1 Major Skin Problem. 2 Big Solutions

The problem? Acne. The solution? I’ve got two solutions that really work.

Let me start by saying this, I speak from experience here. I literally had tried everything. Every drugstore, fancy store, and home remedy solution out there and nothing would fix my face. Finally, two years ago I reluctantly visited a dermatologist for the first time. She put me on a retinol to fix my problem skin. It worked, like a damn charm. I stayed on it for a year, and one day I decided to not refill my prescription. My skin stayed clear for a year. Then I turned back into a pumpkin. Until I got my act together (again).

So acne sufferers, listen up! I’ve got 2 solutions for you. One comes with a dermatologist and one without.

Solution 1: Make an appointment with a trusted dermatologist. I found mine on Yelp and she is fabulous. Chances are she is going to put you on some sort of retinol. This prescription is gold! I am currently on Atralin and loving it. Things will get worse before they get better but the better is worth it. This gel is extremely drying (I earned the nickname Cobra Face because of it, thanks Luke) so be armed with a great moisturizer.

To supplement this prescription, which also has anti-aging properties, you will need a great cleanser, moisturizer and a sunscreen. My dermatologist recommended Obagi Nu-Derm Gentle Cleanser this stuff is the bomb.com. Your face feels truly clean after this cleanser. I also use it with my Clarisonic, which I can’t live without.

As far as moisturizers go, my dermatologist said La Mer is basically Le Crap. It may smell, feel, and look nice but not enough to warrant the extreme price tag. It’s all about Cerave, a drugstore find that will take care of any dryness – it even cured the eczema on my arm. And for the sunscreen, La Roche-Posey SPF 60 can’t be beat.

Solution 2: If you aren’t ready to take the plunge into dermatologist/ expensive prescription land I totally get it. Everything you need for clear skin comes in one handy little kit that is prescription-strength. Before getting back on my retinol regime, I gave this set a spin and I am a fan. For me personally, the prescription wins because I am a sucker for the anti-again properties (mama ain’t no spring chicken) but this a great solution for younger skin and smaller budgets.

The solution is Obagi CLENZIderm MD Systems. They have two sets; one for dry skin and one for oily skin. I went for the dry skin option. This kit comes with a cream cleanser, a therapeutic lotion that has 5% Benzoyl Peroxide, and a moisturizer to take care of any drying side effects.

The therapeutic lotion really works but consider yourself warned, it’s strong. I mean it is prescription- strength. A little goes a long way. I used it as a spot treatment on a surprise “guest” on my face. Next morning it was gone. This stuff is legit.

So there you go, two solutions for one major skin problem. You’re welcome 😉

Disclosure: The CLENZIderm set up was gifted, however opinions are totally and completely my own!