DESPERATELY Need Help Finding the Right Facial Cleanser!!!

I know it sounds too simple to be true, but cetaphil was the only thing that FINALLY worked for me. I heard a dermatologist on the radio talking about different skin issues and he recommended it to several callers. My sister swore by it for years while I spent loads of $$ on harsh cleansers that just dried my face out. Finally gave it a try and my face began to clear up in a couple of days! It's all I use now and my skin is finally back to normal.

I havent read all the responses so you might have already been told this. But have you tried Pro Active. You dont have to order off the TV any more. There is a kiosk in the Lewisville mall. This is where I go to buy it for myself. I ma 36 and have always had skin problems. I even did acutane in college. Pro Active has really made a difference. They even sell make up.

I have very sensitive and oily skin. I use Proactive and LOVE it. I don't use the cleanser though - it's a little too much for me. I use Johnson and Johnson Clean and Clear for Sensitive Skin cleanser (you can get it at Target or any drug store) then I use the Proctive toner and repairing lotion. My face rarely breaks out now - before I started the Proactive it was AWFUL!

Good Luck!
S.

Hi M.,
Whoa! Lots of replies! I recently got a book called, "Do You Have the Guts to be Beautiful?" It is wonderful! It talks about intestinal health and diet and how that impacts our skin. It has a detailed chart of what do dark splotches mean, black heads, wrinkles between your eyes, horizontal wrinkles on your forehead, etc, etc and how to get rid of them!! It is awesome. It also gives a recipe for a facial that I have been doing and loving. And the ingredients for the facial are all foods - so super cheap! You may want to give it a look. You can find the book at http://fromheretolongevity.com. I have heard one of the authors (Dr. Mitra Ray) speak before and she is wonderful! Good luck to you. :)
Krystal

I've had acne all my L.. Murad Acne Complex has really made a difference since I started about 5 months ago - it relieves the acne and shrinks pores for smoother looking skin. I purchased my first kit at Ulta and placed my second order from Vendors on Ebay for a LOT less money!

I found a product through my dermantologist called solvere. It has worked wonders! It is for all that you mentioned above. The total package is $50, but that includes, facial cleanser, toner pads which have acne fighting agents, acne cream and moisturizer for oily skin.

Hi M.,
I have battled oily skin and breakouts since I was about 12. I am now 30. I have used prescription acne medicine before, which works wonderfully. But it was messy and stained my clothes and bedding. I have found some products that work well for me and they are available on the internet. It is called Paula's Choice. This lady, Paula, has also written several books. The most notable one is "Don't go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me". She literally goes through every makeup and skincare line and reviews the products and tells you why they are good or bad. She has since come out with her own line (which she does not review, of course). I use her skin balancing cleanser and a 2% beta hydroxy acid solution that helps clean out the pores. I then use an over the counter benzoyl peroxide product (like oxy10)for breakouts at night. All of her products are fragrance and dye free. The only down fall is that the products are only available online at cosmeticscop.com. No running to the store to pick it up. But the shipping is usually pretty quick. The prices are super reasonable. Her books are available at I think any book store if you are interested. I know what it is like to struggle with your skin. I feel for you, girl! I hope this is helpful to you and you find a product that works!

I have used a program called Murad...it helped me tremendously. You can get a starter kit at Ulta for about $50. It it supposed to be a one month starter kit, but it always lasts me about 3 months. I founf it to be well woth the investment! You can fnd about about Murad products online. good luck!

Hi...You sound like me 10 years ago! I read the first replies and can't believe no one recommended ProActiv. It is absolutely amazing! I used to worry about my face breaking out/blackheads and now the thought never enters my mind..my skin is almost always clear. My sisters and a lot of my friends started using it when they saw how great it worked. I have ZERO blackheads (not even the stubborn ones around the nose). You have to give it about a good month for your skin to adjust to it, but you will never look back. It may be a little on the pricey side ($46.00/2 mnth supply)..they have a kiosk in Stonebriar mall/Grapevine Mills..I am sure others too. But you can also go on ebay and buy it a lot cheaper and delivered right to your door. You would want the 3 step kit..cleanser,toner,repairing lotion. Give it a chance..you will love it!!

M.,
It can be so frustrating to find the right product, because everyone says there's the best and how are you supposed to know what REALLY works? A lady called Paula Begoun has written several books with reviews for make-up/skin care products, so you might want to start with one of her books (check your library). You also might want to check out www.acne.org for some tips.

As an FYI, I'm not sure what you mean about "breaking out" with Bare Minerals, but a lot of mineral make-ups contain something called bismuth which can cause itching and burning in the skin.

M.

The key is to find a cleanser that does not dry your skin. If it drys your skin, your skin naturally produces more oil, and it's an ongoing cycle. There are some wonderful products I have found that have Dead Sea minerals, which are wonderful for your skin. go to www.deadseaspacare.com and you can read about them. They have a cleansing milk that I use morning and night. It really cleans your pores, but it has a mild moisturizer, so it leaves your skin clean and soft. They also have a facial cleanser that I use once a week to get a deeper exfoliation.

This might sound crazy, but I also have very oily skin and am still acne-prone at the rip old age of 38! I was given this advice by a nurse at my dermatologist's office a long time ago when my skin was being extra-crazy, and I'm SO glad I actually gave it a try!

Aveeno makes a bar soap that is oatmeal-based. It's not part of the nicely packaged, fancy skin-brightening whatever that they make now - plain old oatmeal facial bar. This thing is just a beigeish lump and gets all cracked and ugly once you start using it, so be prepared to hide it when company comes over... but I think you'll love how it makes your skin feel! Soft and velvety, extremely clean but not tight and squeaky.

I just did a quick search, and it looks as if the packaging has changed since I used it, but here's a link:

Okay, never mind - the link is getting murdered! Look for Aveeno Balancing Bar - beige box, blue banner across the front!

Give it a try for a week or so - it's a cheap experiment, and if it works as well for you as it did for me, you'll be a very happy lady!

Top it off with Garnier Nutrisse Anti-Sun Damage moisturizer w/SPF 28. Not greasy, I promise! It's especially great because it's made for dark splotches just like you're describing. I have those too - it's called melasma, and is from pregnancy hormones. The ingredients in the lotion fight the discoloration and the high SPF helps prevent further discoloration. I really like this one.

Here's what to look for:

Another link that won't work! It's part of the Garnier Nutrisse Skin Renew line, and it's a small bright-green bottle with a white pump on top. Any drugstore will have this line. It's usually packaged in a box.

Good luck! You're beautiful, and you will start to feel so soon!

Dr. Browns pine tar soap. I use it on my baby. Smells like burnt wood, but the smell goes away. It works miracles. Check out the reviews at www.drugstore.com. You can buy it for less than $4.00 at Family health market. It is worth a try.

Try Murad's Acne Complex. I had horrible acne with my first baby. She's now 3. Murad is the only thing that worked for me. You can get it at Ulta. They even have a kit for around $65.00 with the 4 basic products. Good luck.

M.,
I started experiencing problems with acne for the first time ever in my early 30s. After trying almost all of the cleansers, moisturizers and masks that other mama's have recommended below, I FINALLY went to see a dermatologist. I wish I had started there because I would have saved a lot of money in long run. For AM cleansing he recommended a mild cleanser like cetaphil and an oil-free spf 15 moisturizer. In the evening he recommended using the same cleanser followed by a little Retin-A daily or every other day depending on what your skin can handle and a regular oil-free moisturizer. If you have insurance this is by far more affordable. I paid my regular co-pay for the office visit and my prescription co-pay for the retin-A. The cleanser and moisturizers are easily found at any drugstore, wal-mart, or target. Good luck to you. HTH!

I've used Purpose (liquid, it also comes in a bar, if you prefer the bar). I use to have some acne when I was in my teens and 20's. I went to a Dermatologist and they told me to use Purpose cleanser and moisturizer. I've used it for many years and never had problems. Now, I only get a few pimples when I have my period each month.

I also use Clean and Clear Acne Astringent and that really helps clean my face and prevents the blackheads. I also have oily skin

You can get Purpose at CVS or Walgreens or Target or Wal-Mart. It is affordable, it is around 7 or 8 dollars. I highly recommend it. It is a gentle cleanser.

If this doesn't work, you can always go to the Dermatologist and they can prescribe you something that your insurance will cover and that is affordable. They also give samples out and that will help.

Good Luck

My dermatoligiest always tells me to use Cetaphil which has always worked great for me until I became pregnant with my second baby and then I switched to high-end brand called Yonka (available in somes spas you just have to do a little research). It is a little pricer (around $30 for probably a 5 month supply) but it completely cleared up my skin.

don't use Proactive. I know that doesn't work. My husband has the same skin problem. He went to his doctor and get some pills. it works on him. his doctor recommended Cetaphil. If you want me to recomment, I think you should find some microderm cleansers to clean at least 3 times a week. You just need to clean really well and watch your face 3 times a day. I use some microderm cleansers right now and i love it. I bought it from Target. it's not expensive.

M.,

I am a Mary Kay consultant and I would be glad to help you you out. Mary Kay has something to help your even out your skin tone. If you are intested please let me know.

I've always had oily skin that is sometimes prone to breakouts. I started using Neutrogena many years ago & have found that it is the only product that works well. I've tried many of their products & now use the Deep Clean cleanser with the Clear Pore oil eliminating astringent. Then I use the Healthy Skin anti-wrinkle, anti-blemish face cream for a moisturizer. My skin will always be oily but the face cream seems to help keep it from getting super oily. They also make foundations that are for your skin type. Like you, I've tried Mary Kay, Clinque, Pro-Active and many others but Neutrogena products are what works best for me. Good luck!!

If you have not tried the TimeWise products from Mary Kay, I would highly recommend them. Also, our acne gel is priced at just $7.00 and lasts a long time. I offer free shipping and 20% off your first order. Let me know if I can assist you by sending any samples. :) Good luck!

I love Aveeno foaming cleanser. They have several different types depending on your skin. They do have one to help maintain clear skin. I would suggest you make sure you wash your face morning and night and use something to blot the oil from your face during the day. A good moisturizer is so important, too. I use Clinique, but you said you tried it. Oil of Olay gets high marks every time. You may want to try that one. You may want to see a dermatologist before you try anything else, just to see what his/her recommendations are for your skin. Good luck!

Use Proactive....really works!

Dr. Allen Menter is one of the best in ths country. His PA's are also great. I understand if you cannot see him. He is located downtown Baylor and FAR WORTH the drive and $$$.

That said........he also recommends OTC products which are Purpose soap and Cetaphil. I have used both and they are great, not too drying. He also recommends Clinique and my daughter uses the Clinique acne wash. Nordstroms has a Clinique special starting this week....that always helps.

We don't have an acne problem but I do have sensitive skin. Clinique is what I have used for years. No one believes my age.

Best wishes to you.

I switched back to Mary Kay after my last little girl (similar problems) and am using their Timewise for oily/combo skin. Besides the breakouts, I also got the brown splotches. What I've found is that the Even Complexion Essence along with the Timewise cleanser/moisturizer and the mineral make-up foundation does a great job. I've been using the Microderm abrasion as well and that helps even out my skin. It sounds like you are outside a lot, for the brown spots, be sure and always use a good sun screen (which is in several of the MK products) or they will definitely get worse! When I switched back, I had my consultant come out to the house and give me a facial so she could give me personal recommendations and I could try it all out. The splotches don't go away overnight but mine are much lighter after several months of treatment. Good luck whatever you decide.

Jean H Kirk is an Arbonne distributor. e-mail her at: ____@____.com she can't help you she'll get you in touch with someone who can get the products to you.
I love Arbonne products.
Good Luck

Try Body Dynamics... It's from a local lady who created these special products that are waaaay cheaper than the leading brands with better ingredients.

It's done wonders for me.
http://www.bodydynamics.com/

If you can't afford much, I recommend at least the toner, cleanser and the daily moisturizer (which will run you around $44 for all and it will last you a really long time).

Oh, and Brenda looks 20 years younger than her actual age, so this stuff works without costing you a fortune!

Hi-
Have you tried Cetaphil for oily skin? Our derm recommends that. It is also used by many facialists.
My daughter has very sensitive/oily skin and this does not bother her. You can find it at any Target, Walmart.
It may not feel like you are cleansing your face by the way it feels but it does!
Hope this helps!

M.-
Check out the offerings from Paula's Choice (online) - affordable and good formulations. She wrote the book "Don't go to the Cosmetics Counter without Me" and reviews products as they come on the market. She offers samples to help you find the right product for your skin. She has a line of products for blemish-prone skin. I'm using a BHA formulation that is holding back my breakouts well. http://www.paulaschoice.com/ Free shipping until the end of May.

Good Morning,
It looks like you have already found several Mary Kay Consultants but here is one more...me :-) I am new to the area (I live in Prosper) and would live to earn your business. We have a 100% guarantee so I can work with you till we find what will work. I have another customer who breaks out on EVERYTHING and she loves how she can try a product knowing that if he doesnt work she isn't out any money. I keep a full inventory and would love to give you a complimentary facial and the customer cervice you deserve.
Have a blessed day!
K. Wartell ###-###-#### www.marykay.com/kwartell

I use Mary Kay Time Wise for Oily/Combo skin (I have very oily skin) and found that it works really well for me. I recently ran across a great deal on Origins brand skincare and decided to try it. I bought a facewash called Origins Checks and Balances. I really like it alot, it evened out my skin more. I also got a toner called United State which cleans/tones but doesn't over dry. So far I have been happy with those!

I would recommened the Cetaphil facial cleanser it feels really good and clean after you use it, however I think you need a really good face creme. I had super bad acne too and I started using the Clinique products but you have mentioned to have used them already. I also use the Aveeno Positively Radiant Lotion and it removed the dark splotches on my face. Good luck.

I M. my name is Y. and I'm a marykay consultant here is my website if you are interested on the products www.marykay.com/yrodriguez2035 If you already used marykay I'm guessing that you know how they work but any way if you need to contact me go to my website and you will find my information also you can get a 20% off your first order by phone too.

M.,
My primary care physician precribed Tri-Luma topical cream for me. It improved my skin and faded all dark splotches. This cream is covered by most medical insurance companies.
Karen
Plano,TX

M.:

Proactive is what worked best for me. Purpose is also good. Also try letting an egg white dry on your face - surprisingly effective! Now I usually use Murad since my skin is getting older and more dry. But truly the best cure is a trip to the dermatologist. An antibiotic ended up being the most effective and cheapest cure. Some products that work for everyone else, either didn't work or irritated me - it got expensive to try them all.
Jen

I know you've got tons of responses, but here's one more. Call my friend Mandy Barrow. She is a Mary Kay consultant and she can give you a personal facial so you can try all the products and she can match to you skin tone. Skin changes with age, and the hormones of having a baby can change your skin too. I used to have super oily skin, but since I've been on a skin care program with MK, my skin is hardly oily any more. My husband uses it too, and he has had much fewer breakout/acne probs. Plus, if you decide you don't like the products or they don't work for you, you can return them and get your money back! You can look her up on marykay.com and enter her name under find a consultant and she'll contact you, or you can call her (contact me and I'll give you her cell # privately if you want it). Just tell her that I gave you her contact info (V.).

Try Cetaphil. You can get it at Target. It has clenser, moisturizer.

i use noxema with scrubbing beads. every morning, i lather up my face with noxema and scrub with a very hot wash cloth, and then rinse a way with warm water. then i rinse the wash cloth again in very hot water and place on my face for a bit... kinda like waking my face up for the day.

Did you expect the flood of emails? I have never had facial problems like this but I feel your self confidence pain. I am sure you are tired of hearing about Arbonne. And I am an independant consultant. that is true. FOr your the oily part of your skin-yes, the skincare will self adjust to your skin type BUT you need to check out the Mattifying Powder. It cuts and absorbs oils and also helps correct your skin-if you want to know more about it contact me. Everyone that has tried or used it says it is better than the invention of sliced bread! ID#15095142
www.beautyinsideout.myarbonne.com
but you also have to realize that there are alot of harmful ingredients & rendering stuff in the U.S. Products here that clog and destroy our skin over time. google rendering plant.Sometimes stress does weird things to our skin and our bodies. So its all about regimen. Hope this helps.
Blessings and dont feel bombarded!:)

Sounds like you need AVON in your life :)

we have the equivalent to proactive..it's called clearskin and it's half the price.

we also have ANEW Alternative intensive foaming cleanser. this product was designed to treat spots and battle oil. It is great for sensitive skin!! Both will work but for your needs, I think the ANEW wash would be the best fit. It is on sale for $11.99

Also, if you want to try make up I suggest you use our face perfector called MAGIX. it is clear but you can wear it like a foundation. It hides all blemishes and banishes shine(oil) up to 10 hours. It is also on sale for $7.99
Please feel free to call or email me with any questions. my info is on my website. Everything I sell has a 100% return policy!!!!

order online:

www.youravon.com/suzannewebb

FREE SHIPPING CODE: FSANY or REPFS

S. :)

Follow this link for a great system:
http://www.shaklee.net/healinghappens/product/59236

It's packed with vitamins and totally refundable if you don't like it.
There is a promotion going on that expires this friday....free membership if you put in a 50PV/point order. The entire system is worth 128 PV/points so you would save $19.95 on membership fees and receive the product at 15% below retail price/member price.

I am wondering if you are having an allergic reaction to something...not neccessarily acne.
You say it got worse with the lastest child...have you been to the Dr.? Sometimes Post partum depression, isn't depression at all...it is the out of wack hormones causing us to go crazy!! Maybe if your hormones were balanced it would help out in all areas.
I would suggest a super basic skin care system...contact a Mary kay consultant (preferably one that has been in business for a long while) and see if she carries samples of the basic skin care stuff...nothing with the acids and exfoliants...just wash, astringe, moistureize and go.
But honestly...I think you need to see a Dr. first and have your hormone levels checked. hope this helped

I just saw an episode of Mike and Juliet today that was about home remedies for skin. Check out their website, I think it is Mandjshow.com. Good luck.

If your interested in Mary Kay I used to be a consultant and still have alot of product I am looking to get rid of I would be more than happy to sell it to you for half price. As for the cetaphil I work at a place that just got a huge donation of it and would be more then happy to add that into if you want. I have the time wise collection that sells for a little over $100 but would be happy to sell it to you for $50, I have to get rid of all my stuff, it comes with the wash, moisturizer, day lotion with UV and the night time serum and a tinted moisturizer. You can PM me if your interested in any of this. I also have some of the velocity line from Mary Kay and that would be just a facial wash and moisturizer for $25.

Good Morning!

I've found that my skin becomes "immune" to cleansers. I finally found a combination of cleaners that works for me. I also had oily skin and acne. I had never used a moisturizer because of my oily skin. A few years ago I had some pre-cancerous skin cells and was told to use a daily facial moisturizer w/spf 30. Since I've started using the moisturizer I have not had problems with oily skin. It did take a week or 2 for my skin to adjust - it got worse before it got better.

Here is what I use:

Morning: Biore Revitalize 4 in 1 foaming-oil-free. 1-2 days a week I use Biore Pore Minimizing cleanser. I follow up with Aveeno Positively ageless moisturizer.
Evening: Aveeno Positively Radiant (this evens the skin tone)
All the cleaners are between $10-15 each at Wal-Mart and the moisturizer is about $20. The cleansers last about 6 months and the moisturizer about 12 months. If you're a coupon clipper both companies frequently put out coupons for their products. ;)

Around the same time I started using these cleaners I also started drinking a daily cup of hot green tea. I've noticed that when I don't drink green tea for a few days my acne tends to come back...not as bad as it was before I used the above cleaners, but...

Hope this helps - God Bless!
N.

M.,
go to this website you will not be sorry. This product has 100% money back . I have had problem skin all my life and have tried everything including the skin peels ect. I have been using this and now am hardly having to use any makeup. Never thought I would like my skin. Check it out
www.shaklee.net/getcleanlivegreen/prodHB_Home
Balance is what I have found to do the trick and this product and company helps your overall outcome.

There is a good chance that your problem is related to a build up of SPF. Almost every facial product now has sunscreen in it. It does not wash off with regular facial soap and thus builds up like wax clogging pores and creating oil slicks. Clinique makes a "rinse off foaming cleanser" that will cut through the sunscreen. Then find a moisturizer WITHOUT sunscreen in it. Go back to the Bare Minerals powders and your skin will clear up and look lovely in no time. If you threw out the Bare Minerals, try Physician's Formula mineral powders. They are cheap and work wonders because they don't clog your pores. Neutrogena makes a nice oil-free moistureizer without sunscreen for sensitive skin.

I had the same problem and this worked great for me!

Here's the thing: if you go to a make-up counter at Macy's or call a Mary Kay consultant, they are going to try to sell you something from their product line. I would go to a cosmetic store like Sephora, that sells everything, and ask what they would recommend.

I am not a pro by any means, I also don't represent any makeup or skin care companies. But, I had a similar problem. I had facials done for several months, and my sister is a pro (she had her own spa in Germany). What I found out what I was stripping my skin of the natural oils, and it was causing my skin to produce more oil to make up for it. So I backed off all the heavy duty cleansers (took my skin about a month to adjust), and moisturizer is a must - even for oily skin. I have a the t-zone combo skin. Find an oil free moisturizer - sun screen agravated my skin. I was getting large painful pimples. I even went to the Dr who put me on birthcontrol (didn't need it - I had a tubal), then we tried antibiotics - neither worked. What magic potion did work was Bare Minerals makeup (not the knock off stuff - pay extra, it last longer and stays on all day). This stuff was amazing and my skin is clear and radiant. I've used it for 3 years now. After all those years of Mary Kay, Arbonne, Clinique, Lancome, and Estee Lauder! It evens out your skin tone, has a natural sun screen in it, and it's so light you don't even fell as if you are wearing makeup. It doesn't rub off on clothes! You will love it! I get people who comment on my skin all the time (by the way I'm 39). Your skin won't rectify itself overnight - so give it time. My skin regime is wash twice a day, Mary Kay timewise bar in the shower in the morning, then I use Dove facial wash clothes at night, use moisterizer twice a day (you may have to try several to find the right one - find one without a bunch of dyes or perfumes-I like Aveeno). Then my bare minerals makeup to even out my skin tone, and the mineral veil (bare minerals) goes over that. One jar of each of this stuff lasts for about 6 months for me, and cost about $26 per jar. Worth every penny! Ulta will do a free Bare Minerals make over if you want to try it out and find out more. There are also Bare Minerals stores at the mall, they probably will do it to. You have to learn how to apply it. A little goes a very long way.

Hello M.,

I have a botanically based skin care, health and wellness business. We have 3 different types of skin care systems. I'm sure we can find one that is perfect for you.

In addition to a variety, our products are botanically based, ph correct, dermatologist tested, never tested on animals, contains no animal products or by-products, hypoallergenic and contains no mineral oil.

I'd love to get together with you and let you sample them.

Feel free to check out my website at atterberrynation.myarbonne.com.

Plus.. I grew up riding horses! I did some barrel racing but I also rode english and did some jumping and dressage. I haven't rode in years though! I truly miss it.

I'd love to talk to you!

Take care and God bless!

M.

I have very oily skins as well, and have had break-outs ever since my kids were born, only with my cycles before, After about a week or two of Bare Minerals, my skin cleared up and had looked healthier than when I was younger. I credit the make-up, but I also think the fact that I was drinking a LOT more water and eating healthier (no fast food, reduced carbs, and refined sugars) helped to. I just use a tiny bit of the Bare Minerals light powder base, and any even tinier bith of the blush and that's it. It did take a while for my skin to recover from years of redness and break-outs. I use to always think I had Rosecea, but come to find out it was just my previous make-up selections that was making me break out. Good luck finding what is right for you, Try NOT to notice your break outs so much. It's not good for your heart or relationships to focus so much on a superficial flaw in your appearance. The people around you see your beauty, and it's not just on your skin. Beauty radiants when you love others and your life. Lucky you living the country life. There is great peace to be found living in the world closer to the way God created it, versus the hectic city life filled with traffic jams and billboards and franchises at every corner. Life's just too short to fret over zits.

Have you looked into Pro-Active?

Maybe trying so many products has wacked out your skin - if your skin is too dry due to products you use to "dry" the acne, your skin will produce more oils. I would go to a dermatologist and find out what is bothering your skin. Some products can cost a fortune and irritate your skin - and the cheap ones are just fine. I have used dermalogica for years and have liked all their products (the cleaner cost around $26 for a large bottle ($8 for small) and will last you months because you don't have to use much). You can order on-line www.whatgreatskin.com or buy at some stores - but you'd have to google it to see who carries it. You will pay more at the store. Again, the natural products may irritate your skin...just because it's natural doesn't mean it will work for you. Your hormones can be a big part of the problem.
Good luck!

You said you have tried everything so this is a long shot, but have you tried Aveeno face wash? If not, try it. It is the one with soy in it. It has helped my face tremendously. Also I used this blemish concealer by Physicians formula, it helps hid the dark spots while making them disappear forever. The only place that sells it still is Walgreens. Walmart used to but I haven't seen in there in months. Also Physicians Formula is a great makeup product line. It helps with acne prone skin and its not to heavy on your face. I love the mineral foundation they have. It actually helps get rid of your acne while you wear it. I hope this helps! Good luck and don't give up there is something that will work just for you!

M.,
I found out I have food allergies. Dairy, chocolate and cokes break my face out. You may check into seeing if you have food allergies. Peanut Butter breaks my step-daughters face out.

Well, I have had acne since middle school. After trying everything in the world, including prescriptions, the only cleanser that has worked for me is Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash. It contains salicylic acid which is the best treatment to use. Also I've had oily skin since my school days and I still do, and I'm 39. And I think this is the best product for both acne and oily skin.

When you used Arbonne, did you use the clear advantage & use the supplement too? I had to start using that when I was pregnant with my 3rd and didn't stop until recently, only b/c my skin is different with this 4th pregnancy! They have re-formatted the Clear Advantage recently too. I would just suggest using all the steps: the wash, toner & lotion & the supplement twice a day. I had to do that at first when I first had to switch over to the clear advantage. But once my face cleared up a little, I went to once a day. The supplement makes all the difference. They also have a "spot treatment" that I saw in the last catalogue. I think it should be about $65 or so for everything. Find a friend who is a rep/member so you can get the 35% discount wholesale discount. I'll do it for you if you want. I just use the products and love them. I use them on my children too.

I'm sorry, I know how miserable it feels. I hope you find something that works!

Proactiv has worked great for me and my step daughter. I have had several friends use it, and they love it. I would highly recommend it. I don't think it is sold in stores, so you have to order it online.

Hi M.,
I used Mary Kay a looong time, then used Proactive and the results were ok. I still had some breakouts, and all my clothes were bleached out! I now use Shaklee's skincare product line called Enfuselle. I have oily skin (I haven't had bangs since 8th grade b/c of the oil) and slowly realized after I started using the skincare that my face actually looks normal! I have been so pleased with it, I'm thinking of trying bangs again! Now I have women tell me how great my skin is and it's hard to believe. Shaklee is a nutritional company, so the products are not harsh and seek to balance your skin. Give them one month for your skin cells to cycle through. The only reason I can think you may have a reaction is if you are highly allergic to gluten, since the products contain beta glucan. I use the skin cleanser and toner and the AM Repair (for moisture and SPF 15). The products are 100% guaranteed, which means if you don't like them, you call 1-800-SHAKLEE and YOU GET YOUR MONEY BACK! Not many skincare products do that! Now through Friday (May 22, 09) Shaklee is having a special where you get a free membership (this gives you 15% off the retail price) with a 50 point purchase. The purifying cleanser, purifying toner and AM Repair are 54.55 points, so you'd get a free membership and 15% off the retail. If you decide you like the products, you's already have the membership to get 15% off any future purchases. The Acne Clarifying Complex does a great job controlling oil, but you don't need to buy it to get the free memebrship.

You can check Enfuselle out at http://www.shaklee.net/recipeforhealth/product/Beauty
You'll also see they have a skin-lightening product line called NutriWhite. I personally have not tried it, but again, they are 100% guaranteed. I noticed the cost is more. I have some darker spots above my lip and would probably start with the daily lightening lotion or the night cream. Most likely, your splothes are from hormones, perhaps your birth control? My neighbor got huge dark splotches on her face when she switched to NuvaRing.

As for makeup, I don't use much, but I looove their mineral foundation, which is a liquid. (I used to use Prescriptives.) And it is the only lipstick I use now. I now am a distributor for the products becuase I believe in them and want to share them with others. If you ever want to try the makeup out, I can borrow the whole kit so you could try stuff out. I have done this in the past for small goups of women.

Sutera spa in Flower Mound off 2499 sells this brand called clear cell. I use the facial cleanser with sacylic acid. It is great. I get break outs and this cleanser is great for keeping it under control. Not to expensive either. There is a whole line to go with the cleansner. They will give you a sample, so ask.

Hi M.,
I am J. Farrow with Mary Kay Cosmetics and we still have wonderful products. I live in Lubbock,TX and would be happy to help you if you need someone. I can send you a "Look Book" if you would like, just let me know.
MY phone #is ###-###-#### and my email is ____@____.com, be happy to help if I can.
Sincerely
J. Farrow

Hi M.! I'm sorry to hear about the issues you are having now. My sister always use to be the one with problems... until I got pregnant and I began to see things pop up. No pun intended. lol My absolute favorite thing is Khiel's. Their products are so natural and there are so many different options you can get to address each problem you have. You can go to either Neimans or Nordstroms or even a Kheil's store and their product specialists can help you. I know those stores can have the reputation to be so $$$ but Khiel's isn't too bad (most products are in the $20's but welllllll worth it). They are WONDERFUL about giving samples so you can try before you buy. I got my sister hooked on it and it's the only thing that helped her as well as getting me under control too. :) Good luck!

I experienced the same problem after my second child. I would start getting break outs like a week and 1/2 before my time of the month and then it would take me 2 weeks to clear up. So I had acne all the time. so I went searching and i found that murad acne treatment works well. you use it morning and night. I usually do the night time regiment, it is 3 steps with a spot treatment. I got it at beauty brands and it was 30 dollars. It has lasted me 2 months, but i started to see results in about a week. The containers are kind of small but, it doesn't take much. I think i will try proactiv next time just to see, it is cheaper and i think you may get more product. Good luck :)

Nature's cure for women works well and isn't very expensive. My daughter uses it. You take a pill in the am and pm and then it has a cream for your face. The cream works well under makeup - unlike some other creams. Also, she started using a face buff with pure almond oil (sounds like this would be counter productive - but it works). It makes her skin smooth and naturally moisturized - which I have read that a moisturized face is less likely to cause breakouts. Most products for acne are too strong and cause more problems then they prevent. Avoid any product with alcohol. A 2% silica face or body wash is ok as long as you moisturize after using it to wash. Hope this helps.

Hi M.,

I have to admit that I usually don't respond to these messages, but enjoy reading them. I am a Mary Kay Beauty Consultant so was obviously interested in helping you. I don't know how long it has been since you last used Mary Kay, but they have so many wonderful products that could help you with this issues that you are having. If you are intersted, I would love to give you a complimentary facial or if you don't have time for that we could start you on something and see how things go. All Mary Kay products have a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. There are a few different routes we could try. Please feel free to call me or email me with your thoughts. Sincererly, G. ###-###-#### or ____@____.com

Hi M.,

Arbonne has reformulated the Clear Advantage acne line and I think it would be worth it to give it another try. I have seen pictures of a friend's son and the difference in his skin in one week. I am an independent consultant for Arbonne and would be glad to help you with your order. You have a 45 day money back guarantee with Arbonne.

Good luck and let me know if I can help you.
T.
www.TerriEbbinghouse.MyArbonne.com

Unfortunately, I have all three of the above that you mentioned. I started going to the dermatologist and she recommended Purpose (around $4.00 @ Walmart)liquid cleanser which works really well for my face. I have used everything and honestly I love this cleanser. I do not use a toner or moisturizer. I also use a topical ointment on my face. It sounds like you may need to see a dermatologist to evaluate your skin but I would try Purpose to see how it works for you. Also, make up is not the answer. It will only clog your pores.

My dermatologist says there is no need to spend big bucks. Try Neutrogena oil free cleansers. For make up, Neutrogena has a skin clearing line. It doesn't work miracles but I think it has done the best job for me. Use it consistently for a month or so before giving up. I still have outbreaks the week before my cycle but I think they are much less noticeable. Good luck.

Hi M.,
if you go to www.cosmeticscop.com it will give you a good start to picking the right products.

Paula Begoun has been on the news and has books out called "Don't go to the cosmetic counter without me" She rates all products as if to whether they do what they say they will do and if they are worth the money. She often will recommend a drugstore product over any other. She also sells her own line (but you don't have to buy from her to read the reviews of other cosmetics) and will help you pick something that is exactly right for your skin.

She goes into the science of the product and explains whether the ingredients actually do what they claim. With today's economy, I want to save money, but I want to use what money I have wisely.

I have incredibly sensitive oily skin. The best cleanser I've found is Blue Calla. It's a little expensive to get started, but nowhere near the price of Clinique. She's in DFW and you can call and talk to her and she'll send you everything you need. The cleansers last FOREVER. The bottle I have - I've been using twice a day for 6 months.

This is the only cleanser I've found since the kids were born that doesn't strip too much oil from my face and evens my skin tone.

It's cleared up 90% of my breakouts too.

http://www.bluecalla.com/

The website stinks - but Trish's number is on there and you can call and talk to her about everything going on with your skin.

My son and daughter saw a dermatologist for acne She had them use cetaphil facial cleanser on my daughters face. She had acne,but her skin would be dry in spots. She had my son use purpose face wash (by Johnson & Johnson. He had horrible acne and ended up going on accutane a few months ago. She had my daughter ONLY use MAC makeup and only the studio fix one. Hope this helps.

M.,

I am right there with you...nothing worked me either. I have had problems with my skin since I was 15 years old. I have done everything from medicine to everything found at any store. Price wasn't an issue because I was so upset by what I looked like. But the BEST thing I have found is Origin's. It's very reasonably priced and it works AWESOME! I am also very oily and it really controls my oil. My makeup stays on all day it covers very well. It takes about 2 weeks for it really starts working, but you can go into the store and ask for samples so you can try it and see if you like it before spending the money. I use 2 different face washes. They are 1. Check and Balances and 2. Get Down.

Let me know if you have any other questions. Best of luck.

M.,
It sounds like your skin is so sensitive, that you need to find the right products for that issue first,possibly proventing some of that acne breakout.

I have had good luck with Skinlogics for Sensitive Skin. It is oil-free,dye-free, gluten -free and non-comedogenic!!!
I could call my rep and she has a travel size of the 4 products for only $12.99.

You could try the products without spending a ton of $$$. My doctor was very impressed with good ingredients in these products. If interested, e-mail me back and we can get in touch.

Good Luck,
K. T.

Go to www.theskinfirm.com or www.theskinfirm.net. I have oily skin and dry skin with bouts of acne on occasion and the products they sell are great for controlling that. I bought the large bottle (maybe 5 ounces??) of the clenser for like $80 but it lasts a whole year. It's a glycolic acid cleanser. Also, the glycolic acid face cream works great with it. You can try the smaller bottles to see they work for you. I also use an over the counter acne cream during the daytime called Acne Free Terminator 10. I buy it at Wal-Mart for like 5 bucks. I also have a prescription for Retin-A that I use at night only. So my regimen is: 1) Glycolic Acid face wash in the a.m. 2) Acne Free and Glycolic acid face cream 3) Make up, if I'm going to put any on. In the evening, it's the face wash, glycolic acid face cream and the retin-a. Hope it gets better!

You should try Avon's Clearskin line. Its affordable and its really good. Best of all if it doesnt work for you, you can return it and get your money back or possibly try something different until you find something that will work for you.

I am an Avon Rep and you can go to my website at www.youravon.com/phamill. If you are a online shopper you can get free shipping using promo code FSWER

If you have any other questions contact me!

I am just like you and I tried everything and nothing worked. Nothing worked that is until I tried Acne Free. I bought it at Costco but they also sell it at Walgreens and I think CVS. I broke out really badly while pregnant with my daughter. I tried one product after another after I had her and got so frustrated. Proactiv looked like I had a chemical burn. Acne Free is very mild and my face cleared up for the most part. There are times I still get a pimple from time to time. I was so relieved to find something that actually worked.

I am with Mary Kay and have a couple products that might work. It sounds like you need the oil mattifier which blocks the over production of oil and the Even complexion Essence to help with the discoloration and spots. Please call me and I can schedule a time with you to try these prducts on your face to see how it reacts. ###-###-####.

I, like you, have tried everything. Nothing felt good on my face till I tried BeautiControl. And for this reason, I now sell it. I sell mainly to friends/family. I haven't made a career out of it, because I haven't persued it. But let me tell you, from someone who has tried everything there is .... this is worth it. If you're interested in trying it, e-mail me at ____@____.com have "sample" kits that are a week's worth of face solution to see if it is right for you. Hope to hear from you soon!

I use products from Advocare, they are great !!
You can look them up at www.advocare.com/0402179 let me know what you think

The cheapest thing would be to change your diet and drink 8 8oz glasses of water a day.
Cetaphil cleanser for faces (for acne) is the cheapest.
Take a fish oil supplement everyday.

Wash your face 2x/day or whenever it gets dirty.

My daughter has been using Patricia Wexler from Bath and Body Works and it has really worked! Plus, it's a money back guarantee if it doesn't. I don't think you can go wrong by trying it out. You do need to give it a good month before deciding whether it is working for you or not. Because it will "clean" out all of your pores you'll probably have break outs for a little while. Best of luck! This really seems to be a great product!

Hi M.,
I have found some reasonably priced products at www.dhccare.com and have loved every product I've tried. They have different products for each skin type. They are natural-ingredient based, no petroleum ingredients. They also offer free samples with each order, so you can try something before having to order it. Hope this helps.

I know that there are alot of people in Alaska that have very bad skin. It's because of the extreme cold temps. The company that I am with has a line called Zap It. It works well & it's safer & more natural.

I always wanted to see one of those fainting goats. I think that they are so funny!! What is the purpose in owning them?

Hi M.,
I sell mark cosmetics (an extension of Avon) and their oil absorbing moisturizing lotion has worked wonders on my skin! I have NEVER encountered a moisturizer that actually absorbed the oil on my skin and it is FANTASTIC!!!
I also have acne prone skin and use AcneFree (found at your local Walmart, Drugstore, etc.) and that has helped a lot too. If you want I could mail you some free samples to try out and some makeup samples to see if it'll help even out your skin tone.
My name is K.: ###-###-####, PLEASE leave a message or text if you like. I also have a website you can look at online: www.mymarkstore.com/kpowell
The moisturizer is called Matte Chance mattifying lotion.
Good luck!

Have you tried Milk of Magnesia using the original formula, dab on your face let it dry for about 30 mins. and wash off. Google "milk of magnesia and acne" and read the message boards. It's cheap and a lot of people are happy with the results.

i started having bad acne after my second daughter. i never had it as a teenager. i just turned 32 and now i have it! i went to the oil of olay website, oilofolay.com they have a tutorial that asks you a ton of questions. at the end it suggests products based on your answers. it is very thorough. it seems to be working for me. i have started using the total effects line. the cleanser is with blemish control. for oilyness i have found a wonderful mask. the line is queen helene and called the original mint julep masque. the bottle says it helps dry up acne pimples and rinse away blackeads. if i use it at least once a week i notice a big difference. i found this line at Ulta stores. for makeup, if you dont like much. try just using a coverup stick on the discolorations. covergirl makes good ones. then try a powder over your whole face. i do this in the summer and when i dont want much. my favorite powder is loreal true match. it gives my face a single color and just enough coverage but you dont look like you are wearing makeup. during the day i still get slightly oily but found the blotting papers, they are really plastic, work great. nuetragena makes some and you can find them in the facial cleansing aisle. i really hope some of this helps!

Hi there M.! I hope you have luck finding a solution. The advise that I would give is this..I recently went to my Dr wanting some help with my own newfound acne. Ever since I got pregnant I have had trouble with my face.
If you happen to be visiting your doctor and you have insurance it is pretty cheap and easy to get a RX for a decent acne medicine, but if that is not an option (no RX for me due to pregnancy) then the advice I got from dr was to go to walmart and get the OXY face wash. It comes in a black bottle in reg and sensitive. I use regular. Also get a bottle of sea breeze, generic works fine! It like $5 for the face wash and $2.50 for the sea breeze. I was skeptical because I had tried proactive and others and they had not helped. However I am impressed. It has only been about 2 months but my skin is looking much better. The oil is under control and I feel like it is toning my face well. I wash my face with the wash every morning and night and follow that with a rub down with the sea breeze. If I think of it I try to sea breeze my face during the day. This works very well if you don't wear makeup so you don't have to reapply makeup every time you freshen up. I hope this helps or I hope you get some good advise elsewhere!

Wow, you have lots of responses to go through!

Youngevity has a wonderful new Botanical Spa skin care kit.
http://www.youngevity.com/pdf/YGY-Botanical%20Spa_brochur...
No parabens, no sulfates, no fragrance, no dyes, no petroleum. Infused with essential oils and lots of good stuff! The introductory kit, which contains Nourishing Creamy Cleanser, Exfoliating Gel Cleanser, Citrus Facial Toner, Morning Hydration Cream and Nighttime Restorative Moisturizer, sells for $49 plus tax and shipping. The kit is designed to last 30 days, but it lasts longer for most people. The products will be available separately soon but right now only in the kit. With oily skin you may think you don't need all these steps but, in fact, using all the steps helps to get your skin in balance and will actually reduce the oil output. Maybe not right away, but within a week or two, and certainly within 30 days, you should see a definite difference. For oily and/or combination skin we recommend you use the Exfoliating Gel Cleanser, the Citrus Facial Toner and the Morning Hydration Cream in the mornings and the Nourishing Creamy Cleanser, Citrus Facial Toner and Nighttime Restorative Moisturizer at night. Just 3 quick and easy steps morning and night. For anyone with dry/normal skin just reverse the cleansers. Be aware that anytime you change skin care products you might break out a little the first few days. This is quite normal and can happen no matter what products you use. Just give your skin a week or two to adjust and it should clear up. If not, or if the reaction is severe, discontinue use.

Youngevity also has 100% pure Mineral Makeup. I used to use Bare Minerals and had no problems with it, but I do not have sensitive skin. However, Youngevity's Mineral Makeup is 100% pure minerals; none of the bad stuff. Again, ANYTIME you make a change like this you could break out for a while.
http://www.youngevity.com/MineralMakeup/MineralMakeup.html

For more information contact me at ____@____.com.

Dear M.,
When I read your message I felt so sorry for you as I have several friends who have experienced the same challenge. I know how frustrated you must feel as I have known others who felt the same way. What we found was that Arbonne did meet these partiular skin issues and cleared up the problems. I was surprised to read that Arbonne did not work for you and wondered if it would not be worth trying again. I am an independent consultant with Arbonne and would like very much to work with you, letting you try the new Arbonne Intelligence line that has been formulated specifically for your type of challenging skin issues. I would like to do this for you at no cost to you, just to see if we can't clear up your problems. Please let me know if you want to let me help you and give Arbonne another try.
K. Parker ###-###-####

Dear M.,
I am willing to go the distance with you! I want you to get your confidence back! I personally have very oily and blemish prone skin, but you can't tell because through Mary Kay I finally got the help I needed with a gal who knew what she was doing. Since then I became a consultant myself and I know I can help. I will work with you to make sure you are not having to spend too much money. i am not in this business to take someone's money. I am in it because someone helped me get smooth clear skin and they truly cared about me.
There is not just one single product that is going to fix your skin issues, but the right routine done consistently WILL. When we meet you will see how clear my skin is and I would be honored to help you. I can help you clear up your skin, work on the spots, and even out your skin tone.
You can reach me in any of the following ways...
email: ____@____.com
web site: www.marykay.com/rkuipers
phone: ###-###-####

Taking care of you,
R.

Nothing is going to work--except Arbonne. It is the only thing that will work and will work wonders!! Find someone who sells it and get a sample of their RE9 system--it takes less than 5 min morn and night to use.

Good luck!
~A.

I like the Burts Bees products. They are all natural. I have had sporadic problems with acne, but nothing like yours. The tomato soap has been good for my t-zone oily/dry everywhere else skin. I use their moisturizer and its not oily. Have you tried Almay? THey have a bare minerals type foundation. I like the Arbonne, but can't afford it now. When I run out I will be tying the Almay.
Hope this helps. A dermitologist might be able to recommend something as well.

My dark splotches were the result of a hormone imbalance. Go over the symptoms with your gyno.

D. Kimbriel
Grandma to 2 beautiful boys

I see you have lots of responses but didn't see one for your blackheads. I have two young sons that were told to use regular sugar with a little water mixed with it to wash your face in. The sugar is just abrasive enough to help clean out the pores and as far as the oily. They were also told to moisturize regularly, if you don't your body does it for you. IT WORKED and is super cheap!

Hi M.-
while it is important to get the right products, I found something that worked from the inside out after trying MANY products. While I was fighting a sinus infection, I was taking Zinc to get better and noticed that my face cleared up right away! I was always fighting acne, esp. in the chin area - pretty badly some months! This didn't even start until i was in my 30s. SO I went to the computer and googled "zinc and acne" and found that there are many listings for this! I researched it to find the right amounts as to not be harmful to the body- I now take 50mg of zinc a day, and 3 mg of copper and my face is very clear! i fought this hormonal surge of acne for several years before happening upon the zinc. Oh, one more thing- i noticed that drinking coffee also contributed to flareups- this may not be true for everyone, but it can affect hormones, so might be something to consider. hope it all works out for you!!

I started http://www.meaningfulbeauty.com/
about a week ago & I'm really liking it.
The cleanser is very gentle & you don't have to rinse your face a million times to get it off. The day moisturizer is really good - not real thick but enough so that my skin's not dried out.
I usually forget the night cleaning.