Q: What do you recommend for healing acne scars? I’m on a bit of a budget—for an added bonus—but I can’t keep wasting money on products that don’t work! –Emma C.

A: Oi. Skin discoloration is notoriously the most stubborn situation in the beautydom. And, I just made up a word. It takes time to see results. A long time, depending on the depth/darkness of the discoloration. I’ve found that a one-two punch is works best when attacking scars and spots—especially when you’re on a budget (but if anyone wants the scoop on laser treatments, let me know!).

1. Exfoliate, exfoliate! I can’t stress this enough. You need to (gently) resurface your skin to smooth out the scarring and reveal fresh skin that can better accept a lightening agent (see below). I have a thing for face scrubs, so believe me when I say that Origins Modern Friction ($37.50) and Philosophy The Microdelivery Peel ($65) are the best. But feel free to use a $5 scrub if that’s more your style—just use it at least 2-3 times a week.

2. Use a lightening product. This is essential to diminish discoloration. You will see results sooner with a prescription-strength whitener like Tri-luma, but it’s $150 a pop and contains the somewhat controversial hydroquinone. A more pocketbook-friendly choice is something with a natural pigment suppressor. I have the best luck with products containing Vitamin C, like Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector ($49.50), which also contains salicylic acid to aid in skin-cell turnover. It pretty much does it all, but again—you have to give it time!