If you are one of the 85% of Americans suffering or having suffered from acne at one point in their lives, you probably have tried a number of different over the counter (OTC) products. Targeting mild forms of acne, OTC products can be found in different forms, like gels, creams, lotions, exfoliating scrubs and cleansers. Simple to take over the counter acne pills have not yet been released.

The top over the counter acne medications are aimed at resolving mild acne and may not help severe forms. Don't give up hope. There still might be an over the counter treatment right for you.

Over the Counter Acne Medications Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is used to treat non-severe acne and usually a difference can be seen as short as in 5 days. Available in varying strengths, the strongest benzoyl peroxide percentages are only available with a doctor's prescription. Gels are usually the strongest.

A common side effect of benzoyl peroxide is skin dryness and irritation. When starting this type of treatment, start with a lower percentage (2.5%) and work up to 5% or 10% if needed. Use it every other day if it's still too potent and once your skin has adjusted, move up to twice daily or whatever has been recommended. Applying benzoyl peroxide products to cool, clean, dry skin will also decrease irritation.

As it reacts and creates free radicals, the major drawback of benzoyl peroxide is that it produces cancer and causes premature aging, as does persistent acne.

Free radicals ruin skin and cause premature skin aging. Damage is determined by the concentration of benzoyl peroxide and the frequency and duration of use. Acne actually makes the skin age quicker and using benzoyl peroxide without success in acne elimination will make it mature exponentially faster.

Hydrogen peroxide is produced by the skin in response to the infection of pores and will continue to be produced until the acne is completely gone. Unfortunately, hydrogen peroxide is damaging to the skin and body because it is a free radical. Over a period of time the volume of hydrogen peroxide acts just like continual sun exposure, damaging skin components such as collagen and causing the skin to sag and wrinkle.

On top of that, the body's healing process is a complicated mess of chemical processes. Throughout these natural processes, free radicals are released, increasing the amount of damage to the skin and other organs.

Luckily, the skin has antioxidants that protect against free radical damage. Researchers think that the amount of free radicals produced by moderate and severe acne uses all of the skin's antioxidants, leaving it weak against those made by every day body functions.

To stop skin aging, it is essential to find an acne skin care solution to stop acne (and its production of hydrogen peroxide) without creating more free radicals.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is also effective for some people's mild to moderate acne. It has antibacterial effects and may help with skin inflammation. Azelaic acid is generally well tolerated with a low incidence of transient side effects such as skin redness, itching and burning.

Sulfur, Sodium Sulfacetamide and Salicylic Acid

Sulfur, sodium sulfacetamide, and salicylic acid products are not considered as effective as benzoyl peroxide but may be tried for treating mild acne. They are not as irritating to the skin but might have an unpleasant smell or cause pigmentation.

Not enticed by the side effects? What are the over the counter acne treatments that work, you might ask? All skin responds differently and experimentation is necessary. For a gentler acne solution, check out natural products with antimicrobial and sebum inhibiting power.

Managing your acne with an acne breakouts treatment is not only helpful with regard to your appearance now but crucial in preventing premature skin aging. If you already have aged or damaged skin, try BIO SKIN CARE, a natural product that will put you in control of your acne, work as an acne scar treatment and repair damaged skin.