"For laser hair removal, see a licensed practitioner," says Jeanine Downie, MD. "I've seen so many patients come in with burns after using at-home kits. It is just plain frightening." Downie owns Image Dermatology in Montclair, New Jersey.

Anne Chapas, MD,  says that a large pimple or cyst warrants an office visit. "You can traumatize your skin by trying to pop or poke at a blemish, and the damage isn't worth it." Chapas is a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at NYU's School of Medicine.

At-home peels are acceptable to Amy Wechsler, MD—up to a point: "Don't use anything that has more than 10 percent glycolic acid; that is too strong for a nonprofessional." Wechsler, author of The Mind-Beauty Connection (Free Press), practices in New York City.