With literally hundreds of various treatments available to battle acne, it can be overwhelming to identify the anti-acne option that right for you. The most common acne treatments can be found in pharmacies, but just because they're readily available over the counter, it doesn't mean they are ineffective. Here's what have been proven to work for decades.

Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide is the most commonly used over-the-counter acne medication, and for good reason: Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most effective acne treatments available. Typically, a 5% solution or gel is all that is needed to treat acne with almost no side effects for most people. Some users may experience mild irritation such as dry skin and peeling, and in this case a 2.5% formula will be gentler on sensitive skin.

Benzoyl peroxide works by delivering antibacterial action to kill acne-causing bacteria P. acnes. Its disinfectant property is a winning trait, because unlike antibiotics and other prescription medications, benzoyl peroxide can be used for months, even years at a time without the risk of P. acnes resistance.

Overall, benzoyl peroxide is nearly as effective as many acne antibiotics, and is often prescribed for use in conjunction with oral antibiotics to better control acne, making it one of the most successful over-the-counter acne medication.