BEST FACE FORWARD

Nothing rocks your confidence quite like acne, redness, and whatnot. These women had had enough-and found the right pros to help them. The results are way beyond skin-deep.

- HEATHER MUIR MAFFEI

Racine Monique Roland, 38

REAL ESTATE AGENT

"I started getting acne all over my face, chest, back, and arms in eighth grade," Racine says. "I wore long sleeves in the summer and wished I could just get new skin." After seeing five dermatologists (!!!) and trying antibiotics, a retinoid, light therapy, and thousands of dollars' worth of topicals, Racine still had persistent acne. Finally, in her mid-30s, she met Dendy Engelman, MD, a derm at Shafer Clinic in New York City. "She gave me the right dose of antibiotics, plus topicals and AviClear-an in-office laser treatment," Racine says. Combining regular facials, a cleansing regimen, diet changes (she cut out dairy and swears by celery juice), and meditation to manage stress, she noticed big improvements in three months. "It's not flawless, but it's healthy, and I'm so happy where I am now."

Danielle Radigan, 52

RECRUITER