A wide range of medications are available today which have proven effective in the treatment of acne. Sometimes it may be necessary to take a combination of medicines to successfully and completely treat the acne. The earlier you treat your acne, the less likely you are to develop severe acne and scars from pimples. Do consult your dermatologist before embarking on any course of medication. Also, do remember that there are no miraculous cures for acne and medications that promise an overnight cure are probably not proven to do so. Results from these acne drugs are generally seen in six to eight weeks.

Most over-the-counter (OTC) medications are suited for mild forms of acne. For moderate to severe forms of acne you will probably have to consult a dermatologist and get medicines prescribed for your specific condition. Amongst the OTC medicines, there are as many medicines as there are forms of acne! Choosing the right one for your condition can be a challenging task. Topical acne medications available are found in the form of creams, gels, lotions and soaps. Some of the common over-the-counter medications are:

Benzoyl Peroxide
This is a strong oxidizer that helps to kill the bacteria responsible for the inflammation and redness that are present in the clogged pores. It has been proven successful in treating acne in the short term. It also helps to clear the acne by removing dead skin cells in the clogged pores. Be warned that benzoyl peroxide can cause dryness and irritation, so do apply only as per directions. It is also a known bleaching agent so be careful of your clothes and sheets when using it.

Salicyclic Acid
This is a common exfoliating agent that helps in peeling the top layer of the skin and thereby prevents the build up of dead skin cells which are partially responsible for clogging the pores. It also assists in unblocking already blocked pores. It can be a skin irritant, so again use as per directions. Also, it does not prevent the formation of new blemishes.

Resorcinol
Resorcinol, found in many OTC medicines, is used to treat acne, seborrhic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin disorders. It breaks down blackheads and whiteheads and this helps to control acne.

Sulfur
Rarely used alone due to it abhorrent smell, sulfur is present in many OTC medications, especially in combination with alcohol, salicyclic acid and resorcinol.