(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best facial serums

-pixi nourshing balm oil cleanser Take off with warm baby wash cloth (microfiber, 10 pk $5 walmart)

• botanical all bright 3-in-1 micellar cleansing solution$6.99 Walgreens. Works better than Garnier pink cap, gets everything off in one swipe, it’s amazing. Seriously. And moisturizing.
  
• la Roche posay toleraine purifying foaming face wash helps clear out the gunk, great ph neutral and helps dehydrated skin. Both my SO and I used this and were amazed what it did to our skin in 2 weeks time.
  
• cosrx 96 snail mucin (hydrating HA type serum)
  
• dr. jart ceramedin liquid a very moisturizing “toner” in a sense, it helps repair the moisture barrier and i love how my skin looks when i use this stuff. I also use it on wounds to help them heal faster.
  
• hada labo premium solution and hada labo premium milky lotion 2 step system. Use this for very dry days.
  
• drunk elephant frambroos serum will wake up with brand new skin everyday
  
• dr jart ceramidin cream As an all over layer once your done with these.
  -dr Dennis gross alpha beta exfoliating moisturizer a wonderful emollient moisturizer that wakes you up with brand new skin, think of it as a more moisturizer DE frambroos, that you can use on the days you don’t use DE frambroos to get moisture and exfoliating and plumping properties. It’s wonderful.
  
• ole Hendrickson banana bright eye cream wonderfully hydrating and also brightening under makeup as well, but can still be used at night. Plumps fine lines.
  
• organic jojoba oil dab over face and around eyes, over eyelashes, eyebrows. Jojoba oil soaks into the epidermis bc it is the same size if not smaller than our pore size (compared to all these other oils like rose hip, squalene, Marula, etc)
  
• organic grapeseed oil, one of the highest in oleic and linoleic acid, resveratol, omega 3, omega 6, vitamin E. Don’t use too much. jojoba, grapeseed, emu oil are my favorite. Emu helps anything put over or under cross the phosopholipid barrier and cross deeper into the epidermis.
  
• lock everything in with Cera ve ointment.
  
• la Roche posay double repair moisturizer UV SPF 30 Use this as a daily spf, it helps dehydrated skin.
  
  
  things to have in your arsenol
  
• stratia liquid gold a combo of niacin amide, cholesterol, other important ingredients in the right combo that can be added to your routine without going through the ordinary mindfuck.
  
• Niod flavonne mud mask a detox, purifying, protective, and responsive face mask. One of the few masks to actually have.
  
• sand & sky Australian pink sand mask Just do it. Have this in your kit because it Detoxes your skin and makes it look like brand new baby skin with small pores.
  
• biologique recherche mask Viviant You won’t be able to get this, but eventually hopefully down the road in your skincare journey you will understand why I am recommending this. One of the best in the world.
  
• Aztec secret healing clay a good clay mask that is multi-purpose. Can sprinkle in your bath with some epsom salt with a very, very detoxing bath. Or with a packet of aveeno (or off brand) colloidal oatmeal packs for calming, soothing yet detoxing bath.
  
• taste knockout tingling treatment You want to see your pores disappear and your skin stay nice and balanced? Use this the night before. It’s pure magic. I’ve never used biologique recherche pm1970 but I can only imagine this is the closest it comes.
  
• biologique recherche p50 pigm400 regulates melanin productions, evens and brightens skin.
  
• melazepam 20% I personally am eventually going to try this, it’s iffy to recommend this because I haven’t tried it.... but it’s definitely on my list.... for an even and brighter complexion. I’ve tried The Ordinary 7% azelic acid and that was cool but not much of a difference. This seems like you would actually see a significant difference. I personally use retin A and have for 16 years now, nothing would work as good (none of these products) without my retin a. Pore size would not be what it is today without it. Melazepam=Azaelic acid or whatever. It prevents re-keratinization, is an anti microbial, anti-inflammatory, and some other shit. This plus retin A are like a golden combo. Def on my amazon wish list.
  
• the ordinary 30% aha bha acid peel or whatever. One of the only TO products actually worth owning in my opinion. The rest are a clusterfuck that crowd up your sink and look cool. But only serve one individual purpose. Usually a mild one at that. By that way, watch that caffeine solution bc that can be very very drying. It can help with mild puffiness but lymphatic massage helps more to drain the fluid and all together help the cause, versus a solution that is going to dry out your skin in the end all.
  
  
  That’s all I’ve got. Obviously this is not a go out and buy all these products at once, but I do believe that every single product on this list would help your skin. The major ones being tarte knockout treatment, sand and sky mask, la Roche posay toleraine purifying foaming face wash, pixi nourshing cleansing balm, botanicals 3-1 micellar water, cosrx snail mucin, dr jart ceramidin serum, and the dr Dennis gross exfoliating lotion. Frambroos is magical too. Gosh. Just everything here. But those specifically are my hard hitters. If I had to go buy something right now to try and see results, it’d be tarte knockout tingling treatment. The results on resurfacing are amazing. Buy that and jojoba oil, it’s moisturizing, just pat it in. Cera Ve makes a big difference in occluding your products and really making them soak the fuck in,.
  
  

  I say this because I had skin just like yours about 3 months ago and I wasted my money on all these “HG” products everyone talked about, and they were pure shit. Find what YOUR skin likes girl,. And don’t go balls out all at once. Try one thing and see how your skin reacts, then start introducing like products. Don’t be afraid to return products to CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Sephora, Ulta. EVERYWHERE. Keep your receipts. Every. Single. One.

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.

1. How many times should one cleanse each day? twice
   
   
2. After washing your face and putting on moisturizer, is it normal for your skin to still feel slightly tight and dry? no
   
   
3. When moisturizing my face, if I use something more watery it just feels like it dries up and takes all the moisture from my skin leaving it dry. Is this supposed to be normal? no
   
   
4. If I put on more moisturizer afterwards, the oiliness gets too much and my face turns red. When that happens should I cleanse again and put more moisturizer on? Or should I use a cloth or something similar to wipe my face instead? keep blotting sheets on hand and blot at the oiliness (no rubbing)
   
   
5. What should I be doing if my skin turns red and irritated? this is a sign that your skin is damaged - find gentle products that restore balance
   
   
6. If I put on sunscreen my face gets oilier but still remains dry. What should I do during times like that? again, this should get better as your skin gets stronger
   
   
7. How many times should one be using 8~10% AHA per week? if I were you, I would stop using this, at least for several months
   
   
8. Would you agree that dry skin is generally darker and tougher and oily skin is reddish and blotchy? no, I think those are unrelated

I have just turned 30, and for the past year or so I have been using all L'Oreal Revitalift products minus the retinol. I have pretty clear / combination skin (no acne or dark spots), but it can get dry & sensitive without the proper products, so I have typically opted for cream cleansers. Below is my current routine.

Day: RevitaLift Cream Cleanser, Vitamin C Serum, Eye cream, Day Moisturizer, and Sunscreen

Night: RevitaLift Cream Cleanser, Skinbetter Alpha-ret Overnight retinol cream, Eye cream, Night Cream / Moisturizer

While I haven't had issues with the above products, I would like to try more natural products (sulfate-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, etc.) that can help with anti-aging & brightening. I have done a lot of research and compiled a list of some possible products, but would love some advice or guidance on what folks have used and what has worked best, even if it's not on this list. Hoping to devise a new routine ASAP. Thanks!

Cleanser

Korres Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cleanser

A Perfect World - Antioxidant Cleanser With White Tea

Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser

Drunk Elephant Beste No. 9 Cleanser

Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash (heard this can dry out the face)

Toner (I have never used a toner, but heard the Thayers Witch Hazel is the best)

Thayers Witch Hazel Alcohol Free Toner - Rose Petal

Origins Balancing Tonic

Antioxidant Serum (Vitamin C)

Youth to the People - Superfood Firm and Brighten Vitamin C Serum

Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum

Andalou Naturals Turmeric + C Enlighten Serum

Juice Beauty Antioxidant Serum

Eye Cream (Definitely need more guidance here)

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Eye Cream

Moisturizer (Would like a day time moisturizer & night cream)

Juice Beauty Antioxidant Moisturizer

Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer SPF 25

Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Cream

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Sunscreen (Heard this is the best one)

Elta MD Skincare Broad Spectrum

Gurl I just moved to Louisiana and this humidity is doing some strange shit to my normally dry skin.

You might want to get a dedicated night cream that doesn't have an SPF in it. When I was a makeup newbie I just used the same moisturizer am and pm and noticed a serious reduction in my sebacious filaments (they look like black heads/enlarged pores) when I switched out the spf for a nighttime moisturizer. I used to use a pond's moisturizer at night because it's rich and feels luxurious but is super cheap and sinks in. A lot of poeple here like cerave pm but I found that it never really absorbed into my skin.

You might want to up your SPF too, The Eucerin is only spf 30 and reducing sun exposure will help lighten any pigmentation on your face. But, you know, you're a busy lady in the morning and most face sunscreens that are higher than spf 30 don't work as well as moisturizers also.

ANYWAYS, I'd also recommend adding a vitam c serum to your routine (am, after washing before moisturizer). My first vitamin c serum was from Mad Hippie, it's super no fuss (unlike other derivatives it's pretty stable so you don't have to keep it in the fridge and you can buy it at whole foods/other "natural" grocery stores) but does a great job at reducing pigmentation and spots. I'm currently using Hylamide's because I can buy it at CVS but I think Mad Hippie's formula packs a better punch. Vitamin C should help A LOT with fading your sun spots/apparently it boosts spf coverage?

Once you've got a vitamin c serum that you like you can add a retinoid to your pm routine. You're 10 years older than me so we have different aging needs but I really like The Ordinary's Advanced Retinoid 2%. It SIGNIFICANTLY reduced my "11s" lines (I drink too much and used to smoke a pack a day...). It's INCREDIBLY gentle and I was able to use it every night. I actually replaced all of my actives with it and my skin never looked better. When I finished my bottle I switched to differin and I have serious regrets about it and will be repurchasing the 2% retinoid when I'm done with my tube of differin. If you start using a retinol product thought I would HIGHLY recommend that you up your SPF usage, at least at the beginning, because it makes your skin more photosensitive.

I’m using Klairs (a Korean brand). Klairs

I keep my Klairs in the fridge, but it is pretty stable compared to others I have used. I’ve had it for a couple of months and still no discoloration. It makes my skin super soft and smooth. Be sure to use sunscreen with this product!

Vitamin c works best on bare skin. There are a lot of vitamin c products but they are not all the same!

Read the ingredients list, you want “ascorbic acid”. Ascorbic acid is the same as what is in our skin and only this derivative can readily absorb into the skin. All others are more stable, but may not absorb or convert to a product that our skin can use! The vitamin C that is in the product you are using is sodium ascorbyl acetate, which is stable but less effective than ascorbic acid and may not convert into ascorbic acid (no data available) Source: What is the best kind of Vitamin C for skin? (the beauty brains)

Here are some things he could try that I've been using myself lately with amazing benefits (I'm a 43 year old woman but skin is skin, right?). Rosehip seed oil (organic)- put several drops in a basic moisturizer for face or try it alone. There are Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid serums. I recently got this one:http://www.amazon.com/ArtNaturals-Enhanced-Vitamin-Serum-Hyaluronic/dp/B012Q4M3DO/ref=pd_bia_nav_t_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0VD4AB1R7RZWFKG3N5X4 and noticed a huge difference in how my skin brightened and the blotchiness/skin pigmentation decreased dramatically. Twice a day (morning and after I wash my face at night) I rub 2 dropperfuls over my face and let dry for a minute before putting moisturizer on. It's very watery but feels good. I have other similar serums coming that I am going to try as I'm almost out of this one but they all have vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in them. For retinol, I prefer Neutrogena products, although Roc has good ones too. I have used various retinol creams over the years but tend to prefer the ones without sunscreen. I don't spend a lot of time outdoors, but when I do I make sure to use sunscreen. I just don't like how it feels on my face so I avoid the UV issue by being indoors a lot. :) Lastly, it sounds weird, but he should try cleansing his face every night with Extra Virgin Coconut oil. I did that last night for the first time and my face looks amazing this morning! You cleanse with a teaspoon of oil, rubbing it in circles around your face. Get a washcloth wet with hot water, squeeze out some of the water and hold that on your face. The heat helps the oil soak in some, then you can rinse with very warm water. Good luck!

> My skin just doesn’t have much of a glow or bounce to it at all, so I’d really like to incorporate some new products in to help with the moisture content but after the Cerave issue, Cosdna lookups and engrossing myself in this site I’m more confused than ever and don’t know where to start.

Best way to get dat glow is with a million hydrating and moisturizing products!

I know the CeraVe issue is concerning, and I'd highly recommend cross-referencing the ingredients in the Hydrating and Foaming cleanser to see if you can hone in on any potential suspects, then maybe expand the net to other products you've used in the past. The only way to figure out what ingredients break you out is to try a bunch of products - even if something breaks you out, at least it's adding to your knowledge and can help with your future purchases!

Check out this list - you can totally fit a hydrating toner or serum in there, maybe an additional moisturizer, and most definitely a nice occlusive like Vaseline in the PM!

If that list has too many options, I'd look into:

Toner: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence (review, jolse) ; Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion (review, amazon)

Light Lotions/Emulsions: Dr. Jart ceramidin liquid (review, amazon) ; Innisfree Green Tea Moisture Essence (review - coming soon!, jolse) (my personal fave)

Thicker Lotions: Trader Joe's Antioxidant Facial Moisturizer ($6 at Trader Joe's) ; Stratia Liquid Gold (review,
review 2,
stratia)

Thick Cream: CosRx Honey Ceramide Cream (review, jolse)

Occlusive: Vaseline, Aquaphor, CeraVe Healing Ointment (I like to mix liquid lanolin in with my vaseline - makes it easier to spread and brings the glow to the next level)

Hydrating products will also help with the oily-dehydrated skin type, fine lines, and maybe even CCs! Some people with dehydrated skin report acne clearing up after treating dehydration

Answer the siren call of #sluglife

I’ve had good results azelaic acid. When I first started using it, it really burned at itched. I have super sensitive skin was sure I was gonna wake up with a rash after using it the night before but instead I woke up with the smoothest, redness-free skin I’ve ever had. I’ve been using it everyday since and it no longer stings or burns. The results have been great. It’s definitely the active I’ve had the least irritation from. I use Melzapam.

I’ve also had good luck with Alpha Skincare renewal cream. It has 12% glycolic acid which is kind of strong if your skin isn’t used to it. To get my skin used to it, I mixed a little bit of it and my regular CeraVe moisturizer together in my hand before putting it on my face. Then I mixed progressively more in each following night until I could comfortable use it on its own.

Both of these products have emollients so they shouldn’t further dry out your skin.

Thank you so much for correcting my formatting error! It seems adding the pound (octothorpe) sign before my numbers to answer OP's questions unintentionally bolded the text :)

However, your information seems extraordinarily basic. All vendors selling a Vitamin C variation (like SAP, MAP, Tetrahex, etc) will recommend using a "blanket" low % of the active (somewhere b/w 0-3) to achieve "added antioxidant benefits". These recommended %s then change to 10% and above in order to yield skin lightening effects (what everyone is traditionally searching for with Vit C usage). SOURCES: Vit C SAP https://www.makingcosmetics.com/Vitamin-C-sodium-ascorbyl-phosphate_p_1040.html ; Vit C MAP https://www.makingcosmetics.com/Vitamin-C-magnesium-ascorbyl-phosphate_p_323.html ; Vit C Tetrahex http://www.lotioncrafter.com/tetrahexyldecyl-ascorbate-BV-OSC.html ; L-Asc Acid http://www.lotioncrafter.com/ascorbic-acid-ultrafine.html .

Further, the recommended % for skin lightening effects of a specific Vit C are typically exceeded in commercially-made products (think 15% L-Asc. Acid in the award winning CE Ferulic). Here are some links to Vit C SAP serums that use a 20% concentration and are wildly successful: https://www.amazon.com/TruSkin-Naturals-Vitamin-Anti-Aging-Hyaluronic/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506303615&sr=1-4&keywords=vitamin%2Bc%2Bserum&th=1 ; https://www.amazon.com/Amara-Organics-Vitamin-Serum-Hyaluronic/dp/B00G2TQNZ4/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506303638&sr=1-5&keywords=vitamin+c+serum I USED TO USE THIS ONE ; https://www.amazon.com/Radha-Beauty-Vitamin-Serum-Face/dp/B00VNXQE94/ref=sr_1_8_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506303638&sr=1-8&keywords=vitamin+c+serum .

Plus any good formulator knows that manual pH adjusting (via Triethanomine or Citric Acid) of DIY skincare products is essential.

If you have any other credible resources that contradict my information provided, please feel free to share :) I'd be happy to take a look. But currently it seems all points of your argument have been invalidated.

Please stop your misguided fear mongering. xoxo

It seems like you’re not getting enough moisture in your routine, you should try incorporating an oil into your routine. Some carriers that work really well are rosehip, jojoba, pumpkin seed, some people even like argan or castor oil (although these are very heavy and I wouldn’t recommend starting with these). Simple carrier oils are generally pretty cheap too, I got this rosehip oil from Amazon for $13 (Rosehip Seed Oil by Kate Blanc. USDA Certified Organic, 100% Pure, Cold Pressed, Unrefined. Reduce Acne Scars. Essential Oil for Face, Nails, Hair, Skin. Therapeutic AAA+ Grade (1 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N3340K7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Dx5WCb5ZFAHAK). You can also use a facial oil blend from a good brand, I like Herbivore’s Phoenix and Orchid oil (Herbivore Botanicals - Mini Facial Oil Trio https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KCPSNPK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Bs5WCbHDJW4H9) and I super love Sunday Riley’s Juno oil (Sunday Riley Juno JUNO Antioxidant + Superfood Face Oil, 1.18 Fl Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HW1P8SE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_yt5WCbFDTXK83). These are pretty pricey options but since you only need to mix a few drops in with your moisturizer, they last a long time.

But yeah, it definitely sounds like incorporating an oil into your routine would help balance your moisture a bit more. I hope this all helps!

**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

1. Wipe face gently with Neutrogena Makeup Removing Wipes
   
2. Spritz face with rose water to re-moisten (currently using Leven Rose Rose Water)
   
3. Eva Naturals Vitamin B3 5% Niacinamide Serum(daily)
   
4. Spritz face with Kikumasamune Sake High Moisture Skin Lotion Tonerbefore skin dries completely
   
5. Moisturize with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
   
6. Spritz face again with Kiku to keep moist
   
7. Warm two drops of The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalanein hands and pat all over face (I just added this to my routine and I have high hopes)
   
8. Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
   
9. Coola Liplux Lip Balm Sunscreen SPF 30
   
10. 1-2 times per week, exfoliate face with Baiden Mitten Exfoliator Glove
    
11. 1-2 times per week exfoliate lips with Hanalei Sugar Lip Scrub
    
    PM
    
    
12. First cleanse with Illiyoon Total Aging Care Cleansing Oil (I'm finishing up this bottle and then I'm going back to using Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil).
    
13. Second cleanse with CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
    
14. Saturate cotton pad (White Rabbit organic cotton) with Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner and gently wipe face and neck
    
15. Spritz face with rose water to re-moisten
    
16. Elizavecca Hell Pore Control Hyaluronic acid Serum(nightly)
    
17. Spritz face with Kiku before skin dries completely
    
18. Moisturize with Elizavecca Milky Piggy Retinol Cream
    
19. Spritz face again with Kiku to keep moist
    
20. Additional moisturizer layer with Mizon Black Snail All in One Cream (I'm sure this is unnecessary, but I feel like the snail cream has done more for me than any other product and I'm emotionally attached to it now lol)
    
21. Warm two drops of TO squalane oil in hands and pat all over face (NEW)
    
22. Hanalei Lip Treatment
    
23. Cover any cystic acne with spot treatment patches
    
24. Once a week, spot treat dry problem areas with Origins drink up intensive overnight mask(it looks like they recently changed the formula for this, so I'm going to have to find something new when this runs out)
    
25. Once a week, spot treat acne problem areas with Proactiv Skin Purifying Mask
    
    ​
    
    **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.

Oh, don't get me wrong! I think you should go with the Biafine. You'll be able to get a prescription I think and I think it works wonderfully well. It's Homeoplasmine that I think is a little overrated since it's primary value is in being petroleum jelly with calendula extract, but you can get it cheap so it's not a big deal. Importing it is just a bit much because the mark-up is what makes it not worth it. I do like Celsus Bio-Intelligence Scar Cream and have used that for a few years now for any burns or wounds along with a Vitamin C serum using magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and niacinamide.

I agree that the Japanese/Korean sunscreen formulations are just much more cosmetically elegant. I've tried LRP Anthelios and just prefer Hada Labo/Missha if I had to choose between the two. I'm hopefully going to Paris next year to stock up on all the rich creams and oils I can carry. I'm glad Cleanance K is working out for you too! I may try that this winter. :)

Can someone please recommend me a good vitamin C serum with Hyaluronic Acid? Also explain why its recommended to get Vit C Serum that contains Hyaluronic Acid? I'm still very much in the learning / trying to figure this stuff out phase and I read things here and there and want to get a better understanding of why its recommended. I'm kind of confused by all the things i'm discovering, but also super excited!

Anyway someone here had recommended this one before:
https://www.amazon.com/Seoul-Ceuticals-Korean-Skin-Care/dp/B072K1LNNY/

but it is pricey!!!! so I wanted to know if there are other options you recommend, or if the above is worth it for the price?

Please advise. Thank you!!!

What I personally recommend is buying CBD Isolate and making the juice yourself. That's what I am doing for my lower back and neck pain.


I bought the Isolate with GSC terpenes which gave it a nice earthy flavour, though I can't say if added anything for pain relieve.


If you want to know how to make it here goes...

Ingredients:

• Propylene glycol (e-liquid base)
  
• Isolate (contains CBD)
  
• Tap water (for heating)
  
  Equipment:
  
  
• Dropper bottle of choice (storing liquid)
  
• Sauce pan (holding water and bottle for dissolving isolate)
  
• Scales (used for weighing PG and Isolate)
  
• Pipette (getting the PG into the bottle)
  
  (Links are just there to show what I used)
  
  NOTES: The isolate is not water soluble so using VG isn't recommended as the dissolved isolate can crystallise in the liquid due to the water content in the VG; PG doesn't have this issue. PG however, is know to give a throat hit, but from my usage I haven't found this to be an issue.
  
  To work out the the amount of PG and CBD first deiced how much CBD per ml you would like. I wanted around 15mg per ml which I would say is good for me. The recommended strength seems to be around 13.5 – 20mg/mL. Then you just multiple the CBD/ml by the amount of liquid you want to make. So for 15mg/ml @ 30ml you would do 15×30 to get 450mg of isolate.
  
  DON'T use an amber bottle if possible - it's a pain to see the isolate when water is on the bottle as it goes very dark.
  
  Instructions:
  
  

1. Prepare the solution
   
   1. Weigh out PG (1.04g = 1g) using pipette straight into the bottle.
      
   2. Weigh out the Isolate and put into the PG.
      
      I did this on some foil that was folded into a cross so I could poor the isolate directly into the bottle. You could also use I funnel, but i only had large ones to hand that wouldn't fit the neck of the bottle.
      
2. Get some water in the pan and bring it to a simmer but not to hot (just enough so you can just hold your finger in the water). Ideally it should cover the level of liquid in the bottle, but not submerge the whole bottle.
   
3. When the water is simmering turn the heat of and place the bottle in the water. I left it for 10 minutes and then shook the bottle to help break the big bits down (not as necessary for isolate without turpentines.
   
4. After 10 minutes, the water had cooled slightly, so I put the hit back on until it was back to a simmer. I then left it for another 10 minutes. This process should be repeated until all the Isolate has visible dissolved. I think it took me 3 or 4 for it to fully dissolve.
   
   Vaping
   
   I would recommend a RTA or RDTA since the liquid can gunk up the coils at a reasonable rate, so making you own is ideal to get around this. I am vaping on the following coils:
   
   

• 24AWG Kanthal A1, 11 wraps, 3.0mm (ID) Single coil @ 1.00-ohm 35W.
  
  I vape this 2-3 times a day depending on the pain, and it works a treat.
  
  
  
  If you have any questions feel free to ask :)
  
  

I think so! A lot of the reviewers mentioned that they loved the lighteness of it. So it should probably be really good for combo skin. I personally can't attest to it, I'm sorry!

You may want to start with 5% niacinamide serum if you're a first time user, if you have very sensitive skin. I had decent results from the Eva Naturals one. I'm not sure how much is in the Physicians Formula Brightening Booster, but it's third on the ingredient list. It's like a light jelly and I'm almost done with it after about 2 months using it 1x a day each morning. For other options, Olay Total Effects & Luminous lines have at least 5% niacinamide in them.

But you may not need to because most of the reviews on Hwahae praised both 2sol serums as being very gentle. Good luck!

Generally blessed to have good skin, until I started breaking out like mad a few months back on my forehead and upper lip area.

Upon the advice of a friend, I tried AHA/BHA to clear myself up from Paula's Choice and Drunken Elephant's Babyfacial but it seemed to make everything much worse.

I finally went to HeyDay and my facialist berated me for following the advice that wasn't right for my skin type. Her theory was that my pores were getting clogged and irritated from being extremely dehydrated (NYC winters) and suggested that I use a gentler cleanser, an exfoliant, and an intense healing balm.

My skin is SO much better now with the extra moisture so my regimen is as follows:

Grown Alchemist Gel Cleanser - Half pump to remove make-up, half pump to cleanse. Day and nighttime.

[Naturopathica Healing Balm] (https://www.amazon.com/Naturopathica-Gotu-Kola-Healing-Balm/dp/B01H60XAH6) Mix with HA and/or MH Vitamin C serum to make it less thick. Use higher concentration at night for healing and less in day because it can be a bit shiny.

[Cosmedica Hyaluronic Acid] (https://www.amazon.com/Hyaluronic-Pure-Highest-Anti-Aging-Non-greasy-Paraben-free-Best/dp/B0090UJFYI/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1522688559&sr=1-4&keywords=hyaluronic+acid) Honestly, just the Amazon default HA and suits my purposes to mix with the Naturopathica Healing Balm.

[Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum] (https://www.amazon.com/Mad-Hippie-Vitamin-Hyaluronic-Ferulic/dp/B00DKF7XPW/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1522688609&sr=1-1&keywords=mad+hippie+vitamin+c+serum) Mix with Naturopathica Healing Balm. I bought this on a whim and my skin got worse when I ran out so I re-introduced this back into my regimen as an HA alternative.

[Grown Alchemist Exfoliant] (https://www.amazon.com/Grown-Alchemist-Polishing-Facial-Exfoliant/dp/B00G3J8J96/ref=sr_ph_1_s_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1522688670&sr=sr-1&keywords=grown+alchemist+exfoliant) Use 2-3x a week to gently exfoliate at nighttime after cleansing.

[Mad Hippie Sunscreen] (https://www.amazon.com/Mad-Hippie-Products-Facial-Broad-Spectrum/dp/B018E92YAC/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1522688706&sr=1-1&keywords=mad+hippie+sunscreen) Terrible at using this daily, but that is the goal!

I'm happy to help!

When I'm wearing makeup, I start with coconut oil and finish with a face wash. Currently I'm using Acure Organics facial cleansing gel, but I haven't really met a face wash I love yet. I'm thinking of trying the Jack Black glycolic face wash - I don't know your skin type, but mine is oily, acne-prone, overproduces keratin and I have to force my skin cells to turn over so I'm always chemically exfoliating. The Jack Black might be something you could look into.

this is the vitamin c serum I currently use. I bought it on a whim because they were having a marketing sale and it was less than $4, plus the ingredients list is INSANELY good. And I love it! I'm definitely noticing that my skin seems more glowy and my hyper-pigmentation is slowly fading.

No, vitamin C pills you take orally will not do the same thing at all. Grinding up the pills and putting on your skin will also NOT do the same things at all. :P That's like your parent asking you to go pick up some oil from the store so they can cook dinner and you go to the automotive section and pick up engine oil. They're different!! :3

Also what kind of acne scars? Vitamin C won't do anything for depressions in the skin, but if you mean dark marks, it can help those. Don't forget to wear sunscreen EVERY. DAY. sunny or cloudy or else nothing will fade even with the vitamin c helping.

You are looking for a vitamin C TOPICAL serum with L-Ascorbic Acic as the main active ingredient.

THESE are the kind of vitamin C you want. :)


CSI Youth Serum 12% L-AA, $18 for 1 fluid ounce


NuFountain Celsignal 15% MAP with hyaluronic acid, & Niacinamide, $26 for 1 fluid ounce


NuFountain C20 20% L-AA, $17 for 1 fluid ounce

Hi there! As a start, I'd probably stop using Dr. Bronner's Soap. It's very alkaline with a pH of 8.9, too stripping for the skin. Skin is naturally a little acidic (4.6 - 6.0 pH), and clinical studies have shown that acne proliferates in an alkaline environment, plus continued use of an alkaline cleanser will actually make your skin increasingly more alkaline over time so it's best to use a cleanser with a slightly acidic pH (ideal is 5.5 pH).

Def search this subreddit for silicone-free to see what else you can find but here's a starter list of products (4 years old). A silicone free primer you could try is Too Faced Hangover.

The tamanu oil might be a little high in the oleic acid % (~40%) so it could be potentially comedogenic. Check this site for other acne-safe oils.

As for VitC, it is def quite confusing. VitC, in the LAA form, is quite temperamental. It's ascorbic acid already so it doesn't need to convert but its unstable, requires a low pH to work and needs a 15-20% concentration. It can also be irritating. It oxidizes quickly from water, light, air and heat so smart chemists developed derivative forms which while are more stable and tolerated, must convert to ascorbic acid (SAP, MAP, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (ATIP), etc.). There are limited studies on derivatives' efficacy (ability to penetrate, convert to ascorbic acid, etc). The latest derivative, ATIP, has shown to be well tolerated, shelf-stable and penetrate deeper and faster than LAA (7% concentration) so could be a winner for you. Here are some affordable options: LAA form: Timeless Skin Care 20% Vitamin C Plus E Ferulic Acid Serum ($15.50). It's formula is similar to the gold-standard, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic ($166); SAP product: Mad Hippe VitC Serum; MAP product: The Ordinary Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate 10% ($10); ATIP: Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate Solution 20% in Vitamin F ($17.80). I can't speak to the nursing friendly aspect but I hope this helps as a starting point!

Skin Type: Normal/Dry | Country/Climate I'm in: NYC | Top Skin Concern: Keeping skin hydrated, keeping pores small, getting rid of acne scars

Current Routine/Products I'm Using:

AM

Splash water on face or use face wash (was using Skinfood Egg White Pore Foam, and just recently switched to Etude House Wonder Pore).

Klairs Supple Preparation Toner

Klairs Vitamin C Drop Serum

Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass 30+ SPF

PM

Innisfree Olive Cleansing Tissue

Face wash - same as morning, was using Skinfood Pore Foam, now using Etude House Wonder Pore

Klairs toner (same as above)

Klairs Vitamin C drop (same as above)

Innisfree Wine Jelly Sleeping Pack

I specifically [want help with/am looking for a product to/am curious about trying]... Wondering if my routine can be critiqued! I want to work more on fading acne scars, so I think I need a stronger vitamin C serum than the Klairs one, if anyone has a recommendation. Also, if I use a stronger one, should I not use it in the morning because then I get sun exposure? Also definitely looking for a good exfoliator to use a couple times a week - I do not have one. I also really want to work on getting plump, dewy, glowing skin. My skin right now feels kinda blah. I've recently starting using this propolis sheet mask which is working great.

Hi! I have extremely dry, eczema-prone skin; I also happen to work at Sephora so I've gotten to try most of the moisturizers we carry. The most hydrating things I've found are Tatcha Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream and Dr. Jart Ceramidin Cream. I like to add a little Fresh Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil for added hydration, but the grapeseed oil should work just fine :) I see a lot of people mentioning Clinique -- I actually used to work for Clinique and honestly I don't consider Moisture Surge/Intense to be particularly hydrating (my skin will eat it within the hour and then I feel tight again). That's not to say it doesn't feel nice on the skin, but it wasn't my favorite. You should try adding hyaluronic acid to your routine as well, I must've gone through about four of these by now. It really helps my skin retain moisture and is super cheap to boot. Someone on /r/asianbeauty turned me on to it and I haven't looked back.

This one by InstaNatural. I was slightly skeptical to be honest, because I noticed some serums and skincare products from lesser known brands on Amazon tend to have a LOT of compensated reviews (ie. people writing positively about the product because they received it free or at a discount). There were a few of those peppered in here and there for this one but, holy crap, I'm glad I bought it anyway. It definitely plays a part in smoothing down my milia. My skin loves it. Whatever they're doing to combine the retinol, vit c, niacinamide and salicylic acid in this glorious formula, I hope they never change cause it's only been a couple weeks in but I already see a repurchase in my future.

There are some people running around SCA hammering Timeless Vit C serum. TBH, it's not that great in terms of quality, but kind of a generic product and I've tried it more than once.

It might not hurt to try a vitamin C serum in an Asian Beauty line that contains anti-inflammatories & other natural ingredients that boost skin health.

Instanatural is a Korean company that sells directly on Amazon, where the Instanatural Vitamin C Serum is highly rated ($16 per ounce, subscription price). Check out the ingredient list:

Aqua, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Cassia Angustifolia Seed Extract, Globularia Cordifolia Callus Culture Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Punica Granatum Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Algae Extract, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Hippophae Rhamnoides Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Ferulic Acid, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tocopheryl Acetate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) Extract, Geranium Maculatum Extract, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

Hi. . .found Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Liquid and balm super cheap on Amazon. I quickly snapped it up because it seemed too good to be true. Should I be concerned? Reviews are pretty good, though there were some questions re: sealed/unsealed product for the liquid.

Here's the link to the [balm] (https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Jart-Plus-Ceramidin-Ounce/dp/B00TJBZ3LC/ref=pd_sim_194_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00TJBZ3LC&pd_rd_r=243ZF205XZHRK5V77YVC&pd_rd_w=ByaMr&pd_rd_wg=9fVWH&psc=1&refRID=243ZF205XZHRK5V77YVC).

And for the [liquid] (https://www.amazon.com/Dr-Jart-Ceramidin-Liquid-Ounce/dp/B00AMANH58/ref=pd_sim_194_2?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00AMANH58&pd_rd_r=243ZF205XZHRK5V77YVC&pd_rd_w=ByaMr&pd_rd_wg=9fVWH&psc=1&refRID=243ZF205XZHRK5V77YVC)

Thanks!

Agreed on double cleansing and toning and moisturizing! I use Hada Labo Cleansing Oil as my first cleanser, and micellar water is great too!

As u/beancass said above, Vitamin C serums would be great for your discoloration. Here are some popular ones:

• Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum
  
• Melano CC Essence
  
• The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension

I use the InstaNaturals brand. I used to make my own, but I got pretty lazy, and didn't wanna invest more money into making a product that also offers a little more than just Vitamin C. I like how it feels on my skin, just plumps it right up, and I also like that there are very promising studies on how SAP helps with acne.

This serum has been working great for my acne scars and frown lines, or if you don't trust it, just straight up Vitamin E oil is good for my skin as well. I also use the Biore Aqua Riche sunscreen which is perfect for my oily skin. I also found this toner to work much better with my skin than the Kate Somerville one. I now only use the KS one when I have a breakout.

• RoC: Yes, that could work. Eventually you could work up to a retinaldehyde product (it's stronger) like one by Avene. Or if you don't really have that sensitive skin, you could go straight for the Avene, or ask your doc for a script for Adapalene (whatever the lowest RX strength is, this is also the weakest of the RX retinoids)
  
  
• Obagi: ehhh, I would go for Nufountain MAP + niacinamide serum instead. Great for the whole face and MAP is a more gentle form of Vit C, so less possible irritation. Niacinamide helps to fade hyperpigmention. Retinoids + something like niacinamide + Vit C work good in combo with each other.
  
  
• No puffery mask: Wouldn't waste money on that for de-puffing. Honestly, taking a couple green tea or black teabags, and chilling them, would work just fine. Or you could keep some Rose Water in the fridge, and use it as a toner (all over the face or just to help depuff).
  
  
  > I've heard talks of a lot of eye creams being scams; is this true
  
  Yup, sure is.

God the prices of the things that actually look good makes my soul cry. Although I am not the best at determining scents, I don't notice any with VDL but the A True definitely has a scent so you might try the VDL first. After swatching them next to each other, I would say the VDL does have a bit more pink (sometimes I don't know how such different colors both work on my face, but whatevs, I'll go with it). Also, I don't use a tinted primer, link is what I actually use. I really like it, I've heard other people really like it as well. I DO use a combo of the innisfree no sebum powder with some purple powder which seems to help pale things up a bit also. Skinfood also has a purple powder but it has a crazy strong, gross smell soooo I wouldn't recommend it.
No rush on letting me know if you want that cushion, just figured I'd offer since I'm probably cheaper than retailers!

Yeah, I don't think anything will make them go away until they are ready, but some things definitely help. I use ice a lot as it does help the swelling a bit. One thing that has helped my acne tremendously (I haven't had a cystic zit in months since using this) is Truskin Tea Tree clear skin serum:

​

https://www.amazon.com/Age-Defying-acne-prone-Niacinamide-Hyaluronic-Blemish-Free/dp/B01CK695QG

​

​

The oil is probably your skin reacting to being super dry. Many people who think they're oily are actually dehydrated and don't realize it.

Try a hyaluronic serum and a moisturizer. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream is both cheap and gentle but super hydrating. Link to my favorite Hyaluronic serum:

https://www.amazon.com/Mizon-Original-Skin-Energy-Hyaluronic/dp/B00HSFXEYO

Yeah, don't get that, that seems like it would have a high likelihood of breaking you out - it broke me out and my skin doesn't break out anywhere near as easily as yours seems to. I'd look for a serum or asian essence or toner with few ingredients to minimize the chance of it breaking you out. Most niacinamide products are targeted to lightening hyperpigmentation/melasma spots, so that is something that can tip you off that a product is likely to have it. Studies have also shown it to be around as effective as clindamycin in treating acne, and it can also help your skin produce ceramides, which aid in skin barrier function. idk it has just a lot of good benefits, these aren't even all of them. If you can, try to patch test on an area that you know breaks out when you use lotions but is out of the way - I patch test on my right temple because it reliably reacts to stuff, doesn't scar easily, and my hair swoops over that side of my face so if I do break out, it is easily covered, lol.

Some options:

http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod2450045 - all of the olay regenerist line have it. I have never used their serums, but they're easily available

http://www.amazon.com/INTERNATIONAL-SHIPPING-IOPE-Intensive-Conditioning/dp/B00C99NJNA - I have used this, it has basically the texture/feel of water. It does have some plant extracts in it which could be irritating but none of those fatty alcohols that often break people out.

http://www.gardenofwisdom.com/catalog/item/7463739/9867792.htm - I have used other GoW products and liked them but I've never used this. It has very few ingredients though so seems pretty unlikely to break you out. They also have a sample size: http://www.gardenofwisdom.com/catalog/item/7463739/9867788.htm

http://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Galactomyces-White-Power-Essence/dp/B00OZE57XW/ - some people have said this breaks them out, this is a thicker texture and has butylene glycol. The name has actually changed to whitening power essence on account of, you know, how racist the first name sounded, which the Korean company didn't realize until it was pointed out.

http://holysnails.storenvy.com/products/15121374-shark-sauce - this is made by someone on /r/asianbeauty and a bunch of people over there love it. I've never tried it.

http://www.amazon.com/CelSignal-Hydrating-Nufountain-Youthful-Complexion/dp/B0038AA4S2/ - haven't ever used this either but apparently it has a very watery texture and absorbs quickly

So here we go, first reddit post, please be gentle ;)

Getting off the fags with vaping, recently upgraded some crappy ecig to a nautilus mini and itaste mvp with some Hangsen juices, wow what a difference! Now have a kayfun 4 clone on order and cant resist the temptation to try and mix my own juice.

Planning my first diy purchase to get into mixing and would welcome some feedback.


Equipment

• bottles for vg/pg dispensing
  
  
• dispensing nicotine, mixing, filling through top of a kayfun 4
  
  
• funnels for filling above
  
  
• pipets for flavor flav
  
  
• scales for mixing by weight
  
  Consumables
  
  
• vg
  
  
• pg
  
  
• nicotine
  
  Flavours from vapable.com
  
  
• cap -Vanilla Custard
  
  
• cap -Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
  
  
• tpa - Strawberry (ripe)
  
  
• tpa - Bavarian Cream
  
  
• tpa - Cheesecake (Grahams Crust)
  
  
• tpa - Dragonfruit
  
  
• tpa - Banana Cream
  
  
• tpa - RY4 Double
  
  
• tpa - Cinnamon Danish
  
  
  There you go, what has the nOOb missed? :)
  
  EDIT Updated bottles and flavours thanks to coop34's comments

yeah, i've definitely noticed a difference in fine lines! the ones i'm using are:

• mizon original skin energy hyaluronic acid 100
  
• mizon original skin energy collagen 100
  
• mizon multi function formula snail repair intensive
  
  i'm interested in trying the mizon original sum skin energy peptide 500 (the green bottle) also.
  
  i pat the hyaluronic acid ampoule onto my forehead, my undereyes, and on the outside nooks of my nose (my driest areas). then, i repeat with the collagen and snail ampoules, but leave my nose alone.
  
  my skin is normally super dry, and i really think these have made a huge difference!
  
  i apply them at night for a few nights to a week in a row, then stop for a week or two. my skin is somewhat sensitive, so i need to apply the ampoules in smallish doses so my skin doesn't freak out.
  
  i hope this helps!
  
  
  

Disclaimer: I can't speak to any of these products, since I haven't tried them. I just had time to kill Googling peach products.

SkinFood also has a Peach Sake Emulsion and Peach Sake Pore Serum which both have Prunus Persica fruit extract.

• Amazon link for the pore serum [here]
  (https://www.amazon.com/Skin-Food-Peach-Skincare-Serum/dp/B004S3M2V0/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1511823304&sr=1-2&keywords=peach+sake+pore). (Unfortunately, I can't find the emulsion on Amazon).
  
• AB review of pore serum here.
  
  Muji's Aging Care Line also quotes "Peach Juice" as one of the ingredients for all products, but I dunno what's up with that. Also, it seems like the only thing available on Amazon is the moisturizing cream. P.S. If you like a high number of other plant extracts, Muji also has a 'Natural' line that comes in a green bottle and at first glance seems to have a high number of plant extracts. Just no peach.
  
  Anyway, hope that helps!

Sure!

I'm a fan of this one by Andelou. It's affordable, a pleasant scent and texture, and it's Beautypedia approved (if Paula's opinion matters to you, lol). It also had other great ingredients including tumeric, which is anti inflammatory.


I have tried a few highly rated (and expensive!) ones that I did not enjoy. Paula's Choice makes a good one (it comes in dropper form) but that strange copper smell lingers all day and I just couldn't deal with it anymore. If the scent didn't bother me so much I'd probably still use it. Skincueticals makes a really famous one that smells like coppery bacon 🥓 bacon and it's like over $100. I just can't do it. 🤢

i apply it like a medium size dot on my cheeks, chin and forehead and rub it in all over my face. The one that i have is a smooth cream.
Here is the link to what I use Alpha Skin Care Enhanced Revitalizing Cream 12% Glycolic AHA 2 ounce.

If you look on the side bar of this subreddit it has a whole list of types of exfoliants and talks about AHAs. I am new to this subreddit as well and i know people say to do spot treatment first, so I also suggest that. Also, they say to take it slow at first with the AHAs like every three days or so. I noticed my skin felt significantly softer the first week. I noticed after washing my face Some parts of my face got red and then went back to its normal color shortly after. I assume it's from using the AHA after the 3 or 4th use as it gets sensitive. I didn't get alarmed as now i have minor purging where the red spots are. I also use a moisturizer and then put Vaseline on top at night. Also I use SPF on my face EVERYDAY. I think your face gets sensitive from the treatment at first for anything and what your doctor prescribed seems intense so just be patient. I hope this helps.

Edit: Thought you were OP for a sec so I crossed out the thing about the doc.

> Andalou Naturals Turmeric + C Enlighten Serum, 1.1 oz, Helps Brighten, Firm, Even Skin Tone With Vitamin C for Healthy Looking Glow
> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0091OCANG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_btiJBbRN2RWYF
> this one?

I just ordered this! i'll try to report back later

Some African Americans have thicker skin than average. Men tend to have thicker skin then average. So I would not compare your skin to the average female user here. Tretinoin woild be great for your skin as would chemical peels.

But, I’d recommend a product like this for you to start.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CK695QG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?

It has Vitamin c, retinol, salicylic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and tea tree oil and should clear up a lot of your congestion.

dang that kinda sucks. im a pretty lazy dude, so the less steps i have to do the better.

i know this isnt the sub for this question, but would ingestion of Vitamin C be as effective as topical application for skin lightening?

also would it be okay to buy pure L-Ascorbic Acid Powder and mix it into a bottle of lotion to get the desired concentration?

I supe rduper duper duper dupe rswear by this. I bought it on a whim a couple years ago cuz it was on sale for like $13 and I HAVE NOT LOOKED BACK SINCE.

https://www.amazon.com/InstaNatural-Vitamin-Clearing-Serum-Hyperpigmentation/dp/B00NY5NGPE/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?s=luxury-beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1527628812&sr=8-1&keywords=InstaNatural+Vitamin+C+Skin+Clearing+Serum

I suffered from random acne every couple of weeks that would just last FOREVER... regular, whiteheads, cystic ones, etc. and then when it "healed" it turned into dark hyperpigmentation spots that would last FOREVERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR

NOW - after using this on a regular basis every day before I moisturize, my acne has honestly cleared up as though I've been listening to We Belong Together on repeat... and when I do get acne (every few months vs. every cpl weeks) - I swear to you they only last 1-3 days now and they never get huge!

A bottle lasts forever too so it's well worth ~~$20... you only needlike 2 drops on clean skin that's very very very slightly slightly damp (to help spread it easier and adhere to skin better [but this could just be me])


let me know if you have any more questions or concerns!!!

I use the Alpha Skin care 14% glycolic serum. I think jumping from 8% to 14% would be too big of a leap (it's a strong serum). They do make a 10% Glycolic lotion, which I used as an intermediate step up to the stronger serum and a 12% Glycolic cream, which I haven't tried.

For other AHAs, I've used the MUAC 10% Mandelic serum which is significantly less strong than the glycolic acid due to its penetration - mandelic acid molecules are larger and thus do not penetrate the skin as readily, and are also recommended for darker skin tones. I've also used their Fade Serum as a spot treatment. I dip a clean cotton swab into the serum and dab onto the melasma-affected areas of my face.

I haven't done a chemical peel in a while, due to starting a retinol, but I had good experiences with their 55% Lactic acid peel. Chemical peels require research, patch testing, following instructions, proper timing, and neutralizing, though, so you definitely shouldn't just jump into that pool.

On mobile, sorry about the link below, but this vitamin C serum has always cleared up my skin, usually within a day or two of a morning application. It’s the shit if you don’t have a ton of acne and need a solution.

Eva naturals vitamin c serum

Andalou Naturals Turmeric + C Enlighten Serum, 1.1 oz, Helps Brighten, Firm, Even Skin Tone With Vitamin C for Healthy Looking Glow https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0091OCANG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_btiJBbRN2RWYF this one?

I've had good luck with a number of different brands, this is the one I'm currently using.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00OKY87OS/ref=od_aui_detailpages01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I've also heard really good things about niacinamide serum for tone correction so I've got this coming in the mail to try. I can keep you updated on how it works for me if you'd like!
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B0147PDMYY/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

> I want to start using products that contain AHA/BHA, which ones would you guys recommend?

my favorite AHA is this 12% souffle from Alpha Skincare.

for BHA, I love all of the Paula's Choice options. the cosrx is nice too, just not as strong?

The first thing I thought when I saw your skin was rosacea. If the redness doesn't go away, maybe ask your dermatologist if it might be that. I could be completely wrong; it's just that it looks exactly like my skin, and I have rosacea all over my face. I was one of those unlucky people who went from having acne as a teen straight to rosacea. In actuality, I may have had both at the same time, but I was diagnosed at around 20 years old. My redness is helped by azelaic acid and centella asiatica. I'm not sure if the azelaic acid is okay to use with your prescription meds though. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y15D1LH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

​

You look amazing, by the way! What a stunning "after"!

I like this one from Amazon because it has worked really well for me, priced well, reviews are great, and Amazon is so easy

Edit: I've tried C20 but didn't see any anything amazing from it.

I failed to keep the mascaras I went through this year... my bad... But I always use Maybelline Lash Stiletto.

What have I learned? I should really tone down my purchases of products like eyeshadow palettes and blush palettes. It takes FOREVER to get through one. And yet I have so maaany.


Left row - Powders!

E.l.f. HD setting powder


Skinfood Peach Sake Powder x2


Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder


L’oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Powder x5


Urban Decay Ultra Definition Pressed Powder x2


Maybelline SuperStay Better Skin Powder




Top row, left to right


SETTING SPRAYS

Urban Decay All-Nighter Makeup Setting Spray


L’Oreal Infallible Makeup Setting Spray


Smashbox Primer Water x2


SUNSCREEN

Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence x3




Second row, left to right


FOUNDATIONS

L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte x2


Rimmel London, Lasting Finish Foundation x2


Giorgio Armani Luminous SIlk Foundation


Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation


Kat Von D Lock-It Concealer Creme - sample


BROW

L’Oreal Brow Stylist Plumper Brow Gel Mascara


Third row, left to right


PRIMERS

Kat Von D Lock-It Hydrating Primer


Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer, Jumbo size


Too Faced, Primed & Poreless


Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Primer, Apricot


Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Primer, Green


Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer


Coola, Daydream Mineral Primer


Benefit, Porefessional


Murad Invisible Perfecting Shield


Fourth row, left to right


EYE SHADOW PRIMER

Too Faced Shadow Insurance


Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish


Becca, Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone


Becca, Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop


Maybelline master Hi-Light in Nude, discontinued, but still available on amazon


Fifth Row, left to right


SKINCARE

Vitamin C serum x3


Vitamin C serum


Mizon Black Snail All-in-One Cream


Mizon Snail Eye Cream


Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Cream


Mizon Collagen Power Firming Eye Cream


Corsx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid


Corsx AHA Whitehead Power Liquid


Corsx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence


Caudaline Organic Grape Water - Guys I can’t find this shit anywhere. Did it get discontinued/ replaced?


Thayer’s Witch Hazel Toner


Bottom row, left to right


LIPS

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream, Stockholm


L’Oreal Colour Riche Lip Balm, Nourishing Nude


Buxom FUll-On Lip Cream, Mudslide


Dr. Lipp Miracle Balm


Buxom Full-On Lip Cream, Rose Julep

As other's said it can itch and burn at first. Melazepam is stronger than others like GOW's or The Ordinary's 10%.

I started with one of those mixed with my moisturizer. I use either Hydro boost gel cream or meishoku ceracolla perfect gel and squalane. After a good time of that i now use it right after washing before toner.

With face redness it seems to be mostly about being soothing and gentle. I'm to the point now where i don't use soap to wash my face because the gentlest stuff was adding irritation redness.

I have also seen redness reduction using KLAIRS Supple Preparation Unscented Toner or Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner , Cosrx Snail 96, and SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica 100 Ampoule.

The redness battle is real. Of course sunlight is a major factor. If you do have rosacea some sunlight helps but then there's a "rebound" effect.

Still thinking about it myself but urea and sulfur are usually recommended too.

Thanks! Any suggestions as far as retinoids go?
I found this on Amazon but that seems like way too many products in one bottle, right?

Vitamin C Serum Plus 2% Retinol, 3.5% Niacinamide, 5% Hyaluronic Acid, 2% Salicylic Acid, 10% MSM, 20% Vitamin C - Skin Clearing Serum - Anti-Aging Skin Repair, Supercharged Face Serum (1 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BT02Q88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_0v.sybK8SA49V

I found this to work really well https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00VNXQE94/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_CdOMyb8TGXX52

I just clean my face at night with ceraVe foaming cleaner and then apply the vitamin C serum to the face via the dropper they provide.

I've dealt with acne all of my life, trying different things, eventually got on Claravis, which really did the trick to eliminate the cystic acne, but I'm always getting white heads and some black heads on my nose still.

The above suggestion hopefully will be some help.

I’ve been using InstaNatural Vitamin C anti-aging serum https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NY5NGPE/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1 for about 3 months and I notice that my skin is brighter but what I am most excited about is that I used to have one spot about the size of two quarters with cystic acne that now is completely smooth for the first time in my life. I am very pleased with it and just bought my second one.

I find that Clindamycin gel has never dried me out or irritated me the way Benzoyl Peroxide would. It's prescription from the dermatologist and can help with all acne including black heads. You need to use it for a few weeks, but then in my experience, my face will be totally clear with it. I've been too lazy to go to the dermatologist lately and also not really enough acne, so I use a Tea Tree Oil Serum from Amazon, and it's done a pretty good job at clearing up my face, but not as good as Clindamycin!

Ah well thanks. Does this look like a good product? It also has niacinamide in it which I recently read can work for PIE.

I too am on the search for vit c. Any time I've seen this question asked there is always a post about Mad Hippie I haven't tried it yet but just about everyone here loves it. I'm planning on purchasing it soon. And yes you would use this vitamin c before your moisturizer and facial oil, after washing your face

what is your opinion on this:
https://www.amazon.com/Vitamin-Retinol-Niacinamide-Hyaluronic-Salicylic/dp/B01BT02Q88/ref=sr_1_17?keywords=bha+exfoliant&qid=1567529321&s=gateway&sr=8-17

it is a large combo of things listed that are beneficial, and has many good reviews. I think

Or this one: https://www.target.com/p/unscented-eb5-vitamin-c-serum-concentrate-1oz/-/A-49139889

and when do I apply the serum? morning, night, both? after cleansing, after exfoliating? after moisturizing? lol

I've been using this one for a few weeks, and I feel as though it has made such a difference to my skin! I have less PIH, and an overall better skin tone! I really highly recommend it: https://www.amazon.com/InstaNatural-Vitamin-Clearing-Serum-Hyperpigmentation/dp/B00NY5NGPE/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1498828815&sr=8-3&keywords=instanatural+vitamin+c+serum

And it's really affordable at $20! I apply 2-3 drops for my face, and it's doesn't irritate my skin. It also has niacinamide as well.

The old version was my absolute HG. I used it for over 3-4 years. I haven't tried the newer version.

I was recommended this product on here as a replacement/dupe: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica 100 Ampoule. I read how a lot of people on here replaced the LJH with this one as well before I bought it. I've been using it for the past 2-3 weeks without seeing any negatives; so far it seems like it's replacing my LJH just fine! My skin type is oily combo and I mostly use it for hydration and calming redness.

I like the Eva naturals 5% niacinamide. I got it on amazon. Really nice texture/smoothness. Feels good on the skin.

I only just received it so I have no idea if it's any good or not, but its this one. I received it for free in exchange for an amazon review- if you want to do the same thing the site I went through to receive it is called Elite Deal Club. (Right now the deal isn't listed but it will likely be back up tomorrow).

I originally bought serums with vitamin c in them but found you can by pharma grade vitamin c powder on amazon and mix it with moisuriser youself. a 1/2 pound container of pure vitamin c powder should last you years https://www.amazon.com/L-Ascorbic-Powder-Vitamin-Cosmetic-Formulations/dp/B00KKSHA8M/ref=sr_1_26_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1542267523&sr=8-26&keywords=ascorbic+acid

I have been using Andalou Naturals Tumeric Plus C Enlighten Serum for the past month and I love it so far. http://www.amazon.com/Andalou-Naturals-Tumeric-Enlighten-Serum/dp/B0091OCANG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425693297&sr=8-1&keywords=vitamin+c+and+turmeric

I used the Klairs vitamin c serum takes some time but evens out skin eventually.

Personal preference is the TO Alpha Arbutin Serum. Hydrates perfectly and evens out my skin the most.

Secret key is not full size, Mizon is full size and I am not sure if it is an ampoule but it's this one. All of this shipped would be $53 shipped. Let me know if that sounds good and I will PM you my info!

Edit: Changed price to reflect your edit. Please just respond to my comment if you want to add anything else.

I was having the same problem, but there are a ton on amazon. I just ordered this one. Excited for it to arrive because I've heard such good things about it.

Here are companies I've had good experiences with:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N3340K7/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&th=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KGNLNGG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Enjoy!!

Typically they are watery/ gel like stuff that is high with good things like hydraulic acid, ceramides, etc.

Examples being:

http://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Hyaluronic-Hydra-Power-Essence/dp/B00OZ9MKDM

http://www.amazon.com/Dr-Jart-Ceramidin-Liquid-Ounce/dp/B00AMANH58

Cosmedica Skincare Hyaluronic Acid Serum, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AH4MJ02/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Ft2MzbM4MXV89

or this stuff is really good

Vitamin C Serum Plus 2% Retinol, 3.5% Niacinamide, 5% Hyaluronic Acid, 2% Salicylic Acid, 10% MSM, 20% Vitamin C - Skin Clearing Serum - Anti-Aging Skin Repair, Supercharged Face Serum (1 oz)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BT02Q88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_wx2MzbCG17N30

I used both.

In case you wanted real life examples, in addition to my long comment:

This is an example of a smaller amount of L-AA vit c serum, this is a higher level of L-AA. The higher the amount of L-AA, the more purging you might experience/slower you'll have to introduce.

This is an example of an MAP formula with niacinamide. Totally safe together! :)

I found mine on Amazon - Radha Beauty Vitamin C Serum . I'm almost finished with the first bottle I purchased last year and plan on repurchasing again.

PURITO Centella Green Level Recovery Cream 50ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078HKHYT2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TZ4YCbDTPSJEZ

I usually put this on after my serums. It absorbs quickly and has a very very light herbal scent. Its like a light moisturizer.



Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica 100 Ampoule (100ml or 3.38 floz) - Facial Serum - 100% Centella Asiatica Extract - for soothing sensitive and acne-prone skin https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y15D1LH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_R04YCb8S83Y40

This kind of has the texture of a thick toner? No scent
Super soothing.


Both products have worked amazingly. I even put them on my bad sunburn recently and it helped the redness within 1 day! I have put them on my ezcema spot with no burning! I have sensitive skin and this hasnt caused a reaction for me. But as always check the ingredient list :)

I'm thinking of trying a sample of 2 of Silk Naturals Super Serum although I'm completely new to serums. Do I put it on at night? Morning? Both? Before sunscreen and moisturizer? After? I'm a total newb.

http://host.silknaturals.com/creb/super-serum-must-have-p-845.html

I've also read a ton about using 100% Raw honey on your face for its anti-bacterial properties so that is also on my Purchase list.

Edit: This serum was also recommended to me and also on the Purchase List.

Is it okay to skip the toner step completely? After 3 months of using Benton Snail Bee Skin I didn’t see a difference when I used/not used it, so now I jump right into moisturizing. Would an ampoule like Skin 1004 Madagascar’s be a better alternative?

I've been looking for a Vitamin C powder to regularly make DIY Vit C serums from. The Lotion Crafter one is a little on the pricy side, and I'm on a budget, so I was wondering if I could buy a normal ascorbic acid crystals powder from Amazon like this one, so long as it has no other ingredients other than ascorbic acid? Or should I only be looking at powders that specifically say L-ascorbic acid, like this one?

The
Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica 100 Ampoule is THE BEST thing I have ever used to combat redness. I HIIIIGHLY recommend!! link

What advantage would the vitC with Frenulic have over this one ArtNaturals Enhanced Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid 1 Oz - Top Anti Wrinkle, Anti Aging & Repairs Dark Circles, Fades age spots & Sun Damage - 20% Vitamin C Super Strength - Organic ingredients https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012Q4M3DO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_atSCxbMYGN1BB

I've noticed it going both up and down, as long as the product hasn't been discontinued or something. I'm guessing the price is mostly based on currency exchange rates and competition between different amazon sellers.

If you're interested in the price histories, check out camelcamelcamel! I put in the peach sake serum here. It seems that aside from the novelty markup at the beginning when it was first released, it hasn't really had a trend higher/lower. Camel has a chrome extension as well that tracks amazon prices. :D

This forum isn't Asian Beauty, but you could consider trying the Skin Food Peach Sake Pore Serum under your primer and the Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder as a finishing powder for oil control. Also, try blotting paper. Good luck!

Edit: formatting

I use this.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B012Q4M3DO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I like the results, I feel like it has definitely not done any harm and I am patient in the results because I had a lot of scarring to fix.

Hap hap hello there! I am a bot and you linked to Amazon.

This comment contains 2 pricing graph(s)

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Product 1: Skin Food Peach Sake Pore Serum 45ml Made in 'Korea (B004S3M2V0)

Imgur pricing graph

||Amazon|3P New|Used|
|--:|:--|:--|:--|
|Cur||$9.55||
|Hi||$15.59||
|Lo||$3.46||
|Avg||$9.51||

____

Product 2: [Total 2Pcs] The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Oil + Foam SET (B00SUZWGHM)

Imgur pricing graph

||Amazon|3P New|Used|
|--:|:--|:--|:--|
|Cur||$13.20||
|Hi||$20.98||
|Lo||$10.70||
|Avg||$13.49||

_____

^^I'm ^^a ^^bot. ^^Please ^^PM ^^any ^^bugs

Love it. It makes a noticeable difference in the way my face absorbs moisture. I use Mizon Original Skin Energy - Hyaluronic Acid 100

Edit to add: For people concerned that the HA is drying, that might be because you’re using it alone. HA pulls moisture (water) into the skin but if there isn’t any on top of the skin, it will pull from the skin itself. So put it on with a wet face, or put it on and then immediately sprits face with water, or put it on at the same time as a moisturizer. If you live in a humid environment, there may be enough water in the air that there’s no need to do this, but it’s not enough in winter months and arid climates.

I have used BHA products with success but they take a while to resolve. I have tried this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01CK695QG?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_pd_title. I also use Medicube Red erasing cream at night.

Can I use this Tea Tree Oil daily at night? https://www.amazon.com/Age-Defying-acne-prone-Niacinamide-Hyaluronic-Blemish-Free/dp/B01CK695QG

I know it says to use it only 2-3 times a week, but it doesn't irritate my skin at all. It also contains ingredients that should be used daily. Is it ok to step it up to daily if I don't see any adverse effects at all?

If curious, the products I noticed =


Skin Food Peach Sake Pore Serum
I ordered for 7.90, now 10.98
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004S3M2V0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Oil + Foam SET
I remember being about $11-13, now 15.97
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SUZWGHM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s05?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Are theses any good? if im buying one i might as well buy them both

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cosmetic-Kosher-Vegetable-Glycerine-Glycerol/dp/B008S9KGKO/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Classikool-Propylene-Glycol-Pharma-Better/dp/B00BHGM05O/ref=pd_bxgy_325_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0F5VE53W55DS6ZWECH1H

do you think this will be good enough? Has vitamin c, e, hyaluronic acid, maybe more...

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VNXQE94?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=ox_sc_sfl_title_1&smid=A2GFWEEOABZ6DB

Dude I know! Eva naturals has a good one on Amazon that I use a lot because TO is always sold out and difficult for me to get my hands on if you're ever interested:

Brandon is Satan?

Amazon has a lightning deal for KLAIRS Freshly Juiced Vitamin Drop for $18. 5% ascorbic acid + Centella Asiatica Extract.

Sold by wishtrend and Fulfilled by Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/KLAIRS-Freshly-Juiced-Vitamin-vitamin/dp/B010FOFSH0

Rosehip Seed Oil by Kate Blanc

I use the Kate Blanc oil. It's USDA Certified and 100% organic (basically, it's legit!) lol. I get it from Amazon and I'm currently on my 4th bottle with no problems. Great price point too!

What that really is is this or something very similar: http://www.amazon.co.uk/1000ml-Classikool-Propylene-Glycol-Pharma/dp/B00BHGM05O

However after i got like a liter of that stuff i noticed when i clean it regularly you don't even need to lube it.

My favorite it cold pressed Rose Hip oil from The Ordinary. But they are currently sold out :( but this is also a good one!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01N3340K7/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1521385723&sr=8-3&keywords=cold+pressed+rosehip+oil&dpPl=1&dpID=51h7YOcUBXL&ref=plSrch

Awesome results! Have you heard about oil cleansing? I’m breastfeeding now, but will be trying this stuff when I’m done. The before and afters are phenomenal! I was actually looking up another oil that SCA was talking about and Amazon brought that one up too and it was cheaper, so I looked at the reviews and was sold.

I got mine on Amazon! The Liquid is like $10 cheaper than it is at Sephora! But the Gel Cream is $7.50 cheaper than at Sephora.

Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Liquid / Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Gel Cream

Seoul ceuticals serum has been great so far for me
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072K1LNNY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Ln0VzbC0HHZJR

I've been using InstaNatural Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E for a few months. I like it and it's not super expensive.

For sure. Hopefully this link works.

L-Ascorbic Acid Powder (Vitamin C), 6 oz. Jar. For Use in Serums and Cosmetic Formulations. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KKSHA8M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IMcaCb2KXE3F9

I like Insta Natural https://smile.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NY5NGPE

InstaNatural Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & Vit E - Natural & Organic Anti Wrinkle Reducer Formula for Face - Dark Circle, Fine Line & Sun Damage Corrector - Restore & Boost Collagen - 1 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDWP4IA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1qF1DbRGB73BB

Looks like I did get that one - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NY5NGPE/ref=pe_385040_127541850_TE_item

Ha

oh, fire ants. how I hate thee.

here's my system:

in the shower, gently exfoliate.

apply AmLactin or Gold Bond Rough and Bumpy lotion at night.

Daytime, apply some Vitamin C serum on the spots.

Then... Sunblock. ALL the time. Everyday.

it's been a miracle on my legs!

https://smile.amazon.com/Nivea-Protect-Super-Water-Japan/dp/B00SM997I2/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1467917852&sr=8-1&keywords=nivea+sun+protect+water+gel

https://smile.amazon.com/InstaNatural-Vitamin-Serum-Hyaluronic-Niacinamide/dp/B00NY5NGPE/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1467917876&sr=8-2&keywords=instanatural+vitamin+c

https://smile.amazon.com/AmLactin-Alpha-Hydroxy-Cerapeutic-Dermatologist-Moisturizer/dp/B00BX57IOC/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1467917896&sr=1-2&keywords=amlactin

I just picked a random one with good reviews and prime shipping on Amazon based on this post

http://www.allure.com/story/scar-treatment-vitamin-c

I use

https://www.amazon.com/Vitamin-Serum-Face-fl-Hyaluronic/dp/B00VNXQE94

I use a layering method and start with The Body Shop Tea Tree toner personally, non AB product that I found myself going back to again and again while I ventured through finding my routine. Tea tree oil is one of my favorite ingredients that helps keep my skin feeling fresh and aid in any hormonal breakout. I follow it up with Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist. A cult fave for AB is Klairs Supple Toner, Kikumasamune sake high moist lotion, and Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Liquid.

Word from the old and practiced though? BUY SAMPLES before you spring for a full sized. u/gothickornchic sells a plethora of decants to sample before you commit to a full sized. It takes 2-3 weeks to see if your skin is going to respond well to a product, and it's awful to buy a full sized and find out that it's a dud, or worse, breaks you out.

It's super fun to buy new stuff but it eventually bites you in the ass. I used to just slather stuff on my face and wish myself luck. It back fired horribly on me back in May and I'm JUST now coming around to clear skin again. Now I test half my face for a week for a break out then another week to really see results.

Is my serum OK?

I bought this serum a while back, but has got a different/older bottle. I got bedazzaled by it containing vit C, Retinol, niacinamide AND salicylic acid (a sucker for all-in-1). However I am unsure if it is good anymore as it isn't clear, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't when I first opened it! And if it's not, is it just the Vitamin C that has gone bad and can I still use it for the other ingredients, or should I throw it away?

Here is what it looks like, a slight yellow cast I guess, but it seems to turn clear upon contact with the skin

I couldn't find an expiry date :/

Hi I just bought this Vitamin C serum, just wondering where should I put this in my routine? https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BT02Q88/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01__o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

Is it after the water solution and before the moisturizer and creams?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0091OCANG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I just started using this. The smell takes some getting used to, but i like it so far.

Which niacinamide do you recommend? I want to purchase one from amazon but the ones on the side bar dont have any:

1

2

3

4

I'm from the UK and other people Ive seen suggesting it are from the US. Where are you?
Here's pretty much what I got in the UK
http://www.amazon.co.uk/1000ml-Classikool-Propylene-Glycol-Pharma/dp/B00BHGM05O

Thanks for the ideas! This is what I have, it's for use in skincare so I feel like it's safe but I'll start out small.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00KKSHA8M/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?qid=1451421662&sr=8-5&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=vitamin+c+powder+skin&dpPl=1&dpID=51Y8mJexGKL&ref=plSrch

I picked up the Skinceuticals CE Ferulic from my derm, and came across a perfect dup by Seoul Ceuticals with a higher percentage of C (20% vs 15%) for 1/10th the price. It performs equivalent to, if not better than, the pricier brand.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B072K1LNNY/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_ww-0AbC0E9F3B

Something like this?

http://www.amazon.com/InstaNatural-Vitamin-Serum-Face-Seabuckthorn/dp/B00IDWP4IA


And when would I do it? My usual routine is wash->BHA->Spot treatment->Moisturizer

This has been recently mentioned in the Rosacea sub as being helpful with redness. You should check there for recommendations too.

Can I get some feedback on my routine?

Skin type: Normal to dry

Acne: Minimal

Day

1. Cleanse with water
   
2. Thayer Witch Hazel Toner (do I even need toner?)
   
3. InstaNatural Vitamin C Serum
   
4. Alba Botanica Very Emollient, Fragrance Free Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
   
   Night
   
   
5. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
   
6. Thayer Witch Hazel Toner (again, do I even need toner?)
   
7. Mineral Fusion Revitalizing Eye Treatment (but I use it on my whole face)
   
8. CeraVe PM Lotion

snail serum, snail sleeping mask and vitamin c serum
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00VNXQE94/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FH2OEH0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/Mizon-Cosmetics-Snail-Wrinkle-Sleeping/dp/B00HNNP92Q/ref=pd_sim_194_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00HNNP92Q&pd_rd_r=SY6XNVD0VHS4PXZEYGN9&pd_rd_w=9xU8o&pd_rd_wg=F4rhB&psc=1&refRID=SY6XNVD0VHS4PXZEYGN9

ArtNaturals Vitamin C serum < i have really oily/combination skin and it wasn't greasy or sticky for me at all and it's organic so you're not putting random crap on your face.

Does this product seem ok? It includes salicylic acid

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vitamin-Retinol-Niacinamide-Hyaluronic-Salicylic/dp/B01BT02Q88/ref=mp_s_a_1_14?keywords=salicylic+acid&qid=1562774293&s=gateway&sr=8-14

So how's this routine:

AM: Wash face with water / Vitamin C( this product: new to me: https://www.amazon.com/InstaNatural-Vitamin-Serum-Hyaluronic-Acid/dp/B00IDWP4IA ) / lotion / SPF

PM: CerAve Foaming Cleanser / Retinol(1-2x week) / Lotion

How does that look? - Is there anything you would change? Keep in mind my skin is oily/sensitive.

I use this one https://www.amazon.com/Seoul-Ceuticals-Korean-Skin-Care/dp/B072K1LNNY/ref=pd_rhf_ee_s_rp_c__1/140-8568783-2586547?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B072K1LNNY&pd_rd_r=320900f9-119e-46b9-9018-e9027a84f0c8&pd_rd_w=62cZK&pd_rd_wg=53c58&pf_rd_p=fd512e4f-359f-4bb1-8cd5-b2bc4feaa3df&pf_rd_r=EDKRCD4MXWWJC96AWYDY&psc=1&refRID=EDKRCD4MXWWJC96AWYDY

I just ordered another bottle a week ago since I enjoyed it. Its not heavy but its moisturizing enough I skip moisturizer in morning under spf.

I swear by the korean skincare routine. It's extensive (so you have to commit) and can get expensive, though. You could also go see a dermatologist. There is a korean skincare product (pretty pricey though) that helps fade acne scars. You'd need to use sunscreen with it though and test it first. -- https://www.amazon.com/KLAIRS-Freshly-Juiced-Vitamin-vitamin/dp/B010FOFSH0/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1519972583&sr=8-4&keywords=vitamin+c+klairs

I’ve heard Seoul Ceuticals vitamin c is a really good and affordable dupe for Skinceuticals. Not tried it but you might want to consider it.

You could've just looked it up...

Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Asiatica 100 Ampoule (100ml or 3.38 floz) - Facial Serum - 100% Centella Asiatica Extract - for soothing sensitive and acne-prone skin https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y15D1LH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_aVVUAbAEWZ17E

Just use up your niacinamide and then find one that has map vit c in it.

I use the cel signal serum found here, which also has Hyaluronic acid. NuFountain Celsignal Vitamin C Serum, 1 Fluid Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0038AA4S2/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_uzXKub1CEYRJZ

Best one? I don't know. I just got Mad Hippie a few weeks ago. Did some research online, checked prices and I got this. I have never used a Vitamin C serum before so I didn't want to drop a ton of money in case I had a problem. I also started retinol around the same time, so I dont know if the changes are from the serum or the retinol. My skin is smoother certainly. Does it look better? I am not sure yet.... but I am keeping at it. I know it will take time and less than 3 weeks isnt enough for a huge change yet https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DKF7XPW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Chefs for the nic

Amazon for the PG/VG you can get a litre of both for around £15 - that's for both combined not each.

Edit: Links

http://www.amazon.co.uk/1000ml-Classikool-Propylene-Glycol-Pharma/dp/B00BHGM05O/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1417245514&sr=8-6&keywords=vegetable+glycerin

http://www.amazon.co.uk/1000ml-Cosmetic-Vegetable-Glycerine-Glycerol/dp/B008S9KGKO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417245611&sr=8-1&keywords=vegetable+glycerin

I don't know what OP uses but this rosehip seed oil from Kate Blanc on Amazon is very high quality and inexpensive with stellar reviews. It has changed my skin rosehip seed oil from Kate Blanc

I got mine off Amazon! It’s the Kate Blanc brand: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N3340K7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nKQKBbY4THVES

It's on Amazon here!

Thanks u/iamnoking and u/RosieODonnell I think I'm going to go for this one http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NY5NGPE?psc=1 waiting three weeks for such a volatile product doesn't seem the best idea. I can get this one tomorrow

You should try some of this Skin Food Peach Sake Serum, I use it like a primer and it will completely matte-ify your skin and keep your foundation from sliding off, honestly it works so well that sometimes on good skin days I just use it instead of foundation. amazon link
edit: linked to wrong product, my bad.

>i am using this one from MAD hippie and it helped me to unify my skin color perfectly
>
>https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DKF7XPW/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thebest2buy-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00DKF7XPW&linkId=d2f364125489632ffec59131769d3893

Acne scars question, my scars isn't that bad unless its on right angle and light it doesn't really noticeable. Mostly boxcar scar types.

if I just use vitamin c serum on my skin during night + moisturizer.

Am I just gonna wasting my time, or it is at least helping my acne scar?

Kate Blanc...best one I’ve ever used.

https://www.amazon.com/Kate-Certified-Unrefined-Essential-Therapeutic/dp/B01N3340K7/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_sspa?keywords=kate+rosehip+oil&qid=1562757434&s=gateway&sprefix=kate+rose&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

Hi, just wondering how much vitamin c serum should I use,like how many drops off the dropper for the entire face.Also should I only use it at night every night?

You can get the same thing for $10 on Amazon. I'm using the 97 one right now and it's decent for the price.

Peach Sake Pore Serum! Can't say it does anything for my pores, but it makes my skin feel incredibly soft.

You can get cheap cosmetic grade ascorbic acid to make your own serums.

Check out this product and the reviews even include people’s routines for mixing their own concoctions.

L-Ascorbic Acid Powder (Vitamin C), 6 oz. Jar. For Use in Serums and Cosmetic Formulations. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KKSHA8M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_In0oDbGPFJC33

https://www.amazon.com/InstaNatural-Vitamin-Serum-Hyaluronic-Acid/dp/B00IDWP4IA?th=1

I think it is clinically proven

I use this one. It’s the first one I’ve tried, so I don’t know how it compares with others.

When you say glycolic Alpha skincare are you talking about this brand?

VG: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B008S9KGKO

PG: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00BHGM05O

links added:

https://www.amazon.com/Orlette-Retinol-Serum-2-5-Professional/dp/B07SZGYN8X/

https://www.amazon.com/Vitamin-Retinol-Niacinamide-Hyaluronic-Salicylic/dp/B01BT02Q88/

https://www.amazon.com/Retinol-Serum-2-5-Hyaluronic-Vitamin/dp/B01HXV90BS/

https://www.amazon.com/LilyAna-Naturals-Retinol-Cream-Moisturizer/dp/B01ES349CY/

Azelaic Acid: https://www.amazon.com/Azelaic-Acid-10-Serum-Niacinamide/dp/B07QM5KGDK/

Centella Asiatica: https://www.amazon.com/Skin1004-Madagascar-Centella-Asiatica-Ampoule/dp/B06Y15D1LH/

Eva Naturals products destroyed me. Particularly this one Vitamin C Serum Plus 2% Retinol, 3.5% Niacinamide, 5% Hyaluronic Acid, 2% Salicylic Acid, 10% MSM, 20% Vitamin C - Skin Clearing Serum - Anti-Aging Skin Repair, Supercharged Face Serum (1 oz) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BT02Q88/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_5FiVDb155S7ZG

It made me terrified of Vitamin C for quite a while.

The issue: New to this subreddit but not to skincare. Looking to finally incorporate something into my routine for my hyperpigmentation/ acne scars. Not sure where to start since all this info can be overwhelming--retinol? AHA? BHA? Vitamin C? A combo of some? Where do you recommend to start? I was thinking of getting this serum: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01BT02Q88/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=AYBNWO8ZGP63G&psc=1 or this lightening cream: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E919LU/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AVLVA0V0U8GZR&psc=1
Skin type: mildly oily, hormonal cystic acne on chin, lower cheeks, and jawline but its almost gone, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, large pores, some blackheads.
Current routine: AM; Cetaphil daily cleanser, Thayers witch hazel toner, Neutregena spf. PM; Cetaphil daily cleanser, Thayers witch hazel, drying lotion (looking for moisturizer suggestions as well) also just started using indian healing clay mask
Location: Oregon, USA