Beat Your Breakouts Forever

Exfoliation Skip the granular exfoliants (generally too harsh for sensitive skin) in favor of peels. "Acids like lactic and glycolic-typically in at-home peels-stimulate collagen production, plump up skin with moisture, and smooth its surface," says NYC dermatologist Dr. Virgil Hatcher. "You want to slough off the dead skin cells that trap pimple-producing oil." A series of in-office peels, stronger than the at-home versions, deliver antiaging and antiacne power in one punch. Prescription retinoids (Retin-A, Tazorac, Differin, and Renova) are another more aggressive option.

DIY: L'Oreal Paris AcneResponse Intensive Adult Acne Peel Kit has it all: a gentle cleanser that preps skin for a 2 percent salicylic acid peel and a neutralizing moisturizer with soothing botanicals to deter redness.