Which are the best methods for eliminating and preventing acne breakouts?

I've never struggled with acne too much until recently i've been breaking out a lot on my forehead and a little on my nose. The major problem is on my forehead though the acne is a combination of fairly visible whiteheads and a lot of pimples that appear under the skin. I started breaking out a couple of weeks ago so I went to a local pharmacy and bought some medication to fix this problem but it just seems ever since I started using it my acne has gotten even worse. Does anyone have any advice on how I can eliminated this problem then once its gone some advice to keep it away.

Some additional Information that i thought may be important is the name of the product I'm using on my face and exposing the fact that I have what I consider to be oily skin. The product is St. Ives Apricot Scrub Blemish & Blackhead Control. I've Also used other products such as Oxy Face Wash with the same result that after I start using the medication it doesn't seem to help it only seems to get worse.

[123singm]

I had the same problem, Then I then started to use non-acne products such as alba papaya enzyme facial mask and gigi's organics natural skincare system that is a cleanser plus(it has apple,witch hazel and bluberry in it)  and i got rid of most acne. if you'r consisten-wich i wasnt, i bet you can get rid of everything. Somtimes acne products irritate skin and cause more breakouts. I hope this helps.

[loiloi]

Over the counter products are of limited benefit for anything other than occasional mild acne. You should see your GP for a course of oral antibiotics such as Oxytetracycline 250mg twicw daily and/or a topical retinoid such as Differin (adapalene).
If you are unable to access prescription medicine (eg no insurance) the most helpful over the counter regime I have found is Freederm (contains nicotinamide).
Eloise.