It is only mild cases of acne that can be brought under control using a skin care regimen at home. Some stubborn acne cases respond only to acne medication. Dermatologists specialize in acne medication and prescribe treatments according to individual skin types. Acne medication involves both application of creams, washes and the like, and oral medication.

Some of the mild topical preparations for acne medication contain benzoyl peroxide. This chemical kills the acne causing bacteria and brings about a few surface changes in the skin that prevent clogging up of the pores in the skin.

Some stubborn cases of acne are treated using antibiotics. This may be in the form of gels, lotions or creams for topical application. Antibiotic preparations are often combined with benzoyl peroxide products to get better results.

Severe cases of acne call for antibiotic pills. These antibiotic pills used in acne medication should be taken under the supervision of a medical practitioner as they may react adversely with any other medication that you may be taking on a regular basis.

Some acne medication products contain retinoids( Retin A). These products contain vitamin A and have been found to be useful in treating blackheads and whiteheads which are non-inflammatory types of acne.

Retinoids are also given as oral pills for severe inflammatory acne. This type of acne medication results in some peeling of the skin and also decreases the production of oil in the sebaceous glands. However, these medicines should be prescribed after exercising extreme caution. Several negative side effects have been reported due to the use of oral retinoids. In extreme cases liver damage, birth defects and depression have been reported. Pregnant women should not be given oral retinoids as it may cause birth defects.

There are a few other over the counter acne medications options available nowadays. Certain acne medications involve the use of zinc and have been found to be very effective. Specialists in the field can recommend the best suited acne medication for your skin type and level of severity.