Reddit mentions: The best facial cleansing products
We found 2,734 Reddit comments discussing the best facial cleansing products. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 795 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser | 12 Fl. Oz | Daily Face Wash for Oily Skin | Fragrance Free
- [ ALL OVER CLEANSING ] Suitable for use on the face, body, even hands
- [ ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Unique formula with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) that cleanses and removes oil without disrupting the skincare barrier or leaving the skin feeling stripped of natural moisture
- [ MOISTURE-RETAINING INGREDIENTS ] Formulated with hyaluronic acid to help retain skin's natural moisture and niacinamide to help calm skin
- [ FOAMY LATHER ] Foaming action gently refreshes
- [ GENTLE ON SKIN ] Fragrance free, non-comedogenic, non-drying and non-irritating. This refreshing gel effectively removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup
Features:

Specs:
Color | Facial Cleanser |
Height | 7.5 Inches |
Length | 1.82 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | March 2017 |
Size | 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.7495716908 Pounds |
Width | 3.626 Inches |
2. KOSE SOFTYMO Speedy Cleansing Oil 230ml
- Quickly remove all trace of makeup, including stubborn mascara
- Can also wash away sebum that blocks pores
- No need to use cleansing foam afterwards
Features:

Specs:
Height | 0.9 Inches |
Length | 0.9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | April 2016 |
Size | 7.78 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.5621787681 Pounds |
Width | 0.9 Inches |
3. CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash | 12 Fluid Ounce | Daily Facial Cleanser for Dry Skin | Fragrance Free
- [ ALL OVER CLEANSING ] Suitable for use on the face, body, even hands
- [ ESSENTIAL CERAMIDES ] Unique formula with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6 II) that cleanses, hydrates and helps restore the protective skin barrier
- [ MOISTURE RETAINING INGREDIENTS ] Formulated with hyaluronic acid to help retain skin's natural moisture
- [ CLEANSES WITHOUT TIGHT, DRY FEELING ] Removes dirt, oil and makeup without leaving skin tight and dry
- [ GENTLE ON SKIN ] Paraben-free, Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, non-drying and non-irritating
Features:

Specs:
Color | Hydrating Cleanser |
Height | 6 Inches |
Length | 4 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | March 2017 |
Size | 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.9 Pounds |
Width | 5 Inches |
4. Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam, 160ml
Instantly foaming and easy to massageContents: 160mlMade in Japan

Specs:
Height | 1.968503935 Inches |
Length | 3.3070866108 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 5.41 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.52 Pounds |
Width | 6.1417322772 Inches |
5. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, 5.07 fl.oz / 150ml | Mild Face Cleanser | Korean Skin Care, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Paraben Free
- Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser: Cleanse daily with this gentle and effective gel type cleanser day and night, removing impurities while strengthening your skin barrier.
- Cleanse for a Luminous Day and Silky Night: While refining the skin texture, the cleanser will help cleanse with no stripping. Great for all skin types, wake up to a firmer-looking skin while letting it rest clean during the night.
- Key Ingredients: pH balanced, tea-tree oil, and BHA to soothe and strengthen for luminous and clear skin.
- Inspired by Skin's Natural pH level: Following your skin's slightly acidic natural pH level, this cleanser helps balance your skin and protect it from trouble-causing irritants.
- COSRX Standards: All COSRX products are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients that alleviate irritated skin. Hypoallergenic, Dermatologist tested, Animal Testing-FREE, Parabens-FREE, Sulfates-FREE, Phthalates-FREE
Features:

Specs:
Color | Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser |
Height | 2.8 Inches |
Length | 2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 5.07 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.4 Pounds |
Width | 1.4 Inches |
6. Stridex Strength Medicated Pads, Maximum - 55 Count (Pack of 1)
Highest level of acne-fighting medicine allowed without prescription (2% salicylic acid)One step to clearer skin; works to remove dirt, oil, sweat, and other impurities from skinCleans, treats, prevents; cleanses skin’s surface, penetrates to unclog pores, and dissolves deep-down oilAlcohol-free f...

Specs:
Color | Red |
Height | 3 Inches |
Length | 2.9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | September 2013 |
Size | 55 Count (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.5 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
7. Stridex Med Pads Size 90ct
- Acne treatment: highest level of acne-fighting medicine allowed without a prescription (2% salicylic acid)
- Skin cleanser: removes dirt, oil, sweat, and other impurities from skin's surface, penetrates to unclog pores and dissolve deep down oil
- Alcohol-free: acne-fighting effectiveness without extra drying, irritation, or burn
- Prevention: helps to prevent future breakouts
- Single step: one textured pad treats and cleanses
Features:

Specs:
Height | 1.968503935 Inches |
Length | 3.93700787 Inches |
Weight | 0.0661386786 Pounds |
Width | 1.968503935 Inches |
8. KOSE Softy Mo Deep Treatment Oil, 7.8oz
Deep cleansing facial washRemoves makeupGood for all skin typescleanses and deep cleans poresLeaves skin refreshed, purified, and clean

Specs:
Color | Original Version |
Height | 0.9 Inches |
Length | 0.9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | April 2016 |
Size | 7.8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.5401325419 Pounds |
Width | 0.9 Inches |
9. Sebamed Clear Face Care Gel with Hyaluronic Acid Aloe Vera and Provitamin B5 for Acne Pimple and Blackhead Prone Skin 1.69 Fluid Ounces (50 Milliliters)
Anti-acne: Recommended for pimples, blackheads, other skin impuritiespH Balanced: The pH value of healthy skin biologically inhibits growth of acne bacteriaFree From Oils and EmulsifiersMoisturizing ingredients: Hyaluronic acid increases moisture-binding capacity of the skinPromotes healthy skin: Su...

10. Hada Labo Japan Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Bubble Foaming Cleanser 160ml
HadaLabo Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam gently exfoliates skin to remove impurities, dirt and oil trapped within pores.Instantly foaming and easy to massage, this wash rinses clean without drying out your skin.Free of fragrances, mineral oil, alcohol and colorants. Skin pH balanced. L...

Specs:
Color | White |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 5.4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.52690480618 Pounds |
11. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser with Pump Dispenser | Fragrance, Gluten and Sulfate Free | For Sensitive Skin | 8 Fl Oz
Free of dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens, formaldehyde, formaldehyde releasers, and other preservatives.Oil-free, non-comedogenic (does not cause blackheads). Helps remove dirt, oil and makeup without drying the skinSulfate-free, Betaine-free, Gluten-free. Free of amines and ami...

Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 1.75 Inches |
Length | 3.25 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | June 2016 |
Size | 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.5 pounds |
Width | 6.75 Inches |
12. THE FACE SHOP Rice Water Bright Rich Cleansing Light Oil
- GENTLE NON GREASY FORMULA: Even if you have oily skin, this toner wont dry out your face or leave it greasy; leaving a soft, supple feel.
- IDEAL FOR NORMAL TO VERY DRY SKIN: Ultra-moisturizing and enriched with rice water, it contains vitamins A, B and E, minerals and ceramide that leave your skin soft, vibrant and hydrated.
- WHAT DOES RICE WATER DO? This rice water is perfect to be used as a face cleanser. The nutrients in the rice water is believed to shrink pores, reduce fine lines, and tighten and brighten your skin – this is a perfect recipe to look radiant and youthful.
- CLEANSING OIL: Dissolves excess sebum (oil) and gets rid of acne causing impurities with enriched Jojoba oil while hydrating the epidermis.
- SKINCARE REGIMEN MUST-HAVE: Gently cleanses deep inside your pores, removing oil and reducing blackheads. Great for women and for men.
Features:

Specs:
Height | 6.8897675 Inches |
Length | 1.7716545 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | April 2020 |
Size | 5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.330693 Pounds |
Width | 1.7716545 Inches |
13. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Moisturizing Non-Foaming Face Wash with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides & Glycerin | 16 Fluid Ounce
[ Essential ceramides ] Ceramides are found naturally in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. All CeraVe products are formulated with three Essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier[ Dermatologist recommended ] CeraVe Skincare i...

Specs:
Color | Translucent |
Height | 1.63 Inches |
Length | 1.95 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | November 2016 |
Size | 16 Ounce |
Weight | 1.04279 Pounds |
Width | 3.38 Inches |
14. ROSETTE | Skin Care | Aqua Ceramide Gel 80g (1)
- Bison Bath Japan - Rosette ceramide gel 80g
- w/tracking number from JP Post
Features:

Specs:
Height | 2.2 Inches |
Length | 2.8 Inches |
Size | 2.82 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.3196702799 Pounds |
Width | 2.8 Inches |
15. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser | 16 fl Oz (Pack of 2) | Hydrating Face Wash & Body Wash | Ideal for Sensitive, Dry Skin | Non-Irritating | Won't Clog Pores | Fragrance-Free | Dermatologist Recommended
CETAPHIL GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER: For daily use to gently clean, hydrate and soothe sensitive skinAMERICA's #1 BEST SELLING FACIAL CLEANSER: Gentle face wash for all skin types; ideal for sensitive, dry skinDEVELOPED FOR EVEN THE MOST SENSITIVE SKIN: This pH balanced, fragrance-free formula is hypoalle...

Specs:
Color | White |
Height | 7.48 Inches |
Length | 4.02 Inches |
Number of items | 2 |
Release date | March 2015 |
Size | 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) |
Weight | 2 Pounds |
Width | 2.17 Inches |
16. ROHTO Hadalabo Gokujun Cleansing Oil 200ml
Contains high purity olive oilGently and effectively remove makeupMade in JapanNet weight: 200mlJapanese retail package

Specs:
Height | 0.9 Inches |
Length | 0.9 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | March 2016 |
Size | 6.76 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.49 Pounds |
Width | 0.9 Inches |
17. TOYO - CURE: Natural Aqua Gel, Water Skin Exfoliator (8.5 oz - 1 Pack)
- Achieve Radiant and Silky Skin: The secret is out! Say goodbye to dry, dull and blotchy skin. This Japanese facial exfoliator works to smoothen and brighten your skin tone and helps you achieve a more even-looking complexion with ease.
- Gentle To Skin: Unlike conventional peeling solutions that use strong acids to dissolve proteins, Cure Aqua Gel gently catches and removes dead surface skin with an activated hydrogen water formula without strong chemicals or stress to skin.
- Improves Pigmentation: Tired of covering up acne and acne scars with heavy makeup? Use our gentle exfoliating gel to help remove dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of pesky bumps and beauty marks.
- Anti Aging Benefits: Our age-defying face exfoliator for women and men helps promote smooth, flawless skin and helps improve absorption of skin care products for a youthful glow that lasts all day long.
- Long Lasting Bottle: Use the gel to exfoliate anywhere you want to have smooth, glowing skin-- hands, neck, elbows, or heels. Each bottle lasts approximately 4 months if used 1-2 times a week for facial use.
Features:

Specs:
Color | WHITE |
Height | 3 Inches |
Length | 7 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Release date | August 2017 |
Size | 8.5 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.6172943336 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
18. Beaueli Acne Spot Treatment Cream Benzoyl Peroxide for Face Acne Prone Skin, Facial Anti Acne Scar Removal Cream
ACNE SPOT TREATMENT - This is an acne spot treatment with high quality and pure natural ingredients to remove your stubborn acne.PREMIUM ACNE CREAM- One of our key ingredients is Benzoyl Peroxide. It is good at getting rid of acne scars and lots of people get great results with it. There is plenty o...

Specs:
Color | 2 Pairs |
Height | 1.6 Inches |
Length | 5.2 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 0.53 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.28 Pounds |
Width | 1.6 Inches |
19. Stri-Dex Medicated Pads, Maximum Strength, 90-Count Containers, (Pack of 3)
- ACNE TREATMENT: Highest level of acne-fighting medicine allowed without a prescription (2% salicylic acid)
- SKIN CLEANSER: Removes dirt, oil, sweat, and other impurities from skin's surface, penetrates to unclog pores and dissolve deep down oil
- ALCOHOL-FREE: Acne-fighting effectiveness without extra drying, irritation, or burn
- PREVENTION: Helps to prevent future breakouts
- SINGLE STEP: One textured pad treats and cleanses
Features:

Specs:
Color | GRAY |
Height | 3.6 Inches |
Length | 3 Inches |
Number of items | 3 |
Release date | June 2007 |
Size | 90 Count (Pack of 3) |
Weight | 0.5 Pounds |
Width | 3 Inches |
20. Shiseido Fitit Perfect Whip Cleansing Foam 4.2 Ounce (Pack of 1)
- Shiseido's most popular facial cleanser!
- Suitable for all skin types, Perfect Whip facial wash cleans pores gently and removes makeup thoroughly.
- Lather in hands and apply onto face. Wash off with water, and follow up with toner, lotion and/or cream.
- Use a foaming net for a superfine, rich lather and deeper cleansing experience!
- Net Wt. 120g/4.23oz
Features:

Specs:
Height | 1.968503935 Inches |
Length | 4.724409444 Inches |
Number of items | 1 |
Size | 4.2 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
Weight | 0.26455026455 Pounds |
Width | 1.968503935 Inches |
🎓 Reddit experts on facial cleansing products
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where facial cleansing products are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
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If you prefer video reviews, we made a video where we go through the best facial cleansing products according to redditors. For more video reviews about products mentioned on Reddit, subscribe to our YouTube channel.
REQUEST
I've been using Can Make Mermaid UV Skin Gel for a while now and ADORE IT. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. It's a hydrating SPF emulsion that hydrates, has no white cast, and is sooo lovely to use. I'm spoiled, and now that warm temperatures are on and ten thousand layers are off, I want a similarly luxurious SPF for my chest/arms/legs/feet for day to day wear. No white cast, no SPF smell, hopefully that's also hydrating. The Mermaid gel isn't expensive... but it will be if I use it everywhere (I want to use it everywhere.) I'm not trying to get spendy here.. but I can probably be convinced :) Also, if you haven't tried this sunscreen, what are you doing? I feel for you. It's the best. Especially if you are prone to breaking out!
REVIEWS
Alright, first...Happy Early Birthday!!!
Now on to face things.
Skincare
First of all you should check out r/skincareaddiction. Even if you don't want to join the community the FAQ is great.
What I do for my normal/oily skin is every morning and every night I wash with CeraVe Foaming Face Wash which is recommended for oilier skin. So you might want to check that out.
Every 3 days or so I exfoliate with Epicuren which is just from my mom's shop but it's a nice deep scrubs without being too abrasive. You don't want abrasive like with say St. Ive Apricot scrub because you're actually tearing your skin and that's just not very nice. You want to gently exfoliate.
Once a week I use a LUSH face mask. My favorite is Love Lettuce because it's refreshing and exfoliating. Second favorite is definitely Cupcake. I feel so clean and bright after it.
Wipe off your makeup before you go to bed. It's bad for your skin and bad for your sheets. Whatever you do to take it off, just get it off. I use vaseline. It's cheap and easy on my sensitive skin.
Clean your brushes. Clean them. Seriously. What I do is after every makeup application I get a tissue and something with and edge like the edge of my dresser and I wipe the brush over the tissue over the edge to get all the excess makeup out. Then every 2 weeks I do a deep clean. Get a bar of some kind (towel rack, clothes hanger) and rubber bands. Get some warm, running water, and either some baby shampoo or some brush cleaner (though honestly I just use shampoo) and wet your brushes, bristles pointing downwards always. You don't want to get water trapped inside the little metal/plastic attaching ring thingy. Add a dot of shampoo to your hand and swish that brush around. It'll be gross. Good. You'll always remember to do it now that you know how gross your brushes get. Rinse bristles down. Dry bristles down by wrapping the rubber band around the handle and attaching to your rod/hanger.
Makeup
This is what I cannot live without
Makeup For You
So if you're just starting out again you don't want to go spending a stupid amount of money before you figure out what you like. So here are my suggestions for you specifically.
Anyway, I think you look really great and that's the best start is being confident and having a natural beauty. Also I love your hair. But if you have any questions just let me know :)
Hi and welcome! I tried answering earlier, but Reddit wasn't connecting for me. I know you already got some good advice from teddy, but in case you want more information or someone else it reading, here is what i wrote:
There are many things to help you on your quest for brightness! I got completely carried away here as this is the first comment I haven't address acne/dehydration in a looooooong time. Got a bit too excited looking at a different subject. So hopefully you find it helpful still!
First thing is that you definitely do NOT need to be washing your face 4 times per day plus the 1-2 extra times per week, which is what you would be doing with the two aveeno cleansers and Nip+Fab. In general, the best cleansers for your skin are pH-balanced (maintains your skin's acid mantle and general skin health) and are as gentle as possible. In basic routines, washing the skin is actually the most irritating step. For most people, washing their face as little as possible is best (barring things like getting physically covered in dirt). For example, with my drier skin I only wash my face with a cleanser about 3 times per week...I rinse with water in the mornings, and when I shower in the evening I do the oil cleanse method.
Second, if you are starting chemical exfoliation, you should be wearing sunscreen every day. UV still travels through the clouds and the sun still shines in winter! Glycolic and lactic acids make you sun sensitive so wearing a daily sunscreen is a necessity! (also I would take a look at EltaMD UV 46Spf. It has niacinamide which is good for evening skin tone...but it is a separate product rather than incorporated in your moisturizer).
So! What to do!
Absolutely optional things (getting deep into skincare addiction here)
Niacinamide is another great product for evening out skin tone and helps with the appearance of wrinkles! It also improves ceramide production in the skin which strengthens your moisture barrier and can make your skin look more bouncy/healthy. I would consider a niacinamide serum...Something like Stratia Rewind (only available here on their website) or the Holy Snails Shark Sauce. They both have licorice root extract which helps with skintone as well.
If you want another hit of licorice brightening, you can take a look at the Acwell 5.5 Licorice toner. This would be applied after your actives (chemical exfoliants/vitamin c), before serums and moisturizers. Some people do a '7-skin' method of layering on this type of hydrating toner to really give your skin a big drink of water! Of course you don't have to do a full seven layers, but even 2-3 might give you that extra little sumthin' sumthim' of bouncy, bright skin!
Also First Treatment Essences...they are essentially very watery layers applied just after your actives, before toners. They contain a yeast extract that some absolutely people swear by to get dat glow! The classic here is the SK-II FTE, but it costs like a million bucks. The Missha FTE or the Secret Key Rose Edition are dupes. The CosRx Galatomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence is also similar (in asian brands they often use the word whitening in place of brightening..don't be alarmed, it is not a skin bleach!).
-------------------------------------------
Anyways, I'm rambling on now. I hope you find something useful in there! Remember, you know your skin best, so please ignore advice that won't work for you. Good luck!
Edit: fixed link formatting!
Your skin is very sensitive and you should never use scrubs or vinegar, they only act as irritants will make your skin irritated and flare up with more acne.
With combination skin this means you are both dry and dehydrated. Basically this means that you need to moisturize the fuck out of your skin.
Don't go anywhere near anything with alcohol in it as that is going to act as an irritant as well. Rehabilitating your skin needs to be handled gently and will take a bit of time but trust me, the patience is worth it.
You want to start out with a gentle cleanser and a gentle, hydrating moisturizer. Cetaphil products have alcohol in them and will only harm your skin.
Try the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, or Cosrx Low PH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (you can use it any time). My preference is for the Cosrx as it has some tea tree in it that is super soothing for the skin. Both can be found on Amazon and depending where you are, you may be able to find CeraVe in a drug or grocery store.
For a moisturizer I would definitely check out the Cosrx Oil Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap for the mornings and the Hada Labo Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Lotion for night. The Cosrx is going to keep you hydrated during the day without feeling heavy on the skin which is perfect if you're using makeup. The Hado Labo is basically the best thing on the planet for anyone. It's great for all skin types and the addition of the hyaluronic acid is great for trapping moisture in your skin overnight and it helps with anti-aging. Both can be found on Amazon.
If you're wearing makeup you need to find a good cleanser that isn't going to strip you of the natural oils you need or be too rough on your skin. Oil cleansing with Jojoba oil is good, but I really think you should look into using Rice Water. It's super gentle and takes the makeup off without stripping your skin and won't leave you feeling dry and tight. Some people like to cleanse with the oil and just wipe everything off, but I like to gently cleanse to make sure I'm getting all the oils, make up, and general dirt that accumulates on your skin throughout the day.
There are other steps and products you can add that will help but this is a good starting point.
Please check out Renee a.k.a. Gothamista on Youtube. She discusses products that are best in each category, and most importantly what's best for each skin type. My skin has been absolutely perfect ever since finding her:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-X4BAoKxwGYIKrKfqk7yug
PRODUCTS(pretty much everything in my skin care routine comes from Amazon but they can be found elsewhere):
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser:
https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Hydrating-Facial-Cleanser-Washing/dp/B01MSSDEPK/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1522612169&sr=1-6&keywords=cerave&th=1
Cosrx Good Morning Cleanser:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016NRXO06/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Cosrx Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CLTKI4A/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Hada Labo Gokujyun Super Hyaluronic Lotion:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KSS993I/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&th=1
The Face Shop Rice Water Cleanser:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00809ERAM/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Option 2: EltaMD PM Therapy Moisturizer $22.13; high in niacinamide and linoleic acid to help restore skin's moisture. May need the aid of an occlusive like Vaseline or a sleeping pack (see below).
That is an example of a moisturizing and non-irritating East Asian skincare routine using products that are all $20 or under each (barring a couple options), each with good hydrating and anti-inflammatory actives. Almost all are available through Amazon or through a singular vendor like W2Beauty which usually has coupon codes and can combine shipping. Target will carry the Laneige line in stores, but it is more a mid-price range. I can't personally guarantee they'll work for you, but the starting points are all there for you to do the research yourself if need be.
Might be a little late but I had really bad acne for a kid and still would as an adult if I didn’t adopt a strict skincare routine and diet (it’s not that bad). Drinking water and changing your pillowcases frequently (every week to two weeks) also will help especially if you start putting all this product on your face. see note at the end*
For some, cutting out either, some, or all of the following helps alleviate acne: Dairy, Oil, Sugar, Gluten. But since you said you had no changes in diet I won’t go into that. Sorry in advance for formatting errors as I did all of this from mobile. Some products have instruction in Korean but I will tell you how to use them. Everything is used everyday/every night unless specified.
*Note: you may need to slowly introduce these products. Most of them are geared toward moisturizing and preventing aging as well. If you do anything, I’m at least recommend exfoliating often, changing pillow cases and properly moisturizing your skin using the sheet masks as well as possibly vitamin E serums. I plan on getting some but have no money rn, but Belei sent me free samples and I loved it. I think The Ordinary also carries some. Also, properly washing your face will probably help as well, and I’d recommend getting at least a spin brush. Over rubbing your face can be harmful to the skin and skin brushes usually clean well enough without harm.
I hope this helps! This is my whole routine but if anything jumps out feel free to not look at everything! I’m of course not a dermatologist but this helped me and I now only get pimples usually if I eat excess of the previously mentioned triggers :) my skin is now brighter and dark spots clear up in about 2-3 months but are usually lighter after about two weeks.
Oh gosh that routine sounds quite drying.. The tea tree oil could be burning your skin and I'm not sure about using vinegar straight in your skin... Water doesn't dilute the tea tree oil or the vinegar, it's just floating around it. You are basically putting household cleaner on your face. The excess oil your skin is producing could be because it's stressed and dehydrated and you've damaged your moisture barrier. I'd stop both of them immediately and start looking for some soothing healing products and try and baby your skin back to health. If you want to learn more about your moisture barrier and why it's important this is a super in depth and helpful article - http://skinandtonics.com/the-importance-of-fatty-acids-ph-moisture-barrier-how-i-eliminated-my-acne-decreased-my-skin-sensitivity/.
To address each of your concerns:
-blackheads and sebaceous filaments can be helped with BHA products BUT these will only damage your skin further, I'd get it back to good health before adding this in. Eventually you could try something like this routine (which I do once a week) - https://fiftyshadesofsnail.com/2015/03/28/how-to-shrink-pores-temporarily-plus-3-pore-myths/ but seriously it will make your skin worse for now, it's better to wait till its in a better condition.
-spots around your mouth I'm really not sure about sorry. Ingredients like niacinamide (sp?) or alpha arbutin could help but I'm really not sure.
-small bumps could be fungal acne, try googling a bunch of images and see whether any look familiar. If you think it is fungal acne here's two good resources on what ingredients/products to avoid - https://www.reddit.com/r/AsianBeauty/comments/6ohgsx/discussion_fungal_acne_my_experience_and_how_i/ and https://simpleskincarescience.com/pityrosporum-folliculitis-treatment-malassezia-cure/.
-sensitive skin - as you start trying new products keep track of what makes you more sensitive so you can pinpoint your triggers and learn to avoid. It'll be a painful process but you'll get there in the end I promise. I have a very basic spreadsheet to track what I buy, how long it lasts and how my skin reacts. If there's a few different things flaring up your skin you can cross check ingredients to work out exactly what sets you off and avoids products with that in it. It'll be a long process but you've got many more years to live in your skin & it'll be worth it.
Now in terms of what I suggest you should do here's my two cents... Stop everything you're currently doing and focus on gentle hydration, hydration, hydration. Take it all with a grain of salt though, I'm no expert, just a gal trying to get her skin looking good and staying healthy. As you've got sensitive skin you might find it quite hard to find your holy grail products so I'd recommend getting sample sizes and patch testing excessively to try and reduce the effects of products your skin disagrees with. I put a small dab on my neck, cheek & eyelid for at least a week, although two weeks is the gold standard.
Specific things:
Coconut oil has a reputation for breaking people out, but if it's working for you keep going. If you want to try something else mineral oil is supposedly pretty non reactive. I personally use the pricey shu uemura cleansing oil which is my to die for product if you can justify the $$ (££) - https://www.shuuemura-usa.com/Cleansing-oils/skincare-cleansing-oils,default,sc.html
I think a more hydrating moisturiser would make a big difference, the stratia liquid gold is known for helping repair damaged moisture barriers - https://www.stratiaskin.com/products/liquid gold. The Dr Jart+ ceramidin cream is also super hydrating, I'm working up to dropping the $s on that again - http://www.yesstyle.com/en/dr-jart-ceramidin-cream-50ml/info.html/pid.1035926021. The Cerave PM is very highly regarded as a gentle moisturiser too - http://www.cerave.com/our-products-moisturizers-pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion. I also tried this brand once when a friend had it and it was very gentle - https://helloskinshop.co.uk/products/zeroderm-ointment?variant=24620997383.
You could also consider adding in another hydrating product after oil cleansing before your moisturiser. Hyaluronic acid is super hydrating, it's molecules can hold like 6 times their weight in water. Hadalabo is a popular brand with a few variations on a HA "liquid" this is the most popular one - https://www.amazon.com/Rohto-Hadalabo-Gokujyn-Hyaluronic-Lotion/dp/B000FQUGXA. There's a premium one that is more hydrating that I'm about to start using once I'm done with the regular one - https://fiftyshadesofsnail.com/2016/03/26/hail-hydra-hada-labo-gokujyun-premium-lotion-review-hada-labo-lotion-tips/.
Snail is a nice soothing product if your skin doesn't react to it (it might! Get a sample and patch test) this is a nice one I slather all over my skin - https://sokoglam.com/products/cosrx-advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence.
Honey is another nice soothing ingredient, there's lots of options you could try some regular ole honey on your face to see if it reacts. I'm using this product at the moment although I think it might be breaking me out so I'm taking a few weeks off in case - http://www.holysnails.com/2015/07/scinic-honey-all-in-one-ampoule.html. I don't have oily skin though, so it might be too much for you.
Facial oils could work for you, rosehip gets a generally good rap. You can use on its own or mix into a moisturiser to make it more hydrating. Google facial oil and try out ones that seem like they'll suit your skin.
I talked about niacinamide earlier, the ordinary has a nicanimade + zinc serum which is quite nice and VERY good value - http://theordinary.com/product/rdn-niacinamide-10pct-zinc-1pct-30ml.
Sunscreen is always critical in skin health, you might struggle to find one for your sensitive skin, but if you can find a moisturiser try a sunscreen in that range. And if in doubt try Japanese, they do the nicest. I use this one which is alcohol heavy but very light overall - http://www.refinery29.com/biore-uv-aqua-rich-watery-essence-review.
If I was you I'd stop everything but the oil cleanse and find a veeery gentle, very soothing moisturiser and just do the two of them for a few weeks and see how that goes and slowly add in other things. You only need to oil cleanse at night, in the morning a splash of water should be fine. If you're not wearing make up its still worth cleansing off your sunscreen and the general pollutants of the day, go for a low PH cleanser to be more gentle with your skin. I use this foaming one - https://www.amazon.com/Hada-Labo-Gokujyn-Hyaluronic-Cleansing/dp/B0036MDUEM. I've seen other redditors with sensitive skin prefer milk cleansers eg https://www.reddit.com/r/AsianBeauty/comments/674uya/discussion_favourite_creammilk_cleansers/. Please no more tea tree!
As you can probably tell from the products I've suggested I use a more Asian skin care regime which really works for me. It focuses on hydration and being gentle with your skin. It can get very complex but doesn't have to be. I started with an oil cleanser and now two years later I have a hydrating toner, essence, serum and ampoule... not all necessary but all I enjoy! If you want to know more here's a good start: https://www.reddit.com/r/AsianBeauty/wiki/new_user_guide.
Good luck with your skin! No quick fixes unfortunately just lots of trial and error and eventually you'll get there. I think without the stripping tea tree and vinegar & with a repairing moisturiser you should see some improvements pretty quickly. Stick with it even if it doesn't. Research other people's routines, learn about what different ingredients do, how your skin works etc. Definitely not wasted time, eventually you can help others on reddit :)
Thx for the info. Here's my super long post but I wanted to give you useful information. I think you’re on the right track in terms of “active” ingredients (BHA, AHA, retinol, etc.) but I’d switch your routine up to ensure maximum product efficacy (the order you layer your products effects their absorption) and I'd switch your products to more tried-and-true ones like inthegloww suggested as well. Below are my suggestions with a little science behind them, courtesy of the bloggers “snow white and the Asian Pear” and “lab muffin”. As others have noted, unfortunately there’s no magic bullet formula for flawless skin, so you’ll just have to keep monitoring your skin daily and adjust your products accordingly.
Definitely ditch the following:
a.) I don’t think you need vitamin C at this stage of the game and;
b.) It might not even be effective in the moisturizer since Vit C is a finicky active. (It comes in many forms, some are pH dependent; needs to be in a concentration of 20% to be effective; begins to oxidize if mixed w/water so stabilizers are needed [serums tend to be more stable then cream formulas for this reason]; air/photosensitive so it needs to be in dark air tight packaging like a pump. It’s a pain in the butt.)
AM Routine
1. Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser - $12
—Acidic Cleanser: Clinical studies have shown that an alkaline cleanser, high pH (greater than 6.0 pH), contributes to the proliferation of acne bacteria on the skin. An acidic pH (less than 6.0 pH) is less bacteria-friendly. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser has a 5.5 pH, and contains ceramides which help protect the skin barrier.
2. Active: Salicylic acid (BHA) - Humane Clarifying Toner. If you feel like switching, try [Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid] (https://smile.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-SKIN-PERFECTING-Exfoliant-Facial-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518761128&sr=1-1&keywords=paulas%2Bchoice%2Bbha&th=1) - $25 on Amazon // $30 on her site but she frequently runs 20% sales + you can use a rebate site too to save even more (Coupon Cabin is 8.5% back currently).
—BHA: Salicylic acid is only effective at certain pHs 3-4pH and concentrations (1 – 2%). Paula’s Choice is pH range of 3.2–3.8
3. Active: AHA - AHA Enhanced Renewal Cream. Apply AHA following BHA, but only 1-2x a week to start. If you feel like switching, try [Mizon AHA 8% Peeling Serum] (https://smile.amazon.com/Mizon-AHA-8-Peeling-Serum/dp/B00F35GT0W/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1518760920&sr=8-4&keywords=Mizon%27s+AHA+8%25+Peeling+Serum&dpID=41diUr7YN6L&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch)
—AHAs are not oil-soluble (difficulty penetrating oily areas of your face such as the T-zone) but BHAs are. So, apply the BHA first to clear out the sebum in your pores, then apply the AHA which can then penetrate your skin more effectively. Ideally, you’d wait 15-20 min. between applications for optimal results but who has time for that?
4. Moisturizer: [CeraVe Facial Moisturizer PM] (https://smile.amazon.com/CeraVe-Facial-Moisturizing-Lotion-Lightweight/dp/B00365DABC/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518763286&sr=1-4&keywords=CeraVe+Facial+Moisturizer+PM) - $9
Contains ceramides and niacinamide which has been shown to reduce pore size.
5. Sunscreen: Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++
—Japanese sunscreen. Non gloopy physical/chemical combo, doesn’t leave a white cast, some folks like to use it as primer pre-makeup
PM Routine:
1. Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
2. Active: Antioxidant - [Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant] (https://smile.amazon.com/Trilogy-Rosehip-Antioxidant-1-01-Ounce/dp/B0081JE0VM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518761377&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=Trilogy+Rosehip+Oil+Antioxidant&psc=1) - $22
—Rosehip Oil: A linoleic-rich oil (an omega-6 fatty acid). Acne-prone skin tends to have a low % of linoleic acid and high % of oleic acid in the sebum. It’s thought that these low levels could be one of the things causing acne. Oils with a high linoliec acid content typical go rancid w/in 3-6 months but the antioxidants in this brand keep it shelf stable for three 3 yrs.
3. Active: Retinoid - I'd try azelaic acid, Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% - $8. If you want it stronger, it comes in Rx as well.
—Azelaic Acid: "According to Wikipedia, it can treat mild to moderate acne, both comedonal acne and inflammatory acne. It works by killing acne bacteria that infect skin pores AND it decreases the production of keratin, which is a natural substance that promotes the growth of acne bacteria. So it tackles clogged pores like a BHA preventing future acne and kills bacteria to improve current acne. It also fades hyperpigmentation, like an AHA, but without photosensitivity and unlike some forms of AHA, it can be safely used by those with deeper skin tones." quoting snow white and the Asian Pear
4. Moisturizer**: CeraVe Facial Moisturizer PM or [CeraVe Moisturizing Cream] (https://smile.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-Cream-Daily-Moisturizer/dp/B001V9SXXU/ref=sr_ph_1_s_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1518769817&sr=sr-1&keywords=cerave&th=1) if you need something heavier - $12
I'd recommend starting slow. Start with a mild foaming cleanser, a basic moisturizer, and a sunscreen. If you want to add more stuff on for your acne, check out /r/SkincareAddiction and /r/AsianBeauty. Their sidebars are seriously amazing.
But for a cleanser, you can't go wrong with CeraVe foaming cleanser. It's cheap, easily available, and gentle for any kind of skin. There's a bunch of theories on which kinds are best, but I've seen all sorts recommend this cleanser.
Moisturizer is really key as well. Dry skin can cause acne just because your skin is craving moisture! CeraVe and Aquaphor as well as natural stuff like Jojoba oil or Coconut oil have been talked about a lot as good options here. I'm still in search for a really good one I gel with. I do use as a light moisturizer Mizon's Snail Recovery Gel as it also clears up small cuts and inflammation as well. Be patient with this step, as some moisturizers can break you out.
Sunscreen is honestly like 100% of skincare, I'm convinced now, after plunging head first into the two mentioned subs. I use This Japanese one cuz it's cheap on Amazon and has one of the highest pH ratings out there. This Korean one is also highly praised online.
But the fun part I really like? MASKS! OMG MASKING! I love wash offs like Origins' Charcoal Mask (great for acne!) and Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask are both awesome choices! I'm also a big fan of sheet masks (they put the good-for-you goop on a piece of fabric so it's easy to apply). These are the ones I usually buy because it's a great value and they work amazing. You usually only mask for 15-20 minutes and it's like a mini me-time spa-time for me. Doing this like twice a week has done wonders for my skin!
Have some fun with your skincare journey! I'm having fun with finding my perfect self pampering routine. It's more a form of self care for me now, so I feel a little sad if I miss any steps at this point. Hope that helps some! :)
I’ve just returned with a suitcase of products, I’m still working my way through them all!
Products I loved:
Things that didn’t set my world on fire, but YMMV:
Things I bought and haven’t tried yet:
Other things on the must-have list but got to the end of the trip and was all “I’m not paying that”:
I speak schoolgirl Japanese at best, but everyone there is only too happy to help. Screenshot as many products as you can so you can show people in shops.
It probably goes without saying no matter where you are, but knowing what colours work for your skin is a must. I’m biracial but look completely western, so I found SAs would try and direct me to pink-based makeup by default. My skin is completely yellow-based so I always had to politely decline their recommendations.
Happy shopping!
Oh youre welcome!! Something about your post I really related to.
Rosehip oil is life. Omg. I looooove it and so does my skin. I mix it with my snail cream and it makes this magical goo that my skin literally drinks up so fast its crazy. Its kind of a think oil by itself but mixed with a moisturizer its like magic haha
Yeah its crazy, I lurked r/compulsiveskinpicking for like.. ever before I actually subscribed. It was as if the day I subscribed was the day I had to admit to myself that I was indeed a skin picker. Almost like joining AA or something "hi my name is krissy and Im a skin picker." haha but it was actually empowering, and so helpful knowing I wasnt alone.
For cleansers I have recently been doing Ole Henriksen's Balancing cleanser in the morning, and then I use Kose speedy Oil Cleanser at night. The kose rinses cleanly so I do not double cleanse, I only use that. Its part of my efforts to moisturize like mad at night. Oil cleansing also helped me curb my picking because I do the full process of letting it sit for a few mins then massaging it for a few minutes and I feel like I can feel my pores being cleaned and that is somehow super satisfying.
I just got my bottle (today! woo!) of CosrX low pH morning cleanser to replace the OleHenriksen in the morning. I decided to switch because of how much Ive come to love Cosrx and their products seem to really agree with my skin. Sometimes I feel like Ole's can be drying (because its part of their acne/oily skin line, in fact its basically the last product in my routine aimed at acne and its getting replaced). I can report back later with the findings but it comes highly recommended on this sub as a gentle cleanser.
The snail cream omg. I became a believer almost instantly on the slug life. I have both the snail power essence and the snail all in one cream from cosrx. I love love love them. I use the essence in the morning before my moisturizer and I use the cream at night mixed with my rosehip as my second to last step before my overnight mask. Sometimes just for fun Ill use the essence at night before my other serums too. I honestly cant get enough. I think its because its so healing that I feel like I see improvement in any blemishes and scars every time I use it. Of course, YMMV but seriously Id take my snail to a deserted island with me.
My overnight mask also comes from Cosrx, the honey overnight mask, I may try their rice one after I finish this just for fun, but I am completely happy with the honey one. Its a good occlusive on its own, but sometimes I will even spot treat over top of it with vaseline on blemishes and areas where I deal with scarring.
And definitely dont worry about the questions. You shouldve seen me firing off questions to everyone on this sub when I first got into it!! Im glad to help :)
Sure!!! In my opinion, the differin makes the most significant difference in my overall skin appearance and texture and the rest of the products are there for "support" so to say, but are no less important to my routine! I'll also try to include some mini reviews when possible so this might get long. I'd get a snack, lol.
AM Routine (note: this also depends on time in the AM, and whether or not I plan on leaving the house and/or apply makeup) --
PM Routine --
OTHER RANDOM BITS:
I will also layer the CeraVe Creamy Oil onto my skin under the Avene Skin Recovery Cream in the PM if I'm feeling extra dry/irritated and skip the acids. I like the My Beauty Diary Hyaluronic Acid Sheet masks. I'll usually take a bubble bath once or twice a week and use those on my face during that time.
Feel free to ask me any questions! :)
Here's a blog reading list for you: the venerable Fiddy Snails, Fanserviced, and Snow White and the Pear. These blogs have been INVALUABLE resources for me in learning about skincare and AB.
And here's a very, very, very, VERY loose shopping list, with one major caveat: PATCH. TEST. Don't just buy a new product and slap it on your face. Choose a spot on your face - somewhere where you break out easily, like next to your nose - and dab a little of that product there every day for 10-15 days. See what happens. This is how I learned that my beloved Hadalabo Gokujyun lotion doesn't break me out, but it does break out a lot of other people.
CLEANSERS:
You need two. An oil cleanser to use in the evening to thoroughly remove sunscreen and makeup, followed by a foaming or gel cleanser. I like Hada Labo Gokujyun foaming cleanser as a second cleanser (it's the only one I use in the morning). Kose Softymo is an affordable oil cleanser for the evening.
ACTIVES:
These are ingredients that Do Things to your face, such as exfoliants (BHA, AHA, vitamin C) and disinfectants (benzoyl peroxide). I am drastically simplifying. At the moment you're using two products that contain benzoyl peroxide, a disinfectant. It's time to round out your active diet, with the big caveat that irritation = redness. I'll say it again - ditch the astringent, it's only causing the redness you're trying to avoid. If you're going to add new actives to your routine, do it very gradually. Patch test, then start using it every other day.
Things you could try: I'm in love with C21.5 vitamin C serum. This is an affordable powerhouse of vitamin C, that promotes skin cell turnover and does a bang-up job of dealing with pigmentation. It does oxidise easily, though, so you need to keep it in the fridge and toss it when it starts to turn yellow. In terms of exfoliants, Cosrx BHA Power Liquid and AHA Power Liquid are fan favourites. They feel remarkably gentle on the skin, and do a great job of gently exfoliating. If I were you I'd start with the BHA, as BHAs are great at exfoliating within the pore, soothing redness and treating/preventing acne.
SUNSCREEN
I'm here to give you the greatest lesson you'll ever learn: the best anti-ageing treatment is sunscreen. You are 15. It's time to set up a lifelong sunscreen habit. And Asian sunscreens feel better than any western equivalent. RatzillaCosme is a goldmine of sunscreen reviews. The first Asian sunscreen most people try is the legendary Biore Watery Aqua, which is inexpensive and easy to snag on Amazon.
DA SNAILZ
Snail products are wonderful at reducing redness and inflammation. There are just... so many snail products out there. A great starting point is Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream, which is a great final moisturiser at night if you've got oilier skin. I'm also partial to the all-in-one repair cream, which is actually more of a 'whipped' essence than a cream, but feels wonderfully soothing on my oilier skin.
Hope this helps!
Hi, u/mihaelalala7! :)
I would suggest replacing the micellar water with a cleansing oil or a cleansing balm (even though your dermatologist suggested it), as it would do, in my opinion, a much better job at breaking down the gunk that's on your face that your regular water-based cleanser won't be able to dissolve. Even though it might seem strange to put oil on your already oily skin, the excess sebum that builds up on the skin and in our pores cannot dissolve in a water-based formula, and maybe even certain ingredients from your SPF and such. Micellar water does a similar job, but I don't find it as effective. Then I Met You has a nice, fragrance-free cleansing balm.
When building up a skin care routine, the most important things to look for are skin barrier support and sun protection. For your skin to be happy, you have to provide a good SPF, gentle cleansing and proper hydration through a good moisturizer. By looking at the ingredient list of your Isis Pharma moisturizer, I came to the conclusion that you should definitely replace it. It contains a lot of fragrance, which should definitely be avoided in skin care, and it also contains a really harsh surfactant, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, that is just terrible for the face. Sodium Laureth Sulfate is basically the stuff that makes up regular soap, which we all know we should not put on our faces. It really strips the skin, and can definitely lead to skin barrier damage that will worsen your skin concerns (breakouts, comedones, dullness etc.). A much, much better option would be the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, that is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, MUCH gentler and hydrating. It contains ceramides, compounds that are present in our skin's own moisturizing system. Your cleanser is by far the worst product in your routine and you should replace it in my opinion.
When it comes to the exfoliating acids, I think you'll do a much better job preventing breakouts and smoothing your skin texture by using your Salicylic Acid as a primary exfoliant, since it does basically the same job as the Lactic Acid, but it also has the property of being soluble in oil, thus unclogging your pores while also providing a gentle exfoliation. Salicylic Acid also can help with controlling excess sebum production and it also has antibacterial properties. Be aware that the overuse of chemical exfoliants can lead to irritation, dryness, redness and peeling, so maybe use them a few times a week, and don't apply them on areas where you don't experience congestion. You can switch to using the Salicylic Acid on your breakout-prone, textured areas, 2-3 days a week, and see if your skin tolerates it well. If not, you can go back to the Lactic Acid. Do not use your chemical exfoliants on the sensitive parts of the face, such as the under-eye area, as it's simply unnecessary, and the risk of getting irritated is much higher on the extremely thin skin under our eyes.
I'll have to mention fragrance again when talking about your moisturizer. It's definitely not as bad as your cleanser, but I'd look into other options that are fragrance-free, such as CeraVe's Moisturizing Cream, that is also non-comedogenic and contains ceramides.
The SPF you're using is most likely fine, and you should continue using it if you like the product. La Roche Posay, Eucerin, Cetaphil and CeraVe also provide good sunscreens that you can explore in the future.
The witch hazel may or may not help, you can keep using it if you like it. For sebum production control and anti-inflammatory properties you can also try incorporating Niacinamide into your routine, as it's a proven ingredient that can definitely help with the appearence of breakouts and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) from acne scarring. The Ordinary has a great Niacinamide 10% + Zinc serum.
Also, the order in which you apply your products is of utmost importance. There are a lot of sources online where you can find more about this, but generally you should look to apply your products from the thinnest to thickest, starting with your cleansing oil and water-based cleanser, and ending with your sunscreen/moisturizer at PM.
So, to summarize: definitely look to replace your cleanser, you can improve your PM double-cleanse by replacing your micellar water with a cleansing oil/balm, be careful with your exfoliating acids, look to get rid of fragrance and harsh ingredients in your products by paying close attention to the ingredient list of the products that you're buying and doing research on that (Dr. Dray is board-certified dermatologist that has a YouTube channel, her advice is just pure gold, you can learn a lot from her). Our skin is a living, breathing organ, that is perfectly capable of self-sustaining and protecting itself. Our job is to enhance its mechanisms, and not overwhelm it by using too many products, harsh ingredients and fragrance.
Since you're not dealing with really bad skin concerns, having a really good, gentle double-cleanse, potent moisturizer, SPF 30+ sunscreen, using frangrance-free, non-comedogenic products and mildy exfoliating your skin with a gentle BHA (Salicylic Acid product) should really be all you need to get your skin to a good state. I'm glad you asked for advice, I'm extremely happy that you specificed the products you use, because otherwise I wouldn't have been able to identify some of the mistakes in your skin care (and potentially the biggest), and I hope you'll find my advice helpful.
All the best!
Hi! Due to the recent drama around here, a lot of the sidebar links take us to nowhere right now. The sidebar is usually a lot more welcoming! I think the mods are working on finding alternative sources of info, but in the meantime, here's a really good breakdown of how to evaluate your current routine to see how you might want to go about changing it, and here's sort of a crowd-sourced list of things the members here recommend, separated by skin type.
Until the beginner guides routines get retooled and put up, the search function might be a good place to start looking for recommendations, as well as sister subs like /r/AsianBeauty, /r/skincareaddicts, and /r/skincareaddictionuk, and outside sites like MakeupAlley and Beautypedia (although be aware of the bias towards Paula's Choice products here).
Now, as for your specific routine, you have a few options: you could look for a new cleanser and/or moisturizer, or you could add a few steps to your routine to level up on moisturizing. Which of these you choose to do and why is completely up to you, but here are a few common considerations among those whose skin feels dry or irritated.
Anyway, this has turned into a comment of gargantuan proportions, but I hope this helps you in some way, shape, or form. In general, I really recommend using the search function, as there are droves of information on products, on pH-related stuff, on emollients/occlusives/humectants and what products contain which, etc. Don't forget to patch test any new products before putting them on your entire face, just to make sure they play nicely with your skin. I'd also be remiss if I didn't suggest adding in a sunscreen, but that's a topic for a whole different novel-sized comment.
*Edited to add in a missing link
Raves:
Etude House Cat Headband- I got this as a freebie and I looove it. I feel so cute when I do my routine, it keeps my bangs out of my products, and my SO seems to like it too. It's funny that such a small thing can make me feel happy~
It's My Cushion(Black and Mint)- I am so upset with myself for waiting so long to get a cushion. I use the Black for BB Cream and the Mint for sunscreen.
I don't get gross BB Cream or sunscreen all over the back of my hand, I feel like it's more sanitary because I'm not touching all over my freshly cleaned face, and it gives a better finish to my application. I also use less product. And since I'm using my own BB cream, I can refill it easily(one bottle costs about the same as a good BB cushion, and lasts me around two years)
Rosette Ceramide Gel- The elusive "chok chok" feeling, just like CosRx Honey Ceramide Cream gave me, but without an allergic reaction from the honey. It dries a little more slowly, but is also more matte, which makes applying my sunscreen and makeup easier. To me, it also feels a lot lighter, but only a tiny bit less moisturizing than the CosRx.
Rave/Rant:
Beauty People Lip Tattoo(Tomato and Strawberry)- TL;DR Great product, but why does Korea only ever make lip products in four colors?!
First, the good: It doesn't dry my lips out horribly like most lip tints, and it lasts. Like, will not come off even with oil cleanser. And it doesn't highlight damaged parts of my lip like other tints. Full coverage!
It's very pigmented. If you look good in bright lipsticks, you will love this. The tomato is(well, like a tomato, facepalm) bright orange-red, not a true red, which was disappointing to me as I look horrible in orange. And the strawberry is like if you added cool undertones to hot pink. However, I favor a more natural look. I was hoping to do what I did with my old tint, and either only put on a thin layer, or apply it more thickly, then heavily blot to bring it close to my natural color.
You can't apply it thinly, it just doesn't work. But you can do the blotting method if you're very quick. If you leave the product sitting for more than about 7-10 seconds, it'll be there the rest of the day. Nothing you can do about it. Don't touch it with your fingers, and don't try and use your toothbrush to remove it either(stained hands and one ruined toothbrush later...)
Even a thin layer does last all day though. I think this would be a fantastic product for someone who loves bright lipstick. It's also great for people whose lips get dried out from other lip tints, or for people who tend to rub off their lip products.
I do like the lasting power and I can make it work for now, so I'm keeping the Tomato and getting rid of Strawberry. But I'll be trying other lip stains until I can find an HG that is long lasting and a good color, so I'll have more reviews for you later. Please let me know if you have any suggestions!
I've heard PeriPera Inks are nice too, but they have pretty much the same shades, so I'll probably try something else...
Great!
When picking something with salicylic acid in it you'll want to start out gentle if you haven't really used it in the past. Don't go over something that claims to contain more than 2% salicylic acid.
These ones by Stridex are popular and easy to get: https://www.amazon.ca/Stridex-Salicylic-Maximum-Strength-Packaging/dp/B000NUN8BK/ref=pd_sim_121_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3WTHS1W2HEMFG7D9K8SR
I have also used these by First Aid Beauty: https://www.sephora.com/product/clear-complexion-pads-P411873?skuId=1856939&icid2=first_aid_beauty_lp_whatsnew_carousel_ca:p411873
And I've heard great things about these ones by COSRX, a Korean skincare brand: http://jolse.com/product/cosrx-one-step-original-clear-pad-70ea/4363/?cate_no=371&display_group=1
Use these products after cleansing, but before moisturizing (and you absolutely should moisturize every time you cleanse, and especially if you are using products like these!). Do not use any of these everyday. At first it might feel like you're not getting anything done by not using them often, but in the long run it is way better to respect your skins moisture barrier by being gentle with chemical exfoliation than to dry your skin out. Start out by using them just every two days and then maybe move on to every other day if your skin does not seem to be getting dry. Again, really focus it on your problem area if the rest of your face is happy and clear.
Moving on to spot treatments, here are the two I've found to work for me.
Clean & Clear (contains benzoyl peroxid): https://www.amazon.com/Clean-Clear-Persa-Gel-Treatment-Medication/dp/B00KZ22ED4/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1511920947&sr=8-3&keywords=clean+and+clear+benzoyl
LUSH Grease Lightning (contains tea tree oil): https://www.lush.ca/en/face/cleansers/grease-lightning/02896.html
Put a generous amount right the zit after moisturizing. Some people put a thin layer and leave it on during the day, but I've always found it ends up looking flaky and weird.
Pimple patches have also started to gain popularity recently. They started out mostly as an Asian Beauty thing I believe and now their making their way over to some western stores as well. They're basically these packages that contain some sort of something (science) that draws the gunk out of your skin. Put them on before bed and in the morning you wake up with a lumpy yuck-filled sticker! Here are some options for those as well.
COSRX: http://jolse.com/product/cosrx-acne-pimple-master-patch-24-patches-10-sheets/7765/?cate_no=371&display_group=1
Nexcare (I've started seeing these ones in North American pharmacies): https://www.amazon.ca/Nexcare-Absorbing-Covers-Sizes-Count/dp/B00ISN35OO/ref=pd_sim_194_3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=J2TMQDKY2PFRHGETPNEQ
If you want more resources and ideas check out /r/SkincareAddiction and /r/AsianBeauty. I would also highly recommend the YouTuber Liah Yoo if you care to look more into skincare. She's all about taking a gentle approach to healing your skin.
WOW THIS GOT LONG.
Don't get discouraged if takes some trial and error, everyone's face reacts differently to different products. Above all else remember to start slow and gentle with new skincare products. Good luck!
Warning: long rambling comment ahead. My skin has recently been dry and acne-prone as well. I'm not as much of a skincare expert as some of the folks around here, but I'll tell you what's worked for me.
Alternately, you could try a Cleansing Oil type product, which are sold for the purpose of skincare and usually contain an emulsifier to make it easier to wash the oil off your face. A lot of Asian lines sell cleansing oils; I've used and liked this one. Currently, I am using a solid oil product from Clinique. It's marketed as a makeup remover but I find it cleanses my skin very well on its own. I sometimes follow it up with a cleanser but I don't seem to need to if I wash the oil off thoroughly. Oils are the gentlest way I've found to cleanse my skin, and I'd recommend them to anyone with dry skin. Just avoid the highly comedogenic ones (e.g. coconut oil) and know that you might have to test a few before you find one you love. I just saw that you've ordered hemp seed and argan oils; I have a feeling you'll like them. (Side note: argan oil is a wonder drug. I use it basically like a serum, rubbing it into my skin and just letting it on.)
Most (helpful) acne products I've found are drying to some extent, so I weigh the benefits against the side effects, meaning that a drying product has to be pretty damn amazing at fighting zits if I'm going to use it. Benzoyl Peroxide was not that product for me, unfortunately, though it may be for you. I found that it sped up the healing process of spots only minimally compared to doing nothing to them, so I threw it out. I've replaced it with Stridex pads and Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion. Like I said, they are quite drying (the Buffering Lotion actually has alcohol in it) but they offer enough tangible benefits that I am willing to accept that.
I use the Stridex pads 2-3 times a week, and only on areas where I have sebaceous filaments, blackheads, and breakouts. I know a lot of people here love them for SFs, but I've found they shrink cystic spots pretty quickly as well. They smell weird and sting, especially if you put on moisturizer too soon after using them, but they work really well.
The Mario Badescu Buffering Lotion is a great spot treatment, and the only product that's ever helped me with cysts that are still under the skin. I've actually used it on deep cysts before and had them disappear before ever coming to a head; it's like magic!
I hope at least some of that giant comment was helpful to you! One last thing I would recommend is adding an additional moisturizer at night. You said that the AHA cream helps with your PIH so I wouldn't stop using that, but you could always layer another moisturizer with it to combat the dryness. As long as neither product breaks you out I don't see the harm in using two! I have no specific recommendations on a moisturizer as I've been looking for one myself (just bought this one though and it looks promising) but I'd look for something richer and non-comedogenic.
Edit: Sorry for the wonky formatting, I do not know how to fix it!
Always recommend the cera ve SA renewal cleanser. It’s amazing and events your skin and brightens it. I actually use the SA renewal body wash, you get a lot and I can use it on my face as well. The Cera Ve SA body lotion is also love, sometimes I use it on my face. Makes body super smooth, these two are dream team.
I think the dream routine:
Am:
Pm:
-melazepam 20% important and alternate between this and Retin a, but not everyone can handle either of these. But it goes to say these are anti-aging power horses
Great products:
Benton snail bee essence (the masks, steam pacts, everything..)
Just a few products to think about. I am by no way saying jump and add any of these to your routine instantly. I’ve looked around and found a lot of, what I’d consider to be talked about products and decided to make it easier and list them for you.
I think a basic SA cleanser like cera ve would be a good place to start, a good spf that is non-irritating. Find a moisturizing Oil thst your skin likes and then maybe start trying actives. Don’t go jumping in until you find a routine that calms your skin and that your skin really likes. Then start testing the waters with maybe azelic acid like melazepem (strongest you can get in us is on amazon) or vitamin c. Possible acid peel pads. We kind of have to know your skin type and current routine. Things that have worked and have not, and what you want out of a new skin routine— in order to give you better direction.
Edit edit edit
3). I've never personally tried secret key! Maybe the holy grail list. Can help? What I do know, as far as 3 in 1 products go, hada labo perfect gel http://www.amazon.com/Rohto-Hada-Labo-Koi-Goku-Jun-Whitening-Perfect/dp/B00BQV36BM I have heard only good things about. (try searching the product name in this subreddits search function and are what people say!) None of those 3 are exfoliants. Here http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00F35GT0W/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1420455918&sr=8-1&dpPl=1&dpID=31IYRNG-byL&ref=plSrchπ=AC_SY200_QL40 is an aha exfoliant (for exfoliating dead skin), here http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/s/ref=is_s_ss_i_3_5?ie=UTF8&k=Ciracle+bha&sprefix=Cosrx are a few bha exfoliants (for exfoliating inside the pore). I personally have only ever used bha and aha exfoliants from paulas choice, also found on amazon, and have only good things to say about it. If you don't want to pay that much for their products, stridex pads are a good non-asian beauty alternative for a bha and st ives exfoliating pads or nip + fab glycolic fix are good non-ab options for an aha. all found on amazon. Please also note that exfoliants don't typically go on third. They go on first, and are generally allowed to sit on the skin for a half hour at least to work uninterrupted before beginning the rest of your routine.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EHAXCUY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1420457337&sr=8-1. I use and love this essence http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/s/ref=is_s_ss_i_0_17?k=benton+snail+bee+high+content+essence&sprefix=Benton+snail+bee+ , very popular. The first two products on this page http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/s/ref=is_s_?ie=UTF8&k=Missha+time+revolution+ aka the missha essence and ampoule... So. Many. Good. Things. Have been said about it.
My acne is not as severe as yours, so I don't know if what I do would help you but we can give it a shot, right?
My routine is as it follows:
AM
----------------------------------------------------------------------
PM
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Every Friday night each week
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And that's it, my skin has gotten way better and something that has also helped millions is that I went on the pill, since my acne is hormonal.
Remember to patch test and to not abuse your skin, the gentler the better!!!! There are things that might or might not work for you, it takes a while to find what's best for your skin. If nothing works, you can always try PocketDerm or a dermatologist around your area, don't be afraid to ask for professional help. Good luck!
The Korean brand COSRX makes some great, sensitive products with AHA and BHA. Using products with tea tree oil might help, but be wary of anything that could potentially alter your hormone profile. The basics of Korean skin care are consistent, everyday use of a clear step-by-step process. I suggest this site for how-to.
You don't need every step necessarily, but I would start slowly with 3-4 and build up slowly as to not agitate your skin. The important ones for you are going to be the two part cleansing, toning, essence, spot treatments and ampules, and light moisturizer-- so about six of the steps or so.
Here are some things that I find help, and seem to be very popular for acne prone skin. I have used all these, as well as my sensitive, acne prone DH and had success:
Finally, be very careful ordering similar "discount" products off amazon because it is rife with counterfeits from China. This can be dangerous as the contents of the product/ingredients are not necessarily listed correctly, which is a problem. Buying reputable brands from verified sellers or soko glam or Sephora is absolutely recommended. I get a lot of Amazon, but I always use Fakespot.com and also check the seller out carefully. If the well-known brand manufacturer is selling it direct to Amazon, that is a pretty safe bet.
All of these thing start with the skin down, but also consider the bottom up. Look at your diet, look at your activity level, how often you clean your sheets, how stressed you are, and your general health. Have you been evaluated for gynecological or endocrine issues? It's a good idea to know that before you jump to conclusion. Make sure to consult a doctor, because sometimes our skin is a good indication of something off inside.
Good luck and I am sorry you are suffering!
Okay, this is going to be way too much info but I love skincare dearly and I really wish women had more good, readily available information on vaginal hygiene. So soldier on if you want to learn something and also get product recommendations that I’ve personally vetted.
Not to imply anyone isn’t taking care of themselves, but besides ‘Here is how a tampon works’ in 6th grade what education did any of us really receive that was about us taking care of our bodies for OUR benefit? I can’t tell you the dozens of female clients I previously worked on who would be embarrassed of their natural odor or secretions and would ask my advice on how to taste/smell/look better. I have a whole other soapbox rant about that but this isn’t the time for it.
Back to recommendations. I’m going to include what I consider to be the highest quality facial soaps that will also pull double duty as a cleanser for the outside of your lady bits so you don’t have to hide the bottle in the shower from nosy roommates or have an awkward convo with your partner. And one that is specifically vaginal wash because it’s just a great prod
I personally use Eminence Organics Stone Crop Gel Wash and then chemically exfoliate -if needed- with Aveda’s Botanical Kinetics exfoliant. and moisturize with Eminence Bamboo Firming Fluid Yes, I have a skincare routine for my bits...and I am aware of how stupidly bougie that is.
That’s obviously not the route for most rational folks and I HIGHLY stress that you use unscented products until you’re familiar with your own ability to tolerate fragrance, natural or otherwise.
I use Stone Crop because I am prone to Bartholin Cysts and this does the trick to help prevent them/reduce PIH and smells divine. Eminence is an amazing Hungarian skincare brand that uses zero water in their formulary and is certified organic, cruelty free, and has their own organic farm to source most of their ingredients. Only downside is the cost.
The best truly low ph cleanser I’ve ever used thus far is SanDaWha Camellia Secret Zone Soothing Wash. It’s expensive, but lovely. It’s formulated as a vaginal cleanser, aka, technically okay to use on your inner labia, but I am a firm believer that you should never be using soap in your vagina, it cleans itself, just wash the outside well with warm water and a clean washcloth EVERY TIME. Well, maybe on your period do a bit of unscented, ph balanced soap. For that, there is nothing better than good old CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser - ph of 5 . As an aside, I much prefer the moisturizing cleanser to the gel cleanser for acneic skin. The gel is too acidic and strips the acid mantle which makes your skin produce more oil. Moisturizing your oily skin after cleansing gently will, in most scenarios, heal blemishes faster than swinging the hammer of spot treatments and harsh AHAs.
Now, regarding your lady parts chemistry, we run between a high 3 and just under a 5, IIRC. The SanDaWha clocks in there, and is also amazing on facial skin. I use about 5 different face washes/cleansing oils based on how I’m feeling, but it would be my choice if I wanted ONE product I could also use on my face and , because I hate overly niche products. Our skin sits at 5.5 ph, so your best bet is to always use a wash that’s at 4 and you’ll strike a happy medium.
> Can I ask, does this process take a lot of time for you?
Nah, not at all! I guess the thing that takes the most time is cleansing, since I apply moisturizer & sunscreen while watching stuff, multitasking, whatever. Takes under 30 seconds to apply those anyway!
> And with moisturizer and sunscreen, does it not feel sticky or thick on the face?
Depends on the kind you get! There are tons of cosmetically elegant options if you're looking for a thin moisturizer or matte drying sunscreens.
Using light layers for your moisturizer also helps, and you don't have to use products that you don't enjoy using, y'know? If you only like applying moisturizer in the PM, go for it! Whatever works for you and your skin.
If you're looking for lighter, matte drying things, you might want to check out:
Moisturizers
Sunscreen:
This is a mixture of Western sunscreens and Asian sunscreens. A lot of the common Western sunscreens are kinda shitty, at least if you're looking for one that dries matte, has sufficient protection, and doesn't feel heavy. They usually hit one or two of those factors but completely bungle the third. That means that a lot of these recs will be Asian sunscreens. Don't write them off because of that (or because the names are a bit extra) - they're easy to get a hold of, typically hit most of the "perfect sunscreen" factors, and they're a whole different ballgame from your mum's Coppertone. If you want a lightweight, matte sunscreen, go for one of these.
There's some Western ones thrown in here too - not all Western sunscreens are bad! - it's just typically easier to find a cosmetically elegant sunscreen from Korea or Japan.
There are a variety of ingredients, methods, and products that could potentially help you. The problem is everyone is different, so it will have to be a careful trial and error (and patience over a period of time) before you can pinpoint the right solution for you and what the original cause was.
If you're going to try products, I highly recommend you buy small sample sizes if possible and try them out one or two at a time. Be careful and start small, especially with active ingredients. They're quite potent, which means they give powerful positive results, but you can also risk overusing them or using them in a dangerous combination. So do your research about correct application and be careful.
The list goes on and on but you can start your research here.
To eliminate causes, pay attention to when you have breakouts. Make sure the products you're currently using are a good pH and aren't breaking you out to begin with. Don't eat dairy for a long while until you know it doesn't cause the breakouts.
Hormonal acne is most often clustered on chin and jawline, is often cystic, and often flares up once a month (aka period). If that describes you, you might want to talk to a doctor or dermatologist about whether it's hormonal or not, because there are treatments for that, such as birth control or spearmint tea.
I am very certain that you have dehydrated skin. Not the same as dry skin, though you may have that, too. Tight feeling skin, getting very oily very quickly, redness. Oily and dry at the same time. Your moisture barrier has been compromised. This will take time and patience to repair, but believe me, it is worth it. I once had very similar skin.
Fair warning, I myself use a mostly AB routine, and my product suggestions will reflect that.
Find a simple low pH cleanser. I like this one because it's cheap, easy to find, and lasts forever. Cleanse twice daily, with tepid water.
(I am a fan of the double cleansing method when wearing foundation and/or sunscreen. You can learn more about that here.)
Then I would work on finding light hydration that doesn't break you out. I have found that my skin absolutely loves multiple layers of light hydration. And that was key to restoring my barrier. Just putting one thick heavy layer didn't work because my skin couldn't/wouldn't do anything with it. But multiple light layers was something my skin could work with.
This, this, this, this, and this are all super suggestions. Pretty simple, basic, and gentle choices. No, you don't need to go buy all of them. Try one. See how your skin likes it after several weeks. Maybe add another. Or, some people like adding multiple layers of the same product.
Then find a humectant to layer on top, to seal moisture in. This is a very popular one. This, this, this, and this are all good choices.
Once you find a routine that your skin seems to like, stick with it for a few months. Like...3 to 6 months. It won't be an immediate fix. But over time you'll start to notice less of the tight feeling, less of the dry thin skin with an oil slick on top, less redness. Only then will you be able to see what your real skin type is. Maybe you start to see more dryness or flakiness, and the oil slick goes away. Then maybe you have drier skin. Or maybe the tight and dry feeling goes away but the oiliness stays. Then maybe you have oily skin. But until you heal your moisture barrier, nothing you throw at your skin will do any good.
I usually recommend Biore Watery Essence as a starter SPF. It has bit of alcohol in it, but other than that, the application is so smooth and the coverage is great. Whenever you get here, head to any Don Quixote, Cosme Shop, or any other sort of drug store. They often have samples out of things (especially the Cosme shops), so you'll be able to try out different brands and types on your arms and see what leaves a cast, has a weird smell or texture you don't like, or my favorite - for some reason has some sneaky shiny highlighter powder bullshit in it.
On that note, some classics in Japan might not be for you. Best to avoid anything that promotes: tone up, brightening, color correcting, etc. (which is quite a lot of the market right now tbh), or strictly mineral based (zinc or titanium dioxide) ones because they will leave a whitecast on darker skin tones. Here's a ranking of current SPFs in Japan by popularity.
SPFs here are typically either oil based ('milk' type) or water based ('essence' type). Oil is best for body, sinks in easily, a lot runnier and easier to apply, can be a bit moisturizing. Water is best for face, usually more of a gel like texture, tends to clog pores less, but usually has more alcohol in it, so it can be drying. But YMMV, and I know people who use the milk types on their face with no issues (but uh, I am not one of them).
Another thing to note is that SPF, and skincare in general, is often reformulated every year or so, but still sold under the same brand/item. So if something was working well for you and suddenly isn't, that is likely the culprit. There are also some ingredients in sunscreen that may irritate your skin, such as fatty alcohols, higher alcohol content, fragrance, etc. so if one doesn't work or is causing dryness or clogged pores or blemishes, search for your item on cosdna for ingredients that may be triggering issues, and just keep trying ones that don't have suspected irritants in it.
A lot of nicer sunscreens retail for ¥1500-2000/30-50ml. But there are also a ton of great ones for way less! So don't feel pressure into getting the creme de la creme. Paying ¥600-800/50ml is a decent range to expect. There are waterproof ones for those super sweaty days, but honestly, nothing beats reapplication every two hours of sun exposure. Finding a sunscreen that is enjoyable to apply is really the key to consistent usage. And you should also look into getting an oil cleanser and a soap cleanser for the evening. The oil cleanser is rubbed into your skin, dry, and then emulsified away with water. It helps break down and remove a lot of the longer lasting ingredients in SPF. Follow it up with a foam cleanser and you'll be golden. (These are my two recs for cheap and great for that.)
Anyway. Gooooood lucccccck my dude. LMK if you need any more overwhelming amounts of info. Hahaha.
I'm a little older than you; I also have combination skin on the dry side. Here's my usual routine right now:
AM:
PM:
My skin isn't perfect and I still have a lot of work to do but I love the routine I have now.
So, here are the products and my review.
KOSE Softy Mo Deep Treatment Oil, 7.8oz
So, this is my first oil that I've been using for a double cleanse . I've really enjoyed it and I often feel like it can clean my skin on its own, it doesn't leave my skin feeling greasy either. This was also my first Asian skincare product , specifically from Japan. Love it !
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Acne Cleanser, 6.76 Fl. Oz.
I like this BHA SA wash because it doesn't completely strip my skin of its' oils but does leave it drier than usual. Personally, I think it's one of the better SA washes on the market but obviously YMMV.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Water Face Gel Moisturizer for Dry Skin, 1.7 fl. oz
This was a huge game changer in terms of moisturizers. Most moisturizers are way too occlusive to me to the point that I actually break out because my pores can't breath or so light, I remain dry and unaffected...and thus break out from dryness. This is the happy medium for me. My only issue is that the amount you get in the tub can make you run out quickly, luckily, a little goes a long way.
Village 11 Factory Sunscreen, Broad Spectrum SPF 50+, UVA/UVB Protection for Sensitive Skin, Moisturizing Hydra Sun Fluid
This is a Korean product. This is probably the only sunscreen I'll be using until something happens to the company LOL ! Its consistency is very close to the hydroboost so it just glides into the skin. It smells very similar too. One thing I noticed about this sunscreen is that it contains chemical ingredients as well as mineral ingredients. As someone who has only ever used American sunscreens before, I find this hybrid very unusual (and welcome). Perhaps it's a Korean skincare thing ? Let me know.
The other two are very well known products.
I use TO Niacinimide + Zinc . This was also a game changer for me and I'm just so glad I learned about it. It really helped regulate my oil production and helped the inflammation I get whenever my face get's too hot and sweaty or too dry. I've tried going without it for a month, just to see if perhaps it was just my imagination. Well, I think it's safe to say that it wasn't my imagination , this stuff really works.
I also use TO AHA + BHA chemical peel once or twice a week. I mostly use it for my hyperpigmentation . I know that the SA from my la roche posay is a BHA by itself but I like the extra "oomph" that the AHA does to my skin .
About your age here!
I have pretty difficult skin... it's sensitive and gets rashes in response to all sorts of things, I have PIH (every time I get a pimple, after it heals, a dark mark stays on my skin for weeks and weeks), it gets oily and dry, the works. I ended up on this subreddit seeking help, and though I'm still experimenting with some things, it's DEFINITELY getting better.
I usually shower twice a day just because gym time works out in the middle of my schedule. I do my face washing in the shower, and I have the generic Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle body wash. It's actually pretty good on your face. I also have the Cerave hydrating face wash, but I'm not sure lately if it adds anything. Maybe. For now the Tea Tree Tingle seems to be doing just fine.
Every few days I use the St. Ives Pads. I know a lot of people on here recommend the Stridex, but my hyper-sensitive skin had a conniption about those.
By day, my moisturizer is the Cerave in the tub and they are NOT KIDDING. Of all the products I've tried courtesy of this sub, this is the #1 most helpful thing I've discovered yet.
At night, in hopes of treating my PIH, I've been experimenting with Retinol. They say it takes a long time to notice any difference. They're right. I've noticed no difference. BUT thus far, my skin hasn't broken out, gotten blotchy or rashy, or otherwise freaked out over this stuff, so... I'll hang in there.
Oh, and Sunscreen. I use Neutrogena Sensitive Skin. I recommend starting with VERY LITTLE and working it in one section at a time. It's easy to go overboard and end up with caked-on white face.
PROTIP WITH SUNSCREEN: you guessed it: there have been cases of melanoma in my family and I freckle out a lot and have a high risk (I told you my skin was difficult). ALWAYS remember to put sunscreen all over your ears (front and back) and on the tops of your feet/toes. People don't think to cover these areas and don't check for melanoma there in time, usually.
Oh, and last: I've tried the Aztec Healing Clay twice now as I've needed to get rid of blackheads or calm things down a bit. Definitely use Apple Cider Vinegar, that stuff is the best.
ORDER OF OPERATIONS
I'm pretty new at this myself, but so far it's working out pretty well. I started with the Beginner's Skincare Routine as a rough guide and otherwise lurked around figuring things out (which is still pretty much how I'm handling it). So far, awesome sub, and found a lot of this has been really helpful!
Hello!
I've been lurking on this subreddit for a few months, and while it's helped me put together a routine, I feel like there's more I can do to improve my skin!
To start, here are some pictures! https://imgur.com/a/0JLlV
I'm 31 (32 soon!), and I THINK I have normal/dry skin. Sometimes it feels tight or flaky in the morning, before I wash and moisturize. Overall my face is soft, but there's a tiny bit of roughness. I have the occasional breakout (around nose/chin), but it's never more than one or two whiteheads, and they usually go away after a few days.
My main concern is REDNESS, as well as whatever's going on with my forehead.
The pictures are after I've been up for a while, before I wash my face. This is about how my face looks normally, and I'd really like to reduce the blotches and have a more even skintone. My forehead is a little bumpy, with red spots.
Here's my routine!
AM
Splash some cold water
[MILK Makeup Matcha Toner
]
(https://www.milkmakeup.com/matcha-toner.html)
Mario Badescu Rosewater Spray
Cerave PM
(Brush teeth while it dries)
Shiseido Senka Aging Care UV Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++
PM
Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser
MILK Makeup Matcha Toner
Stridex Red (Brush teeth while it dries)
Mario Badescu Rosewater Spray
LUSH Full of Grace serum
Cerave PM
Every once in a while I'll use the FOMO jelly mask from LUSH.
I also have this diy mask powder from WitchBaby that I haven't tried yet, but I was thinking about mixing it with Aloe.
I used the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion like, once. It didn't really do much for the pimple I had, but it could be because it rubbed off. Maybe I'd have better luck if I slapped a hydrocolloid bandage over it after it dries?
I WAS mixing Acure Seriously Soothing Blue Tansy Night Oil (new formula) with my moisturizer for a couple weeks, and it made my face feel GREAT, but I started getting more breakouts than usual, in spots that I don't normally break out.
I also tried using CosRX AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid every other day (alternating with Stridex Red) for about a month, and stopped because I didn't see much difference and I got tired of waiting 20mins to finish my routine.
I've been doing this since early January, and I haven't really seen much improvement. I really like to keep things simple (my PM routine is already on that border of being too much!), so I'd rather replace parts of my routine with things that could work out better, than add to it, unless it's super necessary.
I'm thinking about replacing the Matcha toner (which is kind of meh to me) and the MB spray with some Thayer's witch hazel (cucumber or rose?). I really like the MB spray because it makes it easier to apply moisturizer, but if I can do the same thing with Thayer's (in a spray bottle) then it'd be nice to combine the two steps into one product. And it'd be cheaper!
I'd like to add some sort of oil (rosehip seed? squalane?) that I can just mix with my moisturizer. I liked doing it with the Acure, but something about it broke me out.
I was also considering using Azelaic Acid instead of Stridex. If I did that, my choices would be either TO or Melazepam since I'm in the US.
I was also looking into the possibility of using Curology as a way to just mix all that good stuff into one product.
I'm very lazy.
Anyways, this ended up being REALLY long! I probably should have made this its own post, but I figured I'd try the daily help thread first!
Thanks for any advice!
I'm basing this on what I already have these in stock and I'm just replacing what I already have. Anything I don't spend in one month, I will bank for the next month. I don't use AB products exclusively and I cannot use retinol, so I will be staying away from products that contain it. I also live in the UK so $25 in American stretches differently in the UK.
Oil cleanse L'Oreal Paris Extraordinary Oil Facial Cleansing Oil 150ml It's around £5.29 and lasts me ~3-4 months
Regular cleanse Cerave Cerave Foaming Facial Cleanser, 12 oz This bottle lasts a whole year....or I shall say I'm still using the bottle I purchased over a year ago. £14.99
Hydrating Toner/Essence Whamisa Natural Fermentation Organic Flowers Skin Toner - Deep Rich / 120ml At $35 USD, one of the most expensive, but for me it's toner AND essence AND ferments. I consider this three products in one and lasts ~4-5 months
Serum Shark Sauce or Sauce du mois At $29, it's one of the more expensive items on the list. One bottle lasts ~2-3 months, although I use a lot more than I probably should.
Face Oil A'kin Rosehip Oil I have found this on sale in the Holland and Barrett store during specials, so although it's listed for £16.45, I have never paid that price for it. Trilogy is phenomenal as well and will often go on sale too.
Eye Cream I cannot recommend an eye cream in this price range with my specific concerns. All my recommendations are above budget. I have yet to find a satisfactory eye cream that tackles wrinkles, fine lines, and sunken black circles (genetic condition). For me, I need to go above budget. What I can recommend is using the rosehip oil gently around the eye area at night. Another recommendation are Koelf Gold Royal Hydrogel at around £12. If you have time to put them on after the serum and before a lotion/moisturizer first thing in the morning, they will work great.
Moisturizer/Lotion/cream A few in this category to include Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream at £24 or Olay Regenerist 3 Point Super Age-Defying Fragrance Free Moisturiser 50ml at £20.99. I use the Kiehl's during the winter months and can recommend Olay any time of the year. A jar lasts a good 4 months. The original Olay is great for the warmer summer months (and has sunscreen in it)
Face Mask So many great ones out there - hard to choose.
Nice but not required (your mileage and needs may vary
Clay Mask Any of the L'oreal new clay mask range £5.99 a pop and a month's usage - if you want to use them.
BHA Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant As much as I detest their business practices, I think the 2% BHA is worth the bother. £25 a bottle, but used twice a week the bottle really does last.
AHA Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exfoliant same as above. I use this roughly once a week, lasts a LONG time. £25
Lip care Aquaphor, Vasaline, cocoa butter....All under £5
My routine is already pretty darn slim but if I could /only/ have three items I think I'd probably have the following:
> I really adore this product. It leaves my face very clean and happy without that nasty "too clean" feeling. A little goes a long way for me so it's super cost effective.
> Currently I do a tea tree oil and water combo and basically apply it like a toner and it works really well for me. I also have the option to up or lower the percentage of oil as needed which, for me, has helped a lot with acne and gives me some flexibility with a singular product. I'm considering trying a true-blue AB Tea Tree product but I'm really worried about consistency since the Tea Tree masks I have are pretty heavy on my skin and don't have the same sort of oomph to them.
> Hands down. Without a doubt. Never will be replaced in my book. Most days I just use my cleanser and TTO but on nights when my skin needs some help or has healing acne/wounds, this baby is my go to. Use it all over on shower nights or do a thicker dab on trouble spots and there's an clear and obvious improvement the following morning. Combined with my TTO, it's been one of the best products I've purchased. It's super slick so, like my other items, a little goes a long way. Since it's a product that you use in select areas, you don't use a lot in the first place. It can be used anywhere in yours face (forget those snail eye creams lol) and you can use it on parts of your body as well if they need help. It's probably the closest to a HG/Rave product for me.
I've committed a sin! I didn't include a sun screen! Oops~ So hard to pick just three, right?
i have pores so large theyre visible from a decent distance away. Is there a way to decrease their size? I currently use Cetaphil Daily Cleanser twice a day. Once in the morning, once at night before bed. Both in the shower. I periodically wash my face throughout the day but if i miss once chance to get rid of grease i immediately break out within 12 hours. I've tried Proactiv a long time ago, I've tried Clean and Clear spot treatment, Clean and Clear oil absorbing sheets, which works pretty well, i just ran out. Sebamed clear face gel, Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-touch Sunscreen, SPF 30, and even Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, For all skin types and theyve ALL made me breakout except the Cetaphil daily cleanser Normal to Oily skin...
Now i've used all these products at random times... not all on the same. I've really been actively trying to get this under control since late 2014. So each time something makes me breakout, i'll try a new product.. At one time I was using (per the suggestion of a beauty stylist) to use cetaphil daily cleanser, Sebamed face gel, and then Neutrogena Ultra sheer Sunscreen in the morning to get me ready for the day. Then use the absorbing sheets throughout the day to maintain a clean face. Not get any dirt in my pores.
So thats the story... if someone, ANYONE can help me, I would appreciate it so much. If i really need to see a dermatologist, i guess thats my last resort. I really like to try all options before seeing a doc. Please let me know if you can help out. It's greatly appreciated!!!
I've used oil cleansing with both Paula's Choice BHA and AHA with no adverse effects. Because the oil wipes your face clean, and then you use the acids afterwards on fresh skin.
Here's another great resource for more information on OCM, and it's what convinced me to jump in. She outlines the basic reason behind why OCM is so popular and gives some great recommendations on how to start. It's worth noting that many cultures around the world have used oils on their faces for centuries if not longer. It's really only within the last 100 years that we started formulating all these different types of products which are vastly different from what humans have used for hygiene purposes before the rise of modern industrialization.
I've become a huge proponent of OCM, and at first I did mess around with a bunch of different blends but I've realized that I can just slather on olive oil or whatever I happen to have around the house without any sensitivities or pore blockages (with the exception of coconut oil, which can be highly comodogenic for some people, and I just don't want to risk it). Basically you have tons of choices with lots of room for customization to your skin type and skin concerns! You could also buy an oil blend like this one by Hada Labo, which is what I'm currently using and I've almost emptied it. I really like this formulation because the oil emulsifies very easily, so I can just rinse it off with water and not have to bother with a wash cloth. I use it everyday, and almost nothing else has been so effective for removing my sunscreen and makeup, even waterproof mascara.
Here's my PM step-by-step routine if you're curious:
Feel free to PM me for more info, anecdotes, or recommendations if you like! It seems that we started at a similar place, and I did TONS of research to get where I am now, so I love passing on that knowledge to others. Hopefully you find it helpful.
After exfoliating use a cleanser. You said your face is a bit oily, and I'm in the same boat there. Go with a foaming cleanser (i.e. something like this). This replaces the soap part of what you're doing now. Actually (physically) exfoliating will be better because of the size of the things actually doing the scrubbing compared to the looped fibers of the washcloth. Much smaller and will be much more effective without causing (significant) damage to your skin. Chemical exfoliation would be even better. I'll talk more about the cleanser here:
Oil Cleanser: Holika Holika Soda Pore cleansing B.B Deep Cleansing Oil
This stuff takes off ALL my makeup with a gentle massage. Every ounce of waterproof eyeliner and mascara comes off in under 10 seconds. When it comes in contact with water it emulsifies, leaving your face clean and soft with no oily residue. Magical stuff.
Cleanser: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser
My skin has improved leaps and bounds after introducing CeraVe to my routine. Both the cleanser and moisturizer are gentle and have improved my skin texture greatly.
BB Cream: Lioele Triple Solution BB Cream
Amazing coverage, great tone-matching and leaves my skin looking fresh and flawless. With skin brightening ingredients and SPF30, this is my go-to skin product.
Mascara: Clump Crusher
'Nuff said.
Eyeliner: Cailyn Gel Liner
A great find from Ipsy! This stuff is totally smudge-proof and with the applicator brush (included in the packaging), it goes on smooth and crisp. Perfect cat-eye every time.
Everyday Lip Colour: TONYMOLY Petite Bunny Gloss Bar in Juicy Apple
Even not including the beyond adorable packaging, I adore this lip balm. It gives a gorgeous sheer pinky hue to my lips. The formula is SUPER moisturizing and creamy. It goes on like butter, no stickiness at all. And less than 4 bucks a pop? Amazing.
Hello!! Oh my goodness I have SO MANY KB faves - Mizon, Tony Moly, Missha, Ladykin are all great for skin and makeup products. Hado Labo is a Japanese brand, but their lotion (what we think of as a toner here in the US) makes my skin happy as a bushel of clams.
Current fave makeup product: Tony Moly Cat's Wink Clear Pact helps me keep my skin in check during the day. I feel like this is a boring thing to have as a fave, I'm here to learn about/work up the courage to try new things.
Fave skin care product: The Face Shop Rice Water Cleansing Oil is a game changer. My skin routine is pretty extensive, but this is the starting point and gets alllllll my makeup and sunscreen off with a few second of very gentle rubbing. It makes washing your face at night so much easier and more enjoyable. =)
Is the redness just general redness in your skin, or is it redness leftover by acne? Either way:
I would start by finding a new cleanser, both AM and PM. Scrubs are very harsh and bar soaps are stripping and typically not the right pH for skin. Both off these things can compromise your skin barrier and make it look and feel worse, as well as inhibit it's ability to protect itself and heal. Your skin is your largest organ, don't think of it as something that needs to be dried out and stripped, it needs to be hydrated, moisturized, and healthy. I think this could definitely be contributing to your redness, at least in part. The most popular recommendations are listed in the holy grail cleanser thread, but CeraVe Hydrating, Neutrogena Hydrating, or Vanicream are good places to start.
I couldn't find your moisturizer, so I've got nothing in it specifically, but yet again, there's a holy grail thread for that. If you're concerned about redness, you could look for one that contains niacinamide, which helps a lot in reducing redness. CeraVe PM is a good drugstore moisturizer that contains ceramides, hylauronic acid, and niacinamide, all of which are very good for your skin.
The last thing you need for a good basic routine (and before you should start adding anything heavy duty like chemical exfoliation) is a good sunscreen. Wearing this everyday will help a lot with your redness. Oh look, a holy grail thread for that too!
Since you're relatively new at this, don't forget to patch test new products. And wait at least a week or two before adding the next new product. This can be time consuming but it makes it much easier if you start to break out to pinpoint which product is causing it.
Sorry, I realize this is very long, but getting a solid basic routine of cleanse, moisturize, and SPF is the most important and beneficial thing you can do. If you're getting into skincare and adding lots of things, you really need a baseline to fall back on if you need to. I'm glad you posted! Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions, this subreddit is very helpful and only wants you to succeed!
Edit: I totally neglected to mention the side bar in this sub. Not sure If you've checked it out yet, but it is full of fantastic information that is very helpful.
I LOVE AZELAIC ACID. So I pretty well thought I would live with a red face forever along with a severely damaged moisture barrier. The biggest thing that helped me was azelaic acid. I use Melazepam from Amazon. Cheap and works! It's thick at first but smoothes into my skin leaving it kinda matte. At first it itched like crazy and I wasn't using it consistently enough. Then after more research, I decided to use it up and give it a chance. Along with anything high in ceramide, my skin got used to the 20% AzA. Maybe around the 10th day of twice daily use, my skin finally started to look normal. I also switch my oil cleanser to an olive oil based one and saw even more improvement in my redness. I've just added in Vit C to my under eye area and continuing to use Melazepam around the rest of my face and neck and my ENTIRE COMPLEXION is EVEN NOW! Would never have believed that was possible. Melazepam has also minimized my SFs on my nose, has finally stopped this ingrown hair on my neck from forming (I've had it for years!!!), and has cleared all the CCs on my forehead. I repeat: I loooooove azelaic acid, specifically Melazepam!
Current routine:
AM
Garnier Micellar Water - pink cap or Cerave Foaming cleanser
Cosrx Aha/bha Clarifying Treatment Toner
BELITAE Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid to my under eye area and upper cheeks
Melazepam to the rest of my face and neck, especially my nose. Sometimes I wait after the Vit C but not usually since I don't use them in the same spots.
I do wait 15-20 minutes after my actives step.
SCINIC First Treatment Essence 3 skin method. My face loves this more than the Missha FTE.
SCINIC Snail All In One Ampoule or SCINIC Honey All In One Ampoule depending on the day.
CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion
A'PIEU PURE BLOCK Natural Sun Cream SPF45/PA+++ I don't see much sunlight at all but when I do, this one keeps me from turning beet red imediately upon application.
Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Derma Green-Cure Solution Recover Cream This is the best thing I've found for redness and skin barrier repair! My skin loves ceramides so much and this soothes like nothing I've found yet.
Medela Tender Care Lanolin Tube on my lips. Yes it's nip cream. I couldn't use it all up while nursing and it causes my skin to redden so it's perfect for a little lip color.
PM
ROHTO Hada Labo Gokujun Cleansing Oil My skin reacted to Holika Holika Soda Pore B.b Deep Cleansing Oil so this is my second one to try and I'm really enjoying it.
Cerave Foaming cleanser with a konjac sponge but waiting on
Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam in the mail.
Cosrx Aha/bha Clarifying Treatment Toner
BELITAE Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid to my under eye area and upper cheeks
Melazepam to the rest of my face and neck, especially my nose like the AM.
SCINIC First Treatment Essence 3 skin method.
All depending on how I'm feeling that evening:
LJH TeaTree 90 Essence
SCINIC Snail All In One Ampoule
SCINIC Honey All In One Ampoule
Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence
Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
MIZON Snail Repair Eye Cream
Petitfee Black Pearl and Gold Hydrogel Eye Patch Not sure if I like these or not honestly...
Some or all of these layers followed by CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion and
Guerisson 9 Complex Horse Oil Cream
Pretty sure my shower filter, Mermosis, has also helped my skin and hair.
I also use sometimes REVITABOOST PEEL Anti-Aging Peel Pads or Cosrx Bha Blackhead Power Liquid but I skip my AzA on those days and just go back to my regular routine the following day. These are rare for me though because they make me ridiculously red again.
Things I'm waiting on in the mail:
ROSETTE Aqua Ceramide Gel
Rumase BIFIDA Snail Toner
Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam
It's Skin Power 10 Formula - PO Effector
Hoping the all work well for me too!
Welcome! :) Ceramide products are good at repairing your skin's moisture barrier and are good moisturizing products. If these sound like things you are looking for, I highly recommend getting some products with ceramide in them! A popular product is the Rosette Ceramide Gel.
Vitamin C is a good idea, just make sure you start slow, like once a week. Also, actives such as vitamin C are a form of chemical exfoliation. You want to make sure you have a few solid moisturizers at the ready to compensate for the drying nature of actives.
Snails are a great idea too, but they don't have the same mind-blowing affect for everyone who uses them. Its a very Your Milage May Vary (YMMV) sort of thing! A popular snail product is the Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. This product has 96% snail mucin, so it'd be a good way to see if snail is an effective ingredient for you. (because 10% snail in a good cream may give you good results, but it may not be because of the snail if you catch my drift!)
However! First and foremost, if hyperpigmentation is your problem and you have no routine, start with a sunscreen! If the word makes you cringe, don't worry, AB sunscreens don't tend to be as thick and sticky as Western suncreens.
Which brings me to two threads you should start with. The AB Beginner Guide is a good place for basic information. The Holy Grail Thread is a good place to see what products people with your same skintype swear by.
ALSO I wouldn't recommend using sheet masks meant for your face on the rest of your body. Sheet masks are usually a temporary fix for your skin issues and I would not rely on them to do any major skin whitening. I'd pick a product that you can use on the body and that will give you consistent results. Try products with niacinimide and arbutin, which are whitening ingredients.
That's what I have to contribute! Feel free to ask more questions and good luck!
So speaking as a woman, my skincare routine is, on average, going to be more involved than what guys usually do. But I do like all these products a lot and you should feel free to look into them individually. Also, many of them are going to be Korean skincare brands because Koreans really know their skincare shit. And since I have sensitive combination skin, the products I use are gentle enough for most skin types.
Step 1: Oil cleanser - I use Kose Softymo Deep Cleansing Oil. There's also another version of it that's the "Speedy Cleansing oil" that's similarly priced and just as effective. I put the oil on my dry face, rub in circles to encourage some exfoliation, then use a little water to sort of create a foam, and then rinse it off. There's also Cetaphil, which is of course a tried-and-true facial cleanser that's compatible with all skin types.
Step 2: Toner - I use Kikumasamune High Moisturizing toner, which is a Japanese toner that you use after cleansing/drying off your face. It smells like sake because that's one of the ingredients -- could cause breakouts, but I haven't had any problems with that. It's also a HUGE ASS bottle for a great price. Another option I've used is Aromatica Sea Daffodil toner. Also, when drying off your face, I recommend using Kleenex instead of a towel, because your towel can harbor all sorts of gross stuff and you wiping your newly-cleansed face on one can transfer said gross stuff onto your skin.
Step 3: Essence. I use a serum type thing but I'm going to skip over this because it's really not a super necessary step, basically like a thin pre-moisturizer to make my skin super hydrated.
Step 4 - Moisturizer. I've been using Mizon Black Snail All-In-One cream and it works great. It's also priced pretty well. Another option I've heard absolute raves about from /r/AsianBeauty is Stratia Liquid Gold which has worked phenomenally for many people. I'm definitely planning on purchasing this moisturizer soon. And also, using jojoba oil has also worked really well for my mom, so you could look into that.
Finally, sunscreen is a crucial addition to your skincare regimen that should never be treated as optional. I use Innisfree Eco Safety Daily Sunblock but here is also another helpful thread that gives feedback on sunscreen that has worked well for other people.
For spot treatments (like an occasional lone whitehead), I've been using Clean & Clear advantage acne spot treatment for like 10 years and it has not let me down.
Again, this regimen is much more involved than what most guys do (and if that's what works for them, great!), but there's also nothing wrong in investing in good skincare products!
I have VERY oily skin as well. I don't want to tell you what to do with your routine... With that being said, I think for your skin type, your morning routine might be too focused on moisturization. I used to be the same way and would try and do the most morning and night, but then I felt like I could not even wear makeup because even the most matte finished products would leave my makeup falling off my face.
I recently changed things up for my skin type and have seen awesome results in how my makeup wears.
I now start by washing my face with a light gel cleanser (drunk elephant Beste™ No. 9 Jelly Cleanser, COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser ), then toning with a rose water witch hazel (I only do this step when I think it will be a particularly hot day), then I use a Vitamin C Serum ( Timeless Skin Care 20% Vitamin C Plus E Ferulic Acid Serum ). This serum is NOT oily or tacky, and is not meant to moisturize. I only use it to help brighten my acne scars, which has been a life-changing product for me. Lastly, I do an SPF with hyaluronic acid (CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM SPF 30) which adds hydration without being moisturizing! It is super light and has a whipped texture.
I have not found a primer that I love for mattifying my super oily skin but would love to hear anyone else's suggestions. Or a sunscreen that acts as a primer? I am definitely a fan of lessening the products used in the AM so any dual-use products are a plus for my oily skin type!
Morning routine:
​
Night routine:
​
Review:
Hit me up with questions if ya got any :)
Copying from my previous comment from earlier in the thread:
Face lotion alone is NOT providing nearly enough SPF coverage. Come over to r/skincareaddiction! :) There are many sunscreens out there that feel like lotion but are highly protective. I personally use an Asian brand that is SPF 50 and protects against both UVA and UVB rays, something most standard sunscreens don't do. It's only $12 on Amazon and lasts me a couple months. After it dries, I can't even tell I'm wearing sunscreen.
My typical morning routine for my face is:
I also add sunscreen to any exposed skin on the rest of my body. This sunscreen is cheap enough that I feel fine using it for my full body.
I repeat this whole process at night (excluding the sunscreen). I also add Vitamin C serum after the toner, which also helps with anti-aging (promotes collagen growth).
The whole thing takes less than 5 minutes, plus a couple minutes between each stage to let it dry. Wrinkles are SO hard to reverse... the best solution is prevention while you're still young! Plus, as someone whose parents have both gone through cancer, skin cancer is not something I take lightly.
EDIT: I've had many requests for my exact products so I'm adding them here. Everyone's skin is a little different, so I would definitely advise doing your own research to find what works best for you. For reference, I have clear (little-to-no acne) skin, not too dry or oily.
For each product, make sure you do a patch test to ensure you don't have a bad reaction. They're all pretty gentle so you should be okay, but always good to be safe.
Cleanser: Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
Toner: KLAIRS Supple Preparation Facial Toner
Moisturizer: Trader Joe's Nourish Oil-Free Antioxidant Facial Moisturizer (this is cheaper in store)
Sunscreen: Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel pump (SPF50 + PA ++++) (takes like a month to deliver so I usually buy multiple at a time)
Vitamin C serum: Dr. Brenner Vit C parent (small bottle but a little goes a long way)
This is what i posted on AsianBeauty, but i also really wanted to post on here because you guys helped me A LOT in understanding the way the skin works (pH, AHAs, BHAs, oil cleansing, etc... even my moisturizer!! i got it from your guys' recommendations!!❤ )
I work in an environment where there is a lot of bicarbonate in the air. Since bicarbonate is alkaline, im worried that im messing with my skin's pH. I was wondering if anyone knows a way to combat the alkalinity with maybe a toner, or lotion, or anything?!! something that would bring my skin's pH down to the slightly acidic level it should be at. I've also noticed my skin get a lot drier ever since starting work there. Has anyone tried ROSETTE Ceramide Gel?? How does it compare with the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion i currently use in my routine?
I'm asking AsianBeauty because your products & recommendations helped me a lot!!
PS, i think my skin is clog-prone, so keep that in mind when recommending products!! (i've read a lot that people got clogged skin from the CeraVe that i use, but to me, it doesn't clog my skin at all! just thought i'd mention it since even though it clogs a lot of people's skin, it doesn't clog mine, so still recommend whatever it is that came to mind!! even if it may clog skin!!)
Skin type: on the sensitive side || Country/Climate i'm in: Canada // colder weather approaching now :(((
Top Skin Concern: CCs and hyperpigmentation, and acne :(((
Current Routine / Products I'm Using:
AM
on Thursdays and Sundays, after splashing my face with water and patting dry, i apply ZOMEDICAL Glycogent and then follow up with the rest of the routine (Cerave and EltaMD)
PM
on Thursdays and Sundays, instead of washing with the Hada Labo cleansing foam, i wash with CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser and then apply ZOMEDICAL Brightenex, and i DO NOT apply the CeraVe lotion over that
I'm an 18-year old female, if that helps, who may or may not have hormonal issues (don't get a regular period :/) and i eat gluten- and dairy- free, and i limit the amount of sweets i have (mainly i eat protein and veggies, or protein and fruits throughout the day). Also, i drink only teas and water (no fruit juices, coffee, or pop!). I also don't eat artifical things/things with preservatives, etc. (i like to eat things that are minimally processed).
Any help is appreciated
Sorry for the lengthy post, i just want to make sure you have as much info so you can best recommend something for me!!
TL;DR started working where the air is alkaline. worried about that fucking up my skin's pH and the horrible clogged skin, dry skin, reddness, etc, that results from that. wondering if there's anything i could add to my routine to combat the alkalinity -- perhaps a toner, lotion, etc, that will bring down my skin's pH to a more acidic level (as it naturally should be slightly acidic). ANY HELP IS APPRECIATED ❤❤
*edited for formatting lol ❤
Oh! Do check out the SCA Routine then!
I definitely would get a dedicated fash wash, body washes are usually kinda harsh and drying. I always recommend CeraVe Foaming cleanser because it's gentle and great for all skin types!
Since you wear makeup, an oil cleanser or makeup remover at the end of the day is necessary to clear out gunk from your face! I like Ponds Cold Cream because it's non-drying but removes makeup well!
The Moisture Recs from the sidebar are also all amazing. CeraVe AM and PM are my faves to start people on, because CeraVe AM has sunscreen it helps people start using a sunscreen. CeraVe PM has niacinamide in it, which is a natural skin lightening ingredient (read: not bleaching!). It can help natural fade dark spots!
I'm not super familiar with melasma... but its dark spots so honestly a dedicated sunscreen is probably better than a moisturizer with sunscreen. Biore UV Aqua Rich is my #1 recommended sunscreen, and it is awesome under makeup.
A routine for you might look something like this:
AM:
PM:
Real simple! You can get fancy with exfoliants and eye creams and serums sometime down the road. But honestly it's good to start simple and build from there.
BACKGROUND: I'm new to the world of skin care. I've never had a serious skin care routine before other than applying some acne creams a few years back when my acne was pretty bad. Now my skin is not terrible, but at age 20 I've had it with any sort of acne and want clear skin.
My skin is oily. I don't know if its very oily or fairly oily because I don't know what really oily skin is like or what a fairly oily skin is like. If I had to make a guess I'd say fairly or decently oily...sorry if that's vague.
This is what my skin looks like on an average day.
[This] (http://imgur.com/a/fGqbn) is what my skin looks like when it breaks out just a bit.
I'm showing you these because I read the FAQ and Wiki and I've narrowed my choices for cleansers, exfoliants, and moisturizers but I'm not sure which one to buy. For each category, this is what I've narrowed it down to.
CLEANSERS
EXFOLIANTS
MOISTURIZERS
MY QUESTION: Are they all sort of the same? Based on what I told you about my skin, which product from each category should I get? Should I get something that's not on the list? This list is based on the Recommended Routine, so maybe there's something that's not on it that you think would work better. Any help would be really appreciated. I'm trying to avoid having to go through too much trial and error since as a college student I'm slightly broke, so I'm trying to make an informed purchase. Also, sunscreen is highly recommended if you exfoliate, but if the moisturizer has SPF does that mean I don't need to buy sunscreen? Thank you guys in advance.
Hi everyone, I'm new here, and new to skincare in general. Hoping to get some help with my acne and blemishes.
For background, I am male, turning 22 in the fall, and I've never really had a standard skincare routine. I hate putting stuff on my face in general. I tend to avoid moisturizers and creams and lotions and all that. I don't like the oily feeling, but I'll try putting up with it to help my acne. Always thought it would start naturally clearing up around this time in my life and never worried about it too much or looked it up. It's gotten a bit better recently, but I still get a lot of breakouts and this chronic big one on my left cheek too.
Thanks for any help in advance!
Issues: Acne and acne-related blemishes. Occasional, but minor, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. (Just learned that's what that is from reading through the sidebar stuff!)
Skin Type: I have no idea. I read through the link provided and still not sure how to classify. Combination I guess? I think my skin is slightly dry in general, but I tend to sweat a lot (especially with the hot Californian summer sun), so it gets oily sometimes.
Current Routine/How Long: I usually just wash my face with water pretty regularly. For most of my life (since I was about 15) I would use these two St. Ives acne-face washes (Apricot Scrub and Green Tea Scrub) anytime I showered. In the past couple months I've switched to this Neutrogena Daily Scrub and this Clean & Clear moisturizer, but I still use them pretty much just after showers. For about the last week or so, I've been trying to get into the habit of using them both daily. Was going to start trying twice a day for the scrub.
Anything New: Definitely a big increase in the frequency I use my cleaners. Using moisturizer more in this last week than ever before in my life too. Not a lot has changed so far though. My skin has just become a little softer I think.
Location: California Bay Area
I feel like it should also be known that I teach martial arts so I spend a lot of time running around getting sweaty and dirty and also a lot of time on the ground, sometimes facedown on the mat or getting other peoples' hands across my face. I've also been a terrible picker for a lot of my life, but I've been pretty good about it lately.
Here's some stuff I've been looking at trying from my research recently, including looking through this sub's awesome sidebar info.
I also haven't looked into sunscreen at all because I have fairly dark skin and am pretty sun-resistant already. Other than Pokemon Go recently, I don't spend a lot of time exposed in the sun anyway. And when I do, it's usually early morning when it's not too strong, or around sunset when I go out after work. I hear it's kinda important though, so I would appreciate recommendations for that too.
Please and thank you to anyone who can help me! Sorry for the long post.
I get pretty obsessive with things so I'm not sure if you really want my routine since you want something simple to travel. Taking out the actives, aha/bha, essence, serums, and eyecream that I'm using, you can basically strip it down to a cleanser, toner, moisturizer.
If you want a cleanser, everyone here is really into the hada labo gokujyun foaming cleanser (http://www.amazon.com/Rohto-Hadalabo-Gokujyn-Hyaluronic-Cleansing/dp/B0036MDUEM). It has a ph of 5.5 so it's a solid cleanser that won't raise the ph of your skin. Follow that up with a toner. I'm currently using the Mizon AHA/BHA toner. Ph is too high for the bha to exfoliate and too high for the aha to exfoliate (they each exfoliate differently, though) so it's really just a useful toner to get your skin ph at a good point. Then the moisturizer. Like I said, I'm using the Mizon all in one cream and it's really awesome. It feels like I didn't put anything on afterwards but my skin is really hydrated and soft. Depending on how dry your skin gets, though, you might also need the recovery gel to use right after, which basically adds a little more hydration and seals it in.
If you decide to add an essence, that would go right after the toner. You said that you were using some of your girlfriend's sk-ii products--were you using the essence? It's kind of expensive (at least out of my budget as a student) so I'm using the Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence.
If you do decide to use any actives, specifically aha, make sure to use sunscreen because your skin gets a lot more vulnerable to uv rays and then everything is counterproductive since you're damaging your skin. Paula's Choice AHA and BHA are really popular, but so are the CosRX AHA and BHA and those are apparently gentler on your skin. If you're really sensitive to chemical sunscreens, go for a physical sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide). Keep in mind, though, that most physical sunscreens leave a whitecast, but there are some that don't. Some pretty popular sunscreens on here are the hado labo UV creamy gel sunscreen, but apparently it doesn't dry very quickly. I'm not really trying to make my face shiny and I'm already getting the moisture from the mizon AIO, so I'm using the biore watery essence sunscreen-dries quickly and doesn't smell like sunscreen. If you do add the aha, meaning you add the sunscreen, you're going to want to add an oil cleanser.
Double cleansing is when you use an oil cleanser and then use a facial cleanser afterwards. The regular foaming or face cleanser doesn't take out makeup (or sunscreen) very well, so to make sure you get all that out at the end of the day, so that you don't start breaking out, use an oil cleanser at night before using your regular foaming or facial cleanser (I'm using the DHC oil cleanser since most people are in love with it).
At night, like twice a week, I just add either a sheet mask (my beauty diary ones are a pretty popular choice but the face shop also has good ones) or a sleeping pack(I'm using the laneige sleeping pack_ex).
If you decide you want to add any vitamin c or any aha or bha, let me know and I can give you more info on where to include that in your routine/some stuff to consider (like waiting twenty minutes after vitamin c).
There are lots of sites to buy from but I'm a big fan of beautynetkorea
First of all, I am an employee at a major western beauty retailer in none other than the field of skin care. I am very familiar with ingredients and quite savvy at building skin care routines to fit my clients' needs... and I'm proud of it. That being said, I've found that many of the products my employer offers are too harsh or contain ingredients I don't agree with; in addition, we don't sell a huge variety of AB, at least not enough to satisfy my liking.
SOOOO, this is kind of new territory for me. I know one thing for a fact: I LOVE love LOVE snail. Below, I have a tentative list of AB products I have researched and have added to my Amazon.com cart and would love to hear from this community about my choices. I would love to hear recommendations as well. Below, I'll list the products by AM or PM routine (as I've planned).
A little background:
Tentative PM Products:
Tentative AM Products:
I would also like recommendations for a twice a week exfoliator (preferably Lactic Acid or Enzyme) and sheet mask recommendations to go along with my tentative routines?
THANKS, GUYS. I know this is long, but I'd really appreciate the feedback.
Hey, I’m a guy with “good skin”. What honestly surprised me was the quality of my skin after using sunscreen regularly — I didn’t realize how much sun affected things. I know you say you have normal skin, but some of the below should hopefully help getting started on a basic routine that’ll become evident in the quality of your complexion.
Pick up a gently cleanser like Cerave Hydrating cleanser or Vanicreams cleanser.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSSDEPK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_164sDbD3WQJP7
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QY1XZ4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_U74sDbF98WZ87
Wash the face morning and night. It’s helpful to use a little bit of moisturizer since sunscreens are kind of hit and miss in this regard, so I’d suggest Cerave cream in the white tub to apply to your damp face as needed.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TTD9BRC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_P84sDb7M4J10J
Afterwards, ideally, slather on a bit of sunscreen on your face, neck, ears, and other sun exposed places. My personal favorite currently is the Jack Black sun guard since it’s not greasy and I use it on my arms and hands too, Otherwise, pick up Cerave’s AM moisturizer. It’s my favorite drug store type sunscreen. A nicer one too are the EltaMD sunscreens.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003CR4KRM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_V94sDbQXPSZ8R
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_b.4sDbR7T9R88
If your face is shiny after some of thing I’d suggest picking up something like Magical Moringa from Lush that’s mattefying. A shine control powder to dab lightly on can work good too — doesn’t look like you have anything on while still taking care of your skin.
https://www.lushusa.com/face/moisturizers/magical-moringa/07218.html
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Neutrogena-Shine-Control-Powder-Invisible-10-37-Oz/21009034?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1150&adid=22222222228015245274&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=40843087352&wl4=pla-78656555792&wl5=9014228&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112549851&wl11=online&wl12=21009034&veh=sem&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzIWmraTy4wIVhZ-fCh0RsQczEAUYASABEgJquPD_BwE
At night I really see a difference in the brightness and luminosity with my skin with this “overnight mask”.
COSRX Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask, 60ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N13W31F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Qf5sDbYFN01FC
That’s basically my suggestions at least. At night just use moisturizer and the mask after washing.
As far as the back acne, in the shower let some salicylic acid sit on the area for a minute or two and rinse it off. I use Zapzyt. The other thing I would recommend after the shower is to apply some Differin to the affected area — Differin used to be what a dermatologist prescribed me years ago and it now available over the counter fortunately. Should be cleared up in no time.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BG92E26/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dn5sDbJDAXBTV
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L1PHSY9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ip5sDbBCQ71AW
Sunscreen: you have to use the full amount (quite a bit) for it to work at all reliably. Mineral still has to be touched up if you are out in the sun for more than 2 hours. It is more stable than some chemical sunscreens but doesn't mean it doesn't wear off. Makeup doesn't count as suncreen but is a nice extra boost of SPF.
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All sunscreens are anti aging. Sun is one of the biggest agers and the most prevetable. I don't use mineral sunscreens so can't suggest one. There are mixes that might be more elegant. Look for SPF 50++++ if it's an Asian one (very nice sunscreens).
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Toner could be anti aging but probably best to focus on hydration now. Hada Labo Premium lotion is popular and quite rich. Kikumasamune Hight Moist Conditioner is quite hdyrating and can be layered. Klairs supple prep is popular.
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Don't use Dove soap. High PH.. Try an Asian low PH cleanser. Maybe Hada labo Foaming: https://www.amazon.com/Hada-Labo-Gokujyn-Hyaluronic-Cleansing/dp/B01CE5P580/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=hada+labo+cleanser&qid=1551212774&s=gateway&sr=8-5
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If foaming is too much for you, Neutrogena Ultra Gentle are supposed to be good. I use Cerave Hydrating Cleanser.
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I also use an oil cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen. I really like Muji Sensitive Oil Cleanser, but Hada Labo Oil Cleanser is fine. Cliniques Take the Day off Balm is great too.
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I like Etude Soonjung Barrier Cream - medium weight and hypoallergenic.
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For me what really, really helps is using a BHA product, every day. I use a Korean one but Paula's Choice BHA is also very good. You also should use a very light moisturizer as well as a non drying cleanser.
Here's what I do in the evening:
Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm. Both are really good to remove makeup.
My morning routine is a bit different:
Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm.
I keep my routine really simple. I have serums and oils that I use during winter when my skin gets dryer. The fun thing about combination skin is that you have to use 2 different products. Some are tailored towards your oily zones and the other to help the dryer ones. I find that I use a light moisturizer daily and keep a more moisturizing one for the evening during colder months.
Oily skin can be dehydrated. This will make it even more oily.
Also, if you are open to it, I find that using a setting powder really helps to control the shine. It doesn't look like you have makeup on if you use it on it's own (not sure if you are comfortable with makeup or not). I suggest:
I hope this helps!
I really like the Cerave PM Moisturizer. Most of their products are really nice. Recently, I been switching products I use to some cruelty free alternatives. Right now I am using Acure Radically Rejuvenating Whipped Night Cream. Its supposed to be a dupe for Drunk Elephants Protini moisturizer. I tried it last year when it was a free sample during Sephora's birthday gift. I really do like this Acure cream, and so far it works well. I have dry skin with eczema around my eyes and haven't had any issues. I also use the Ordinary's Lactic Acid 10%. I first started with 5% and would highly recommend people to use that one first to see how you react. 10% works great for white heads for me. Stridex in the red box works great for any acne I get. I been wanting to swap it for the Ordinary's Salicylic Acid 2% Solution since Stridex isn't cruelty free. It's been out of stock since August though, so I had to cave and buy Stridex the other day at Walgreens. It works though!
I just got Colourpops new Zero to Hero set. It's makeup based off Megara from Hercules. I am in love with it! A berry lip and a lavender highlighter. It looks great on my pale skin! Packaging is super cute and fancy too.
For Christmas, face masks can be great. Kbeauty really excels in that area I think, and Amazon has a set of 16 for 10 dollars or 24 masks for 16 dollars. Can be tricky though if you don't know the persons skin type that you are getting the gift for.
Hello~ I've been stalking the Korean beauty industry for years, but have never committed due to random reasons. I want to try my hand at it next year (need to use up my stupidly expensive Sephora products). Here's a routine I created - mostly from Snow White & The Pear's reviews. For the record, I have eczema (thanks god, no flares right now) and sensitive (contact allergies), oily skin. I know. How can I have eczema and oily skin? OTL
I'm not sure if the order and frequency of use is correct, so please help me! And yes, these are a lot of products for a beginner, so I think I'll start with only one toner first then work my way up to using more essences. Suggestions for cleansers and toners would also be nice, since I'm not sure if the Clinique thing is intended as a cleansing toner. I also have a question about sebaceous filaments? Is it alright to get rid of them with nose masks? Would it make my pores bigger? I feel like my nose pores are huge and my buddies are EXTREMELY visible. Recommendations on peeling masks and other masks would be great too, as I'm not really sure what kind of masks I would need?
Hey everyone,
I suffer from Seborrheic dermatitis, so the only products I am using are from this helpful list. I am currently using the Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel mixed with The Ordinary's Squalane and the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser and for the first time I feel like I am having actual success.
So I wanted to make the next step and introduce sunscreen. I ordered the CōTZ FACE Natural Tinted
SPF 40, but unfortunately it breaks me out.
I definitely wanted a mattifying sunscreen, since regardless of which product I am using, I always get noticeably oily/greasy 1-2 hours after applying products. So to try other sunscreens from that list, I ordered the Biore Uv Perfect Face Milk Spf50 + / Pa ++++ and the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk (SPF50 PA ++++). It is going to take some time until they arrive, but I thought I could already ask some questions:
According to Fiftyshadesofsnail the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk dries down to a clear satin finish that can go more matte or more dewy depending on your skin condition and what skincare you have underneath. Considering my situation, it might end up too dewy for me. My inital idea was to simply apply it over my Benton Aloe Propolis Gel + Squalane mix and in case that this will end up too dewy, I wanted to test using this over the Benton Gel without the squalane. However if this still ends up being too dewy, would it be okay to use the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk without any actual moisturizer under it, or would I be missing out on some important skin benefits?
My next question would be if the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser will be enough to remove the Biore and the Skin Aqua sunscreens. I have read somewhere that I might need an oil cleanser for this. I currently have this Mystic Moments White Mineral Oil Carrier Oil 100% Pure, but I didn't like how it doesn't really get off when using water. I have read that if you mix it with 10-15% cromollient SCE it'll be better, but I live in Europe, Germany and I don't know where I can get that here.
Thank you for any kind of help!
Hey there, sure I can let you know what worked for me. Just some set up- I've always had acne since a teen, now 30 years old (female), surface bumps, sure, but my the main bane of my existence was painful cystic acne. I'd always have a couple at various stages (since you know... you feel the big painful bumps coming in and it takes time to surface, then time to heal, so each one has a 2-4 week lifespan, ugh)
I've never used any prescription medication to address it, but I've tried any and all over the counter solutions. In the last year I found the following products that actually worked for me, hoping they might work for you but of course everyone is different:
I'm locked into this routine because it's the only one that's ever worked for me. I know the Scrub and Solution toner can be a lil' pricey- I think you can request a sample of the scrub from a LUSH store for free. As for toner, before the Glossier one I was using this Nutrogena toner daily that sorta helped, better than nothing :)
I think a reduction in dairy products has helped (which sucks cause I love cheese), as well as the increase in water.
Good luck!!!
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Products I love!
Products I didn’t love
That's fair. It is pretty overwhelming and there are a lot of good products out there, but they won't necessarily all work for you.
If you bought one of everything in the actives list, you'd probably a) end up spending way too much money and b) end up with really unhappy skin.
So, with that in mind, here's my personal recommendations from where I'd start if I was in your shoes (i.e. decent skin, no routine to speak of, but looking to make some anti-aging protection moves).
AM:
PM:
If you want to add some actives (which it sounds like you do!) you need to add them one at a time once you're sure the cleanse/spf/moisture routine is working for you (i.e. you're not breaking out or anything, and your skin feels happy). Even if you think your skin is good and tolerant, it can still not like something, and it's easiest to know what's what if you add them one at a time.
For actives, good options would be:
Vit C is a bit more on the expensive side. I just bought the Paula's Choice C15 serum - which RRPs at $49 (I managed to get it at $39 with a referral code and discount when I was making an ordeR) - but it's a popular, good forumulation serum that is recommended for anti-ageing / blemish reduction etc. http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/skin-care-categories/targeted-solutions/_/Resist-C15-Super-Booster/
I still haven't found a retinol product that I like, but I have been using the Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Night which isn't too expensive and is at least moisturising (for me, at least, some find products like this drying).
OK. So, you've now actually roughly got my routine as my own personal recommendations. :) I have dry, pretty tolerant skin, no acne, but also working on anti-aging (I'm about to turn 34).
edit: fixing some stupid reddit formatting. :D
Hi guys, I've been loving AB for about a year now but I haven't stuck to one routine for more than a few months at a time, mainly due to travel and addiction to trying new things 😅 I'm sorry for the epic novel to follow, skip to the bottom if you want. I'm just so tired of dealing with crap skin!
I've had a horrible breakout in the last few months on my back that I can't seem to shake. I don't know why. I got back on the pill after being off it for several months in the hopes of fixing the breakout; it's helping a little but I'm only just starting my second month back on the pill so it might take a while to see results.
Of more concern to me is a new cystic breakout along my jawline--I haven't had such sore acne in years. I'm 19 and I've gotten my acne a lot better under control thanks to the pill and PocketDerm (don't like the name Curology lol) but I've dealt with it in varying forms of severity since like 6th grade.
Before the cysts (bear with me here!) were all these closed comedones, as well as tiny white marks on my face--some raised, some not--which are either CCs or scars, I'm not sure. I plan to eventually get laser treatment because I hate the texture of my skin and all the PIH I have but I want to make sure I'm stopping new breakouts before I spend a ton of money on treating old scars.
So basically I've stripped down my routine to complete, tried and true basics in the hopes of not irritating my skin and making sure nothing's breaking me out. And yet I have like three whiteheads on one side of my face near my mouth and cystic acne on my jawline and near my temples. Nothing has changed in my lifestyle, I haven't added anything new to my routine...please give me any ideas or product suggestions!
TLDR my skin is somewhat freaking out, may be hormonal but I want help setting up a routine to help my moisture barrier, acne, and PIH
Oily/Acne-Prone: | Boston, USA/Dry, windy: | Acne, PIH:
Current Routine/Products I'm Using:
AM
PM
I used to use Korres Wild Rose 24-HR Brightening and Moisturizing Cream at night too but I stopped because I stopped everything I thought might be irritating.
I specifically want help with rebuilding my moisture barrier, calming down current and stopping future breakouts, and maybe adding an exfoliant or Vitamin C to my routine...any advice?
Okay, I realize I wrote a ton, so I'll keep this last part short!
HOW TO GET ALL OF IT OFF YOUR FACE
Okay, so I am posting this on the 26th, so I'm not sure if this counts towards the contest, but I wanted this information to be complete. Definitely feel free to ask me any questions you want! I still consider myself very new to makeup and this subreddit has helped me expand my knowledge base so much, so I love sharing what I've learned!
Hi there! I only have KP on my arms, but I have been using Pond's Rejuveness Anti-Wrinkle Cream (not AB, sorry). I originally bought it to use as an AHA step for my face, but I'm taking a break from actives on my face right now. So, not wanting to waste it, I started using it on my arms. It has actually really helped! Probably thanks to the AHA. You might also want to add a BHA if your pores are getting clogged.
Also, I haven't tried this on my arms, but I've recently started the Rosette Ceramide Gel on my face and HOLY WOW. In like 3 days it's drastically improved my skin. It is so much smoother and glowing! I might try using it on my arms soon, I feel like it would help the texture drastically.
I have a feeling that moisturizing helps my KP in general, so whatever I use I try to make sure my skin stays nice and moisturized. YMMV, though.
Oily skin is sometimes aggravated by harsh treatments, which can make oiliness even worse. It's recommended that every skin type, even oily skin, use moisturizer. It can actually help balance your skin.
Bar soap in general is way too harsh for skin because of the high pH. I don't know specifically about the Neutrogena one, but you may want to research and find out the pH. Ideally the pH used to wash your face is 5-6. Bar soaps can often have a pH of 9 or so. Another thing is read the ingredients of your toner. Does it contain alcohol? If so, this is drying and not recommended, even for oily skin. As I mentioned before, you're possibly drying out and irritating your skin with the bar soap, alcohol in the toner, and lack of moisturizer. And finally, are you certain that the coconut oil doesn't break you out? I think occasionally people continue to use oils that aren't suitable for their skin which makes them break out. Coconut oil is comedogenic for many, but of course some people can use it without problems. Mineral oil, jojoba oil, and sunflower oil are supposed to be less comedogenic (although anyone can have a reaction to anything so be sure to test it if you try it!)
There is a moisturizer called Dr. Lin Daily Hydrating gel. It's unlikely to break you out and good for oily skin. You can get it at stores like Ulta and CVS/Walgreens for less than $8. CeraVe PM moisturizer is another good one, but some people break out from using it.
Alternative cleansers to look into are CeraVe foaming cleanser or Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam.
Oily and acne prone skin can benefit from salicylic acid but it must have a pH of less than 4 to work properly. Again, it is preferred to avoid alcohol but it's really hard to find salicylic acid that doesn't contain it. Paula's Choice 2% BHA is hugely popular and for good reason (let me know if you need help getting discounts for this, I can show you how). If that is not affordable, Stridex max strength pads are effective for many.
I think reformulating your routine is the first step. It is possible that your acne is caused by being too harsh with your skin and throwing it out of whack. But if you're still getting acne with a reformulated routine, you may want to see a dermatologist or use the online dermatology service Curology (I've had amazing success with them and let me know if you want more info!).
Check out the SCA routine page for more info about creating a routine.
What kind of acne scars? If it's left-over discoloration from acne, then the PIH guide from the sidebar is helpful. The same advice here holds true for dark skin, but you'll need to double check and make sure whatever sunscreen you use doesn't leave a whitecast. There are a lot of guide Asian sunscreens you can get from Amazon that don't leave a white cast, like Skin Aqua. An aha serum can help, there are suggestions on the PIH link.
An aha serum would help with acne too. You could also try something like Stridex, which is good for oily skin. If you do add in an aha or bha (stridex) definitely start slowly (once or twice a weeks at first) and increase usage gradually to prevent irritation.
There are moisturizer recs here. Gel moisturizers are lightweight, Sebamed Gel is a good one. Neutrogena has a good gel moisturizer too
When putting together your routine, definitely refer to the ScA routine guide and the acne guide is a good resource
For bacne:
You’ll notice the trend here: salicylic acid.
Salicylic acid penetrates the skin, causes a softening and sloughing of the top layer of skin, and helps unclog pores to resolve and prevent acne. This acid is also lipophillic, which means it can even penetrate oily skin and already clogged pores, resulting in a deep cleaning. Salicylic acid can reduce sebum secretion, which is another way it can help reduce acne. Lastly, it's also an anti-inflammatory, which can help calm inflamed acne and promote healing.
As a final note, unrelated to the bacne.. please stop using R+F products. The products are of average quality at best, way over-priced, and even more overrated. Not least of all that MLM schemes should be avoided. If you need help with your skin care, the community info in this subreddit has a really excellent FAQ and wiki, and members are more than happy to answer questions.
Best of luck.
I think you need to revamp your entire skin routine to resolve this. Rule #1, be gentle, not only in exfoliation methods whether those be physical or chemical, but also you should pay attention to the chemicals you are putting on your face (ie products that are conflicting each other and if anything you're putting on your face is even what you need).
I would suggest washing with CeraVe for dry skin (it's inexpensive, super gentle, feels great!). Use a Konjac sponge if you don't have a Clarisonic (if you do use a Clarisonic only use the softest level of brush head and maybe only do it once a day properly meaning use a lot of water and plenty of cleanser to get the proper slip going on to not over aggravate your skin).
Only use mildly warm water, never hot, do not ever scrub your skin. Just gently exfoliate if doing physical exfoliation. You will need to do some form of gentle exfolation to remove the dead skin regularly.
If you wear make up start doing double oil cleansing. If you do not wear make up just ignore this sentence lol.
When you're done washing your face if you're going to bed: get an antioxidant serum to help support your skin, then layer a very good moisturizer, and then a "sealer" so a face cream that works that's heavier on top of that, maybe even add a few drops of oil to your final cream layer.
Go to bed: wake up, wash gently, pat dry, anti oxidant serum, daytime SPF at least 20 or more. If you find your SPF is too drying then you need to search for one that has some oil in it probably. I suggest using Supergoop Mineral for that.
I know it sounds like a lot but it really isn't. The main thing is just getting your products lined up and then wash/dry/apply. It just takes a few minutes, I promise, and your skin will look amazing.
If your skin can tolerate it- I'd try adding some AHA's to your routine also like a glycolic acid treatment a few times a week.
It largely depends on where you live and how quickly you need the items. As a general rule, if you're willing to wait a bit, you can find items much cheaper from non-Prime sellers on Amazon and overseas sellers on eBay. Also, if you're just purchasing a few things and they are heavy items, I find it's usually cheaper to stay away from sites with high shipping charges by weight, like Testerkorea and RoseRoseShop.
I usually do a lot of research when I make a new product purchase to find the lowest price from a reputable seller that I can. Partly because I just like shopping online for AB stuff and partly because I make it into a sort of game to see how cheap I can find something. It's like a hobby for me.
I recommend the Honey browser extension for Amazon. If you're looking for something it will tell you if there's a cheaper price available from another seller. It also goes through available coupon codes on many other online sites to see if there's one in the database that works for your order.
Anyway, I'm not sure where you live, but I did a bit of looking (I'm in the U.S.), and this is what I came up with. I can't guarantee these are the best prices out there -- just what I found from a bit of quick looking at a few different places.
Hado Labo foam for $9.40 with free shipping on Amazon (not Prime) here
The Face Shop Cleansing Oil - $9.58 with free shipping from Jolse here or $10.20 on Amazon Prime here.
Shiseido Aging Care Sunscreen on Amazon for $8.20 with free shipping (non-Prime) here.
Rosette Aqua Ceramide Gel - $12.45 with free shipping (non-Prime) on Amazon here.
So I've been a long time lurker and reader and thought I'd introduce myself and my new routine to the community. Special thanks to /u/mynomdeplumeisplume for the amazing guide that finally got me to pull the trigger!
 
A quick breakdown with links (all from Amazon):
Type | Product
---|---
Oil Cleanser | Banila Co. Clean It Zero Purity
Water Cleanser | Rohto Hadalabo Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam
Moisturizer | Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream
Sunscreen | Biore Aqua Rich UV Watery Essence
 
(Sk)intro and review
I'm a 24 year old male in the UK with light olive/brown skin that is pretty resilient but can be prone to spots. I have some PIH on my upper cheeks and forehead and dark circles under my eyes. Generally speaking I've gone for products that are formulated for sensitive skin and pretty "mainstream" from what I've seen in AB circles so far. They've been working great and my skin has never looked so good.
 
Special shout out to the Biore UV for being the first sunscreen that I actually don't dread using. I've not used sun protection much in the past because of how greasy it feels but this has been a dream. I'm going to stick to it for another week before adding a toner and my first essence - any suggestions for brightening/hydrating/PIH tackling would be great and also where to buy the Biore that isn't amazon. That's all for me, thanks for reading any questions and critiques would be welcome.
100% not happy haha, but I did have a look!
So far I've picked out a few items that I think would match pretty well with my skin type.
CLEANSER - CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser 16 oz for Daily Face Washing, Dry to Normal Skin
Simple Kind to Skin Facial Moisturizer, Hydrating Moist Spf 15 4.2 oz
Blue Lizard Face Sunscreen SPF 30+-5 oz
I now know I should only introduce one new product at a time, and I don't want to spend all the products before hand then have some not work out. So my current dilemma is having now idea which product would be best to introduce now to help get my skin back to where to needs to be. My guess would be the cleanser but I think its pretty clear I don't know whats best lol
Hi ladies and gents! So sorry in advance, this is going to be long!
I've just recently started having success with the products I'm using and I'm thinking it's a matter of proper combination/layering (I've been reading a lot about the Vitamin C/BHA/AHA/Niacin situations). I feel overwhelmed trying to figure out what works with what or counter-acts, etc, so I'd love some input from more knowledgeable folks. I don't have a set routine and I'd like to change that. I'd say I have combination skin, very acne prone although it's pretty mild at the moment due to the recent success of something?! Lots of PIH. No birth control or prescriptions currently.
AM:
PM:
SO! For anyone who read all that, thank you! For ease of product reordering, here's the list:
I also occasionally do [Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay] (http://www.amazon.com/Aztec-Secret-Indian-Healing-Cleansing/dp/B0014P8L9W) or Glamglow Super Tingling masks but I'm not consistent with it.
I have used all products with the exception of the Vitamin C Serum for at least 4 months. Nothing has seemed to make anything worse but I'd like to improve. Open to any and all suggestions for routine or products. Primary concerns: acne, anti-aging, hyper-pigmentation.
THANK YOU SO MUCH to any and all help or input. I really appreciate it and I apologize if I'm asking something that should be apparent by what I'm reading here in the sub. I'm just a bit confused. :)
You've already gotten better fashion advice than I can give, so I'll stick with skin care. My skin is also very dry and sensitive, so I've given this a lot of thought and research.
Number 1 is SUNSCREEN. I just got this Biore KAO JAPAN AQUA RICH Sarasara SPF50+/PA++++ 50g Sunscreen on the advice of /r/AsianBeauty and I'm in love with it. It's light and watery, not greasy like Western sunscreen tends to be! I'm happy to wear it every day. Pleasant light citrus scent, not copper tone coconut butt. It's awesome.
You need sunscreen because you should start exfoliating. Try a chemical exfoliant, they're more gentle. St. Ives makes wipes with AHA, they're pretty effective for me. Got those because of the more widely known skincareaddiction sub. Don't exfoliate until you've got a sunscreen in your routine, it leaves your skin vulnerable to sun damage.
Remove that sunscreen at night with a good cleanser before you exfoliate, I use this KOSE Softy Mo Facial Cleansing Oil Speedy, 0.5 Pound to remove makeup and sunscreen then this
Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser 150ml to remove the first cleanser and correct the pH of my skin so the exfoliant will work. Again from Asian beauty, my new favorite place. They're both very gentle, so it's okay to use two. It's called "double cleansing". Oil cleansing will maybe be a bit weird to you, as it's just smearing grease on your face! But it dissolves makeup perfectly. That oil will emulsify when it hits water. It turns milky white. It's weird, but it works.
Then I use CeraVe in the tub for moisture and healing ceramides at night.
That's my routine, it's pretty cheap as far as these things go and I'm super happy with it. I wasn't seeing any results from exfoliating until I got that low pH cleanser, now I can really feel it working and see the difference it's making. It does sting a bit, I've got a touch of solar keratosis on my chest from not wearing sunblock when I was young and dumb. Wear sunblock! Every day!
I'm not much of a makeup person, but I do use this sometimes SKIN79 Snail Nutrition BB Cream (SPF45/PA+++) 40g. It's very moisturizing and evens out my splotchy skin. It has snail goo in it. Supposedly a good thing, idk. But that and some eye shadow or liner and mascara is how I fancy up.
What I actually use regularly:
Remaining items on bottom shelf: picture
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I'm a bit older than your average SCA subscriber, so I'll chime in a bit. I have dryer, more mature skin and this is the basics of what I do and what has really improved my skin.
IF I were to start from scratch with the things I now know, I'd probably start with these things, in order of use.
An oil cleanser, like Hado Labo I've used straight oil and multiple oil cleanser. The ones that emulsify are a bit easier to use, and I prefer them, but I think most well regarded ones are pretty similar.
Second cleanser maybe, a ph balanced foam cleanser. I usually just oil cleanse, but use the foaming cleanser in addition every few days. This one is well regarded.
A toner. This isn't so much of a cleansing step as a first step of moisturization. Klairs supple prep tone
Holy grail product for me, Snail Creme. I love the Mizon one. It goes on before serums.
A Hyaluronic Acid serum, such as Paula's Choice
A night cream. I'd maybe use the Cerave here or another layer of the Mizon AIO. The Mizon is super light, sinks in and never greasy. It's not really a "moisturizer", so cream is a bit of a misnomer, but with everything else, it may be enough.
If you got her nothing else, I'd get her the Mizon snail creme. Seriously miracle product, IMO. I'd start with stuff like this and then maybe consider a retinol or other acid, if needed. Maybe some others can chime in with a retinol recommendation.
I got the su:m 37 Miracle Rose Cleansing Stick for my birthday, but it broke me out and was far too moisturizing for my skin. But...it's actually kind of amazing as a solid shampoo? I only need the smallest amount--just one or two swipes over my scalp--and it lathers up enough for my butt-length hair. It smells great and it's been pretty amazing. It's expensive as a shampoo, but I'm hoping that since I use so little each time, it'll last a long time and actually be worth it in the long run. Either way, this thing is going to be PERFECT for travel--solid, so I get through TSA quicker, and the tube makes it easier to travel with than my current solid shampoo.
It's ok. We all make mistakes! We are here to help. I recomment you use an AHA or BHA for your spots. A lot of people recommend this BHA and this AHA.
Stridex can be found at most drug stores like CVS and Rite Aid. St. Ives pads are trickier to find but Target has them online and they have free shipping for the holidays.
Also your oily skin can be caused by dehydration. Drink a lot of water and moisturize! This moisturizer is the most recommended and super easy to find. Any drug store or store like Target will have it. If you want a moisturizer that might help your spots try this one. It has niacinamide (i think that's how you spell it) which helps lighten spots left behind from acne.
Looking for some advice on when to use The Ordinary's Niacinamide + Zinc given my current routine. My skin is very oily and fairly acne-prone. At this point, I have less acne than I used to but still have a lot of PIH, which is why I'm planning to add the Niacinamide.
Current routine (strongly influenced by /r/AsianBeauty):
AM:
PM:
I know TO's website recommends using the Niacinamide twice a day but I'm not sure if it will interact poorly with the BP or the Glycolic Acid. When should I use it?
Edit: forgot to write my sunscreen
So, I found three new products after doing some bit of research.
KOSE Softy Mo Facial Cleansing Oil Speedy - I read that they updated the formula 6 months ago and all the reviews I could find are of the old formula, but of the old reviews everyone praised it for the skin issues I had. Also, I can't find the pH level of this one.
Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash - Plan to use this after oil cleanser. I read similar good reviews on this one for issues I have with my skin. The pH level is 5 according to that mega datasheet for cleanser pH levels.
Advanced Snail 92 All in one cream - Plan to replace my current moisturizer with this. Like the other two, read good reviews for my skin concerns with this one.
I don't think any of them have the niacinamide product you mention or alcohol, which I think dries my skin. I don't think my current moisturizer is working for me. After about two to three hours of applying my current moisturizer in the morning my skin may start to feel tight around my mouth/cheeks, so I picked a new one.
Aside from these three, I still need to find a toner I think. I already found two sunscreens that I plan to use. I don't know which of the three to buy first and test though. If I were to buy the oil cleanser first, would it be fine to use with my western routine? I figured it'd be best to get the oil cleanser/moisturizer first, then the second cleanser if the other two worked out. At the same time my current cleanser is making my skin feel tight/dry/flaky after using it so would it be better to start with replacing my cleanser first?
I really appreciate all the help you've given me by the way, it's helping me out so much.
Yes, AB using cleansing oils. It's a bit different than skincareaddiction (if you're also a fan of that sub) because most of the AB cleansing oils contain emulsifiers, which when mixed with water, allows the cleanser to wash cleanly off. Just to make sure that nothing is left on the skin, most ABs follows through with a foaming or hydrating cleanser (double cleanse). If you have mineral oil left and it doesn't break you out, keep using it and make sure that you are double cleansing. Once you are done with the mineral oil, you can check out some AB cleansing oils and see which style your skin prefers.
If you're fine with mineral oil, I would recommend trying Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil. It looks like this in the pink bottle. I like it more than the Deep version because it contains no fragrance, which is great for my sensitive skin. You can try using something cheaper like Cetaphil for dry skin (I think Walgreens even makes a generic one that is exactly the same) as the second part of your double cleanse, or check out the AB sidebar for some recommendations.
The good thing about having a compromised moisture barrier (can I even say this), is that it's not permanent. If you take the time to change your routine and baby your skin a bit, it will turn back to normal. I had a messed up barrier for awhile before finding AB, and once it was fixed I was pretty amazed at how much better my acne situation became.
So, focus on fixing your barrier first, then when you're ready, you can start to expand your skin routine to include products that focus on your skin goals (vitamin c, chemical exfoliants, etc.). Because you are on a budget, I would buy samples of everything first to make sure that your skin likes the product. I have a box of things I cannot use, because of my AB greed. :(
Good luck!
Help with a full routine please? I've basically never had one before bar occasional moisturiser use. Male 38, very pale skin - mostly OK - I get a few odd spots but nothing like I was younger. Mainly I have some red marks on my cheeks, dark circles under my eyes and lots of blackheads around my nose. My skin is slightly dry and sensitive. I've just started using Differin from my doctor which is great so far. I need a daytime moisturiser with spf, a night cream, probably a facial cleanser, also I was wondering should I use an AHA or BHA? Can anyone advise please?
I've been looking at Cerave but happy to consider other If better value.
Here is what I'm thinking of buying:
Any comments or suggestions welcome!
I'd suggest getting a sunscreen, a cleanser, and a moisturizer. In the mornings, splash your face with some water and use moisturizer and sunscreen. At night, cleanse and use moisturizer. A spot treatment would probably be good as well (neutrogena on the spot has always worked beautifully for me, it's a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide cream), just for use when you have a spot. The location of your spots is kind of indicative of hormonal acne, which can't always be stopped, but can be tamed by a good routine and perhaps help from a doctor that can give you effective prescriptions. If you can order things online, I recommend this cleanser! If not, I recommend the boots expert sensitive gentle cleanser which is at target.
Sunscreen is pretty important! It'll protect your skin damage caused by the sun's UV rays. UVB rays cause sunburns and both UVB and UVA rays damage DNA (which causes aging). Both contribute to cancer as well. After using sunscreen for a while, personally, my skin is way healthier. Spots clear up much faster and the residual pigmentation is gone in little time. For a cheaper sunscreen, I would recommend alba botanica very emollient (can be found at target); for a higher end sunscreen, I would say shiseido urban environment (sephora, online). Sunscreen seems to be pretty personal as far as individual skin compatibility goes, though, so you might have to try a few.
That foundation should work well for you, and after you have an established routine, you can build it up if interested!
Seriously, /r/AsianBeauty saved my skin.
I wash my face with Cosrx Hyaluronic Acid Hydra Foam Cleanser in conjuction with something called a Konjac sponge and then I follow up with the Cosrx AHA after. Then as a moisturizer -particularly under makeup- I use their Snail Mucen product. Also, sunscreen is super critical, it helps prevent your hyperpigmentation spots from getting darker. I'm not a fan of the western sunscreens, so I use Shiseido brand. The smell is different than the regular stuff we're used to but it's not unpleasant. And there's no need to buy the more expensive stuff, this works out really well.
The facewash I use has a slightly high pH level, and it's okay for me because I immediately put on the AHA after because it somehow cuts down the pH level. This lower pH face wash is what my daughter uses, and it does a good job, she started using it and the breakouts pretty much stopped, although she's apparently prone to blackheads on her nose so I got some BHA product for her, and I also got her a konjac sponge as well, so hopefully it provides her with some results. The sponge is super soft, but it does a surprisingly good job of exfoliating; without that feeling of scrubbing your skin with sandpaper. Heads up, with the konjac sponge there's lots of different ones out there and they pretty much work all the same; even the cheaper ones.
If you're gonna try exploring and experimenting with other products, be sure to try one product at a time, to make sure you don't have a reaction to it! Of course you probably already knew that, but I figured I'd throw that out there in case you didn't.
Wow, thank you for your long answer. I appreciate your effort!
I needed some time to understand all the stuff you mentioned.
But it cleared up many things :)
I am going to buy some of the things from your list (can you please look over the products I chose):
One question: What do you think about the Nivea moisturizer?
So I try some products:
Balea MED night moisturisers
and sebamed Clear Face Care Gel
Things I buy maybe later, after I tried all the stuff above:
I have some questions:
PM:
AM:
Sorry, that I have so many questions.
Liebe Grüße zurück vom Niederrhein :)
Your shampoo could be the cause. I would definitely start using an aha and or bha product. I would use a gentle cleanser like vanicream Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser with Pump Dispenser | Fragrance, Gluten and Sulfate Free | For Sensitive Skin | 8 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QY1XZ4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_dq1CDbWX75558 then a good toner like MIZON Aha & Bha Daily Clean Toner, 5.07 Fluid Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LUU42NU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_bo1CDb3KXNJ4A there is also a different selection on this mizon toner for a aha serum. I haven't tried it but I am planning on buying it. I really love Cosrx products. I use the COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid, 100ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B073P6ZQ4V/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Vw1CDb8W7WA27 a lot because it uses a different form of salicylic acid which great for sensitive skin, plus this is moisturizing.
Edit I would also recommend Jason dandruff shampoo Jason Dandruff Relief Treatment Shampoo 12 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000FGDIAS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_WB1CDbSVRBM37 it has the bha salicylic acid and sulfer which help exfolites your scalp. If you do have fungal acne or are having a reaction to your shampoo this is a good choice. I have been dealing with a dry scalp and then it turns into dandruff, after 4 uses my scalp looks so much better
The issue(s) you need help with:
I have had chronic skin dryness/irritation/redness/flakiness in the areas around my nose and upper cheeks for a few months. I currently have a routine, but it is obvious to me that it isn't optimal.
Skin type:
When I wake up, there may be a few flakes on my skin, and it is usually oily. But it is never intensely red/irritated
A few hours after cleansing and moisturizing, my skin will become a little oily, but some areas on my nose or sides of my face my dry up.
I would say I have pretty sensitive skin.
Current routine with the full names of your products:
Here are photos of my skin: https://imgur.com/a/zeLGX
The first photos are when I wake up. There is no intense visible redness, but there is some flakiness.
I currently shower in the morning with lukewarm water and cleanse with Vanicream gentle cleanser link. I then use Vanicream Lite lotion link. As you can see at this point in the pictures above, my face is noticeably red. Occasionally, I will feel stinging irritation, but most of the time it feels fine. After a half hour the redness goes down, and my face feels smoother, but not 100 percent smooth in all areas.
This routine has only functioned as a temporary measure until I find something more ideal. I use it because it is effective in treating the flakiness. If I don't cleanse, the area around my nose especially will generate a lot of flakes, even if it isn't particularly irritated.
I do not have a routine for the evening or night time before I go to bed. Sometimes I may just cleanse or maybe just apply some lotion, but the results in the morning aren't drastically different.
How long you have been using your current routine, or product in question:
I tried getting suggestions from this sub in September last year about gentle products for sensitive skin. I have been using these products ever since that time, but they are not ideal.
I would really welcome any help regarding this. I have dealt with it for so long and it really affects my self-image. Please let me know what I can change or fix! Thanks
>do you think any of the positive benefits you achieved would be bad
Absolutely--making distinguished wrinkles disappear and brightening your complexion is TOTALLY not masculine, blech!
Kidding, kidding. I can't see any downsides to focusing on the care and keeping of your skin...except maybe becoming a bit obsessive over it and enjoying it too much (hence this subreddit).
Lurk around and check out some of the discussion threads in this sub, and read the sidebar links. You'll learn a lot. There's a very large focus on understanding the why and how things work (particularly in regards to ingredients) and the science behind them. It's really hard to get into that mindset in the beginning because it's so easy to be swayed by sexy advertising, attractive packaging, and tempting claims, but if the ingredient list doesn't back it up, none of that matters.
The products I currently use:
Since the products I buy last me a long time, the cost doesn't seem very large to me. Some products, like the healing clay mask or certain oils, are only used in small quantities, so they'll last a long, long time.
When I first got started in revamping my routine, I very slowly introduced new products (started with a new cleanser, then after a few weeks tried a moisturizer, etc). This is good because it's easy on your wallet AND it allows you to get an accurate feel for what works and what doesn't.
No problem, I am glad to help! Yeah, chemical sunscreens don't seem to bother me either, it's very weird lol. Yes, I see! It can be a challenge finding a sunscreen that works while also taking into consideration rosácea too. Hmmm, I have two ideas! I don't know if they will help, but here goes:
Awww, I feel your pain :/ It can be really expensive trying and testing products until you find the right one!! Lol my bank account knows all about that XD
Hope this helps somewhat!!
Hi guys! New to this whole skin care thing but i've been super excited to get started and get new products. And a happy nat'l pet day to my lil pumkin for encouraging me.
I have normal/combo skin with dry patches. Overall minimal acne, hyperpigmentation in cheeks and around scars.
AM
Splash of Water: I prefer to only cleanse at night due to my dry skin
Neutrogena Hydroboost gel-cream for extra dry skin: I was referred this in a previous comment thread and it has quickly become my HG moisturizer. It is a gel-cream so it isn't heavy and can be layered but it is so hydrating.
Skin Aqua Sunscreen: This isn't in this picture but let me tell you this is the best sunscreen I've ever used on my face. Its a gel consistency so again light on the skin SPF50 & PA ++++ so it protects against both UVA & UVB rays. I've seen this highly recommend on AB threads so I decided to give it a go and I'm never going back.
PM
Simple Micellar cleansing water: I use this to remove my makeup with a cotton pad. Not too drying nor oily and gets the job done.
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser: This cleanser is very hydrating, I don't experience that tight feeling after washing. I would highly recommend this cleanser.
Neutrogena Hydroboost gel-cream for extra dry skin
What are my next steps? I’ve read all over the FAQs and Wiki, but I'm not sure where to head next with my routine. I've been using the same routine for approx. 9 months now and I’m no longer seeing positive changes or results that I want.
The issues: I still have acne, though not as severe as it was a year ago. I have quite large pores and very sensitive skin when it comes to what I use. I’m allergic(eczema) to methylisothiazolinone or others like it. It’s found in many many liquid soaps, lotions, treatments etc.
Skin Type: I would say combination, as I am prone to acne, eczema, have somewhat oily skin, and flaking skin as well. Left profile Right Profile
Current routine: The routine I’ve been using for the past 9 months is as follows:
My mornings and evenings have been somewhat interchangeable, depending on if I shower in the morning or evenings, so I will combine it in to daily, with the exception of 1 product.
Daily:
Evening:
Occasionally Used:
Anything New: I am currently reducing(eventually to zero) an antidepressant, so hormonal changes will probably cause acne to pick up. I exercise regularly, drink approx. 3 liters of water every day, and eat very healthy.
Location: Southern Maine region.
Thank you for your help SCA World!
Yaaaaaas. This, so much! Oil cleansing + hydrating foaming/cream second cleanser have totally changed the game for me with my super dry skin. I personally love Kose Softymo. I use the Speedy version right now, but the Deep Cleansing version has my eye!
I'm also washing with Hada Labo Tokyo Hydrating Cleanser, which I like a lot! Super mild.
Lastly, as a facial oil, Goodal Wateriest Water Oil has been particularly popular lately, and for good reason! I have a different version from the same line and, while I just only tried it out yesterday, it has immediately left my skin feeling leagues better.
I hope this helps!
I got prescribed clindamycin + tretinoin (mine is lower than yours, at 0.025%) for moderate/severe acne more than two years ago. According to my doctor, I was put on a "medium" dosage and wanted me to try the combination out first before we decide if we want to amp up or go lower, perhaps you can look into the option of switching to a lower concentration for the tretinoin if possible and slowly work your way up. The doctor also told me that if my skin was getting excessively dry/irritated, I could reduce the application of it from every night to every other night.
None the less when I first started, my skin freaked out and was patchy for weeks-months mainly in the area around my mouth, nose, and above my lips. I felt that no matter how much I try flake off the dry skin with a cotton pad and toner in the morning, my face looked like it was falling apart by the end of the day. What I ended up doing for a while was just putting foundation on my forehead and cheeks and avoiding all the patchy areas as much as I could. I kept a little tube of lotion everywhere I went and made sure that those problem areas were moisturized at all times - they looked red because they were irritated and not concealed by makeup but I know for sure that looked a lot better than flakey patchy skin barely clinging on. I also switched from Lancome Teint Idole Ultra (more of a matte finish) to Estee Lauder Double Wear (dewy finish)
I've also added a few more steps into my skincare regime such as the:
CeraVe hydrating cleanser
Mizon Hyaluronic Acid Ampoule
Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Concentrate
Intense Fast Healing Cream with Aloe
and really thick moisturizers like Vanicream or Cetaphil
My typical skincare regime at night involves ~10 different products but the ones I've listed really stands out to me. I also make sure that I give each product some time to absorb before layering on the next one.
Once times a week, I will also use chemical exfoliate on my face, currently using the Boscia because I got some with point perks but those peels are more or less all the same to me. 2-3 times a week I also use Raw Honey from Trader Joe's as a mask (I just slather it all over my face and wait for 20-30 minutes) and the My Beauty Diary Black Pearl Sheet Mask. They have many different kinds but black pearl and hyaluronic acid are my two favorites. Make sure you gently pat the remaining essence into your face after you take it off!
And lastly, I was really self conscious about my face as well in college. I was on and off of birth control for the most part and it really wrecked my face to the point where I felt that makeup wasn't a luxury I entertained myself with but rather a necessity in order to present myself to others. But towards the end of it, I felt more comfortable with my skin regardless of improvements in my acne because I realized that nobody in a 300+ people lecture hall probably gave a crap about what I look like. I'm sitting next to different people everyday and I'm probably never going to see them after the class ends. I don't sit around school scoping out people to judge (at least I try not too) and even if I do for example encounter someone with really bad acne or hair or whatever walking around, I'm probably not going to remember her/him the next day - so no one that mattered was going to be judging my face either.
Also sorry if my amazon links are kinda weird, I have an extension that defaults them to amazon smile, just take it out when you browse.
Help! Did I buy a knockoff/discontinued Hado Labo product on Amazon?
Combo skin, only break out when stressed or wrong product, living in a temperate moist "forest" biome (I live in a city, but that's what the surrounding region is like)
Routine:
AM
Water rinse or Hado Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hylauronic Acid Cleansing Foam, one pump
Mizon all-in-one moisturizer
PM
Hado Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hylauronic Acid Cleansing Foam, one pump
Mizon all-in-one moisturizer
*Currently patch testing the Biore Sarasara Rich Watery Essence SPF50, Heimish All Clean due to be patch tested in a week. Other things that have been on my face in the a last two weeks due to shower accidents and the Zit That Just Won't Quit on my chin: Cosrx pimple patches (three straight days, that was a mistake), LUSH Let the Good Times Roll Face& Body Cleanser, Nature Republic Aqua sleeping pack
SO
I ordered the Hado Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam (160ml) on Amazon from seller Samurai Japan (massive space in between is what's on Amazon) in September 2017. I used this link and the packaging does look like this.
In the last two months of use my combo skin has started feeling tight, dry, and kinda like it stings. I went on Hado Labo's website to check ingredients and I noticed that the packaging & product name were different. The ingredients and product use instructions were the same as the ones that Amazon page, but idk if that's because they are in fact the same or if somebody just copy-pasted it off Hado Labo's site.
Does anybody know if they redesigned the packaging, reformulated the cleanser, or if this is a knockoff? Thanks!
(EDIT: just realized that when I bought the cleanser I was still using CeraVe's PM moisturizer with no problems. Winter where I live was pretty off the wall this year and has gone back and forth between cold-dry and cold-damp, so I thought it was that. Switched to the Mizon in January and like the texture of my skin much more, but yeah, still dry/tight/burning and it feels like it's getting increasingly worse.)
Hi hi! Wow so I'm super super new to AB, but I guess it wouldn't hurt to try :)
My favourite product/holy grail is S:um Miracle Rose Cleansing Stick. Not only is Rose kind of my "thing" (I wear rose perfume every day, along with a silver rose necklace and ring- it's kind of a theme) but it's also drastically improved my skin.
I've always had acne, but it's never been too terrible. After using this rose cleansing stick my skin feels so much lighter and fresher, and not dry at all~!
As a side note, thank you so much for doing something so nice like this. It's people like you that really make this community seem so open and welcoming!
What are you using currently for skin care? I had very similar skin issues about a year ago, and was able to help hydrate and clear up the skin in my t-zone, though I still have some more progress to make.
If your skin is dry, you will want to find something that will help moisturize, CeraVe (in the tub) is supposed to be very good for that, though the fatty alcohols don't play nice with everyone's skin, so make sure to try it (or anything new) on a small piece of your face for a week first so test for a bad reaction.
A great basic routine is: cleanse, (chemically) exfoliate, moisturize, sunscreen.
Personally, I use CeraVe's foaming cleanser (it's gentle and gets all the dirt and stuff off), then Stridex's red box exfoliant (This helps clear out gunk in your skin, and any dead skin, which helps break ups clear up and never come back. AHA's are cool too - St. Ives has some pad wipe things that are AHA instead of Stridex's BHA formula. You'll just want to research the differences to see which might be better for your face). I use Bunny Butt Apothecary's Zen Complexion cream to moisturize. If it's the morning, I'll put on Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Dry Touch sunscreen to protect my stupidly pale face, but it's a good idea to consider for any shade of skin, to prevent premature aging from the sun.
tl;dr I had skin like you. I got places with a good exfoliant and moisturizer. Hopefully you can get good places too!
Haha thanks so much :) glad I could give you hope!
I'll just tell you my whole routine:
AM:
PM:
Weekly: I do the Aztec Clay Mask w/ Bragg's apple cider vinegar. I don't think this helps with PIH but it does make my pores look so small! It really dries out the skin though so I moisturize extra and I do not use a chemical exfoliant on the 1 night per week when I do this mask.
Also I totally get wanting to overhaul your whole routine all at once, but seriously only introduce one thing at a time and patch test! It sounds like you have similar skin to mine, and all these products are pretty gentle, but everyone reacts differently to different products.
P.S. You can get $10 off your first Paula's Choice order with a referral code!
they can be a bit of a pain in the ass to hunt down, but I exclusively use asian sunscreens for my face, as they have some of the most cosmetically elegant formulas (aka little to no white cast or greasy, sunscreen-y feeling), plus they have very high UVA and UVB protections that are better than the majority of western offerings. the biore blue tube sunscreen is a perennial favorite over in /r/AsianBeauty because of how good it feels on the skin and how relatively cheap and easy it is to find.
EDIT: also forgot to mention, if you start using sunscreen (which you should!!!!) then you might want to start double cleansing at night as well, because it's the best way to make sure that you get all the sunscreen off so it doesn't clog pores. again, asian skincare companies have western companies beat (at least IMO) when it comes to first/oil cleanser formulas. r/AB will have a ton of suggestions, but personally I like the kose softymo deep one.
Cleansers (Unless you're using a medicated cleanser most skincare products aren't really going to prevent acne.)
Mochitto Mochi Mochi Face Wash
Hada Labo Gokujun Oil Cleanser (200ml)
Hada Labo Gokujun Hyaluronic Cleansing Foam (160ml)
Medicated Deep Cleansing Oil L (200ml)
Cow Brand Additive-Free Foaming Facial Cleanser (200ml)
Rohto Hadalabo es cleansing foam type (160ML)
Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion (170ml)
Spot Treatment
Since your acne is deep in the skin I would look for a dermatologist that also serves foreigners because unless I'm mistaken a lot of products with Benzoyl Peroxide etc are prescription only.
Hydrating Toners
Meishoku Cosmetics Meishoku Facial Water Medicated Skin Lotion 2.7 oz (80 ml) - Acne Prevention
Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Solution (170ml)
Hada Labo Gokujyun "Hyaluronic-Eki" Large-Capacity Pump-Type 400ml
Matsuyama Skin Moisturizing Water, Light Type
Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion
Mebika Moist Lotion
Cezanne High Moist Lotion
Meishoku Cosmetics Ceracolla Super Moist Face Lotion 6 fl oz (180ml)
Gels
Hada Labo Shirojyun Cool Hyaluronic Jelly (200ml)
Naturie Skin Conditioning Gel
Rosette Ceramide Gel
Meishoku Cerracolla Perfect Gel
Moisturisers
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Eaude Muge Medicated Skin Cream - 40g - Acne Prevention
Lion Pair Acne Clean Lotion - Look for the cream as well!
Meishoku Cerracolla Perfect Cream
MUJI Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Milk - Moisture (200ml)
Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Cream 50g
Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Milky Lotion 140ml
Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Milky Emulsion (140ml)
Sunscreens
CANMAKE Mermaid Skin Gel UV
Nivea Protect Water Gel SPF35/PA+++ Pump 140g
Biore Sarasara UV Perfect Face Milk SPF50+/PA++++ 30ml
Biore Sarasara UV Perfect Milk SPF50+/PA++++ 40ml
Hada Labo Gokujun Perfect UV Gel (50g)
Hello and welcome! I just want to tell you that I'm pretty sure every single person in this sub is freaking adorable so I'm sure you will meet all sorts of entertaining and awesome people here. :) I'm so psyched for you!
In terms of exfoliation, speaking very broadly (i.e. there are always exceptions to what I'm about to say), AHAs are generally recommended for dry skin, while BHA is recommended for oilier skin types. I think things will work better for you if you attempt to tackle one problem at a time. For instance, for pimples, Paula's Choice BHA 2% liquid is my absolute holy grail product, but a drugstore BHA such as Stridex may work equally as well, and perhaps would be something to try first since it's more easily accessible. Speaking of Stridex, try to make everything you use as gentle (checkmark on the Cetaphil) and as alcohol-free as possible - your skin is dry and we don't want it to get even more dry. :( My skin gets dry in the winter and the itchiness can just drive me up the wall.
And yes, start moisturizing every day, morning and night - just a pea-sized amount, I promise it won't be greasy. And if it is, we'll figure something out. If you're still feeling dry after that, we can think about changing or supplementing your moisturizer. :)
Welcome again!
Edit: I just saw a pattern in your description of pimples! Scalp, forehead, shoulders and upper back? Check your shampoo/conditioner/other hair products for clogging ingredients!
Hey, I am looking to start a skin care regime but i have little to no knowledge on pretty much everything. so i have a lot of questions, i apologize if this isnt the right place but hopefully im not breaking any rules. as some background I am a 23 year old guy, tend to have pretty oily skin, and i have some issues with acne and back acne. I was hoping for some feedback about what i plan on starting.
first off I am thinking of using a combination of these things:
facial cleanser and body cleanser while showering,
than i would also suppliment with:
a facial cleanser, exfoliator, and moisturizer at night.
I got most of these items from beginner guide on this sub, but what i was wondering is if any of these products are redundant or unneeded if my goal is for a simple and relatively cheap routine? Additionally i was wondering if anyone could roughly predict how long these volumes would last?
Any help would be really appreciated!! Thank you!!
Me personally, I use cleansing oils. I used the hydrating makeup remover wipes from Neutrogena for years before I found cleansing oils. I tried micellular water and I’m not a fan. I don’t like the tugging feeling of cotton on my face and I didn’t feel like it removed all of my makeup.
Cleansing oils on dry skin followed by gentle cleanser has been amazing for me. I use the hydrating cleanser by La Roche Posay and it’s HG for me. Love love love it.
For cleansing oils, I’m still in the process of finding my HG. I have used the neutrogena one and wasn’t a big fan. I tried the one by Simple and also wasn’t a huge fan. So far Burts Bees oil has been my favorite. Trader Joe’s sells an exact dupe for $6. That one is nice too. Also, The Face Shop sells one that is really light. I got it on amazon and I’ve been using that for the last month or so. I actually just picked up a new one today made by Palmers. So I’m gonna try that out tonight. Links ;
The face shop;
https://www.amazon.com/Facial-Cleanser-Natural-Cleansing-Moisturizer/dp/B00809ERAM
Burts bees;
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0151RHR3E/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523495135&sr=8-1&keywords=burts+bees+cleansing+oil&dpPl=1&dpID=41ygSRlXfhL&ref=plSrch
Trader Joe’s;
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B06WP1W6FQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523495277&sr=8-1&keywords=trader+joes+cleansing+oil&dpPl=1&dpID=314w%2Bv8HeEL&ref=plSrch
Simple:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01IR8W0UE/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523495135&sr=8-2&keywords=burts+bees+cleansing+oil
Palmers:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00W2CTHT4/ref=mp_s_a_1_7_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523495135&sr=8-7&keywords=burts+bees+cleansing+oil&dpPl=1&dpID=31u9ea3--FL&ref=plSrch
Neuteogena;
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00U2VQZC4/ref=mp_s_a_1_10_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1523495135&sr=8-10&keywords=burts+bees+cleansing+oil
Howdy, skin twin! This is what my skin looked like before I started taking care of it, and if I fall off the skincare wagon, that's what it goes back to.
The main issues here are that your skin needs some exfoliation, and you need both a source of moisture, and a way to keep it in.
With exfoliation, you have two options: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation is stuff like facial scrubs, pore brushes, etc. It's a popular method, but it can be harsh to your skin. I like chemical exfoliation - specifically, and Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), which works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin and living skin, so the dead crusty bits can be gently washed off.
After that, you need to tackle the dehydration. Dehydrated skin gets that rough, uneven orange-peel appearance, and makes large pores more obvious. This is true even if your skin is oily - you can be oily and dehydrated at the same time, and dehydrated skin can actual trigger more oil production.
In addition to a moisturizer, you'd benefit from an occlusive to keep the moisture from evaporating, especially if you live in a dry climate or are exposed to air conditioning all day.
So here's a really basic routine you could try out. I use a lot of Asian products because they're cheap and work well, but you can find similar products local to you.
1. Oil cleanse
"Normal" face washes can be really drying, especially the ones marketed towards men, for some reason. If your face feels tight and plasticky after you wash it, your cleanser is to blame. I use an emulsifying oil cleanser.
You put it on your dry face, rub it around to get it to stick to the gunk in your pores, and then rinse with water, which makes it emulsify and become un-oily. Cool!
It doesn't actually have to be an oil cleanser - any hydrating, non-drying cleanser will work fine.
Some folks use a secondary cleanser after this, but unless you wear makeup, you probably don't need it, and it risks drying you out more.
2. Acid exfoliation
Now that you have a clean face, it's time to get rid of the dead stuff that makes your skin lumpy. For this, we'll use an AHA - I like this one from CosRX, even though it smells like dog piss on a mushroom.
This is a step you'll only do every other day, maximum. Start with every 2-3 days and go from there. Do this step at night, as AHA will make your skin less resistant to UV (more on that later).
Put a couple drops in your hands, massage it into your face, and then wait. It takes at least 15 minutes for the acid to fully break down that "glue" holding dead skin onto your face.
Rinse it off with water, dry, and move on to the next step.
3. Hydrating toner
The next thing you need is a thin moisturizer, something that can sink right into your skin to plump and de-leatherify it. These are typically going to based on hyaluronic acid, a "goo molecule" that your body uses in every squishy part of your body, from skin to eyeballs to bones. I like this one by Hada Labo, but there are good options from Klairs, Paula's Choice, etc.
Put a few drops on your hands and pat/squish into your face. Give it a minute to dry. If your face feels tight, you can repeat this step a couple times.
4. Ceramide lotion
Ceramides help to "waterproof" your skin from the inside, to prevent loss of all that moisture you just added. Cerave PM is pretty much the best bang for your buck - despite the "PM" in the label, you can use it day and night.
5 (Daytime). Sunblock
Before you go out for the day, you need sunblock. Damage from the sun is a huge contributor to crappy dehydrated skin, and now that you're exposing fresh new skin with the AHA, you're going to be even more sensitive to it.
Due to some weird laws surrounding what we can use in sunblock in the US and some other Western countries, it's likely that the only sunblock you can get in stores is that thick, oily, gross, white stuff.
The Japanese have the rest of the world pretty much beat when it comes to sunblock - Biore Aqua Rich is a solid choice, although you'll need something heavier for days when you're going to be sweating or swimming.
5 (Night). Occlusive
Now that you've done all this work to moisturizer your skin, you don't want it to just evaporate overnight. That's where an occlusive comes in - a thick outer layer that protects your skin and all the stuff you just put on it. Aquaphor is great for this.
So there you go - a solid starting routine! Try that out for a week and see if your skin doesn't start to look better - if you're not doing anything to your skin right now, you're bound to see some improvement with this.
Note that there is some risk of bad reactions whenever you're using new face stuff. The oil cleanser and lotion might give you a breakout of small white bumps, the AHA might feel to harsh and make your face red, you might be allergic to an ingredient in the toner, etc. If that happens, stop using everything, and start adding each item back into your routine slowly until you identify the culprit.
Good luck, and happy moisturizing!
I'm no pro, but I believe I've seen people mention that Salicylic Acid in face wash is useless, as it has to be left on the skin to be effective. I would recommend getting Stridex pads in the red box, or Clean & Clear's Advantage Oil Absorbing Treatment. I use the Clean & Clear one, personally, since it's more easily accessible in Canada.
As far as a good AHA goes, I've had great success with St Ive's Exfoliating Pads.
I was hoping to get some help for starting off a skin care routine -
I'm a 21 year old male, and the only type of skin care I've done up to this point is for acne, which I still do. I use 1% clindamycin phosphate gel, and it does seem to help.
I believe I have an oily skin type, so knowing that, I've chose the following products from the recommended section in the wiki -
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Mandelic Acid Toner
CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion AM, SPF 30, 3 Ounce
Blue Lizard Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30+-8.75 oz ?
Does using the CeraVe Mositurizing Facial Lotion AM mean I do not need/shouldn't use a sunscreen? Or should I just use another along with it?
I have acne on my forehead, around my mouth, and on my neck. Is this because of my bangs/facial hair? If so, is there anything I can do about that?
I also have blackheads around my nose, and would appreciate any advice for that.
My final question is, when I get these products, should I really only start with one at a time, and waiting weeks before adding another product? It seems like it would be a really slow process to start.
Any help is appreciated, thanks :)
Hi everyone! I'm very new to AB and after reading through many guides and articles, I created my first routine, and it's made up of the basics (since you guys said to limit your haul to 4-5 items), I have these items in my amazon cart ready to go, but I wanted to get a second opinion!
Skin Type: Dry/Acne-Prone | Country/Climate I'm in: Seattle - Rainy and Cold | Top Skin Concern: PIH/Acne
AM
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CE5P580/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=ALWX5VVJPZEDR&psc=1)
PM
I'm mostly curious about the BENTON serum. I've heard that it's best to only use it once (at night), but some blogs have you using them in the morning as well. Also, with the BENTON serum would I have to wait 20 minutes before moving on to emulsion? Any other comments/criticisms would be appreciated! Thank you AB!
Sooo these are just suggestions 😁 you could pick one from each category...or just do it however you'd like lol
_
Cleanser:
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser 16 oz for Daily Face Washing, Dry to Normal Skin https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSSDEPK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TVQdBb4ADMMB7
__
"after shave":
this shit is AMAZZZZZING
seriously if you get NOTHING else, I'd say get this Paula's Choice toner. It feels like you're extinguishing a fire when you put it on (pour it into your palms and lightly pat on your face...then do it again).
Paula's Choice-SKIN RECOVERY Calming Toner-for Sensitive Facial Skin and Dry, Rosacea Prone Skin-Reduces Redness and Fine Lines-1-6.4 oz Bottle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CII0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_SCQdBbJEW9ERM
HADALABO Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074GX619Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ZGQdBb8FG4AHW
Bioderma Sensibio Moisturizing Toner for Normal to Dry Sensitive Skin
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01I4OSYIS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_yyQdBbMFZD2P2
_____
Moisturizer/hydration:
Hada Labo Rohto Goku-jun Hyaluronic Milky Lotion, 140ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BS3Q0XE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_AKQdBbA8G3KB4
Skinfix Gentle Lotion - Fragrance Free - 12 oz
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RZN22ZQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_yAQdBb1CNHZ6T
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM 3 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TTQdBbQZ6KK4S
Squalane Oil is terrific. Yes, it's oil, so you may be apprehensive, but it's an oil that your body produces naturally and it absorbs extremely well and quickly. Next to the PC toner above, this is probably my most useful product. (It's way cheaper on their website directly btw.)
Always apply any oil after everything else (except sunscreen, which must always go last).
The Ordinary 100% Plant-derived Squalane 30ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071HWGWST/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2LQdBb8XVFN70
__
POSSIBLE treatment:
I don't use any topical treatments for acne per se, but here is one you could certainly try (sparingly):
The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Solution (30ml) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072FJBVZP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FQQdBbT93GWQ8
___
Sunscreen (mandatory! 😁):
Cotz Spf 40 UVB/UVA Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin, 3.5 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008U2Y5ME/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_6SQdBbWB9V26G
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM 3 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TTQdBbQZ6KK4S
__
Hope this helps!! :)
Well, everyone's skin reacts differently but I'll let you know what I've used and had success with.
The Face Shop Light Cleansing Oil - really great and affordable for starting out w/ a cleansing oil
Pond's Cold Cream - love but required me to use microfiber wash cloths and made too much laundry because it didn't emulsify and rinse easily
Fresh Seaberry Cleansing Oil - currently using but I bought some off eBay bc of the cost
Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm - probably what I will try next; receives a lot of love around this sub
All the steps you're taking are in the right direction, but let's talk about product recommendations. You should start off with a basic skincare routine.
Cleanser: Cosrx Low Ph Morning Gel Cleanser - A good cult favorite, gentle cleanser.
Toner- Stri-dex Pads Maximum Strength - I have yet to find anything else that keeps my acne at bay as well as these do, holy grail status.
Moisturizer- [Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream] (https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Recovery-Cream-fl-oz/dp/B00NTR9B6A/ref=pd_sbs_194_49?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00NTR9B6A&pd_rd_r=GQARJSYA37GYHK6DDA84&pd_rd_w=xTj7a&pd_rd_wg=Anz1Z&psc=1&refRID=GQARJSYA37GYHK6DDA84) - This will moisturize and take care of acne scars.
Additionally, what helps me is to exfoliate twice a week, and I use Skinfood Black Sugar Mask Wash Off Exfoliator.
I would suggest wearing sunscreen, though this step isn't specifically to help your acne, it's just good to protect the skin from premature aging and hyperpigmentation. Assuming you have combo to oily skin I would recommend Etude House Airy Finish Sun Milk.
AM
PM
Background: I used to have psoriasis and eczema all over my body and face, but thanks to biologics (Humira), my psoriasis patches have regressed into hyperpigmented spots. I live in a hot and dry desert, which not only dries out my skin, but I also sweat a lot. Combination of dryness + sweat causes my face to redden.
Picture of Face:
https://i.imgur.com/4rAEHSG.jpg (Ignore dry lips)
I specifically [want help with/am looking for a product to/am curious about trying]...
Thank you Thank you and Thank you! Can't believe it took me this long to find this site/community!
Okay so I dont think that my skin is kinda dehydrated that much but still sensitive. Was thinking to just start with this for now:
Cleanser: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000YJ2SKM/ref=ox_sc_act_image_1?smid=A19497B1AUMQOH&psc=1
Moisturizer: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00365DABC/ref=ox_sc_act_image_2?smid=A19497B1AUMQOH&psc=1
And maybe add Vaseline on top of moisturizer before sleep
Both of these were recommended with bunch of other products so im not sure I picked good lol anyways I would still like to add supplements (at least Zinc and Fish oil cuz I cant remember when I ate fish last time and I barely eat any meat) btw I really appreciate your help a lot :) I need someone to save me haha
**Skin type and skin concerns:**
Main concerns: Dryness, acne (cystic and general acne all over chin and cheeks), and splotchy discoloration all over my face (my dermatologist said it was melasma). My skin is consistently congested and breaking out, yet my entire face is sensitive, dull, itchy and flakey. After years of reading tips here, I've finally gotten to the point where redness and the majority of flaking is gone and products don't burn when they touch me, but my skin remains dull and feels tight.
​
While the products I've selected are relatively affordable, they add up. Plus I'm worried I'm doing more damage than good by overwhelming my skin with all these product. Mostly though, I'm so jealous of all your minimalist routines I see on here, and I want to create one that would work for me. I don't know where to start. What are your thoughts?
​
**Skincare routine with full product names**
AM
PM
​
**Daily behaviors possibly impacting skin:**
My diet is crap. While I don't eat a lot of processed food, I eat too much sugar, too much oily and fatty foods, too much red meat and not enough vegetables. Because of my family, it's going to be difficult to make adjustments, and honestly I'm not sure where to start. Caffeine consumption is pretty high, while I only have the occasional coffee, I drink a TON of green tea and oolong tea. Water intake is fair, and I usually refill my 32oz water bottle 2 times a day (yes, I have to run to the bathroom at least every 30 minutes). I pretty much stopped wearing makeup a little over a year ago, now I only wear for special occasions and the occasional eye liner.
Foaming Facial Cleanser - Normal To Oily Skin by CeraVe for Unisex - 12 oz Cleanser https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B003YMJJSK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_J0IPCb46RTP22
Thayers Natural Remedies Witch Hazel Toner, Rose Petal, 12 fl. Oz. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B007HD570Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_g2IPCbDH2BAVP
20% Vitamin C Serum - 60 ml / 2 oz Made in Canada - Certified Organic + 11% Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin E Moisturizer + Collagen Boost - Reverse Skin Aging, Remove Sun Spots, Wrinkles and Dark Circles, Excellent for Sensitive Skin + Includes Pump & Dropper https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00PL3DK26/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_c0IPCb5SGGMPX
Brickell Men's Restoring Eye Cream for Men - Anti Aging Eye Balm To Reduce Puffiness, Wrinkles, Dark Circles, Under Eye Bags - .5 oz https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00QL67MY4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_m1IPCbD5SEVN4
All Natural Advice Daily Moisturizer with Peptide and Hyaluronic Acid | Canadian Made | Organic | Age-Defying Skincare for Face and Neck | Anti-Aging Complex for Natural Skin Tone and Healthy Radiance | 120 ml | Double the Size https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06XVZDGGR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8YIPCbGEHFHYF
i also ordered elta md broad spectrum sun screen
EltaMD UV Facial Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+, 3 Ounces https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MTJ02SX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_42IPCbABTWHS5
.
I've read some sunscreens have a matte finish so hoping this might.
I'm a guy fwiw who just recently went down the skin care rabbit hole after getting an essential oil diffuser and reading they have skin benefits as well, so this is all new to me
Skin care:
My MUST have is a face wash and lotion by CeraVe. Never heard of it before until my dermatologist suggested it. I have annoyingly sensitive skin, most face washes cause peeling after several uses but this is perfect. The face wash I use, is perfect for daily use and is great for removing face make up. And I never EVER leave without my night moisturizer and lets be honest, I use it in the AM as well and it's perfect, within a few minutes it is completely absorbed and it doesn't feel like there's anything on your face. (They're body lotions good as well)
Try CeraVe products - they have a Salicylic Acid (SA) line (Cleanser & Lotion) that would help with your acne, and they also have a Hydrating cleanser + amazing Moisturizer creme and moisturizing lotion too.
http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Renewing-SA-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B00U1YCRD8
http://www.amazon.com/Cerave-Sa-Renewing-Lotion-Pack/dp/B009TWF80M/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8
CeraVe's moisturizing products are amazing if you have solely dry skin + no acne, but I've heard reviews about it helping clear acne too even without the Salicylic Acid. CeraVe has some sort of patent in their products that help encourage your skin to renew its cells and encourage natural facial oils to emerge and help moisturize your skin without causing pimples.
https://www.reddit.com/r/SkincareAddiction/
^ You can read more reviews about CeraVe and see if it works; it worked really well for my horrible dry face rash that I got as a result of radiation + my bone marrow transplant. (Face was basically peeling and couldn't breathe/felt "stuck" because I stripped all the oil away from my face using too many harsh cleansers to get rid of the dead skin and rash. I used the hydrating cleanser and noticed a difference in 3 days with the moisturizing creme + lotion - creme for the really extra dry/flakey skin and lotion for my hands/other dry skin.
I used these products:
http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizers-Moisturizing-Cream-Ounce/dp/B001V9SXXU/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1453793769&sr=1-2&keywords=cerave
http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Hydrating-Cleanser-12-Ounce/dp/B000YJ2SKM/ref=dp_ccx_cts_image_beauty_1
http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-Lotion-12-oz/dp/B000YJ2SLG/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1453793769&sr=1-1&keywords=cerave)
http://www.ulta.com/ulta/a/CeraVe/Skin-Cleansers/_/N-1z13ozbZ2794?categoryId=cat80170&amp;ciSelector=leaf <--Read up the reviews here too for the different cleansers and see which ones would be best for your skin. You might be able to get a sample of these too if you went to a local Ulta store or contact CeraVe.
It's hypoallergenic and Dermatologist recommended for Eczema too.
CeraVe also has a $2 coupon on their website too :) I bought mine at a local CVS when they were having a great sale on it.
Late to the party but I wanted to chime in cause I'm on the second month of my second round of Accutane, currently at 60mg.
Basically your skin profile will change to sensitive, dry and dehydrated and you have to treat it as such, which means a lot of pampering for the next couple of months. I took the general advice of nothing but CeraVe and Aquaphor for my first course and I think I did more damage that way. I switched over to r/AsianBeauty afterwards trying to fix the leftover scars and because of all I've learned over there, my second round is going quite smoothly.
Here's what I do:
I only do the oil & foam cleanse at night, usually just water in the morning. With this routine I've actually been able to use a couple actives with no problems, mainly Stridex in the red box every other day at the beginning to calm my initial breakout.Another trick I use is I apply a thin layer of Prosacea to affected areas. You can get these two at a CVS or Walgreens. Also, I'm a picker and I found that if I pick and pop something, this routine plus a hydrocolloid bandage on top works miracles: the zit heals faster than it should on Accutane and the mark it leaves behind is gone/significantly faded within two weeks.
Results: Two months into accutane and my skin shows no signs of dryness. It stays hydrated all day so all I have to worry about is my chapped lips. My scars are fading at a phenomenal rate and I even glow a little from all the moisture. You may find it daunting at first, so maybe start out with the foam cleanser, the toner, the ceramide gel and the sunscreen. I'd also suggest going over to r/AsianBeauty and doing a search for dry, sensitive skin if you want more options.
I hope this helps and good luck! You'll look and feel amazing afterwards.
Edit: Supplements! I take fish oil, evening primrose oil and vitamin D.
In terms of cleansers, Hada Labo certainly has some good ones. This one has been a hit with my sister, who deals with both acne and sensitivity. I love the toner that /r/sca recommended, but you may want to try it in person. Hada Labo offers different kinds of hyaluronic acid toners, with this "Moist" one being the heaviest/thickest one. They also have a lighter version that you may prefer (I know my sister thinks the Moist version is too heavy).
I hope you enjoy Taiwan! Taipei is a wonderful city, lots of good food and fun.
Have you tried the hydrating cleanser? How did you get on with it? I haven't used the foaming one, but I love how gentle yet good at cleaning the hydrating cleanser is. My skin isn't especially oily though.
Other foaming options that are worth looking into are the one Simple make, the Sebamed one, and this Japanese one that seems really popular with people who like gentle foam cleansers:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B0036MDUEM/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1468319460&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=hada+labo&amp;pi=SY200_QL40
I haven't tried any of these yet myself but they're all ones I've reached when I've thought about adding a foaming cleanser.
if you're still on prednisone, well, there's your acne cause. 100%
whenever i go on bowel rest (i.e. stop eating food and just drink fluids), my skin clears up beautifully. i'm not sure if it's simply the extra hydration, or if i have dietary triggers. dairy and greasy foods have a reputation for causing acne, but i haven't read any science on that. (props on the vegan diet!) wash your face after you eat, if you get food stuffs or grease around your face. i use this, though there's also a foaming version that lots of people like.
wear sunscreen. hydrate by drinking lots of water and applying moisturizer. this stuff is good. with the pump so you don't get weird crap in your lotion. wear sunscreen.
these product recommendations are pretty reliably loved by r/skincareaddiction. good ingredients, unscented, work to rebuild your skin's protective barrier against infection and inflammation. but everyone is different, so ymmv of course.
also, i'm a huge fan of curology. it's 20 bucks a month. you send pictures of your face and problem areas, and a dermatologist is basically of at your beck and call to answer all your questions online. you get a prescription face cream to use every night, and recommendations for products, routines, etc. the prescription creams almost all use tretinoin, which treats acne and signs of aging. (wear suncreen!) but you'd probably get some other antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients as well.
Hi!
Totally new to this skincare stuff :~). Love the wiki, but I'm still confused about selecting products. I have dry (a bit sensitive) light olive skin...sometimes I get acne when my skin dries out too much, but never had much of an issue (no makeup and have sensitive-skin soaps). Unfortunately I can't do fragrances either, since I have a really sensitive nose.
According to the wiki, there's basically 4 things I need to get for a routine: cleanser, moisturizer, exfoliant, and sunscreen. So far I've come up with:
Could anyone maybe help me me choose an exfoliant & sunscreen? Don't understand the different types of acids for the exfoliants, and just want a simple sunscreen that doesn't have fragrance or alcohol. Advice on everything else would be appreciated too. Thanks! :)
EDIT: I'm in Switzerland too, which limits products to the international ones suggested on the wiki. If anyone knows a good product in Europe, I'd be all ears!
Hi there. So I would start really simple - cleanser, toner, moisturizer in the AM and PM. I can recommend you some products since I also have oily acne-prone skin, but the unfortunate reality is that what works for some people doesn't work for others. You're probably going to have to experiment with it yourself. Also most of the products I use aren't available in the US (German brand).
A couple of pointers when it comes to ingredients in those products:
- avoid anything with silicones (they usually end in -cone on the ingredient list)
- avoid non-fatty alcohols (usually it just says alcohol or alcohol denat. or ethanol in the ingredient lists). They're gonna be really drying.
- fatty alcohols (like cetyl alcohol) are good though
- avoid perfum (can irritate skin - sometimes it's hard to avoid though and personally it's not high on my priority list)
- since you have some acne and oily skin I would avoid oils and comedogenic ingredients such as coconut derivatives and butters
Since you don't have a lot of experience with skincare yet, I would keep it simple at first - if your skin doesn't clear up you might want to use a product with salicylic acid or other acne-fighting ingredients at some point, but as I said I would ease into it by just using a simple routine first.
For cleanser I would recommend first only using it at night. Only use it in the morning if you feel overly greasy, you don't want to strip your skin too much. Some cleanser recommendations from the wiki (any of these should work fine for your skin):
Some toner recommendations (apply with a cotton pad after cleansing):
Moisturizer recommendations (important! Do not skip even if you have oily skin!) - I would try to avoid creams since those are more suitable for normal or dry skin):
You might also want to incorporate sunscreen at some point (apply after moisturizer or instead of moisturizer in the morning), but honestly I haven't found one that I'm 100% happy with yet, it can be tough when you have oily and acne-prone skin. This one from the wiki seems good though: CeraVe Ultra Light Moisturizer + SPF 30
Hope this helps to start. The wiki and just lurking here can teach you a whole bunch. Just remember your skin type and what your skin problems are when looking for new products.
Hi :)
It sounds like you either have combination skin (when you have an oily forehead/nose and the rest is dry) or your skin is dehydrated (when your skin is dry but can overproduce oil to compensate).
To be on the safe side, I'd try a very gentle cleanser first, like Cerave Hydrating Cleanser or Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser; they're both very affordable. Be sure to patch test first.
A chemical exfoliant can help with clogged pores and acne, but I'd make sure you've got the basics down first: cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen.
What moisturizer are you currently using?
Sorry, but I'm really new to skincare, what do you mean by counter intuitive? I'm also not familiar with niacinamide (or pretty much any other term for that matter) but I saw that https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Foaming-Facial-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B003YMJJSK/?th=1 was one of the recommended facial cleanser and it also had niacinamide.
Also, forgive me if this is a dumb question but I'm starting to get confused because I'm noticing that some cleansers and moisturizers both have those ingredients that are supposed to be good for acne. (Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxcide?)
Basically, does it matter if which of the two (between moisturizer and cleaner) actually has the incredients that are good for acne? Or should I try to limit it to one? I want to try and buy a new cleanser and moisturizer today but it's really starting to overwhelm me.
Also thanks for the help as well, much appreciated.
Maximum Strength Red Box but i think you could get a cheap deal for a pack of 3 if you do further google hunting. I think places like walmart sell 1 pack for like $3.88.
You'd have to ask your doc if you can use salicylic acid layered with Dapsone.
It shouldn't be layered with Adapalene, that I know for sure.
If you've been this on this RX regimen for awhile now, and you feel you still need more exfoliation, maybe you could try using the Stridex at night after you cleanse your face, leave it on for like 10 minutes, then wash it off? That's the only way I can think of getting around it if you really really want to use it. Otherwise, I'd say just skip it, you're getting a solid amount of exfoliation from your Adapalene.
The Dapsone and the antibiotic should be able to take care of bacterial component pretty solid. I'm not totally sold on the fact it'd be too necessary. Did your doc say you can use it as needed? All 3 of the meds you have should be effectively killing the bacteria.
As far as the rest of the routine aka, gentle cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer, A-OK to use.
Just started Accutane (Claravis), 60mg/day yesterday, and have changed up my routine recently based on lurking around this sub and r/Accutane. Any general comments/feedback would be much appreciated!
Skin type: Oily for sure, but I am positive it's about to become dry with the Accutane. In changing up my routine a few weeks ago, I tried to pick products that seemed to work for people with both skin types generally (maybe just with different frequencies of use) so I could use them before and after I finish the course.
Current routine:
AM
Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser to cleanse
Klaris Supple Preparation Facial Toner for toner
Cicaplast Baume B5 Soothing Multi-Purpose Balm Cream for moisturizer
Sun Bum SPF 30 fPVNM Sunscreen, Original Face Stick -- I know it's not the best, but I live in Portland/Seattle so the need is not as dire as in other places
PM
Lush Ultrabland to remove makeup
Remove makeup
Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser to cleanse
Usually after cleansing I use a mask -- I had been using more acne-targeting masks, but since I am switching to sheet masks, which I used to only use occasionally. Right now, I have Benton Snail Bee High content Sheet Mask Pack and Dermal Korea Collagen Essence Full Face Facial Mask Sheet, but I also really like Origins Drink Up-Intensive and Cosrx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Mask. When I need spot treatment, I am obsessed with Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patch
Then I go back and do -- Klaris Supple Preparation Facial Toner for toner
Cicaplast Baume B5 Soothing Multi-Purpose Balm Cream for moisturizer
Edit: I used to use (and still have left some) of Lush's Herbalism. I am not sure I should keep using it on Accutane, since it exfoliates, but any commentary on that would be appreciated!
Hi there! I also struggle with sensitive skin, and as a result I have problems with dandruff, oily skin (especially on the face), acne, acne scars, and eczema. Sensitive skin runs in my family (I'm Irish). So, I will give you a personal remedy that I developed over the last year that significantly reduced these problems.
I got some good initial information from this thread in /r/malefashionadvice. I use most of the products that he mentions there, my personal favorites being the cetaphil dermacontrol foam wash and the cetaphil dermacontrol moisturizer SPF 30.
For starters, it is important to get in a good skincare routine. I was always busy in high school and told myself that I didn't have time to waste taking care of my face. It wasn't until college that I realized my lack of skincare was really inhibiting my ability to feel confident, so that's when I decided I needed to get into a good routine. I started out by washing my face three times a day, and making sure I drink at least half a gallon of water throughout the day. Skin becomes oily when it is dehydrated, and drinking water is a good initial step to keeping it from being dehydrated.
I didn't really solidify my routine until I stumbled upon the /r/malefashionadvice skincare thread. It all depends on what works for your skin type, but for my oily sensitive skin, this is what I found works best:
After finally getting into a good facial skincare routine, I started having problems with excema and dandruff. I fortunately had a routine physical with my doctor where I asked him what I could do about these problems. This is where you may disagree with me, but he told me that I should not shower more than once a week. As I mentioned earlier, skin becomes oily/irritated when it is dehydrated, and one of the easiest ways to dehydrate your skin is excessive bathing. The doctor told me to shower once a week and more importantly to not use soap on areas besides the face, armpits, and genitals.
I told my doctor that I shower everyday because I go to the gym and sweat furiously. He told me to just take a quick rinse after the gym to wipe the sweat off, and to apply lotion daily. I apply Jergen's Ultra Healing lotion once every night before bed.
As for dandruff, this is where you may need to look elsewhere. While I do have dandruff, it's not much of a problem for me simply because it isn't very severe. I wash my hair three or four times a week with Dove Men + Care Sensitive Scalp. Since I don't shower, I usually just do this before bed by getting my hair wet in the shower, scrubbing the shampoo in vigorously with my fingers, then washing it out while also massaging my scalp. If that product doesn't work for you, you can't go wrong with some Head & Shoulders.
I hope this helps you, let me know if you think there's anything I left out!
EDIT: added towel-washing regimen
I ordered a bottle of Cure Natural Aqua Gel exfoliator stuff out of pure curiousity. While I was researching it I found loads of rave reviews along with skeptical assessments that because of its ingredients it shouldn't work. I have to find out for myself.
I also ordered another bottle of Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence, making this my third repurchase. My skin really loves this stuff and it seems to miss it when I run out.
I'm trying to decide which facial sunscreen to try next and would appreciate recommendations, particularly AB! I'm currently finishing a tube of Missha All Around Safe Block and like it a lot but fancy trying something different. I've also used and enjoyed Shiseido Hada Senka Mineral UV Gel, Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essences, Supergoop Everyday, Supergoop Soothing, and both of the ones from Elta MD. Ones I didn't like so much were Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch, Benefit Dream Screen, or any of the ones from La Roche Posay. I have dry skin and my budget is pretty open, and I don't have a preference between physical and chemical sunscreens.
If you have acne (or don't) the best cleanser I can personally recommend is the low ph good morning cleanser by Cosrx (Link to product I highly reccommend buying the product from Jolse because they are the one company that i for sure without a doubt have the real product and not a fake on amazon)
Moisturize nightly and daily and use sunscreen daily. Nuetrogena Water Gel is a great moisturizer and doesn't break me out and the Biore water essence is a great sunscreen.
As for everything else I highly reccommend going to r/skincareaddicition and r/asianbeauty (asian skin care has extremely improved my skin, Cosrx is an amazing korean skin care brand)
Based on the Beginner's FAQ, I started using the Cerave foaming wash and moisturizing cream and my skin is doing MUCH better. I have oily, somewhat acne-prone skin. I was also using the apricot scrub but I don't miss it AT ALL. The Stridex pads and occasional use of AHA pads pads a couple times a week have served to exfoliate and treat breakouts better than St Ives scrub. I feel like a bit of a success story so I recommend trying out some new products if you feel like your skin condition could improve.
Hi /r/SkincareAddiction! I've been reading through everything available and trying to craft a skincare routine for myself. I always thought I had oily or combination skin, but after reading through http://www.skincare-addiction.com/ I think I have normal skin, but it is currently being over dried and as a result producing excess oil.
Although I normally have pretty clear skin, I have had a chin-acne breakout for the past weeks. Usually my breakouts clear up within a week, so the fact that these zits are staying around longer than normal is driving me mad. In addition, I've noticed lots of open comedones on my nose and chin. I have some photos of my skin here: http://m.imgur.com/a/rpkB5
Before exploring this subreddit, my routine consisted of:
Wash face when taking a shower alternating between the St. Ives Scrub and Clean and Clear's Essentials foaming facial cleansear. Afterwards I would mousterize with Neutrogena's Oil-Free Moisture - Combination Skin. In the evenings I would use Kirkland Signuatre Daily Facial Wipes Towelettes and/or Clean and Clear's Deep Cleaning Astringent.
Based on reading the sidebar and searching past threads, my old routine has quite a lot wrong with it. So I've started on making a better routine. After reading everything this seems to be a good starting routine for me and the products I plan to use. Rest-assured, I know to patch test and start applying 1 product at a time!
AM: Rinse face with water, pat dry, apply sunscreen, occasionally (5-7 times a month) apply make up.
PM: Remove Sunscreen / Makeup, Cleanse (Cetaphil or OCM), Apply BHA / AHA exfoliant, Moisturize.
Now for my questions:
Thanks in advance for any feedback you can give. I really am excited about changing my ways and treating my skin right. I really want to make sure I don't overlook anything and end up causing more harm than good.
Hi, first off. I recommend checking out /r/SkincareAddiction. They know a lot about the ins and outs of products. But here's my little bit of wisdom; as someone (F23) who has been struggling with hormonal acne these past few months, I noticed the biggest increase in my skin appearance when I changed my diet. I started this elimination diet called Whole30 just over 2 weeks ago and have seen dramatic improvements in my skin this past week. You may not need to go on a 30 day cleanse, but I recommend cleaning up your diet as much as you can and then re-introducing certain foods to see if it triggers a breakout. Maybe try giving up things like dairy and sugar, and then bring them back after a few weeks to see if they may be throwing your hormones out of whack (because no doubt, your acne is a hormonal issue). Some bits about makeup and products; I stopped using a primer (Benefits POREfessional) and liquid foundation (Urban Decay Naked foundation). I don't know if these products were clogging my pores, but I feel better taking a break from them. I started to just use a set of Bare Minerals powders instead. I also use a micellar water to take my makeup off. Garnier SkinActive Micellar water (pink cap) works great, followed by a cleanser (CeraVe), toner (Thayers Witchhazel), and moisturizer (YesToCarrots Daily Moisturizer) -- this is my pm routine, as it involves makeup removal. In the morning, I use the cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and follow up with EltaMd SPF 46 sunscreen. This sunscreen is specifically made to reduce current redness from past/present acne and protect you from the sun. You need to wear it everyday. Hope this all helps! And good luck. Having bad skin can really take a toll on your self-esteem, but just remember that it's never permanent!
Edit: added links
I'm not an expert, but I noticed right away that you're missing a few things- an oil cleanser in your PM routine (maybe you forgot it?) and an SPF, which you mention. Nothing is going to help prevent wrinkles and skin damage like SPF, so I highly recommend adding that to your routine- just search HG SPF for your skin type, and there will be a lot of good recommendations like the Biore watery essence. An oil cleanser is also going to help clean away the sunscreen, oil and dirt that your foaming cleanser might not be picking up- the Banila Co and Kose are popular. Once you've got all that in place, you might want to start looking into actives, like BHA for keeping your pores clean or Vit C for evening your skin tone/dark circles!
Hey there!
I use a whole bunch! I believe the first I tried was olive oil, because I read that it was used by Sofia Loren (and because it was in my kitchen).
I do use specific cleansing oils; this speedy oil cleanser is delightful and I also use this one from Trader Joe's (even though it has coconut oil, which SCA often shuns due to its reputation for being comedogenic for some people.)
I occasionally layer Marula oil from TO under an occlusive at night. And my favorite thing is massaging in mineral oil (and then rinsing it off) after a clay mask. It is so wonderful.
Anyway. I have not yet tried hemp oil but after a quick Google I am intrigued and will be putting in on my list to try. So thanks!
Side note, if your face is dry and stinging products with ceramides and hyaluronic acid are often recommended to restore the moisture barrier. Using oils can be YMMV but can also definitely be a game changer. Best of luck!
If you have good skin, you don't need a lot of makeup, so consider investing in a quality moisturizer and cleanser (/r/skincareaddition suggests CeraVe brand cleansers and moisturizers). Those are your two basics.
With great skin as your canvas, next consider investing in quality cosmetics. For example, there are big differences between the $7 and the $25+ brands of mascara. A $28 tube of mascara won't flake into my eyes throughout the day and curls my lashes for me (dead serious, I haven't touched my eyelash curler in weeks). You can't say the same for that $6 tube of CoverGirl LashBlast.
For daily wear, I use a concealer to cover dark eye circles, a nude shadow to "set" the concealer for all day wear, a curling mascara for my lashes, and lip balm. I purchase my cosmetics through Sephora, because they have fantastic salespeople that will show you how to use the products and recommend solutions for your individual situation. If you don't like something, you can take it back without any questions or hassle. Here is what I love:
Yves Saint Laurent TOUCHE ÉCLAT concealer pen
Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara
Advanced Airbrush Set
Just like painting a wall in your house, using a brush instead of your fingers to apply your makeup will give you a different finish. I splurged on a set of synthetic airbrush-finish brushes, and I have been impressed with the difference that using a good brush will make.
When I was exfoliating too much, my skin broke out in tiny, itchy red dots. It was irritated, red, and flaky, but still oily as hell. So I backed off from the scrubbing and let my skin heal. Now I use cosrx blackhead power liquid, which contains betaine salicylate, a more gentle form of salicylic acid (beta hydroxy acid). I don't really have problems with salicylic acid, but this stuff does seem to be less drying. I also use MUAC Mandelic Acid Toner a few times a week. It contains mandelic acid, which is an alpha hydroxy acid with a large molecular size. Their mandelic acid serum is also really good. I only use it a couple times a week.
Every couple weeks I'll use Skin79 Crystal Peeling Gel. It's a gel with cellulose, which sticks to oil and dead skin. As you rub it off, it takes the oil and dead skin with it, leaving behind smooth skin. I really like it because it's very gentle but effective. Korean and Japanese brands have lots of peeling gels. All of them have worked pretty much the same, so I haven't bothered with the expensive ones like Cure Aqual Gel, which is very popular.
I used to use abrasive scrubs and at-home microdermabrasion kits like the one from Olay. It worked really well until my face decided it had had enough.
This is just my exfoliation routine. There are other products I use that I can tell you about if you're interested. :)
I have and can decant:
Memebox I'm Cleansing Oil #Moist (https://us.memebox.com/product/5526)
Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil (https://www.amazon.com/Softy-Facial-Cleansing-Speedy-Pound/dp/B000V2FBAQ)
sample of SCINIC coconut cleansing oil
--
SCINIC Snail All-In-One Ampoule (https://us.memebox.com/product/5551)
SCINIC Snail Matrix Cream (https://us.memebox.com/product/5550/snail-matrix-cream-50ml)
samples of:
--
Kose SUNCUT UV Protect Gel SPF50 PA+++ - thin/spreads easily, fragrance free, and goes on clear
--
sample of Laneige Water Sleeping Pack
samples of TonyMoly Intense Care Dual Effect Sleeping Pack
sample of Etude House Play Therapy Sleeping Pack (Moist UP!)
Let me know if you're interested in anything!~
Unfortunately, for most people who have sensitive skins, there is rarely a single product that solves all. Here are several habits I develop to cope with my troubled skin.
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In Camp care
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Friction rash
Source: History of oily skin, cystic acne & eczema.
I started getting similar breakouts near my chin after getting on birth control. After trying a lot of different things, I tried adding an evening primrose oil supplement to my vitamin regimen due to my research on this sub and elsewhere. It's only been 2 months (I know that's not a long time in skin-care land), but I have already seen a big difference in my skin, especially around my period. Though I do still get some breakouts, they are MUCH smaller and clear up almost immediately.
My regimen:
Morning: rinse face with water, moisturize with Cetaphil (in the tub), take vitamins/supplements after breakfast (one 1000 mg pill of evening primrose oil, one multivitamin, one 400 IU pill of vitamin E)
Evening: wash with Cetaphil gentle cleanser & pink Sephora manual face cleansing brush, apply coconut oil(I literally just dip my fingers in the jar and apply to my face).
I may up my intake of the evening primrose oil (the bottle recommends taking 3 pills per day), but I wanted to test it out first. I've also heard good things about spearmint tea helping with hormonal breakouts, but no personal experience. Good luck to you!
Hada Labo Rohto Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist I have found that layering a lot of thin layers has been the most helpful for my routine. This is my favorite toner by far. There isn’t really any fragrance and it doesn’t dry sticky for me.
I don’t have specific products to recommend, but I can list my routine for you and you can see if you can get some ideas.
AM
PM
I’ve tried a few of the Mizon Snail essences/gels but I’ve had better luck with CosRX and Hada Labo. I also love tried stuff off r/asianbeautyexchange i hate buying stuff that doesn’t work out.
I found three things really helped with my body acne, which I had on my chest and back. It was never terrible, I only had mild - moderate acne on my body, but it was definitely annoying.
Hope that helps!