-
K’s Skincare Routine
What was once an accessory page has now lengthened to book proportions…
Why do I make a point of sharing my skincare routine?
Current Products
Past favorites to consider
My smartest skincare postsIf you have acne-prone skin, I hope this information helps. I’m always looking for product suggestions, so if something has worked for you, let me know!
Why do I make a point of sharing my skincare routine?
I had major trouble with acne for a very long time. Initially, I put my trust into my dermatologist, using funky-smelling face washes, BenzaClin, Differin, Retin-A, antibiotics, birth control, even the nuclear bomb of skin treatment, Accutane. I also tried over-the-counter remedies, including Proactiv and SensiClear.
Nothing ever made a real difference. I would cycle through periods of breakouts, clear skin, then more breakouts.
Frustrated, I turned to the Internet. A breakthrough came when I discovered the blog Savvy Skin (which hasn’t been updated in a while, but is still an amazing resource). I was inspired to take control of my treatment. Only then did my acne improve.
I started reading the ingredients lists on my products, and was shocked to see that most of them had ingredients that have been documented to cause breakouts or irritation; non-comedogenic and Dermatologist Tested are marketing labels that mean nothing. Once I got rid of these things, replaced them with safe products, and started to exfoliate (gently) every day, I saw a huge improvement in my skin.
The next revelation came when I found out that I’m mildly allergic/intolerant to just about everything. I started using products with no preservatives or other unnecessary ingredients, and WOW what a difference. I began to see my skin not just as oily and acne-prone, but sensitive too.
Today, I very rarely get zits. It’s a huge confidence-booster (try maintaining conversation when all you’re thinking about is whether the person your talking to is staring at the huge sore on your face). I’m ready to start concentrating on new skin goals: pigmentation correction (isn’t it great how zits leave you good-bye presents?) and anti-aging (my dream is to look 50 when I’m 70).
Current Products
I look for products that won’t make me breakout or irritate my skin, and the less expensive, the better. I prefer to buy things locally, although I will order online if I think a product’s worth it, or if I have a coupon code.
updated: January 6, 2008
Facial Wash: Weleda Almond Cleansing Lotion, which I massage in with a facial brush I got for free from Boscia. I don’t use a cleanser in the AM, instead I gently exfoliate, again with the facial brush or a washcloth.
Astringent/Tonic: Boscia Clear Complexion Tonic
Daily Acne Treatment: Boscia Clear Complexion Treatment
Emergency Acne Treatment: Boscia Willowbark Breakout Treatment (which also comes in a handy stick) and Tea Tree oil (which I apply directly to new bumps, no dilution). I’ve also noticed that bareMinerals has a bit of an inflammatory effect for me, so I’ll use it if I have a spot that’s trying to heal.
Facial and Body Moisturizer: Jojoba Oil or German-made Nivea.
Sunscreen: Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 55 PA+++, is still my ultimate. In the winter though, I usually just dust myself with bareMinerals, since Vitamin D production trumps sun protection and I don’t spend lots of time outside.
Makeup Remover: Almay Eye Make Up Remover
Lip Balm: Carmex, my favorite being SPF 30 Mint Flavor Lip Balm (which was mysteriously absent from stores when I was home for Christmas, but can be bought in 12 packs online).
Body Wash: I still favor Dr. Bronner’s, but I haven’t found it in Germany yet.
Body Scrub: None. Too lazy.
Past favorites to consider
Boscia Clear Complexion Cleanser
Dr. Bronner’s Almond (or Tea Tree) Organic Liquid Soap
The Body Shop Almond Body Butter and its matching Scrub, which seems to have been discontinued (sob). The body butter’s still available online, although I haven’t seen it in stores for awhile.
Queen Helene Cocoa Butter Lotion
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock with Helioplex, SPF 55: safe to use as a facial sunscreen, but IMO too pilly to love (especially at the SPF 70 and 85 levels). It’s excellent if you’re on a budget though. I still use it as an all-over sunscreen in the summer.
Boscia Oil-free Daily Hydration SPF 15: Included with the Boscia Clear Complexion Kit, which is an excellent start if you’re interested in Boscia’s products. It includes Algae Extract, which can be an irritant for some people. Unfortunately, this includes me. Use with caution if you have sensitive skin.
My smartest skincare posts
Boscia Clear Complexion Kit
Life on Accutane
Accutane Must-Haves
Hand me the 55, part deux
My German Beauty Favorites (so far)
Recent Comments