What Are the Treatments?

The occasional pimple needs no treatment. Over-the-counter cover-up creams and cosmetics, if used at all, should be water based and hypoallergenic. Even if outbreaks of acne cannot be eliminated, conventional treatment can provide relief.

The best treatments inhibit sebum and keratin production, limit bacterial growth, or encourage shedding of skin cells to unclog pores. Because many therapies can have important side effects, any patient with a skin problem should proceed with caution when trying a new treatment. People with severe, persistent cases need the care of a dermatologist.

Nonprescription Treatment

Soap and water. Gentle cleansing of the face with soap and water no more than two or three times a day can remove the excess oils and help the "oily skin" often associated with acne. However, this does not clear up acne that is already present. Remember aggressive scrubbing can injure the skin and cause other skin problems.

Cleansers. There are many cleansers and soaps advertised for treating acne. However, most of them are unnecessary if the acne is being properly treated and can in fact aggravate acne.

Benzoyl peroxide. For mild acne, you may try, or your doctor may recommend, treatment with a nonprescription medicine that contains benzoyl peroxide. It's believed that this compound works by destroying the bacteria associated with acne. It usually takes about two weeks to work and it must be used continuously to keep acne at bay until you outgrow getting acne. This is because it does not affect sebum production or the way the skin follicle cells are shed, and when you stop using it, the acne comes back. It is available in a wide range of vehicles: creams, lotions, gels. Before applying the medication, wash the affected area with a mild soap that is free of oils or scents. Benzoyl peroxide can cause dry skin and can bleach fabrics, so take care when applying it. Consider wearing an old T-shirt to bed if you are applying it to your back or chest overnight.

Salicylic acid. On the skin, salicylic acid helps to correct the abnormal shedding of cells. For milder acne, salicylic acid helps unclog pores to resolve and prevent lesions. It does not have any effect on sebum production or kill bacteria. It must be used continuously, just like benzoyl peroxide, since its effects stop when you stop using it -- pores clog up again and the acne returns. Salicylic acid is available in many acne products, including lotions, creams, and pads.

Sulfur. In combination with other substances such as alcohol, salicylic acid and resorcinol, sulfur is a component of many over-the-counter acne medications. It usually isn't used by itself because of its unpleasant odor. It's unclear how sulfur works.

Resorcinol. Along with sulfur, resorcinol is a component of many of the most popular over-the-counter acne regimens.