Use a really good face wash, but pay attention if it is too drying. I like a gentle bar called Basis and this is the one I use most often:
http://www.drugstore.com/qxp16628_33...n_bar_soap.htm
When I have a really bad break out in the summer or after working out or if I've been on prednisone, I will use something stronger for a few days. Some of the stronger things I use include Cetaphil for Normal/Oily Skin or Neutrogena Oil/Free Acne Wash. Always wash immediately after perspiring. And dry with a clean, dry cloth. I use lots of cloths for drying. If my face gets too dry, then I use an Oil of Olay cleanser for a few days. (As you can see, I have a few cleansers hanging around!)

For me, what works best is using Retin A (RX) once or twice a week. It lasts a looong time this way. Then I use (especially when on prednisone or when breakouts are an issue) another RX cream called Benzaclin almost nightly. For me, the Benzaclin works wonderfully to stop/prevent breakouts.

Since I am 40+, I use an eye cream (ROC) almost nightly as well. It is over the counter and you can get it at most drug stores. And I use a Vitamin C cream several nights a week too! I'm always looking for ones that are not too expensive, but have real Vit. C in them.

I mix and max this routine, depending on the seasons (summer is worse for me) and various situations (like if I'm taking a med like Pred. that is causing a problem for me).
Again, the cleanser I use most often is something 'mild'.

However, I totally understand your situation. When I have been on prednisone, breakouts have been an issue and I just use the Benzaclin more frequently and a stronger face soap more frequently as well. I think I got some good ideas at the skin/dermatology threads at WEB/MD for the facial cleansers...but again...I tried not to let my face get too dry...that seem to be counterproductive for me. All of this takes a little thought, but my method has really worked.

I do believe taking vitamins regularly might be helpful. Make sure you are getting Zinc and Vit. A in a multi vitamin, for example.

I usually put a little extra Benzaclin on a really bad pimple, followed by a dab of Clearasil. However, a dab of toothpaste is not a bad idea at all!!!

One more thing...always rinse very well...and dry gently with a fresh, clean cloth each time. Being bacteria free is key. My aplogies for the little brag here...but people often compliment me on my skin and although I have a few products lined up in the bathroom, I don't pay too much for them really...