This article discusses known and scientifically-backed medicinal treatments for acne, and not alternative cures such as homeopathic and hydrotherapy treatments.

To start off, these are the supplements that are commonly prescribed to those with acne or has had a history of acne: zinc, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin E.

Studies have shown that a substantial amount of people suffering from acne and other skin disorders have a zinc deficiency. Zinc has been theorized to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which helps reduce the skin’s reaction. However, too much zinc can in turn cause copper deficiency, so copper supplementation is also necessary if zinc is to be taken as a supplement to prevent acne.

Vitamin A should be taken in light doses because it has a serious potential to cause toxicity. Consult with a doctor regarding vitamin A for acne treatment. Vitamin B6, on the other hand, has been linked as a known treatment supplement for premenstrual acne cases.

Other than the vitamins and minerals stated above, the only other alternative treatment linked with acne backed by studies is tea tree oil, which has natural antibacterial properties. Some over-the-counter products that contain as much as five percent tea tree oil are proven to be effective for mild to moderate acne. While tea tree oil may be as effective as benzoyl peroxide (as an active ingredient) for over-the-counter creams, it takes longer to produce results. However, the same studies also showed that tea tree oil is gentler on the skin.

The concern is valid; you have a very important occasion coming up—perhaps a wedding or a formal event—and you just broke out with a very ironic case of acne. So you ask, is there a fast or overnight cure for acne?

We hate to break it out to you but the short answer is no. However, depending on the stage your acne is currently in, things can be a little more forgiving.

Caveat: never try to squeeze or pop an acne hoping that everything will appear back to normal as though you never had it. Squeezing can lead to scarring which can pose more problems, not to mention prove more costly in the long run.

So, what is the best way to speed up the treatment of acne? Proper hygiene combined with over-the-counter or prescribed medication. But first, do know that acne, although scientifically defined as acne vulgaris, is a very generic term and also encompasses, by definition, minor skin blemishes such as blackheads and whiteheads.

Because the subject of this article revolves around fast treatment, below are some of the treatments you can consider given a short period of time.

First comes over-the-counter topical treatments. Topical treatments are usually lotions or creams that are applied over the affected area. I’m sure you know a couple of brand-name products that are linked with acne. These usually contain benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid or lactic acid which dries up oil and kills bacteria. If you have a very mild case of acne, these may heal the affected area quicker. However, side effects of skin irritation and dryness can also occur.

After over-the-counter treatments comes prescribed topical creams. These ointments cannot be bought without prescription because a professional needs to pair up the right treatment for your acne and skin type. This may take longer—including the trip to the dermatologist—but may prove more effective, and avoids additional lost time in case the over-the-counter treatment does not work.

Lastly, oral treatments such as antibiotics can also be considered. This form of treatment also needs the assessment of a professional and cannot be bought without a prescription. Antibiotics act fast because they target live bacteria, and you will notice a reduction on swelling within a few hours. Antibiotics also have side effects so be weary of your medical history.

Truly, if your acne is not that obvious, you are probably better off applying makeup or hiding creams to make it less noticeable when you need it. Acne can be a serious problem if not treated properly, and can leave you scarred, which is definitely more problematic. Consult with a professional for best results.

So, you’ve heard it and read about it before—that birth control pills help treat acne—but is there any truth to it? This article explains exactly just that. Read on before popping that pill for other reasons.

Could birth control pills really help treat acne for women? The short answer is yes. The truth is, oral contraceptives can improve acne among women. It is a known alternative treatment when traditional acne prescription medication does not respond to acne. This goes as far as being approved the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA. However, this does not apply to all contraceptive pills. Only three types, specifically with an estrogen and progestin combination are allowed. The following are: ethinyl estradiol and norgestimate (Ortho Tri-Cyclen), ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone (Estrostep), and ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone (Yaz).

Birth control pills attack acne by reducing the amount of sebum. As we all know, acne develops when sebum—the oil that lubricates skin and hair—mixed with dead skin cells plug open hair follicles. As the plug accumulates more oil, it grows and ruptures, and attracts bacteria which leads to inflammation and infection.

Pills target only one aspect of acne which is excess sebum. Because of this, it is still normally prescribed with other acne treatments such as topical and oral medicines. To some, the course of treatment using pills take months even before producing any noticeable results. Plus, the skin may also get worse before becoming better so it is advised to continue with treatment even if this happens.

As with every medication, taking contraceptive pills for acne has side effects. These may include headaches, change in menstrual cycling, breast tenderness, nausea and vomiting, decreased libido, and depression. It is not advised for pregnant women to undergo this treatment unless approved by a qualified physician and OB/GYN.

Talk to your doctor before taking birth control pills for acne. There are health-history and age limitations for this types of treatments so it is best to consult with a qualified professional to be safe.

One of the most severe form of acne is in nodule form. In dermatology, nodules are lesions centered in the dermis or subcutaneous fat. If not treated properly, nodular acne can be uncomfortable and cause scarring.

Squeezing a nodule should always be avoided as it can lead to trauma at the skin base. It can also make the nodule heal much longer. It is advisable to seek advice from a dermatologist for any signs of nodules to prevent permanent skin damage and scarring.

Oral treatments are generally considered better for nodules over topical treatments. Acne oral treatments that contain retinoid, a compound of vitamin A, are usually prescribed. Caution is always advised for pregnant women, as usually these treatments are not considered safe for them. Studies have linked these treatments to miscarriage and birth defects. Another known caution is taking oral treatments longer than fifteen weeks, which can also lead to other skin disorders in some patients. Once an oral treatment course finishes, it is advised to wait a minimum of two months before taking another course.

Some dermatologists also prescribe antibiotics for treating mild to minor nodular acne attacks. Depending on the patient, antibiotics can sometime provide quicker results. However, natural body resistance to antibiotics or intestinal problems can become minor side effects.

Nodular acne is a serious form of acne that should never be taken lightly. While some home remedies work, consultation from a qualified dermatologist is still the best course of action. Because this kind of acne usually appears on the face, scarring and skin defects can be the worst effect if not treated properly. To prevent such, seek help as soon as the first signs of nodular acne appear.