If you only break out now and then or just get one single zit at a time, you’re fine to grab something from the drugstore. You need a zit zapping product that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which are both ingredients that help stop a zit from getting bigger and helps it heal faster. Keep a tube on hand so you’re always ready when a pimple crops up.

If you have acne that’s a bit more persistent, a prescription might be necessary to get rid of your breakouts. There are loads of choices and your dermatologist will help you figure out which one is best for you by asking you questions about your breakouts and having a look at your skin. Together, you can agree on a product that will help treat your acne.

No matter what type of acne you have, a topical gel is a great choice. They battle moderate acne, but can also be effective for mild breakouts. They soothe the acne and help alleviate swelling, which can make you more comfortable and make it easy to cover the acne with make-up. Dab the gel on affected areas and you’re good to go.

If your acne is unpredictable and can crop up anywhere, you need a product that is meant for use all over. This helps treat the breakouts that are already there, but also helps treat and prevent those that haven’t started yet. Look for a pimple treatment that is designed for use on all skin and apply it regularly.

Many acne medications are meant to be used in small amounts to start, then layered on as you build your routine. Look for a product with instructions that tell you to start with a very thin layer of acne medication. Over time, you’ll put on a bit more to keep up with the results.

If you have really bad acne, your dermatologist might prescribe an oral medication. These are generally meant to treat hormonal issues that cause the acne in addition to helping alleviate the actual breakout. Make sure you follow the dosage directions exactly for the best results.

As with any skincare product, it’s a good idea to find one that is meant for your skin type. Treating acne on oily skin is a bit different than treating it on dry skin, so taking this into account can speed and boost your results.

How do you treat your acne? Are you hoping one of these items will make it even better?