Best OTC acne treatment?

How do you talk to someone about their severe acne in a sensitive manner?

• I have a new friend that has really severe acne. I do not think he is seeking professional treatment, maybe because of money issues, I'm not really sure. This part is gross so don't read if your squeemish. He must have had a ruptured cyst or something because there was a spot on my couch. I like this person very much but you just can't go around oozing on peoples stuff. I'd like to add that he is very self concious about it and I can tell he is embarrassed by it. We don't talk about it though. It's like the White Elephant in the room. How can I approch him about either seeking treatment or at least trying an OTC product?

• Answer:

  He needs to see a dermatologist. Unfortunately, I seriously doubt anything you can purchase over the counter will help him. Medical treatment can be expensive; and that may be why is is not able to clear up his problem. I don't know how old you are. Does your friend still live at home with his parents; and is he on their insurance? These are very personal questions and I don't know how you could go about finding these things out. Especially since you mentioned he is very self conscious. About the stain on your couch. You can buy some upholstery cleaner in a can and clean it off. If it smells like cleaner afterward, spray it with some Fabreez. Whatever you do,....DON'T confront your friend about the spot on the couch, he may feel so badly he wont want to come and visit you anymore. If you still live at home,....you could talk to your mom about this and see if she has any good ideas. Good Luck. :)