Choosing the right acne medication is an important part of treating blemished skin. There are a number of different treatment options available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Clearasil is the most commonly used over the counter acne medication, and is helpful in treating mild to moderate cases. This medicine contains benzoyl peroxide, which can help to dry out pimples, but may cause severe stinging, itching, peeling, and swelling on the areas that it is used on.

Proactiv is widely recognized due to its advertisements featuring celebrity endorsements. This treatment contains a three part regimen of a cleanser, toner, and lotion to heal and prevent breakouts. Proactiv also contains benzoyl peroxide, which is known for its side effects mentioned above. If you are wary of these treatments because of the side effects, perhaps you should consider a natural treatment instead of harmful prescription acne medication options.

For more severe cases, Accutane is a prescription acne medication that is considered to be a last resort treatment when your skin has not been responsive to any other product used. It is an oral medication that can be quite effective, yet can cause side effects such as dry skin, aching joints, and even severe birth defects if a female user becomes pregnant during use.

Retin A is a topical tretinoin acne medication that is used to improve the appearance and texture of the skin. Its side effects include sensitivity to light, swelling and dryness of the skin, and blistering. Results will not occur immediately and it must be used continuously, even after acne has cleared, to remain effective.

One of the newer over the counter acne medications is called Acuzine, and it is a breakthrough natural treatment that can be as effective as some of the prescription acne medications, without the potential side effects.

Acuzine contains Vitamins C and E, aloe vera leaf, hydrolyzed collagen, and other therapeutic natural ingredients. The antioxidants protect your skin's cells and tissues from the harmful effects of free radicals, which are unstable byproducts in the body that contribute to infections. Hydrolyzed collagen stimulates the natural production of collagen in the body to improve the appearance of the skin and also aids in your body's ability to retain a healthy amount of water to prevent moisture loss. This innovative acne medication is free from side effects and can benefit the overall health of your entire body.

Talk to your dermatologist to determine which treatment is right for you. Prescription acne medications are usually the strongest, but you may be able to clear up acne breakouts with an over the counter acne medication such as Clearasil. As an alternative, you may want to try a natural antioxidant supplement, as it offers the least potential for nasty side effects.

David Bloom is an avid health enthusiast and a regular contributor to a variety of health websites. He is the author of Natural Acne Medication and Treatments, a blog dedicated to the treatment of acne, covering conventional and natural remedies for clearing up blemished skin.