We spoke with The Makeup Diva about ways to keep a clear, blemish-free complexion. Find out what she recommends!
Best products to treat acne
What products are right for combination acne-prone skin?
The Makeup Diva’s tip:
Combination skin is the most common skin type. I’ve yet to run across anyone who can honestly say their skin is “normal.” After all, what is normal, anyway?
The important thing to remember is to use products that are effective, but gentle. Harsh, alcohol-based toners and benzoyl peroxide acne medicines can irritate your skin and cause it to produce even more oil. When you shop for skin care, read ingredient labels carefully. Avoid ingredients that will clog pores and aggravate breakouts (visit Zero Zits for a listing of potential pore clogging ingredients).
My favorite cleansers for combination skin are Serious Skin Care’s Glycolic Cleanser and Joey New York’s Pure Pores Cleanser with Vitamin C. They will effectively remove makeup and dirt without irritation. Use a moisturizer only on dry patches. I like Serious Skin Care’s Super Hydrate and Joey New York’s Oil Free Moisturizer.
Treat blemishes with a gentle touch. Benzoyl peroxide products should be used sparingly and only on the individual blemish. Try Serious Skin Care’s Clearz It, Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, or Joey New York’s Chin Breakout Relief.
When all else fails, visit a dermatologist. There are treatment options available by prescription that may help lessen the severity of your breakouts.
Find out more of the best products for acne-prone skin >>
Best way to treat blackheads
How can I get rid of blackheads? I’ve tried everything, even the strips, and nothing seems to work. Any suggestions?
The Makeup Diva’s tip:
Blackhead. Even the word looks ominous. They look even worse on your face. I know – I’ve been there. I’ve endured painful extractions, but they always came back. I used to console myself by believing they were meant to be there, like freckles.
When those pore strips came out, I ran out and bought half a dozen boxes. They didn’t work for me either.
The one remedy I’ve found that truly gets rid of blackheads is Differin Gel. Differin is a topical medication available by prescription from your dermatologist. Used once daily, it helps lessen oil production, keep breakouts at bay and get rid of those horrid little black spots. Consult your doctor to see if you’re a candidate for Differin, or another prescription treatment option.
Check out the best products for treating blackheads >>
Best sunscreen for oily skin
I have oily skin that is also extremely fair. Do you know of an oil-free, high-SPF sunscreen that might work for me?
The Makeup Diva’s tip:
Wearing sunscreen can be a challenge if you have oily skin. Many sunscreens can cause you to break out, and they’ve also been known to cause makeup “meltdown.” I’ve searched long and hard for the ultimate oil-free sun protection, only to find there really is no perfect product. The two sunscreens that have worked best on my oily skin are Kiehl’s Water Based Sunscreen SPF 24 and Rectifiance Day Lift Refining Oil Free SPF 15 lotion from Chanel’s Precision line. The Kiehl’s product is great because you can use it on your face and body. Chanel’s lotion will not exacerbate an oily complexion. Both products wear very well under makeup.
If you want to forgo the added layer of sunscreen under makeup, try a foundation that contains some sun protection. Urban Decay’s Surreal Skin Powder Foundation is a good choice, and can be found easily online at Urban Decay.
Check out more on finding the best sunscreen >>
More skin care solutions
- Get more tips on makeup and skincare >>
- Learn about wrinkle prevention and the best anti-aging products >>
- How to treat dry skin >>
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