Clearing My Skin
Growing up, I never struggled with acne until I reached college. When everyone’s skin seemed to be getting better, mine got worse year after year. It didn’t help that I was covering my pores with makeup to try to cover up the acne and dark spots since I never felt confident with a bare face. Adult acne is not fun and I know that I’m not the only one struggling with it, so after many years of trying different skincare products, I wanted to share with you what has been working for me.
Below are images of before/after of 2 months of following this skincare routine. While my skin is still not perfect, I’m happy that it’s heading towards a clearer direction; my dark spots have faded and I’ve seen a lot of acne around my forehead and hairline clear up.
CUROLOGY
The first thing that I think has helped my skin clear up a lot is Curology. How Curology works is that you upload photos of your face and they will personally prescribe a cream for you that you apply once a day before you go to bed. The images above are examples of the progress photos I’ve sent to Curology. I love how easy and effective Curology is and how their providers give great advice about how to take care of your skin whenever you have questions.
Centaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
I have extremely sensitive skin, so for my cleanser, I like to use something that is gentle and won’t irritate my skin. For a couple years now, I have been using the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. I like how light it feels and has always left my skin feeling fresh. If you’re looking for cleansers, I would also look into CeraVe; I haven’t personally used it, but have heard good things!
Cosrx acne patches
These are a lifesaver!!! Whenever I have a blemish or feel one coming on, I put a patch on before going to bed and in the morning, the size of the pimple is noticeably reduced! You can see on the patch all the oil it absorbs and this is the most effective overnight pimple reducer I’ve used. I’ve tried Mario Badescu’s Drying Lotion in the past and didn’t find it effective, but CosRx actually works! Also, now that we’re all working from home and on Zoom, I love that instead of using makeup to cover my acne, I can pop one of these on and it’s healing my skin and blends in on camera!
Olay Total Effects 7 in 1 Day Cream
I wouldn’t say I have a go-to day cream. It’s something I often switch up. This is the one I’m currently using and I like it so far! It’s non-irritating and goes on comfortably. It feels hydrating without being oily. I also love that it has SPF! I haven’t found a day cream that I’ve stuck with, so if you have any recommendations, leave them in the comments!
ELIZABETH ARDEN VISIBLE DIFFERENCE PEEL
If you are to get one thing from this list aside from Curology, this peel is what I’d recommend! I’ve tried a lot of face masks and most of the time, they’re just fun to use; my face will feel more hydrated, but it doesn’t feel like it makes a lasting difference. BUT with the Elizabeth Arden peel, I clearly see the effects. My skin looks tighter, dead skin is removed, and my face has a dewy glow after using it. I also love how easy it is to peel and comes off in one piece. The only thing to be aware of is that it can sting a little bit, especially if you get it around your eyes. Though, this is hands down the best face mask I’ve ever used; I use this once a week, have gone through multiple bottles of this, and will continue to purchase it!
While everyone’s skin is different and what works for me may not work for you, I thought I’d share with you the products that I’m currently using and I hope some of them work for you as well! I understand how acne can affect your self esteem, so I hope these products will help you feel your best and give you the confidence to take on everything ahead of you!
xo Kerstin