Sulfur works by suppressing the bacteria that causes pimples, and it can also unclog pores. Because it can be very drying (and has a strong smell), it's best to use as a spot treatment or mask that is rinsed off the face.

Try: Murad Acne Spot Treatment, $18, is a powerful pimple blocker that can be applied to full-blown pimples or a blemish you feel coming on before it shows. It contains sulfur (2 percent) and salicylic acid -- a double whammy. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Clarifying Colloidal Sulfur Mask, $42, contains sulfur, clay and retinol to fight acne, oil-production and wrinkles.

On the hunt for a natural acne treatment? According to research from Ireland, herbal preparations that contain thyme may be more effective at getting rid of acne than prescription creams. The research, from Leeds Metropolitan University, revealed that all the preparations tested were able to kill the bacteria that causes acne after five minutes of exposure, but that thyme was the most effective of the three. In fact, they discovered that their thyme tincture had a greater antibacterial effect than standard concentrations of benzoyl peroxide. Score one for acne home remedies.

Try: Fushi Thyme Tincture, $11.69, or Mario Badescu Skin Care Anti Acne Serum, $22.