Say "goodbye" to zits with smart at-home and professional skin care.

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The Vitality Institute Acne Peel
"Our in-office treatment for acne is a chemical peel formulated by a physician to treat his son's acne. This peel drastically improves acne-prone skin in just seven days and costs only $200," says Dr. Ingber of DermaCure Medical Aesthetics (257-8400 www.dermacurevalencia.com). "The Vi Acne Peel is a powerful medical grade treatment that contains the same TCA, phenol and tretinoic acid found in its regular peel and adds benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, vitamin C and kojic acid. Together these products promote cell turnover, clear and reduce pore size, kill acne bacteria and reduce acne scarring. At Dermacure our licensed Registered Nurse Nicole Lundgren applies the peels and instructs the patients in after care," explains Dr. Ingber.

What it is:
SkinCeuticals Adult Acne System's three-step regimen includes LHA Cleansing Gel, a potent cleanser with LHA, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid that unclogs pores, smoothes irregularities and brightens skin; LHA Solution, an exfoliating low-pH toner that efficiently removes excess residue and surface cells to decongest pores; and Blemish + Age Defense, a targeted, oil-free serum that prevents the formation of acne, minimizes blotchiness and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Why your acne-prone skin will love it:
Formulated to treat adult acne, these products also correct the signs of damage resulting from blemishes and aging such as enlarged pores, rough texture and fine lines.
Available from DermaCure Medical Aesthetics
257-8400 www.dermacurevalencia.com

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The Smoothbeam Laser
"Smoothbeam is an advanced non-invasive, multi-effect laser treatment for active acne, acne scarring and collagen building. These quick laser treatments are highly effective in targeting overactive sebaceous glands, reducing active acne and reversing some of the collagen loss due to natural aging," shares Dr. Raskin of Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Care (254-3686 www.creatingbeauty.com). "The Smoothbeam improves active acne by actually altering the function of the oil-producing sebaceous glands. This effect alone helps prevent the occurrence of future acne scarring," says Dr. Raskin. The starting cost is $200 per treatment - though very special package pricing is available. See the ad on page 13 for details.

What it is:
mybody Erase It Clarifying + Anti-Aging Essentials 4-Step Daily Treatment Kit includes Take Control Calming Gel Cleanser; Let Me Clarify Refining Gel; Break Free Oil-free Hydrator; Protect & Serve Tinted Sun Shield SPF 30 and a travel cosmetic bag.
Why your acne-prone skin will love it:
This medicated acne program offers added anti-aging ingredients that work day and night to help clarify and beautify acne and acne-prone skin while the latest broad-spectrum antimicrobial enhancers help prevent future breakouts.
Available from Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Care
254-3686 www.creatingbeauty.com

The Clear Solution
A Combination of At-home & Professional Treatments
Barring hormone imbalances and other medical problems, relief from embarrassing bumps can come from a regular regimen of excellent home care and occasional professional treatments. "Acne abatement begins at home," says Sima Chapchian of Beverly Hills Physicians (800-788-1416 www.beverlyhillsphysicians.com). "Proper at-home skincare is the most important thing you can practice to maintain healthy skin that's acne free." The esthetician's tips: Avoid bars of soap and choose a facial cleanser that's formulated for your skin type. "People with oily or combination skin should make it a rule to avoid skincare products that contain oils of any kind," says the experienced esthetician. "Exfoliate your skin regularly - one to two times a week to keep skin glowing and healthy. And, even if you have oily, acne-prone skin, moisturizer is still essential. Choose one that is light - many are oil free - and offers an added layer of sun protection."

Regular, professional care is also essential to maintaining a clear visage. "Microdermabrasion is a process by which tiny mineral crystals are vacuumed against the skin to remove dead skin cells and minor wrinkles, scars and blemishes. The result is an instant face lift that has immediately-noticeable results. You'll see a reduction in acne and acne scars; clogged and enlarged pores; hyperpigmentation and - as a bonus - less fine lines, sun damage and wrinkles, too." Another option: chemical peels. "Chemical peels smooth out inconsistencies in the skin by peeling off the outer layer so that fresh, new skin cells can replace the old layer. This cell regeneration results in a smooth, fresh appearance. They're a popular acne treatment that, unlike some laser services, require no downtime," says Sima.