What To Look For

Many acne sufferers look for over-the-counter treatments to help with their problem, and there are treatments that are available that work for mild acne. Most acne products take a period of time to work and most will cure existing blemishes, but will not prevent future flareups. Products with a two-percent salicylic acid formula or benzoyl peroxide work best. Salicylic acid acts as an exfoliant and keeps the skin pores clean by removing dead skin, while benzoyl peroxide works as a mild disinfectant to prevent infection.

Common Pitfalls

Some people think they need to feel a tingling sensation for the product to work. Many useful acne medications will produce no feeling at all. Another problem people have with over-the-counter acne medications is they won't work on severe cases of acne. People with severe acne should see a dermatologist so their skin can be treated prior to developing acne scars.

Where To Buy

Acne treatment can be purchased at nearly every drugstore, large department store or online. Some acne treatments are heavily marketed, but competitive products work equally as well at lower prices. Walgreen drugstores have store-brand acne kits that contain both salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide cleansers and creams. Purchasing treatments at a local drugstore also allows direct interaction with a pharmacist so specific questions can be answered.

Cost

Most over-the-counter kits containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid cleansers cost in the range of $20. Some kits also contain moisturizing creams and these are included in the price.

Comparison Shopping

If acne is moderate to severe, it may be much less expensive in the long run to go to a dermatologist than to try over-the-counter treatments. Dermatologists can use much stronger medications than are available over the counter. The cost of these medications can be much less than the cost of treating acne scars after they occur.