My Acne Products Give Me Dry Skin

Question: "Acne products always seem to dry out my skin. Is there any way I can avoid getting flaky?"

Answer: When it comes to treating zits, choose ingredients wisely. "Benzoyl peroxide -- an antibacterial -- can be drying, especially on adult skin," says Jeannette Graf, MD, a dermatologist in Great Neck, New York. Unless you have oily skin, avoid it and use formulas that contain salicylic acid (to help free clogged pores). For added benefits, layer: Dab on a salicylic acid-packed spot treatment, then follow with a concealer that contains a low percentage of salicylic acid (most can be reapplied up to three times a day).

Originally published in Fitness magazine, May 2006.