Expert Q&A: Questions About Your Problem Skin -- Answered

We passed along four of your most pressing complexion questions to our resident skin guru, Dr. Derek Jones (who just happens to be an Associate Professor of Dermatology at UCLA and Founder and Medical Director of the Skin Care and Laser Physicians of Beverly Hills). Here's what he had to say...

Question: I have acne prone skin, however, I am 40 so I need to know what I can use to help aging effects without flaring up my acne. -- Nicole G.

Answer: "Avoid oil containing products," suggests Dr. Jones who also recommends making sure to "wear an oil free non-comedogenic SPF 30 or greater each morning." (Non-comedogenicmeans it's less likely to clog your pores.) Try Olay Complete Defense Daily UV Moisturizer, $13.

Question: Is Metrogel good for acne? -- Nicole M.

Answer: While it's not typically indicated for acne vulgaris (regular, run-of-the-mill acne), Dr. Jones has this to say about prescription-only Metrogel. "[This prescription] is approved for acne rosacea which is a subtype of acne consisting of pimples on the nose and cheeks, facial flushing and facial red blood vessels. It is best to consult with a board certified dermatologist to determine which type of acne you may have and the best treatment options [available to you.] (Learn more about treating rosacea -- the right way." Similarly, if you've been experimenting with various acne treatments to no avail, it's a good idea to consult with a derm who will best be able to map out a treatment plan designed with your specific skin needs in mind.

Question: I have oily skin that's prone to blackheads, but I also have rosacea. Cleansers to control oil and scrubs to prevent blackheads inflame my rosacea and thick moisturizers with SPF calm my rosacea [but] clog my pores! (Did I mention I am also trying to fight aging?) Is there a combination of routines that would work for all my skin problems? -- Meghan H.

Answer: Dr. Jones recommends that Meghan "Avoid scrubs and calming moisturizers [that contain] oil" and says that she should, "Make sure to wear an oil free, non-comedogenic SPF 30 or greater each morning" to fight aging. For her rosacea concerns, Dr. Jones says that, "If it's not responding [to your current regimen], I would recommend a consultation with a board certified dermatologist as there are several prescription therapies designed for your skin type."

Question: What are the best organic makeups and creams to keep my skin clear? -- Nicole M.

Answer: As mentioned above, it's best to look for oil free, non-comedogenic products that are less likely to cause breakouts. (Vapour Organic is a non-comedogenic, organic line infused with hydrating botanicals that boasts both cosmetic and skin care products.)

For more of Dr. Jones' insights and expert advice watch this Anti-Aging Skin Care: 101 video or this one about how to get touchably soft skin.