Well, you guys, I have normal skin now!

I am rather clear with the occasional pimple or two when I slip up and don't wash my face in the morning, or around my time of the month.

I started off just using the regimen, which is what got me pretty clear in the first place.

I wanted a bit better results though, and this is what I ended up with:

2% salicylic acid gel cleanser

Dan's benzoyl peroxide

simple face moisturizer (one with sunscreen during the day, one with no suncreen during the night)

And that's it!

The benzoyl peroxide cleared up my cystic acne (thank God), but I was left with blackheads and small little pimples.

Adding the salicylic acid in made all the difference for me.

May I also add that after I got fairly clear, I reduced my benzoyl peroxide amount. I dab a pea size amount on my cheek, another on my other cheek, and on my forehead. Then about half a pea size on my chin and another on my nose.

I have also noticed, as Dan has said, when I am more gentle with my skin the better looking my skin is. I used to use a 2% salicylic acid SCRUB cleanser. Since I have switched to a 2% salicylic acid GEL cleanser, my skin looks less irritated.

Also, never skip your moisturizer, expecially when using both salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. When I forget to put on my moisturizer, my skin feels a bit raw and dry (never a problem as long as I don't forget though). When I do forget my moisturizer for some reason, the next time I do my regimen I use my Burt's Bees Intense Hydration Night Cream, which I've found out is my skin saver on this regimen when I am feeling raw or dry.

Now, if you are just starting with BP, I DO NOT recommend adding salicylic acid in until you are through with the beginning side effects of the BP. Raw, red, itchy BP face + chemical exfoliator does not equal a fun outcome. I was completely through with my skin being irritated by the BP before adding in my salicylic acid. Trust me, wait. Just start out with the BP and get through with those side effects first.

I wish all of you the best!