In clinic, I discourage patients from using tools, masks, or makeup to treat acne.

More often than not, DIY Dermatology involving any of these categories results in exaggerated damage to the skin, prolonged healing time, increased irritation, discomfort, clogged pores, scarring, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Regardless, acne effects more than the skin, and sometimes significant relief is provided when we express, cool, draw out, or conceal our blemishes. Stay tuned to my Wellness Blog to learn about the proper ways to implement these tools, or schedule a consult. In the meantime, proceed with caution and remember the one thing I have been sharing with my acne patients (from clinical and personal experience) for the last 13 years:

“When it comes to Acne, Less is More.”

  • Bentonite Clay Mask

    Masks can actually block pores more than anything else. When using a mask, it's important to keep it to a minimum of three known ingredients, and remove in less than 20 minutes.

    Mask It

  • Perricone MD Acne Relief Calming & Soothing Clay Mask

    Instantly detoxifies, soothes and hydrates blemish-prone skin by unclogging pores and dissolving impurities.

    Cleanse It

  • BeautyBio GloPRO Cryo Roller Duo: Skin Icing Attachment Head For Eyes, Face and Body

    Professional-grade stainless steel, dual-ended Cryo Roller harnesses the natural power of ice-cold temps to depuff, tighten and detoxify skin for a clearer, sculpted, more radiant appearance. Use it to calm inflammed cysts and lesions, or to encourage facial lymphatic drainage to reduce skin reactivity.

    Calm It

  • Amazonian clay 16-hour full coverage foundation

    The defining factor for individuals with acne which makes this makeup superior to other full-coverage concealers is that it is formulated with minerals to calm skin, and it’s oil-free and less comedogenic than competitors. Brands you want to avoid Include MAC, IT Cosmetics, NARS, Bobbi Brown, and others which clog pores and add extraneous oils to the skin. Tarte Amazonian Clay is delivered in endless shades for all skin types.

    However, if you can go makeup free, there is nothing better than au naturale!

    Conceal It