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Diminish pores and breakouts

When it comes to treating acne, vigilance is everything. "You've got to treat your entire face every day, even after your breakout is over," says San Francisco dermatologist Katie Rodan, creator of the ProActiv and Rodan + Fields skincare lines. "It's through sticking to a daily routine that you really clear up your skin."

Salicylic acid works to clear skin by unclogging pores and bringing down irritation. "A great combination is to use a salicylic acid cleanser, then follow with a retinoid," says Miami/New York dermatologist Fredric Brandt.
Retinoids. "You need one of the stronger ones to make a difference in pores," Grossman says. "If you can't tolerate it every day, remember that even just a few applications a week can improve your skin."
Benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, tea tree oil, and triclosan all kill the bacteria that cause acne and should be used in conjunction with salicylic acids and retinoids. "If you've got anything beyond extremely minor breakouts, this step is key," says Rodan.
At-home microdermabrasion or AHA peels once a week can truly step up your regimen. "A peel makes your skin more able to absorb all your other treatments," says Grossman.
A noncomedogenic sunscreen is extremely important. "Sun exposure can aggravate breakouts and make pores bigger," says Grossman.