Benzoyl peroxide is another safe and effective topical agent for the early treatment of acne. Available in varying strengths, this chemical works by penetrating into the oil glands of the skin and killing bacteria responsible for acne inflammation. By peeling the skin, benzoyl peroxide also prevents new pimples from forming.

"Always apply it to thoroughly dry skin and carefully avoid the eyes, mouth and nostrils. Start with a five percent gel once a day, then twice a day, then try a 10 percent gel. If your skin becomes irritated, go back to the five percent. The first week of use may result in a worsening condition, so be patient," said Kurt Butler and Dr. Lynn Rayner of the John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, in The Best Medicine.

"Beware of too much burning and peeling; prolonged discomfort can aggravate your case and discourage you from following through. However, some irritation, tightness and dryness is a sign that the product is doing its work. The idea is to expose and toughen the skin in gradual stages, to build up tolerance slowly," added Dr. Frederic Haberman, a dermatologist at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, in Your Skin; A Dermatologist's Guide to A Lifetime of Beauty and Health.

Like benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin works by suppressing the growth of bacteria. Because it contains alcohol, this topical antibiotic may irritate the skin and should be kept away from heat because the solution is flammable.

"Before applying topical clindamycin, wash the affected area thoroughly with a mild soap and warm water. Then rinse well and pat dry. To avoid skin irritation from the alcohol, wait at least 30 minutes after washing or shaving before applying this medication," according to Consumer Guide's Prescription Drugs. Results are visible in six to 12 weeks.

If there is no improvement, be sure to consult your doctor, especially if there are persistent or bothersome side effects. Clindamycin may cause diarrhea, dry skin, fatigue, headache, nausea, oily skin or stomach irritation but these should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication.

Major side effects are bloody or pus-containing diarrhea, increased urination, itching, sore throat, or swelling of the face. Although it appears to be safe, Consumer Guide said extensive studies in humans have not been conducted so be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using clindamycin.

"If you are using another topical medication as well as clindamycin, it is best to apply them at different times to increase their effectiveness and to reduce the chance of skin irritation," Consumer Guide added. (Next: Tretinoin for acne.)

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