Acne: do the 'great' brands really work?

**missyann** · 04-11-2008 10:27 AM

I tried proactive for four months: nothing. My skin got dry and I broke out more after using it. I followed directions closely and used it day and night, but it still didn't work.

I used Clinique for three months. It made my skin oily and I broke out.

I've been using Aveda for two months and it doesn't seem to be doing it.

Have these worked wonders for anyone? Am I to the point to where I should go see a dermatologist and get prescription treatment? What are some of your acne tricks?

**blondiej530** · 04-11-2008 04:49 PM

Hey, you sound like me! Proactive made me break out along with other brands out there. After months of using over the counter stuff I decided time to go to the derm! It seems to be working well for me, they usually put people on a antibiotic and a cream or something, I am using clindymicin. It works well for me. I think you should make an apt for the derm. Hope all is well for you!

**iamwomanhearmeroar** · 04-11-2008 11:05 PM

SkinCeuticals Acne Care System= Amazing!!!!!
I used to breakout really bad due to stress and hormones from menstral cycles. This stuff is amazing. One day after using it you can see results. Usually Spas that do facials sell it really expensive, but you can find it pretty cheap online. Just do a search for it.

I went to get a facial at a really nice spa. The woman used this on me and gave me a sample of it. Cleared my face right up.

I wanted it but I wasn't willing to pay the prices she was asking for the kit so I went online to find it cheaper.

I also like to buy the SkinCeuticals Daily Moisturizer to use after I put on all the acne care stuff, so my skin doesn't dry out. But I am sure a cheaper moisturizer like Aveno brand would work just as well.

Here is one site that I found it at pretty cheap. You might be able to find it cheaper at another online store. This is much much cheaper than the price a facial expert would sell it to you at.

**iamwomanhearmeroar** · 04-11-2008 11:07 PM

I just wanted to add, proactive also dried my face out and did nothing for me. I returned it and got my money back.

**anonymouswhitefemale** · 04-13-2008 05:54 AM

Generally creams never helped me, they'd either overdry, or make oily skin.

Stop thinking that there's a miracle cure, eat properly, get some exercise and sun on your face, it's the only way.

**skaplan91** · 04-15-2008 04:48 AM

I do believe that there are acne treatments out there that are really effective. Maybe you just have not found the right one to suit your skin yet. I would recommend going to a cosmetician, getting a facial to clean out your skin and asking her for products that can help your specific skin problems. The best way is to get a professionals advice

**CHANDLERS WISH** · 04-15-2008 04:55 AM

Are they not money making machines?

What did your dear old grandma have to say?

Don't add too much sugar into you life....

Avoid Coffee, drink green tea..

Try Cabbage juice, not to bad and great for a week for lunch in losing weight...

Stop stressing, thing "happy thoughts"

DRINK lots of water...

CW

x

**LadyLane** · 04-16-2008 08:52 AM

Unfortunately CW, none of what you mentioned is realistic for people that have serious or cystic acne. You don't think happy thoughts and your skin clears up... its hormonal sometimes, genetic sometimes, and sometimes it could be something like a specific food ingredient, gluten or wheat.

My sister had cystic acne years ago and believe it or not, what helped most after trying alot of other things, was the Serious Skin Care acne line that is sold on HSN.com (at the time, they weren't online, just television). Last year I ordered it for my young cousin and it helped her tremendously and her mom ended up continuing to buy it after she ran out. I recommend the glycolic cleanser, dry-lo, and buff polish. Those are the ones I remember using on myself. I think there is a masque also and an oil-free hydrator as well.

Its not expensive and has the money back guarantee that Proactiv has. I know someone who spilled some Proactiv on her rug and it BLEACHED her rug - of course it would make your skin peel off!

**Autumn** · 04-20-2008 03:42 PM

I tried pro active and it did nothing for me. I've tried tonnes of different brands and the only one that worked was skinb5, you can get it in a powder or a tablet, it helps to reduce oil etc and works from the inside out. It's great stuff.

**pushingupdaisies** · 04-23-2008 11:49 AM

Wow I was amazed to hear that so many of you had "bad" experiences with Pro Activ. I do think that brand does work and am an avid believer in this product. It done wonders in clearing up my acne. However, I noticed the dry skin issue and backed off to only using the product one time a day. This helped so much.

Secondly, someone mentioned about drinking water, green tea, and happy thoughts. This is a wonderful idea all of those things do change how we feel and perceive our bodies. I'm glad that it was mentioned.

Other things that might help: Choose one brand and stick with it. I say this because you can get the whole product line of the same product so that your not doubling up on ingredients that can cause irritation or even worse breakouts. Secondly, remove your makeup daily. By removing your makeup you are eliminating the chance of bacteria being blocked into your pores. Lastly, every night before I go to bed I apply a thin layer of vasoline or petroleum jelly. My doctor suggested this. I have been doing this for several months and have experienced smoother skin and have eliminated breakouts.

Good luck to everyone and thanks for listening!