An acne cream may work in several different ways. It can actively treat your acne by containing one or more medications, and it can reduce the appearance of scars. A multi-step acne cure will often include an acne cream treatment as part of its method.

Prescription acne creams often contain benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide actually targets acne by forcing oxygen into the pores (too much oxygen kills the bacteria). An over the counter dosage of just 2.5% works for some people - for others prescription strength of four to eight times that is required.

An alternative to the benzoyl peroxide route is tea tree oil. This natural ingredient can also be formulated into an acne cream, and offers similar results without causing so much drying of the skin. Many prescription drugs have natural counterparts that work just as well.

Another type of acne cream treatment is simply for back up after surgery. When lasers are used to shrink the sebaceous glands or minimize scarring, the skin is often left red and irritated. Mild painkillers in the cream can relieve the discomfort and other ingredients discourage new infections from breaking out.

Some types of acne are caused by the bacteria acne vulgaris, which can be combated with topical antibiotics found in prescription acne creams. These creams often contain benzoyl peroxide, and may be combined in multi-pronged approach that includes oral antibiotics as well. Make sure you know what you are taking in case of an emergency - the antibiotics taken long term may not be effective against a massive infection.

When it comes to acne cream, an non-oily version should always be chosen - you don't want to add more oil to your skin! If you have contact allergies, test drive a smear on your arm before moving on to the more sensitive facial skin. Don't be tempted by miracle skin peels unless you want severe burns!

Once you start an acne cream treatment, don't be a slacker - following through is the way to ensure you are getting the full benefit of treatment. Take your medication with you if you plan to be out late or sleep away from home, and apply religiously. Chuck the makeup for a while and go natural - makeup can clog your pores and make outbreaks even more damaging.

There are so many different options that it is hard to tell what the best treatment for acne is. You can try over the counter or prescription acne creams, or opt for the totally natural versions. The main goal is to find something that clears your skin without causing more problems.

Don't feel like there is only one cure for acne - you can mix and match prescription acne creams with natural acne cream treatments as long as your doctor verifies there will be no adverse reactions. Any acne cream application should be followed by a moisturizer, as most products designed to clear acne dry the skin. Don't forget this crucial step unless you want a scaly leathery face to replace the pimply one!