When it comes to caring for our skin, we’re on an endless quest to crack the code.

That is, we stalk everyone with great skin for secrets and press experts to set the record straight about skin myths.

And we’re maniacal about perfecting our own personal routines.

We’ve already waxed poetic about the need to use a variety of brands instead of one pre-packaged line to quote Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, “Buying a one-brand, multi-step system is for the lazy person”  but today; we bring you an idea that’s even more foreign.

It turns out; there are benefits that come with shopping in other skin sections.

That means someone with dry skin can buy from the acne section and those with oily complexions can shop the dry aisle.

If you think about it, it makes sense. After all, most product labeling is pure marketing.

It’s like browsing the men’s section for a trend not done quite right in women’s.


For guidance on the subject, L.A.

aesthetician Kerry Benjamin, an expert in all things DIY who formulates her own products.

Ahead, all the tips and tricks you need to start thinking outside the box section


ACNE-PRONE SKIN

Shop For: Products with lactic acid

Often Found In: The sensitive and mature sections

Lactic acid is kind of like the unsung hero of the acid world.

It’s incredibly gentle, but exfoliates like a champ, which often means it’s lumped into the mature skin section or even placed in products for sensitive or dry skin.

“Typically known for its exfoliating, hydrating, and brightening properties, this alpha hydroxy acid is also perfect for oily and acne skin,” Benjamin says.

Other acne products tend to scour out clogged pores with heavy duty doses of exfoliants, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can be overly drying. This acid is effective, but non-irritating.


DRY SKIN

Shop For: Cleansers with AHAs or BHAs

Often Found In: The acne or anti-aging sections

Those with dry skin may feel inspired to shop for richer creams and oils to help ease the issue, but dehydration is often best helped by exfoliation, not piling on the product.

Plus, too-rich formulas can lead to congestion.

That said, overly powerful acids aren’t going to help, either.

Instead, try a face wash with AHAs or BHAs as a daily exfoliant.

“A BHA cleanser formulated with a humectant and calming ingredients will gently exfoliate while also killing bacteria and minimizing inflammation,” says Benjamin, who uses this very technique to treat her eczema.

“I use a BHA face cleanser on my legs all the time it has calming ingredients, like chamomile, to soothe my itchiness and kill the bacteria without drying my skin.”

Other effective humectants to look for are hyaluronic acid, aloe, and honey.