Suffering from acne and/or sensitive skin issues are not really a joyful experience. In particular, adult acne can be both stressful and frustrating, especially when you are way past puberty and desperately trying to find a solution but nothing seems to work. Acne and sensitive skin issues can also affect ones self-esteem and make you feel less than your best self. Hyperpigmentation, pimples/blemishes, rashes, redness and other undesirable skin reactions are issues that many people struggle with, young and old, and sometimes certain life events like puberty, pregnancy and certain medication/treatment for other conditions can exacerbate these skin issues.
When it comes to adult acne and sensitive skin issues, I have found that a simple and minimalist selfcare routine works best to keep skin clear, and avoid crazy breakouts and skin irritations. I am not a skincare expert or dermatologist but would like to share the below tips with you, that has worked for me:
Resist touching your face throughout the day, and stop picking and popping your pimples. You can put medication on pimple but touching, picking or popping the pimple will only worsen acne and leave you with worse scarring/hyperpigmentation that you'll have to deal with in the future.
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water. Limit consumption of sugary drinks, extra spicy and unhealthy foods. In my experience, I have found that what you put in your body as far as nutrition can seep through your pores and make acne/sensitive skin conditions worse.
When it comes to skin care sometimes less is more. Resist the urge to try multiple different skin care/body care acne products at the same time. When trying a new acne treatment, it's recommended that you give product at least 4-6 weeks to see if you notice any improvements.
Keep your skincare routine simple and be consistent. Once you find a skincare routine and treatment protocol that works, stick with it and be consistent. For example, if you have a morning routine as well as a night time skincare routine, make sure to stay consistent and dedicated to the mission of keeping your skin clear. I have found that having a simple, minimalist routine with only a few steps and products makes it easier to stick to a routine and eliminate common excuses like too tired before bed or not enough time trying to rush out the door in the morning to dedicate to a skincare routine.
Be gentle and maintain safe hygiene protocols. For example, make sure you are not overdoing it with exfoliating. Make sure you are sleeping on clean sheets and pillow cases. Also, I recommend using a separate towel for face than you use on your body and make sure to change towel often. What I do is set aside designated smaller wash-cloth size towels for use on face only and only pat dry. I feel this has been a game changer in helping me to maintain clearer skin.
Find great products that are within your price range and budget so you are not pitching pennies together and stress when it's time to re-stock or refill a product. Remember that just because a product is fancy and expensive doesn't mean that it works better and what works for one person might not necessarily work for you. It's about finding what works for you.
Call in the experts timely. If you have tried to achieve clear skin on your own and have not been successful, you may need to consult a professional dermatologist to help you figure out the cause and type of acne that you suffer from. A licensed dermatologist can help you to develop a routine that is individualize and prescribe medications that may give you the relief/results you are looking for.
My Skincare Routine is pretty simple and consist of a few products and steps that I know works for me: Cleanser, Exfoliate (but not too frequent), Toner, Serum/Oil, Moisturizer, and Sunscreen. The sunscreen is so essential to protect your skin from dangerous UV radiation and ensure that you are reaping the benefits of all your hard work. After devoting the time and energy to take excellent care of your skin, protect it by using a good sunscreen. Dermatologist recommends using sunscreen every day and all year round, and especially during the Summer--when the sun is stronger and the days are longer.
Sharing link to products that have been working for me, and I plan to stick with until proven otherwise. You know what they say, if it's not broke don't fix it. I basically rotate between these products depending on what I feel my skin needs on any particular day. I also occasionally put on a sheet face mask when I need a little something extra, feeling extra fancy and want to create that selfcare day ambience and vibe, you know what I mean!
Cleanser
CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser (2% salicylic acid acne treatment) or CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Niacinamide
Burt's Bees Natural Acne Solutions, Purifying Gel Cleanser, salicylic acid acne treatment with soothing cica
Exfoliate
Aveeno Clear Complexion, daily cleansing pads, exfoliate + polish. *Note I use this product occasionally maybe once a month even though it is labeled as daily cleansing pads.
Toner
Mario Badescu Skin Care, Witch Hazel & Rosewater Toner;
Olehenriksen Glow2 OH Dark Spot Toner, and
Burt's Bees Sensitive Toner With Aloe Vera, Rebalance and calm your skin. Alcohol Free.
Serum/Oil
Mario Badescu Anti Acne Serum. In my experience, this product is great to spot treat pimples as it reduces redness and inflammation and helps to minimize scarring from acnes.
Glow Science Manuka Honey Face Oil + Jojoba/Vitamin E (Unable to link but usually can be found at TJX and Marshall stores).
Moisturizer
Mario Badescu Hyaluronic Day Cream
Estee Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Youth Power Cream
Sunsreen
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer dry touch Sunscreen, SPF 45
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Clear Skin Sunscreen, Oil Free, Fragrance Free, SPF 60
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