If you're always battling breakouts, see a dermatologist, who can identify the rare case of acne caused by serious hormonal irregularities. But for most adults, dermatologists prescribe one of the following:

Topical Antibiotic Preparations: Retinoids such as Retin-A, Renova, and Differin exfoliate skin and keep pores clean.

Oral Antibiotics: Sometimes dermatologists suggest a short course of oral antibiotics to attack the bacteria that cause pimples. For breakouts that occur around your period, some doctors will prescribe antibiotics eight days a month.

Birth-Control Pills: Controlling hormones can help clear up your skin. Some doctors may suggest going on a contraceptive, such as Ortho Tri-Cyclen or Yasmin.

Accutane: In extreme cases, doctors prescribe this pill, which decreases the skin's oil production. But it can have side effects, including dry eyes and chapped lips. (It cannot be taken by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding or who plan to become pregnant within three months.)

Lasers: The latest trend, lasers may permanently seal off certain pores and stop acne from recurring in problem areas. Smoothbeam and CoolTouch lasers use heat to target oil glands, while the ClearLight laser kills blemish-causing bacteria. However, these treatments require multiple monthly or biweekly treatments, which can range from $200 to $500 a session.