Some of the most effective treatments for acne are over the counter acne products. These products are literally easily within reach that more and more people suffering from acne are giving up their expensive prescription medicines for these more affordable acne solutions. Over the counter acne products are not only generally less expensive, but they are also usually just as effective with minimal bad side effects.

Before deciding on self-medication, there are a number of things to consider before buying an over the counter acne product. You will be choosing among hundreds of acne products, all proclaiming that they are the best. It is not enough that you just go and buy the best-selling product or the most expensive brand. Here are 3 simple steps to help you choose the right over the counter acne product for you.

First of all, evaluate the severity of your acne. Do you have a few pimples and possibly a smattering of whiteheads and blackheads? Then you might have mild acne. Or maybe you have more than a few pimples, some red spots, and perhaps acne scarring in some areas of your face? You could be diagnosed with moderate acne. If you have a major breakout of pimples and lesions that are scattered all over your face, then you might be suffering from a severe case of acne. Knowing how mild or how severe your acne is can help you choose the right acne products that contain the right ingredients to treat your acne.

The second step is to analyze your skin type. Is your skin dry and flaky, or clogged and oily, or maybe a combination of the two? Those who have dry skin will benefit most from over the counter acne products that are in cream or gel form. These will treat acne and hydrate the skin at the same time. Those who have oily skin should stick with acne products that are in the form of a wash or liquid. Water-based products will wash away excess oils and will not clog pores. Combination skin types need to be spot-treated, which means use water-based products for oily skin and then moisturize the dry areas with cream or gel products.

The third and last step is to define your goals for treating acne. Do you just want to prevent acne? Then use the proper skin care products. Is your objective to get rid of your current pimples? There are mild over the counter acne products that are made specifically for that purpose. Do you want to achieve smooth, crater-free, and scar-free skin? There are many acne treatments that minimize scarring and clear away existing acne scars.

Regular usage of over the counter acne products may take a couple of weeks to a few months before they start showing any effects. It is important to read the product's packaging first to know the proper dosage and application. You might have to go through a number of over the counter acne products before you find the right one that works for you. Just remember not use two products at the same time without the guidance of a doctor.