I remember a couple of months ago when I shared my first skincare post. It was something I had never done and I was apprehensive because although I was excited about starting to take skin care seriously, I didn't feel experienced enough to talk about it.
I have been lucky to overall have good skin. I've always consumed a lot of water, taken my makeup off before bed and washed my face religiously. However, I tend to break out monthly and I get terrible ingrown hairs. This left scars, scabs, and embarrassment on my face.
Everyone sees their imperfections or flaws first and I am no exception. Eventually, after discussing it with my parents, I decided to seek the help of a dermatologist. I had been referred to mine by a friend and I figured it was worth a shot.
She started me on two ointments (Clindamycin and Tretinoin) and a prescription pill (Spironolactone) to reduce irritation and redness on my skin. At first, I wasn't sure. It felt like overkill. Then, my skin peeled off. I kid you not, my whole face was constantly shedding. And then all of a sudden, clarity. Through that month or two, I started to physically see and realize the importance of ingredients we use on our skin. We should be focused on the ingredients of anything we consume, but it became clear to me that my skin needs to be a priority.
I had already started to invest in skincare prior to my dermatologist appointment, but now I was starting to get somewhere. I had a jumpstart to where I needed to be. My irritation on my skin has dramatically decreased. I rarely experience the pain I once did. I help maintain my skins complexion by using masks, serums, tools, and moisturizers. Everyone's skin is different, but I have found these to be helpful and by far my favorite skincare products.
Tula Exfoliating Treatment Mask - Worth every penny! I use this mask probably once a week to help get rid of any dead skin or residue on the surface of my skin. It calms my skin and leaves it soft and glowing! You aren't supposed to use it every day so it will last you a while!
Neutrogena Make-Up Remover Wipes - I think almost every girl in America has these tucked away somewhere. I use them every time I take my make up off, they do the job without a lot of work.
Mario Badescu Seaweed Night Cream - This gives my skin an extra boost of moisture, which is wonderful especially for the winter months.
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Scrub - I have found this to be the most gentle on my skin. It's effective without stripping my skin of nutrients.
Derma Suction - This tool is something I'm still learning how to use, but I will say it is very effective. You have to make sure that you're going slowly and constantly moving or you might give yourself something similar looking to a hickey! Make sure you let your pores open up, I always have trouble waiting but it's a super important step!
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay - I received this mask in a Secret Santa exchange over the holiday season and it works wonders for my skin! It comes as a powder you mix with water or apple cider vinegar and then apply it to your face. I do this probably once a month. If you have sensitive skin, I would be careful of this product! This mask is supposed to pulsate. I haven't experienced that but it does make my skin feel crazy smooth!
Mario Badescu Rosewater Spray - Dampening makeup sponges, setting makeup, a refreshing mist midday, what can't this spray do? I don't even really have to think twice about this, it's a beauty and skin must!
Charlotte Tilbury Multi-Miracle Cleansing Balm - My mom got this as a free gift and we have been loving it! You can use it as a cleanser or leave it on overnight for extra baby soft skin. I leave it on overnight probably once or twice a week.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel - This is my newest skincare product. I heard other bloggers speak highly of it but wasn't sure and I'm so glad I tried it! It gives the skin instant moisture and is easy on the skin. Definitely an affordable alternative to some of the other masks I mentioned. I have been keeping this in my bag and throwing it on whenever my skin feels dry!
Everyone's skin is different, but what's important is to nourish it and to treat it with care. Sharing my updated skincare routine was something I had been asked to do because people could see an improvement in my skin and my confidence. Of course, I still experience breakouts, but they're in no way as extreme as before. I know that medication has played a major factor, but I also know that maintaining and proactively caring for your skin is important as well.
