Best facial cleansing products according to Reddit
Reddit mentions of Stridex Strength Medicated Pads, Maximum - 55 Count (Pack of 1)
Sentiment score: 34
Reddit mentions: 54
We found 54 Reddit mentions of Stridex Strength Medicated Pads, Maximum - 55 Count (Pack of 1). Here are the top ones.
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 formula for skin care without extra drying or irritationHelps prevent future breakouts; great, easy addition to any skincare routine
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 |
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#6 of 795
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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Outfield care
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Route March Care
Friction rash
Source: History of oily skin, cystic acne & eczema.
The gospel from /r/skincareaddiction is that chemical exfoliation will help. A good place to start is BHA (beta hydroxy acid) - a popular drugstore product that contains this exfoliant is the Stridex medicated pads in the red box. At night, you would wash your face, pat dry, swipe a Stridex pad over it, wait for it to dry, moisturize if necessary, then go to bed.
Warning that BHA and other chemical exfoliants can make your face more sensitive to sunlight; SPF is a must. I use Cerave "AM" moisturizer that contains SPF 30.
For the most part, the salicylic acid in a cleanser doesn't stay long enough on the skin to help with blemishes. It takes 4-6 weeks for the skin on your face to renew itself, so you should have seen some improvement by now.
I would try a leave-on salicylic acid product, like Stridex pads and switch to a more gentle cleanser. If Aveeno products didn't make your face worse, I would stick with them until you were sure that Stridex or whatever BHA product you chose didn't break you out.
Read my original comment, CeraVe and Stridex products are available from Amazon.DE for 15€ and 17€ each, so it's certainly cheaper than to order from the US considering cheaper shipping and no taxes, that's what I meant.
Stridex for example:
http://www.amazon.de/Stridex-Single-Step-Control-Maximum-Alcohol/dp/B000O1KP1O/ref=pd_sim_194_8?ie=UTF8&dpID=515af7Lh%2BLL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=0JAFP3G301297N00Q5ER
Cerave cleanser:
http://www.amazon.de/CeraVe-Foaming-Cleanser-sch%C3%A4umender-Gesichtsreiniger/dp/B003YMJJSK/ref=pd_bxgy_194_img_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=0JAFP3G301297N00Q5ER
Generally scrubs are not 'good' to use every day. And you can't scrub away black heads or any blemishes. It simply doesn't work that way. Scrubs = physical exfoliation. Chemical exfoliation (like Stridex in the red box) is the preferred method here.
I'd recommend getting a gentle cleanser like CeraVe foaming.
Also I'd recommend reading the Beginner's Routine and this post on sebaceous filaments. Your blackheads are probably sebaceous filaments, Stridex (which I linked above) could be beneficial for you if you want to minimize the appearance of these.
If you decide to buy multiple products, only buy ONE at a time! & use it for 2 weeks before buying the next thing.
You might want to consider a BHA chemical exfoliant. It's helped my black heads and evened my skin tone. The two popular ones are Paula's Choice 2% BHA liquid or Stridex Red. Both can be a little drying, so start with using it once a day, maybe every two to three days, and then slowly increase usage.
I see Stridex in the red box for $3.59!
Edit: Also GlamGlow Bright Mud
Mint Julep Masque
Alpha Hydrox Souffle
Alpha Hydrox Intensive Serum
Aura Cacia Argan Oil
Alpha Hydrox Night Replenishing Cream
Alpha Hydrox Sheer Silk Moisturizer
Clinique Dramatically Different Gel
I second adding a BHA product like Stridex Maximum Strength Pads. The BHA here is salicylic acid, which is like roto-rooter for your pores (an aesthetician told me that once and I liked it).
The biggest game changing secret though is an oil cleanser. You can't go wrong with this one. Video here. It's an extra step, but it transformed washing my face into a relaxing experience I look forward to.
Hello,
Thank you for the great thread. I am just building my kit at the moment so wanted to get some suggestions. My background:
I am a 24 year old male who has had acne since I was a teenager. I used to have Moderate acne but it has reduced to a mild case of acne mainly on cheeks and forehead. I believe I have oily skin as well. I have been using Proactiv most recently and found that it was working. I typically use it once a day with the three step process. I am considering moving to the following set up based on the post:
I am planning on following the AM/PM routine mentioned by OP. My question is that is this a good place to start? This kit will be costing me close to $50 so just wanted to get some suggestions before i purchase. Thanks for the help!
Some things that might help:
Anything that goes near your chin (hands, chinstraps, jacket collars, pillows, etc) needs to be washed regularly and thoroughly. Try to touch your face as little as possible!
A good cleanser and chemical exfoliant can help you out. Some commonly recommended products here on SCA are CeraVe's foaming cleanser and Stridex pads (the red box, not green box). Both will help keep your skin clean and remove any bacteria that are causing you problems. It is important when using an exfoliant that you use a lotion afterwards so your skin doesn't get too dry, moisturized skin feels and looks better! Another common product here is CeraVe's lotion (there's a pump kind that's thinner, and a jar kind that's thicker and creamier).
Hydrocolloid bandages are a godsend if you have any active acne! If the blemish is 'open', cut off a small portion of the bandage and put that on the offending zit after you wash and moisturize your face for the night. By the time you wake up, most (if not all) of the fluid from the acne will be absorbed into the bandage, leaving the blemish flat and less red.
I hope this information is helpful to you! Acne can be so painful and embarrassing, but it can be managed and fixed. Best of luck! :)
Hope you find something that's right for you!
Besides The Ordinary's line of chemical exfoliants, Paula's Choice, COSRX and Stridex are examples of some other well-known brands that make AHAs and BHAs that a lot of users here seem to like.
However when it came to AHAs, one that I personally preferred using over the other more popular recommended ones was the Glycolic Acid Facial Toner by Reviva Labs since it's only 3% glycolic acid as opposed to 7%. The 3% was just right for my skin, while the 7% would irritate it.
Benzoyl Peroxide are kind of the gold standard for spot treating acne pimples. But you mentioned "natural", so you can also try Zinc Oxide. In high concentrations, they can act as a nice soothing anti-inflammatory for acne. Diaper rash formulations with high zinc content like (40%) can help as kind of a spot treatment. (It might sound unpleasant to put diaper rash creams on your face but they are literally just Zinc Oxide, which you can find in lower concentrations in sunscreens. google search zinc oxide and acne for more info). Dab it on an acne pimple at night and sleep with it.
Also not "natural", but people had success with using hydrocolloid patches for spot treating large acne blemishes if they should appear. Heck, there is a post on this subreddit's front page about it:
https://www.reddit.com/r/SkincareAddiction/comments/5g5y1s/psahydrocolloid_bandages_available_at_dollar/
And this may not be "natural" but you have to use BHA/salicylic acid. It helps clear out your pores. It is practically one of the only preventative measures you can take to keep your pores clear and prevent acne from popping up in the first place. A lot of people like Paula's Choice 2% BHA liquid on this subreddit, but a cheaper more affordable option are Stridex pads you can probably find at your local drug store or get on Amazon.
Stridex pads on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Stridex-Strength-Medicated-Maximum-Count/dp/B000O1KP1O?th=1
Paula's Choice: http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/skin-care-categories/aha-and-bha-exfoliants/_/Skin-Perfecting-Two-Percent-BHA-Liquid-Exfoliant/
So just got into skincare. I'm a male and I train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (lots of sweat, chafing, mat burns, other people's sweat) and go to the gym, 6-7 times a week combined.
Skin type: normal to dry, have dermatitis on my head (red spots) and face (left and right, 1cm from my nose). My skin has a reddish color after I've used Roaccutane for 6 months to battle back acne.
Routine: Cerave hydration facial cleanser and moisturizing lotion (the cream is a bit too thick/sticky).
Also, I've bought the cetaphil soap bar for my face, and stridex 2% pads to use after training.
Issue: Specifically, after BJJ I've noticed that my skin is damaged. Just using moisturizer for now. Also, maybe something to restore my natural color (white) instead of the reddish hue?
Location: Ukraine (Slavic skin)
All of my products are cheap!
I use the following:
CeraVe Foaming Cleanser $8.92
Benton Snail Bee High Content Lotion $11.78
Benton Snail Bee High Content Mask Pack Sheets - 8pcs $9.43
Holika Holika Soda Pore Cleansing B.B Deep Cleansing Oil $8.87
Secret Key Angel Moist Wrap Steam Cream $10.78
Stridex BHA Pads $4.39
St Ives AHA Pads $3.99
Biore Sarasara Uv Aqua Rich Waterly Essence Sunscreen $9.49
I have a whole slew of skincare products (mostly South Korean), but these are the ones I use most consistently.
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!
Why don't you suggest a BHA or AHA? These chemical exfoliants accomplish the work of physical exfoliants without harming your moisture barrier and skin in general. A common, inexpensive BHA is Stridex in the red box (maximum strength, alcohol free). One AHA is glycolic acid, I've seen nip and fab pads that contain this.
The beginner's routine. CeraVe foaming $10 on Amazon, CeraVe cream $15 on Amazon (or Nivea cream if your skin hates fatty alcohols $9 on Amazon, Stridex pads and Neutrogena pure and free baby $12 on Amazon I only recommend this one because it's my personal preference to use physical sunscreens. Stridex in the red box $5 on Amazon.
$14 for the CeraVe cream version or $36 for the Nivea cream version. Sunblock is all rather comparable in price. And the CeraVe hydrating cleanser is about the same price as the foaming cleanser.
For me it's CeraVe foaming $10, Nivea Creme $6 (grocery store purchase), Silk Naturals AHA $9, Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence $12, Hydrocolloid bandages $5, Retin-a $5. = $47 not including shipping or accounting for variations in insurance coverage.
This product has worked wonders for me. You can read more reviews for it here.
Also, I highly recommend visiting /r/SkincareAddiction if you haven't already.
I don't have pics to show, but I just thought I'd share my skincare routine that has worked perfectly for me over the past year or so.
Mornings:
Clean & Clear Continuous Control
[Cerave Foaming Face Wash] (https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Foaming-Facial-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B003YMJJSK/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1484241816&sr=1-2&keywords=cerave)
[Some sort of gentle anti-fatigue/illuminating moisturizer] (https://www.amazon.com/Garnier-SkinActive-Anti-Fatigue-Hydra-Gel-Moisturizer/dp/B016855X98/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1484241883&sr=1-1&keywords=anti+fatigue+moisturizer) (I use this one now, but have used others in the past)
Evening:
Stridex in the Red Box
Bio Oil
Cerave Moisturizing Cream
On Occasion:
Something with Retinol
Aztec Clay Mask
And when it's sunny/if you are spending a lot of time outside, make sure to use a morning moisturizer with SPF in it.
Like these? https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000O1KP1O/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1466018049&sr=8-1&keywords=stridex+red+box&pi=SX200_QL40&dpPl=1&dpID=515af7Lh%2BLL&ref=plSrch https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00949CTQQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1466018126&sr=8-1&keywords=paulas+choice&pi=SY200_QL40 (Don't know about this one there were 2 different ones, one 2% and one 8%)
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.
On my $5 and under list. :]
Thanks for the contest!
Well, I would stop using that cleanser because it's probably not helping any. You shouldn't be physically exfoliating with skin as irritated as yours (and the micro-beads are bad for the environment). Also, even though it contains 5% BP, the cleanser is not in contact with your skin long enough for it to have any appreciable effect.
You need a specific acne treatment product (e.g. Stridex salicylic acid pads, 5% BP gel (this might only be available in Canada)), and if it's feasible for you, go to a Dr. to get something prescription strength. Oh! and Differin (0.1%) is now available OTC in the U.S. (~$30 for 45g).
Lastly, a lot of these treatment products make your skin photosensitive, so it's important that you wear a >30 SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen. If you don't, the redness may stick around for longer.
it's been said to you already but a ton of people have success with CeraVe products. I was in a very similar situation as you, in terms of skin and what I wanted out of a product, and their hydrating cleanser and their moisturizing lotion have done wonders for me. 100% recommend them both.
For what its worth, I use Stridex Red exfoliating pads as well (after my shower, 20 minutes before I apply the lotion).
How long should one wait after using Stridex before using a spot treatment and moisturizer?
My routine is not really indie. There is a lot of stuff about routines on /r/skincareaddiction btw.
Mine is like this:
Morning
Evening:
(0. if wearing makeup. Rub jojoba oil all over, and wipe off with damp microfiber cloth)
Here is a list of products:
http://www.amazon.com/Noble-Formula-Pyrithione-Zinc-Soap/dp/B004R3TBEC
http://www.amazon.com/Zwipes-Microfiber-Cleaning-36-Pack-Assorted/dp/B000XECJES
http://www.amazon.com/Stridex-Strength-Medicated-Maximum-Count/dp/B000O1KP1O
http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-Facial-Lotion-Ounce/dp/B003WN1ELQ
http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/collections/Skin-Balancing/_/Skin-Balancing-Oil-Reducing-Cleanser?ftlt=nonbranded&gclid=CL7nkp7kwMECFZBi7AodpFAALA
http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/Clear-Acne-Treatments/_/Clear-Regular-Strength-Daily-Skin-Clearing-Treatment/
http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-Cream-16-Ounce/dp/B001V9SXXU
http://www.amazon.com/Surgeons-Skin-Secret-Pump-Ounce/dp/B005N9BHQY
http://store.acne.org/jojoba-oil
_____
To conclude: cut out the Skin Success Astringent and Toner to see some improvements. Incorporate a sunscreen, which may take awhile to see what breaks you out. Finally, add the Stridex BHA.
No problem! I had looked into this for myself anyway, so it was just a matter of looking at their website to refresh my memory. They say you wash your face, apply the gel to your whole face, and moisturize. They say use sunscreen in the morning. I’m assuming they think you should use the gel itself in the evening- that’s what I would do. And you know what? I’d be suuuuper tempted to use it more than once a day. But I’m guessing you should start with once a day for a couple weeks, because it can make your skin red, irritated, and even make it peel a little. But if I were you I would probably end up using it twice a day eventually because I don’t have good self-control and it’s like, “if a little is good then a lot is great!”Probably a bad idea, though, lol.
And yeah, wait a few weeks until you add salicylic acid. I use Stridex pads- the ones in the red box. They have 2% salicylic acid, no alcohol, you can get them at the drugstore, they’re relatively cheap, and there always seems to be enough liquid in the tub once you use all the pads that you can dip a cotton ball into it and use that for another week before you have to buy a new container. Here is what you’re looking for. And if you look at the other suggestions Amazon makes for “similar products” or whatever, like the CorsRX blackhead liquid, which has the same active ingredient, you’ll see most of them are all fancy and expensive. Maybe they are nicer to use, I don’t know, but I like to isolate the actual ingredient that has the function I want, and use the one that is cheap and effective, you know? Luxury stuff is nice, but who needs it? Lol
I've been washing off my salicylic acid (Stridex pads) after leaving it on for around 20 minutes. Now I read something which suggests that I do not rinse it off. I've also read that you should just apply it then rinse your face after 30 seconds. So now I'm a bit confused.
Can someone let me know what the right way to use this product is? Thank you
Hi!
AHA is an alpha hydroxy acid and is an exfoliating acid that can remove dead layers of skin while as well allowing newer skin to surface! There’s tons more info in the sidebar about it!
So the shave strident exfoliation product is actually three different things! I meant that I would shave my beard, use Stridex Exfoliating Pads, or use The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution.
Here’s some links to the Stridex and Glycolic Acid!
Stridex
The Ordinary 7% Glycolic Acid Toning Solution
Also to clear up confusion on my exfoliating part of my routine. I will either shave, use Stridex, or use the glycolic acid every other day. Here’s an example of my week:
Monday - Shave
Tuesday - no exfoliating
Wednesday - Stridex
Thursday - no exfoliating
Friday - Shave
Saturday - no exfoliating
Sunday - Glycolic Acid
Monday - no exfoliating
and so on! Just a consistent rotation between stridex and glycolic acid every other day after shaving!
As for tightening pores, I’m not sure where to go from here as I’m pretty confident in my skin right now :)
I may look into Niacid, but a general rule of thumb I’ve learned is that you can’t exactly “tighten” pores but rather reduce their appearance with molecules like niacinamide or rich moisturizers!
Let me know if you have any questions!
I use stridex redbox(the strongest one and the one with the best ph) right after shaving my legs when I get out of the shower. No burning. I use excess on my pits/shoulders. The pads are great, you can get a 3 pack of 90/each on amazon cheap.
I'm not an expert but I believe that if you do the OCM you want to be using an exfoliant (I personally use a BHA to help with my breakouts). Stridex in the red box is pretty popular around here which is a BHA, and you'd wanna add this in after you do the OCM. (Make sure you patch test)
I also think it might be better to switch to a micro-fibre cloth for the OCM. It is supposed to be gentler on your face while still removing dirty oil. Wet it with warm water and it's so soft!
Edit: I also think you want to be washing the oil off with something. Just wiping with the cloth may leave some dirty oil on your face, so you could try to follow OCM with a gentle cleanser.
SA can come in many forms. cleansers or lotion, etc. All of them will exfoliate to a degree. In your case, how about getting some stridex pads with SA and using them on your body. This is the direct way to test if it will work for you or not. http://www.amazon.com/Stridex-Strength-Medicated-Maximum-Count/dp/B000O1KP1O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1396732685&sr=8-1&keywords=stridex
Stridex is a BHA (Salicylic Acid).
Make sure its the red box one, which is the right pH for exfoliation.
http://www.amazon.com/Stridex-Strength-Medicated-Maximum-Count/dp/B000O1KP1O/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411537715&sr=8-1&keywords=stridex+red
Walmart sells boxes of 90 pads for only like $4.
A commonly recommended beginner AHA is St. Ives Exfoliating Pads.
http://www.amazon.com/St-Ives-Exfoliating-Pads-Count/dp/B00CHJU06G/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411537789&sr=8-1&keywords=exfoliating+pads
You might be able to find them in a drug store, but I haven't seen them recently. They are pretty affordable on amazon though.
Make sure to introduce new products slowly and patch test to check for any possible bad interactions.
I'm no expert, mostly just regurgitating info I've read on this sub.
Best of luck to you!
You're welcome. It's worked super well for me, made a huge difference right away, and it's cheap. Can't beat that! :-) Ditto for these which work a little differently (salicylic instead of AHA's) and may be a bit more drying.
This red box ?
yes, it will help clean out your pores. Try the stridex pads in the redbox, here, but also probably at your local drugstore
If you skin is bumpy- you might have closed comedones. Try factoring in cheap salicylic exfoliating pads ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000O1KP1O/ref=ox_sc_act_image_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER).
If you skin feels tight/flaky, you need some extra moisturizing in there. I wear Vaseline to bed over my moisturizer, and you may want to use a cheap oil cleans (look up OCM on this subreddit) in the morning instead of soap.
Other people may have more suggestions!
Hello SCA, I'm a 25yr male that wants to improve his skin, I have dry skin with Sebaceous Filaments. I've been lurking for a while and reading a lot, I want to compile all of my knowledge and do a review of my routine going forward. Please take a look and let me know if there are areas of improvement.
AM
CeraVe Facial Cleanser, Hydrating Cleanser
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM
PM
Same Cleanser
Exfoliate Stridex Strength Medicated Pads, trying to reduce my Sebaceous Filaments +
Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion PM
Question:
Thanks SCA! This whole thing is very new to me and I feel like a lot of these key words are very foreign to me, but I'll get there!
I love CeraVe Foaming. Sebamed face and bodywash is an alternative though.
Exfoliation:
If CeraVe Moisturizing Cream isn't moisturizing enough when winter really gets cold, you can either put it on top of Sebamed gel or under a layer of vaseline during the night.
Also, here's the cheaper alternative to Paula's Choice BHA: http://www.amazon.com/Stridex-Strength-Medicated-Maximum-Count/dp/B000O1KP1O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425614865&sr=8-1&keywords=stridex
Hi, i'm new here and recently asked for advice in a separate post with not many answers, so i thought i ask here: i have red, bumpy acne scars from 1 or 2 month ago, i picked on them, and now they won't go away. I don't have a routine yet, but i read the guide so i ordered these:
facewash: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000P1S0NI/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
exfoliant(?): https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000O1KP1O/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
moisturizer: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LEJ5MSK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
​
i plan to use these twice a day, but i'm not sure if these will do the trick, so i was looking into https://www.amazon.com/Amara-Organics-Vitamin-Serum-Hyaluronic/dp/B00G2TQNZ4/ref=sr_1_13?crid=3DSL6CW00OCE4&keywords=vitamin+c+serum&qid=1554331845&s=gateway&sprefix=vitamin+c+se%2Caps%2C476&sr=8-13 . Any advice, suggestions or observations? I really wanna get rid of the general redness and the scars redness. If you check my post history you can see the picture. Thanks
I have these too! Except mine are much more over the skin, hard, and noticeable http://imgur.com/a/exoSj . Stridex Red Box
have done the most to help minimize these un-poppable bumps, but they have been on the sides of my face for months now?! Exfoliation is all I can think of that might help - that, and time, and not picking.
Could I get away with using Stridex Max Strength pads for that?
Stridex. I personally use the green one because it's not as strong. Get it at WalMart, it's only $3. It will really help with the comedones.
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.
http://www.amazon.com/Stridex-Strength-Medicated-Maximum-Count/dp/B000O1KP1O/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1417897371&sr=8-1&keywords=stridex+red
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.
Sorry for all the text! I had made a thread cause I didn't read rule 9, oops. Tldr included.
New routine (Acne)
I visited the side bar for Acne prone skin under basic routines and bought some stuff. I went to Walmart so I wasn't able to find some of recommended products so I just got ones that I thought were similar or use some that i had at home.
I've been using the cleanser and treatment product I listed for a while now, although I ran out of the treatment cream few weeks ago and never replaced it until yesterday, The only change I saw was that it makes the acne appear less red while its on. Oh and for the past week I've also been using tretinion cream that i got waay back only before I go to bed. Should I stop using this?
I used the products in this order this morning. Pretty much the way I listed them. Cleanser, exfoliant (burned), clearasil treatment, CeraVE sunscreen moisturizer since it was in the morning (burned when I applied it and continued to do so for a while).
well here are my questions
Don't know if it matters but I'm a guy who shaves every two days (military) and I've already switched to razors with fewer blades.
Tldr; First bullet list are the products i bought/have, Second list are my questions.
From my understanding, the general consensus on SCA is that Stridex max strength (red box) is pH balanced, meaning that the exfoliant, salicylic acid, and properly do it's thing. Salicylic acid has a pH of 3.0^[source]. If I remember correctly, it needs a pH of 3.0-4.0 to be effective.
The reason that the Stridex medicated sensitive pads are not recommended on SCA seems to be that the pH is too high.
However, people have posted about the Stridex red box pads being too harsh and drying on their skin because of menthol. In that case, Paula's Choice has a starter AHA/BHA kit that's $13~$18 you can try.
But in all seriousness, please take my advice with a grain of salt! I'm just some person on the Internet, and I have no formal education on the subject. These were just some of my findings and I can very well be wrong. I am still in the process of learning.
Be sure to do research on your own, too, to be on the safe side! (safety first!)
Best wishes, OP :)
Look into using a BHA chemical exfoliant after you shave! Paula's choice make a really good one that's ~for men~ and it'll also keep your skin nice and clear too, if pimples or anything are worrying you.
And don't forget to moisturise.
ninja edit: if you are poor you can try out Stridex pads, but you might find they dry your skin out and make it look shitty (like I did). Heaps of people swear by them though.
I have a horrible OCD/Anxiety disorder, Dermatilomania. It causes me to become hypersensitive of skin irregularities. So obviously my mentally ill mind is like "ok, now tear your skin off." Needless to say its ruining my life. I can't wear any nice clothes in fear of getting blood on them or seeing my own skin. I have built up scar tissue like you wouldn't imagine.
I've been trying for two years now to kick it, just now I'm starting to get really serious. I got skin routines down to a chemical science and I've started to know whats best for my skin.
I've heard people rave about Himalayan Salt Lamps, they claim that it's an air purifier and can really slow down the process of developing pimples which can clear the body to clear it quicker.
But the thing I want most in an effort to help is Stridex Strength Medicated Pads. Its only $7 and could probably change my life. I don't have enough money to purchase it for myself despite its affordability. I'm looking for a job high and low though. Hydrocolloid bandages will basically completely draw grease/etc from a pimple in under a day. It would be a real lifesaver and be really appreciated.
Hey /u/MrA1Sauce! I see you around and you're always a sweetie to everyone and I love it!
Yep, I'm using stridex in the red box, because it's cheap and has the right % of salicylic acid & the right pH to be effective. Here's a link. The very first time I used it my face flushed for about 5 minutes and stung. So I only used it twice per week at first, with continued use my skin adjusted and I could use it more often and I didn't flush or feel stinging. Just wanted to give you this warning!
Paula's Choice 2% bha has a more gentle, less drying formula that's very popular. I just haven't used it because I don't feel like paying $30 bucks for it--but this is a good one too.
First of all, thank you for taking your time to write up a thorough reply to a random stranger seeking help. You rock.
I've settled on the Simple cleanser, the Stridex exfoliant (I found some on Amazon that claim to be alcohol free), and finally the CeraVe AM/PM for moisturizer/sunscreen.
Hopefully my skin starts looking better :)
Thanks again!