There are a number of ways to treat acne with home remedies or over the counter treatments. Sometimes a case is severe enough to warrant prescription medication and there are a number of these on the market now, each with their own assets and detriments. You should be aware that there is no real "cure" for acne but outbreaks can be prevented or, when they do occur, treated quickly and effectively.

Most acne outbreaks aren't so severe as to warrant prescription medicines. You can quickly clear up most acne with a good cleansing routine using a solution containing benzoyl peroxide which is very effective. A topical cream containing the same is also effective when combined with the face wash. Because everyone's skin has a different type and balance, what works for one may not work for another. Curing your acne can be mostly trial and error when you're depending on over the counter commercial medication or home remedies. That's why, if you have a serious or severe case of acne, you should consult a dermatologist.

Dermatologists are trained in all aspects of skin care and disease and are familiar with different types of skin. Since no two people have the same type of skin, each treatment has to be individualized. Someone with extremely oily skin, for instance, would only get worse if their acne were treated with the same methods as someone with dry or normal skin.

One of the most potent prescribed medicines is Accutane, a form of Vitamin A. The success rate of this drug is remarkable but there are some very potent side effects. Most dermatologists will discuss these with you but unfortunately, some merely give you the patient information and write out the prescription. Thinking you'll look at it later, or not caring as long as you get rid of the acne, you may not make yourself aware of these. A 4-5 month regime of Accutane will usually provide a remission of months or years. In additional to causes severe birth defects in pregnant patients and has been known to cause liver damage, depression, mood swings and seizures as well as diarrhea, flu-type symptoms and bone pain or fracture. While only a small percentage of patients suffered such side effects, you should be aware that they do occur.

You may also be put on a course of antibiotics such as erythromycin or tetracycline. Unlike the ten-day dosages you get from your doctor when you're ill, you'll probably take these antibiotics for a period of 16-20 weeks to ensure that all the bacteria that causes the acne is gone. Antibiotics can work wonders for acne but they also destroy the good bacteria (probiotics) that help to support your gastrointestinal tract. If your dermatologist prescribes antibiotics, ask him or her how you can help your body cope with the loss of probiotics.