5 Drugstore Essentials To Fight Acne & Breakouts

Almost everybody is prone to pimples and stubborn acne once in their life, and the unstable winter weather doesn't make it easy to keep a clear skin. Acne can be difficult to control, but a good grooming routine is the basis for fast and long-lasting results. Here, our favorite drugstore products to give you (and your pretty face) that extra push.

Step 1: Wash

Your morning routine should be a bit different than the evening one, but not by much. In cases of moderate to severe acne, or if you have really oily skin that's prone to breaking out, using Clean & Clear Continuous Control Acne Cleanser (5oz., $6.79) can purge out your pores. The cleanser contains a 10% benzoyl peroxide wash, so if you have naturally dry skin, cut down to only washing your face once a day with this cleanser, preferable in the evening, to prevent severe redness. If your skin is sensitive, using Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (16 fl. oz., $11) is an excellent, milder alternative made for all skin types.

Step 2: Moisturize

After washing, pat your face dry with a clean towel (it's always better to use a separate towel for your face) and moisturize. If you're using benzoyl peroxide products, this step is extremely important because it's a strong substance that tends to dry out the skin. If you have oily skin, using Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture with SPF 15 (4 fl. oz., $10.99) is the way to go, since it doesn't clog your pores. The moisturizer also has built-in sunscreen, always good to have on if you're heading outdoors --but it definitely doesn't substitute for stronger sunscreens if you go skiing, for instance. For really dry areas and redness, using a very small amount of Aquaphor Healing Ointment (1.75 oz., $5.99) can relieve dryness, but don't overdo it if you have oily skin -- it is very rich.

Step 3: Nourrish

Applying a face mask twice times a week is the best extra-step in cleaning out your pores and preventing further breakouts. Using Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay (2 lb., $10.49) at night, after washing or shaving your face, will help tighten your complexion. The mask comes in a powder form: Mix it with an equal amount of raw apple cider vinegar (consider one tablespoon of each a good amount) until it has a pasty consistency. Apply it all over the face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes (reduce to 10 minutes if you have sensitive/dry skin). Wash it off, and apply your moisturizer.

Step 4: Detox

Eating well and having a balanced diet also helps with preventing breakouts. Drinking at least 8 cups of water a day, cutting down on sugary drinks like soda, and keeping away from greasy foods like pizza, will keep your body healthy and your skin clear. Eating plenty of fruits and green vegetables (at least two or three servings a day) can make all the difference, and your body and your face will thank you for that.