Acne is a common skin condition which can give you blackheads, whiteheads, red or yellow spots, scars and greasy skin. It affects about 80% of people at some time in their lives. It can affect men and women but is more common in women. Acne typically affects the skin on the face, neck, back, chest and arms. It can be mild or severe.

Acne relief treatments are used to prevent new spots from forming, to treat those already on the skin and to prevent any scarring. It can take time to get rid of acne - it isn't going to disappear overnight - so you need to be patient.

Acne can be very embarrassing and a sufferer will want to treat the condition as soon as they can. The important thing to realize is that acne varies greatly from person to person. Just because one treatment can rid one person of their acne, does not mean the same treatment will work on another person. In fact, it could make the acne worse.

Fortunately, there are a number of remedies you can try. These include over the counter medications and oral antibiotics. You can get these treatments in various strengths depending on the type, severity and location of your acne. Bear in mind that medicines can cause burning, irritation or redness and it can take up to six weeks before you can see an improvement in your acne.

For some sufferers, changing their diet (to include more zinc, Vitamin E, Vitamin A and magnesium) can work. Taking a daily multivitamin tablet is a good idea. Tea tree oil works for some people too, as does applying lemon juice or honey as a cleaner, then rinsing it off. Aloe Vera is also worth a try. You should exfoliate your face twice a week to remove dead skin cells, using a gentle sugar scrub - don't use anything containing crushed kernels or almonds because these can tear the skin.

Dehydration and poor blood circulation can make acne worse so drinking plenty of fluids and taking exercise can be beneficial. If you have long hair, wear it tied back, and try not to pick at or touch your acne. If you suffer from acne on your back, avoid tight-fitting clothes, especially those made from artificial materials such as spandex, because they make you sweat which irritates the acne.

There are special acne cleansers on the market which might help. Look for the words non-comedogenic or oil-free on the packaging. When you clean your face, make sure your fingers are clean before you touch your acne.

If your acne is severe or does not respond to home remedies or over the counter remedies, you should visit a doctor or dermatologist for further advice. Remember, the sooner you get rid of your acne, the less chance you have of having scars afterwards. You can treat scarring with laser treatment but it can be costly. Acne is treatable but, because everyone's acne is different and responds to different cures, you might have to a try a few before you find the one that works for you.