The need for over the counter acne medications has spawned a billion-dollar industry, especially in the United States. Scanning the shelves for OTC (over-the-counter) remedies, you'll find literally dozens of different brands, forms and prices in acne medication. None of these treatments or physician prescribed treatments will work immediately; even the best treatment for acne requires some patience!

The best treatment for acne is preventative as well as pro-active. A good, regular cleansing routine will treat existing acne and prevent most outbreaks by keeping pores clear of dirt, grime and oils that clog them and cause acne infections. Astringents are also good cleansers but should be used with care. Because they dry up the oil on your face, you use them more sparingly than a good cleanser. If used too frequently, astringents can cause your skin to signal for more oil production and result in even oiler skin and more acne. One of the best astringents you can use is witch hazel. It's a natural plant-based substance and costs a fraction of commercially manufactured astringents.

When an outbreak occurs, there are many medicines you can buy and make to treat it at home. The most common ingredient in most OTC topical creams and lotions is benzoyl peroxide, one of the top five recommended substances to treat acne. It reduces bacteria on the skin but doesn't cause the bacteria to become resistant.

Benzoyl peroxide drains the acne lesions as well as being an anti-inflammatory. It's the preferred method of treating mild to moderate acne. You can find it in creams, lotions, gels and facial cleansers. Its anti-inflammatory qualities will often relieve the soreness of the infected area.

It can discolor clothing so care should be taken when using it. Very rarely does anyone suffer side effects but if you experience burning, redness, itching or swelling after you've applied it contact a physician immediately.

There are a number of home remedies you can make from common kitchen staples to soothe irritated skin. Apple cider vinegar is the most effective of these. Simply apply it to the affected areas, leave for a few minutes and rinse with warm water. Since it's a natural substance, it will not upset the pH balance of your skin and will leave it soft and smooth. It lessens irritations to the acne lesions as well as cleansing and disinfecting, accelerating healing time.

Whatever else you do to treat your acne at home, do not ever pop your pimples! This will spread bacteria over the rest of your face and cause more outbreaks, as well as worsening the infection in the pimple you've broken. The worse the infection is, the higher the probability of a scar.

If the lesion does break open or you just can't resist popping it, apply Neosporin or its generic equivalent immediately and every few hours until the skin heals.