NOOOOO Accutane and NO benzoyl peroxide.
Okay, now that we've got that out of the way, here's what you need to do:
1. Wash your face with a GENTLE non-foaming, non-creamy cleanser (think 'gel' or other liquid that doesn't contain soap) that contains salicylic acid. Skin Actives Scientific makes a FABULOUS Salicylic Wash that's very affordable.
skin care, actives, skin care product, natural skin care, serious skin care, organic skin care, skin care information
2. Use a BHA treatment gel or light lotion. Paula's Choice is good. 2% BHA Gel.
3. FEED your skin. Again, I will refer you to Skin Actives (
skin care, actives, skin care product, natural skin care, serious skin care, organic skin care, skin care information) for their Marine Nutrient Serum (MNS) which comes in a 1 oz. bottle. To this you should add 1/4 teaspoon White Willow Bark extract (you can also purchase White Willow Bark extract from Skin Actives -- both very reasonably priced).
4. Moisturize. Use a LIGHT oil-free moisturizer that contains some anti-oxidants. BareMinerals BareVitamins would be perfect.
Sephora: Bare Escentuals bareVitamins - Skin Rev-er Upper: Skin Revitalizers
5. Treat your blemishes. Once again, I have to go to Skin Actives. They sell a product called Zitender. It does just what it says, it ends zits.
(Okay, I know you're thinking I work for SA. Believe me, I don't. I had BAD problem skin for years -- I'm well into my 30's -- and then I found Skin Actives back in 2006. Since then, I get non-stop compliments on my skin, so I just know their stuff works and doesn't cost a fortune. That makes me happy and it makes me want to spread the word.)
6. During the day, finish with an oil-free (powder) sunscreen. Peter Thomas Roth's (PTR) Powder SPF 30 will do the trick. It's waterproof, and the product lasts a good long time.
PTR Powder SPF 30
Repeat the first four steps at night. Add step five if you have blemishes.
If you're still breaking out after one month of following this regimen, your problem might be dietary or hormonal, at which point you'll need to visit a physician for an in-depth diagnosis. By the way, I found out that non-organic cow's milk was giving me cystic acne -- the hormones are HORRIBLE for your skin. If you're a milk drinker, switch to non-GMO organic milk. It'll help.
Good luck!!!