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 [1]. 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 [2] ($17).
Little did I know that the small pink bottle was a total cult classic and a total game changer for me [3]. 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.
Mario Badescu Drying Lotion
This Mario Badescu Drying Lotion [5] ($17) fights blemishes and gives your skin a soothing and cooling relief.
Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater
When your face needs a mid-day pick-me-up, this Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater [6] ($12) is the perfect treat. It's easy to spray on over your makeup without messing it up.
Mario Badescu The Icons: Drying Lotion & Rose Facial Spray Duo
If you're sold on both of these products, no doubt you need this Mario Badescu The Icons: Drying Lotion & Rose Facial Spray Duo [7] ($19).