Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

First off, I've never been to a dermatologist, or a spa for my troubled skin- due to my limited budget, and lack of insurance. I'm currently in my late twenties with oily combination skin prone to breakouts (hormonal & sometimes cystic) beginning at 12 or 13. The only prescription acne products I've tried is Retin-A & a Benzoyl peroxide type cream that a pharmacist mixed and needed to be stored in the refrigerator (around 1999-2000). Aside from that, I've tried a number of skin care lines such as "Serious Skin", "ProActive", "Murad", "Paula's Choice", etc. etc. "Paula's Choice" I used the longest (fall of 2001-now), even though it didn't get rid of my acne. I guess I was so frustrated that I felt that I couldn't do better (as far as standard skin care lines go). Since last summer I made the decision that I needed to change my skin care routine to as natural as I could (although I do still use "PC's" benzoyl peroxide "lotion" for spot blemishes, and every now and then some BHA liquid I still have left over). While I did see somewhat of an improvement, I still had acne scarring specifically on my right cheek that I felt extremely self conscious about. Plus, while I have oily skin, I do have A LOT of dry flaky patches as well; which a standard facial brush, wash rag, and scrubs did very little to alleviate (I also tried "Neutrogena's" microdermabrasion machine, but that didn't help- all it does is vibrates, and the exfoliating cream was extremely perfumey). I did some research, but didn't find anything that seemed worth the price (hard to believe that an electric facial brush can be in the $100+ range!) until came upon this. While admittedly, it is expensive for my budget, I felt that the reviews were trustworthy, and upon looking over "New Spa's" website- I bit the bullet! I received it promptly, and in excellent condition. It actually took me some time to start using it on a regular basis (I try to use it once a week now). I've never had a problem yet with my order or the machine, so I can't comment on what it's like to deal with the company. My 6 month limited warranty has expired now, but I'm pretty confident that as long as I use it with care- it should last a good while. I'm EXTREMELY pleased with my results so far. My (cheek) scars have pretty much disappeared now, which in turn has boosted my self esteem a bit. The amount of skin I remove each time is unbelievable! It looks like this fine white (compacted) powder with some "peach fuzz" mixed in. I like all the different sized heads, and I usually use at least 2 different ones on the face each time. Because of my favorable results, I've ditched my liquid "Revlon Color Stay" foundation for something natural with much lighter coverage (something I never thought I'd be able to do before this machine). I found two that I can recommend; "100 % Pure Fruit Pigmented Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20" (Créme 1.7 oz), and "Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques" *solid* foundation. I also use Lauren Brooke's loose powder, for some extra staying power and coverage. For cleaning I stopped boiling (as directions suggest; I have hard water, which was sticking to the heads, and making them a bit dull), and use a mixture of "Ajax" dish soap (the formula with bleach), and hydrogen peroxide. I then add warm water at let it sit for about 10 min's. I then scrub thoroughly with a clean toothbrush (I commissioned for just this purpose). After that I rinse, pat dry, and douse the heads with rubbing alcohol (and let dry) before returning to box. The heads look vibrant and new that way!! In conclusion, I'd say this is the best skin care purchase I've ever made thus far!!