I've suffered from hormonal cystic acne since I was a teenager, and ever since those huge, painful, and embarrassing blemishes have been stressing me out. Finally, after over a decade later of turbulent trials, I've found a routine that works for me. But that doesn't mean I don't suffer from a breakout every now and then. I often feel those pesky, painful pimples under my skin before they're even noticeable, and I want to fight them before they get bigger. Then, a few years ago, I saw everyone buzzing about the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion ($17).
Little did I know that the small pink bottle was a total cult classic and a total game changer for me. After receiving it in the mail, I followed the instructions and used a cotton swab to dab the pink lotion on every little bump I could find. I woke up the next day and there was no trace of the lotion or of a blemish. At last, a product that I saw results with! If you're wondering what makes this treatment so special, it's the pink substance itself: the calamine lotion. (Yes, that's the same lotion you may have used if you ever suffered from poison ivy or insect bites as a kid.) This soothing lotion is mixed with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and sulfur, which work together to dry out clogged pores, kill bacteria, and diminish your spots. Keep reading to shop it and a few other cult favorites from the brand.
This Mario Badescu Drying Lotion ($17) fights blemishes and gives your skin a soothing and cooling relief.
When your face needs a mid-day pick-me-up, this Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater ($12) is the perfect treat. It's easy to spray on over your makeup without messing it up.
If you're sold on both of these products, no doubt you need this Mario Badescu The Icons: Drying Lotion & Rose Facial Spray Duo ($19).