Big ugly zits have plagued my life since I was 10 and received my first pimple in the form of a bump on the bridge of my nose. Since then, I have tried every single over-the-counter and dermatologist-prescribed remedy just short of surgery. (I could do laser, but it is not recommended for people with my honey skin tone, I once read in Latina magazine.)

So forgive me for giving in to a celebrity-laden infomercial touting a product called Proactiv. I actually found it at the mall for $50. The kit, which is supposed to last me up to six weeks, includes a mask I use twice a week, a daily cleanser, toner and lotion. All contain benzoyl peroxide.

What I most like about the products is they do not dry my skin. Even my oily skin can handle only so much benzoyl peroxide or the other supposed zit zappers like glycolic and salicylic acid. Also, I do find that the creams have helped me prevent major breakouts, especially the large cyst-like pimples.

I still get smaller whiteheads and blackheads -- especially after I wear makeup, which I admit, is like once a year now. And no, my skin still doesn’t look like Vanessa Williams’s. (You know she is so supplementing this remedy with others!)

Like all the remedies before it, I probably would not go out of my way to find Proactiv or order it online. But if I happen to be at the mall, then for sure, I will pick up another kit. I do like how the solution feels on my skin. Unlike so many products of its kind, it doesn’t irritate my face.