In a perfect world, we’d all be able to afford the luxury of a live-in dermatologist, who would stand by our sides, morning and evening, to offer counsel for our skin. Because the world is flawed, the next best thing we could think of was to ask you what skin issues were plaguing you, and then have your favourite experts answer them. Consider us your skincare medium to the ~other side~. We asked Kate Somerville, founder of Kate Somerville skincare, about dealing with acne.

What is the best way to deal with cystic acne and subsequent scarring? Is there a non-invasive way of healing pitted acne scars?

When it comes to acne, I find sulphur, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil to be among the most effective ingredients. If you suffer from cystic acne, you should speak with your dermatologist, as over-the-counter products may not be strong enough. He or she may prescribe a topical or oral medication to help treat cystic breakouts. Healing pitted scaring is tough. There’s only so much that product alone can do. However, there are great professional options like microneedling, laser, or peels, which are all very effective in treating more severe scaring.

Photography, Blair Gauld. Model, Sian Henderson at Priscillas.