How To Be Acne-Free

The bad news, according to New York dermatologist Kenneth L. Edelson, is that acne is genetic. If your parents had it, then you probably will too. The good news is that there are many highly effective over-the-counter remedies that work well to battle blemishes. To figure out what products are right for you, first identify your skin type.

If you have oily skin, use a cleanser with 5% benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid (try Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash), then a topical benzoyl peroxide product directly on the pimples. Try: Oxy Balance Emergency Spot Treatment. This should be done in the morning and at night. Try to avoid heavy creams and oil-based products. If you have dry skin (but are still prone to acne), use a gentle cleanser like Cetaphil and a noncomedogenic moisturizer like Eucerin. Then use a topical water-based benzoyl peroxide product directly on the pimples. Try: Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 5. This should also be done twice a day. Be careful not to use the benzoyl peroxide all over as this will overdry your skin and cause more redness.

If your at-home treatment isn't working, you'll need to see a dermatologist for prescription-strength products. A dermatologist will also be able to give you an injection of cortisone directly into a pimple to instantly shrink the swelling.

As for makeup, use cover-up products that also treat the problem. Avoid oil-based foundations and cover-ups. Try Cover Girl Clarifying Concealer with salicylic acid. Just dot on the pimple to hide the redness.