Ask an Expert

Q. I have acne and don't know what to do?

Don't touch your face!

Cleansing in the morning and evening is sufficient. If not too drying, consider an antibacterial soap one of the cleansings. Over the counter Benzoyl Peroxide is a proven, effective therapy. Start with a lower strength, such as 2.5% cream, and just use at bedtime for a week. If your skin isn't too dried out, increase to twice a day applications. When it's time to buy a new bottle, you may find that 5% or 10% will be necessary for maximal results. As the strength increases, start with once a day, nighttime applications, and increase to twice daily applications if your skin isn't too dry. If you must, makeup can be applied after the medicated cream disappears.

Topical antibiotics, or oral antibiotics, are sometimes helpful, but only available with a prescription.