My acne has significantly improved since I started using Differin 0.1% adapalene gel about a year and a half ago—but I do still get the occasional pimple from time to time. When it’s a pretty big one, I’ve started using something I should have found out about a long time ago: acne spot patches, also known as round-shaped hydrocolloid bandages, cut to a size that fits conveniently over the entire pimple.

I’ve had acne since I was a teenager. Over the years, I’ve tried benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur masks, bentonite clay, you name it. It’s never bothered me enough to go to a dermatologist, but I always wondered if I could benefit from using a prescription-strength product. Then, one day I heard that a formerly prescription-only acne treatment had been approved for over-the-counter use under the brand name Differin. The active ingredient in Differin is a retinoid known…

I’ve harbored mixed feelings about the importance of using toner as part of one’s skincare routine. I’ve used toners off and on since my teenage years. I suspect that most of the positive effects were psychological—using toner made my face feel cleaner than using face wash alone. Recently, I’ve been using Thayers Cucumber Toner, and I think it might continue to play a regular role in my skincare routine, for a number of reasons that I’ll go into later in this post.