When it comes to acne, no one gets a free pass. Whether you’re a tween, teen, adult, or even a movie star like Cameron Diaz or Brad Pitt, chances are you’re going to have to battle breakouts at some point. [And, if you have our luck, usually before a hot date!]

The culprit? Oily skin. During adolescence especially, raging hormones put the glands that moisturize your skin into overdrive, trapping oil, dirt and bacteria—a perfect storm for acne. While most people weather the brunt before age 20, it’s not uncommon to bear those blemishes well beyond your teen years. But don’t despair! The road to clear skin starts here:

#1. Cleanse. Use a daily cleanser for your face and body. Celebrities like E! News’ Giuliana DePandi Rancic swear by DDF Blemish Foaming Cleanser. For very oily skin, the magic ingredient is salicylic acid. Try DDF Salicylic Wash 2%.

#2. Treat. Stop those angry-looking pimples in their tracks with a medicated mask, like DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask, which also prevents new blemishes from forming. DDF Benzoyl Peroxide 5% Gel with Tea Tree Oil uses the acne-fighting staple benzoyl peroxide to zap zits, while the tea tree oil soothes the skin and prevents it from drying out.

#3. Protect. If you’re not careful, over-scrubbing can leave your skin dry and flaky. Keep it hydrated with an oil-free lotion like Murad Acne Skin Perfecting Lotion.

#4. Drink up. Water helps combat oily skin from the inside out. Make sure you get eight glasses a day to keep your skin healthy and clear.

#5. Work it out. Moderate exercise is good for your skin. It promotes your overall health and can be a great stress reliever. Skip the makeup though to avoid clogging pores and shower afterwards to keep your skin clean and oil-free.

#6. Don’t get picky. Resist the urge to pop those zits. You’ll just spread the bacteria, and worse, you could end up with nasty scars.

#7. Pull back your hair. Hair traps dirt and oil – don’t let it rub on your face! Try wearing it short or pulled back. Ladies, make it easy with a pretty pony cuff or band. Choose one of our favorite tangle-free bands from Smoothies.

#8. Go oil-free. Skip oil-based makeup and go for water-based eyeshadows, toners, moisturizers and sunscreens like Peter Thomas Roth’s Über Dry Sunscreen. To avoid clogging pores at night, make sure to remove all makeup before going to bed.

#9. Do your laundry. Fabric traps oils and dirt, so make sure to use clean towels everyday. Switch out pillow cases, washcloths and makeup brushes for each use to keep skin clean and fresh.

#10. Rest up. Skimping on shut-eye throws off your body, and those changes can result in breakouts. Can’t get your 7-9 hours a night? Sneak a cat nap in the afternoon and make sure to schedule some downtime when you’re awake.