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.