Your doctor can diagnose acne based on the appearance of the skin. Testing is usually not required.

Take the following self-care steps to lessen the effects of acne:

• Clean your skin gently with a mild, non-drying soap (like Dove, Neutrogena, or Basics.) Remove all dirt or make-up. Wash once or twice a day, including after exercising. However, avoid excessive or repeated skin washing.
• Shampoo your hair daily, especially if it's oily. Comb or pull your hair back to keep the hair out of your face. Avoid tight headbands.
• Try not to squeeze, scratch, pick, or rub the pimples. Although it might be tempting to do this, it can lead to scarring and skin infections.
• Avoid touching your face with your hands or fingers.
• Avoid greasy cosmetics or creams. Look for water-based or "non-comedogenic" formulas. Take make-up off at night.

If these steps do not clear up the blemishes to an acceptable level, try over-the-counter acne medications. These creams and lotions are applied directly to the skin. They may contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid. They work by killing bacteria, drying up the oil, and causing your skin to peel.

If the pimples are still a problem, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications and discuss other options with you.

Prescription medicines include:

• Oral antibiotics (such as minocycline, doxycycline, and tetracycline).
• Topical antibiotics (applied to the skin), such as clindamycin or erythromycin.
• Synthetic vitamin A derivatives, called retinoids, for severe acne. These include retinoic acid cream or gel (Retin-A) and isotretinoin pills (Accutane). Pregnant women and sexually active adolescent females should NOT take Accutane, as it causes severe birth defects.
• Birth control pills can sometimes help clear up acne. (In some cases, though, they may make it worse.)
• Prescription formulas of benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid.