WARNING: Most of these products need a prescription in order to use them. Please consult with a doctor (preferably a dermatologist) before using any of them.

Acne has been a constant struggle ever since I was 13-years-old. By the time I was fifteen, I was able to clear up my skin with only one topical gel. I was able to keep my skin clear throughout my whole high school experience. Of course, I would get an occasional pimple every once in while. But I never stressed myself out about it.

It wasn't until I start college that the acne came back and stronger than ever. Within the first semester, my face was almost completely covered in zits and acne marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, also known as PIH). I was always self-conscious about the amount of acne that I had. I always piled on a ton of makeup just to make the acne look less noticeable. However, that made it worse.

Instead of my schoolwork, I felt as if my acne was my number one priority. I spent hundreds of dollars on over-the-counter acne treatments. Cleansers, creams, masks. I've done it all. Although these products helped me, they were only a temporary solution. They would only work for a month or two until my acne became worse than before.

I was beginning to lose hope on the whole situation. I didn't know what else to do. It wasn't until my mom suggested I try talking to a dermatologist that I started to gain hope back. I was a bit skeptical, but this was my last resort. With the help of my primary care physician, I found a dermatologist close to home. From there, things got a whole lot better.

My dermatologist began the process very slowly. They prescribed to me low dosages of topical creams, gels, and tablets, to see how my acne would take it. Monthly checkups soon become once every two months. I slowly started noticing a change in my skin. I began to get fewer pimples as the months went on, and my PIH was almost unnoticeable.

People were beginning to compliment me on my skin, asking me what I did to get rid of my acne. And when I tell them my whole skincare routine, it sounds like an incredibly long process.

I start off by removing all the makeup I have on my face (either by using the e.l.f facial cleanser or the Garnier Micellar Water). From there, I double-cleanse/exfoliate my face. The products I use for this step varies on the day and the products I have on hand (usually it's a Clinique facial wash or body soap). I then use a benzoyl peroxide wash that my dermatologist prescribed to me. However, I only use this two to three times a week due to my sensitive skin. Once I'm done with washing my face, I put on a clindamycin topical gel and let it dry. Once that dries up, I apply tretinoin cream and moisturizer. And right before I go to bed, I take a spironolactone tablet.

Although this is a tedious routine, it has helped my face clear up quicker. Although I do get pimples every once in a while, it doesn't bother me as it did before. I feel more confident to walk around with less makeup. I generally feel more comfortable in my own skin.