When I was in junior high, my doctor recommended the Purpose products. It worked really well for me, but I didn't have really bad skin - just enough to be self-conscious about. My husband's had more problematic skin and his dermatologist suggested the Cetaphil line of products. I used the Clinique 3 step program for a long while, too, and my skin didn't look better until I stopped using it. Also, both dermatologists told us never to use toners, or alcohol wipes, or anything like that. It removes all the natural oils and causes the skin to over-produce. You want to always use a gentle cleanser and an oil-free moisturizer - even if you don't have dry skin. I can also tell you that my husband has used Lush's coalface cleanser with really good results.
Of course, my skin is the exact opposite now and I never have breakouts, but now it's a constant effort to keep my skin from being dry and flaky. *SIGH*.