With 50 million Americans dealing with acne, according to Prevention Magazine, it's a leading beauty concern. Fortunately, today's acne treatment options can work for all types of skin and all types of acne. It's mostly a matter of finding the right combination of ways to get rid of your acne.

Be Preventative

Wash your face twice daily to cleanse the skin of oils, bacteria and dead skin cells that clog pores. Opt for water-based cleansers. Shower after perspiring, as sweat holds dirt and bacteria on your skin. Tight clothing can have a similar effect and can irritate the skin, so avoid it. Wear powder makeups rather than creams, removing them before bed to prevent clogged pores.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Acne products made with benzoyl peroxide are reputed to be the most effective, as the Mayo Clinic states. Salicylic acid is another good option. If you don't have success with either of these, other products to try are those made with the combination of alcohol and acetone, or the combination of sulfur and resorcinol.

Prescription Acne Treatments

When over-the-counter antibacterial cleansers prove inadequate for getting rid of acne, dermatologists may prescribe topical, prescription-strength antimicrobial agents or a six-month regimen of oral antibiotics, explains the American Academy of Dermatology. Severely inflamed acne cysts are often treated with injections of diluted corticosteroids or the oral retinoid isotretinoin. More mild topical retinoids may be used for less-severe acne to unclog pores. Oral contraceptives are another effective treatment option for women as they inhibit production of sebum, the skin's oil that is largely responsible for clogged pores.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies sometimes work where medication doesn't, or they may help fight acne when used along with other treatments, explains holistic dermatologist Alan Dattner, MD. He recommends Oregon grape root creams or tinctures for severe cases of acne, and tea tree oil, echinacea and oregano for milder cases. Remember to always check with your dermatologist before taking herbal remedies, including for possible interactions with other supplements or medications you take.

More Aggressive Options

When all else fails, there are a variety of physical procedures that can get rid of acne. Skin Care Physicians cautions that trying these methods at home is dangerous. More minor procedures include chemical peels and comedo extractions. The former uses chemical agents to loosen acne, while the latter involves the use of a sterilized tool for unclogging pores. Severe acne cysts may require drainage and surgical extraction. Skin Care Physicians also talks of laser and other light therapies, typically performed to kill acne-causing bacteria, in conjunction with other treatment approaches. Laser therapy is also being used more frequently for the treatment of acne scars.