of an overall skin care regimen.