(Part 3) Best facial skin care products according to redditors

you'd be better off purchasing from amazon

The costco one has vague descriptions in terms of gram amounts (what is .45 g?).

Assuming its 45g per 2 containers for 29.99 (Its 30 bucks wake up sheeple!), the amazon version sells 2 packs of 75g ones for 27.50$ with free shipping for purchases over 25$

Be wary though, amazon's price changing algorithm is shady sometimes.

Here is a screenshot at this current time of 11:18 am Seoul




Looking at the big picture though, is price the most important decision making factor here?

Amazon is cheap, fast and efficient but they work their employees to the bone and are aggressive as hell business wise.

Costco on the other hand last time I checked REALLY takes care of their employees with above above average wages, good company culture and a customer centric paradigm. Not to mention the costco hotdogs and soda are still the same price of 1.50$ for over 27 years.

If there is any vote that counts in this day and age its the vote of the almighty dollar. So if you espouse the values costco practices over the corporate behemoth that is amazon the choice is ultimately yours to be the change you want to see.

Its just a few dollars after all

Howdy, skin twin! This is what my skin looked like before I started taking care of it, and if I fall off the skincare wagon, that's what it goes back to.

The main issues here are that your skin needs some exfoliation, and you need both a source of moisture, and a way to keep it in.

With exfoliation, you have two options: physical and chemical. Physical exfoliation is stuff like facial scrubs, pore brushes, etc. It's a popular method, but it can be harsh to your skin. I like chemical exfoliation - specifically, and Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), which works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin and living skin, so the dead crusty bits can be gently washed off.

After that, you need to tackle the dehydration. Dehydrated skin gets that rough, uneven orange-peel appearance, and makes large pores more obvious. This is true even if your skin is oily - you can be oily and dehydrated at the same time, and dehydrated skin can actual trigger more oil production.

In addition to a moisturizer, you'd benefit from an occlusive to keep the moisture from evaporating, especially if you live in a dry climate or are exposed to air conditioning all day.

So here's a really basic routine you could try out. I use a lot of Asian products because they're cheap and work well, but you can find similar products local to you.

1. Oil cleanse

"Normal" face washes can be really drying, especially the ones marketed towards men, for some reason. If your face feels tight and plasticky after you wash it, your cleanser is to blame. I use an emulsifying oil cleanser.

You put it on your dry face, rub it around to get it to stick to the gunk in your pores, and then rinse with water, which makes it emulsify and become un-oily. Cool!

It doesn't actually have to be an oil cleanser - any hydrating, non-drying cleanser will work fine.

Some folks use a secondary cleanser after this, but unless you wear makeup, you probably don't need it, and it risks drying you out more.

2. Acid exfoliation

Now that you have a clean face, it's time to get rid of the dead stuff that makes your skin lumpy. For this, we'll use an AHA - I like this one from CosRX, even though it smells like dog piss on a mushroom.

This is a step you'll only do every other day, maximum. Start with every 2-3 days and go from there. Do this step at night, as AHA will make your skin less resistant to UV (more on that later).

Put a couple drops in your hands, massage it into your face, and then wait. It takes at least 15 minutes for the acid to fully break down that "glue" holding dead skin onto your face.

Rinse it off with water, dry, and move on to the next step.


3. Hydrating toner

The next thing you need is a thin moisturizer, something that can sink right into your skin to plump and de-leatherify it. These are typically going to based on hyaluronic acid, a "goo molecule" that your body uses in every squishy part of your body, from skin to eyeballs to bones. I like this one by Hada Labo, but there are good options from Klairs, Paula's Choice, etc.

Put a few drops on your hands and pat/squish into your face. Give it a minute to dry. If your face feels tight, you can repeat this step a couple times.

4. Ceramide lotion

Ceramides help to "waterproof" your skin from the inside, to prevent loss of all that moisture you just added. Cerave PM is pretty much the best bang for your buck - despite the "PM" in the label, you can use it day and night.

5 (Daytime). Sunblock

Before you go out for the day, you need sunblock. Damage from the sun is a huge contributor to crappy dehydrated skin, and now that you're exposing fresh new skin with the AHA, you're going to be even more sensitive to it.

Due to some weird laws surrounding what we can use in sunblock in the US and some other Western countries, it's likely that the only sunblock you can get in stores is that thick, oily, gross, white stuff.

The Japanese have the rest of the world pretty much beat when it comes to sunblock - Biore Aqua Rich is a solid choice, although you'll need something heavier for days when you're going to be sweating or swimming.

5 (Night). Occlusive

Now that you've done all this work to moisturizer your skin, you don't want it to just evaporate overnight. That's where an occlusive comes in - a thick outer layer that protects your skin and all the stuff you just put on it. Aquaphor is great for this.

So there you go - a solid starting routine! Try that out for a week and see if your skin doesn't start to look better - if you're not doing anything to your skin right now, you're bound to see some improvement with this.

Note that there is some risk of bad reactions whenever you're using new face stuff. The oil cleanser and lotion might give you a breakout of small white bumps, the AHA might feel to harsh and make your face red, you might be allergic to an ingredient in the toner, etc. If that happens, stop using everything, and start adding each item back into your routine slowly until you identify the culprit.

Good luck, and happy moisturizing!

Simple Micellar Cleansing Water: $22.99 - Lasts me ~3 months

Cereve Hydrating Cleanser $12.39

Thayer's Rose Petal Alcohol-Free Toner: $6.99 - Lasts me ~4 months

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum: $19.99 - Lasts me ~4 months

Simple Protecting Light Moisturizer SPF 15: $8.11 - Lasts me ~5 months

Simple Quench Sleeping Cream: $9.96

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%: $7.90

Jack Black Lip Balm: $7.50

I'm sure there's variations in price based on where you get it and if amazon is having sales/add ons etc. Total is about $110 if you went out and bought all the products at once or roughly $20 a month. Totally reasonable imo!

EDIT: Bad math, sorry, I needed to count the Micellar water twice since it doesn't last me as long as the other products. Totals are estimates.

EDIT #2: Forgot the CereVe cleanser so I added that in as well. Some of the items don't have estimated time frames of how long it takes me to use up because I've never used them up.

As someone explained, ingrown hairs happen when the hair doesn't actually break the surface of the skin, the most common cause for them is shaving with poor gear or incorrectly. Basically you shave and instead of cutting the hair, the razor pulls it slightly out from the hair follicle before actually cutting it. So when the hair grows back, if it's even slightly off from it's previous position, there's a good chance it won't break through the skin and end up as an ingrown hair.

Some people also have naturally very curly hair which then ends up causing much more ingrown hairs than most others. If they just happen even without shaving then the issue is a bit more difficult to manage and there's actually very little you can do about it. However if they happen after shaving, then solution do exist.

I'm going to detail some things you can do about your shaving routine that should help with ingrown hairs.

First of all, get yourself a double edge razor. If you want something cheap you can get one for about 3$ from Amazon, for something a bit better and more expensive the Edwin jagger DE89 is an excellent razor. There are literally hundreds of other options out there, you can often find DE razors from antique shops, flea markets or just your parents/grandparents place. And vintage razors are often extremely good if they are in decent shape.

Next you'll need some blades, I recommend buying a sampler pack again this one is about 11$. The reason you want a sample pack is because certain blades work better for certain people, so you can try them out and find the blade that fits you.

Now why on earth would you spend the whopping 15$ on technology from 70's when you have the new gilette 20 blade razor that is supersharp technology masterpiece? Mostly because it's not supersharp, well..It kinda is but it won't stay that way. The problem is that blades go dull, and when blades go dull they don't cut well, when they don't cut well they tug the hair and you end up with ingrown hairs. The easy solution is to change the cartridge often, but the cartridges are really goddamn expensive so you don't want to do that. DE blades? You can get a years supply for 20-30$, change it every 1-3 shaves and you can ensure the blade stays sharp and cuts well.

Someone also suggested exfoliating the skin, but you can kill two birds with one stone. You can get yourself a shaving brussh, something simple like the Omega 10077 it's a good, cheap starter brush it's a bit on the harder side so you can easily use it to exfoliate your skin prior to shaving. With that you can get a tube of Proraso shaving cream which is leaps and bounds better than the stuff you get from a supermarket in a can. Then to top it off get yourself some nice aftershave to calm your skin after shaving.

Now you'll also need to change your entire routine a bit. Slap a blade on your new razor, fill your sink up with some hot water and let your brush soak in the water. While your brush soaks rinse the areas you want to shave with plenty of hot water, this helps to open up the pores and soften your hair prior to shaving. If you want you can use some pre-shave to try and keep the irritation to your skin to minimum. Now you'll need to prep some lather, you can use a bowl, your hand or just do it right where you want to shave Here's a good guide on what you can do. The basic idea is to make sure your brush isn't exactly dripping wet but still wet, get about an almond size drop of the shave cream, then just mix up the cream like you'd be mixing eggs, add drops of water if needed. Once you have some lather, apply it in the places you want. You should use rather brisk circular motions, these help to prop your hair up and makes them easier to shave. Applying cream with hands usually has the bad effect of pushing your hair flat on your skin which makes shaving harder.

Now you have some lather so you'll need to shave. There are two main things to keep in mind with a DE: Blade angle and pressure.

Basically there is an ideal blade angle and finding one will take some time. However there is an entire wiki page dedicated to this. The second one is pressure, with a cartridge razor you ten dto press it against your skin, because the blades are dull and you try to shave as well as possible. With a DE, you should not put any pressure on your skin. The blade is sharp enough to cleanly cut the hair with zero pressure. Getting a hang of it is gonna take a week or so, but once you do you will consistently get better shaves. And be sure to rinse your blade often with the water you have in your sink, you don't want too much cream clogging the blade up.

The basic three pass DE shave includes one pass with the grain of the hair, another across the grain and the final pass is done very carefully against the grain and only if needed or you absolutely want to do it. Shaving against the grain gives you the best shave, but also irritates your skin more and is much more likely to end up with reddish skin or small cuts. So you fist shave everything with the grain, then rinse, apply lather, shave across the grain, rinse, and shave against the grain if needed.

Finally rinse with cool water, dry yourself up and apply aftershave. For other post-shave products you can get yourself an Alum bloc. It's a natural astringent that closes up most small razor nicks. After your final pass and after rinsing your face, grab the block and just massage it on the areas where you shaved, then rinse your face again. Another excellent product is witch hazel. It's again an all natural skin care product, it helps to cool, refresh and revitalize your skin. You can also use it daily even if you don't shave. Personally I apply witch hazel after I rinse off the alum. Then wait a few minutes and apply after shave.

Doing all that should help to decrease skin irritation and reduce ingrown hairs. And those products are just a dip in he ocean, there are hundreds of soaps, aftershaves, creams and all manner of other things you can get cheap and easy. Check out /r/wicked_edge for more.

Great to see someone with a darker shade of skin posting, thanks for this. Have you had any experience with "Cetaphil Dermacontrol Moisturizer" (SPF 30)? It's specifically for oil control. I had a better experience with this one, rather than their regular Daily Moisturizer product. Again, thanks for posting for your results.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006L2137U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Edit: Forgot to write that I haven't dried my face with a towel during these three weeks. Just soaked it up with soft napkins.


I took 750 mg Niacin supplements every day & ate a mostly vegan diet. Went from greenish, sickly pale to a healthy pink tone (the pics above were taken in the same room, same tone of lighting). Under eye line & forehead lines disappeared with BHA & hydration!


I don't tan, smoke or drink. My routine (I noticed a difference overnight with BHA & the snail gels):

AM:

• ACO Face Refreshing Cleansing Lotion
  
  
• L300 Fresh Hydration Cleansing Toner
  
  
• [Sporadically] TonyMoly The Fresh Phytoncide Pore Essence
  
  
• [Started 3rd week] Mizon All-in-one Snail Repair Cream
  
  
• [Started 3rd week] Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream
  
  
• L300 Fresh Hydration Face Cream+
  
  
• Kao Biore UV AQUA Rich Watery Essence (I need to switch this out for a physical as my eyes get red)
  
  
  PM:
  
  
• ACO Face Refreshing Cleansing Lotion
  
  
• L300 Fresh Hydration Cleansing Toner
  
  
• [First 2 weeks: every night, 3rd week and beyond: every other day] Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Gel
  
  Wait 20-30 minutes
  
  
• [Started 2nd week] ECO Modern Essentials Vitamin C Serum (not sure if this has any effect, will use it until I run out)
  
  
• [Started 3rd week] Mizon All-in-one Snail Repair Cream
  
  
• [Started 3rd week] Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream
  
  
• L300 Fresh Hydration Face Cream+
  
  
  I hopefully won't be needing Botox for years. And my brother is now also a believer. :)

Copying from my previous comment from earlier in the thread:

Face lotion alone is NOT providing nearly enough SPF coverage. Come over to r/skincareaddiction! :) There are many sunscreens out there that feel like lotion but are highly protective. I personally use an Asian brand that is SPF 50 and protects against both UVA and UVB rays, something most standard sunscreens don't do. It's only $12 on Amazon and lasts me a couple months. After it dries, I can't even tell I'm wearing sunscreen.

My typical morning routine for my face is:

1. Cleanser (then wash it off)
   
   
2. Toner
   
   
3. Moisturizer
   
   
4. Sunscreen
   
   I also add sunscreen to any exposed skin on the rest of my body. This sunscreen is cheap enough that I feel fine using it for my full body.
   
   I repeat this whole process at night (excluding the sunscreen). I also add Vitamin C serum after the toner, which also helps with anti-aging (promotes collagen growth).
   
   The whole thing takes less than 5 minutes, plus a couple minutes between each stage to let it dry. Wrinkles are SO hard to reverse... the best solution is prevention while you're still young! Plus, as someone whose parents have both gone through cancer, skin cancer is not something I take lightly.
   
   EDIT: I've had many requests for my exact products so I'm adding them here. Everyone's skin is a little different, so I would definitely advise doing your own research to find what works best for you. For reference, I have clear (little-to-no acne) skin, not too dry or oily.
   
   For each product, make sure you do a patch test to ensure you don't have a bad reaction. They're all pretty gentle so you should be okay, but always good to be safe.
   
   Cleanser: Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
   
   Toner: KLAIRS Supple Preparation Facial Toner
   
   Moisturizer: Trader Joe's Nourish Oil-Free Antioxidant Facial Moisturizer (this is cheaper in store)
   
   Sunscreen: Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel pump (SPF50 + PA ++++) (takes like a month to deliver so I usually buy multiple at a time)
   
   Vitamin C serum: Dr. Brenner Vit C parent (small bottle but a little goes a long way)

Sorry it took me a while. I had some research to do for you. This is what I've found:
So I took a look at the ingredients of your face wash. The ingredients are fine, but one in particular makes me uncomfortable. Take a look here.
The moisturizer is okay, but has alcohol in it, which is recommended to avoid for dry skin. It also has isocetyl stearate, which flags as an irritant. I'm not sure exactly what it does, but I like to stay away from things that are flagged that highly. See here.
I've done some more research on dry skin and improving your type of skin texture, which is called 'orange peel skin', and here are some products I think may work for you. Remember, if you decide to go with any of them, introduce them one at a time, and give at least two weeks between each introduction to make sure they don't break you out or irritate you.

1. New face wash: in the morning wash with water or Garnier Micellar Water. I prefer the pink cap, but others like blue. In the evening, remove your makeup with the Micellar water, and then wash with CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser.
   
2. New moisturizer: for the AM use CeraVe AM and in the PM use Cerave Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM. If you prefer only one moisturizer, just pick up the PM, but then you'd need a new sunscreen. If you feel as if it's not moisturizing enough, add a layer of Vaseline before going to bed.
   
3. Now we can treat the texture! Here is what I've found: it's very possible you've compromised your moisture barrier. If this is true, Stratia Liquid Gold will fix it. It's a moisturizer, but you can use it in conjunction with your others. I actually use this product after my toner but before my moisturizer, and I will repurchase it until I die. I seriously love it. You could also add in a hydrating toner. I personally use KLAIRS Supple Preparation Facial Toner.
   That's it! After about 3/4 months you should see an improvement. Make sure you're not exfoliating, scrubbing your face, or rubbing it really hard with a towel.
   

I failed to keep the mascaras I went through this year... my bad... But I always use Maybelline Lash Stiletto.

What have I learned? I should really tone down my purchases of products like eyeshadow palettes and blush palettes. It takes FOREVER to get through one. And yet I have so maaany.


Left row - Powders!

E.l.f. HD setting powder


Skinfood Peach Sake Powder x2


Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder


L’oreal Infallible Pro-Matte Powder x5


Urban Decay Ultra Definition Pressed Powder x2


Maybelline SuperStay Better Skin Powder




Top row, left to right


SETTING SPRAYS

Urban Decay All-Nighter Makeup Setting Spray


L’Oreal Infallible Makeup Setting Spray


Smashbox Primer Water x2


SUNSCREEN

Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence x3




Second row, left to right


FOUNDATIONS

L’Oreal Infallible Pro-Matte x2


Rimmel London, Lasting Finish Foundation x2


Giorgio Armani Luminous SIlk Foundation


Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Foundation


Kat Von D Lock-It Concealer Creme - sample


BROW

L’Oreal Brow Stylist Plumper Brow Gel Mascara


Third row, left to right


PRIMERS

Kat Von D Lock-It Hydrating Primer


Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer, Jumbo size


Too Faced, Primed & Poreless


Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Primer, Apricot


Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Primer, Green


Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer


Coola, Daydream Mineral Primer


Benefit, Porefessional


Murad Invisible Perfecting Shield


Fourth row, left to right


EYE SHADOW PRIMER

Too Faced Shadow Insurance


Smashbox 24 Hour Photo Finish


Becca, Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone


Becca, Shimmering Skin Perfector in Champagne Pop


Maybelline master Hi-Light in Nude, discontinued, but still available on amazon


Fifth Row, left to right


SKINCARE

Vitamin C serum x3


Vitamin C serum


Mizon Black Snail All-in-One Cream


Mizon Snail Eye Cream


Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Cream


Mizon Collagen Power Firming Eye Cream


Corsx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid


Corsx AHA Whitehead Power Liquid


Corsx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence


Caudaline Organic Grape Water - Guys I can’t find this shit anywhere. Did it get discontinued/ replaced?


Thayer’s Witch Hazel Toner


Bottom row, left to right


LIPS

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream, Stockholm


L’Oreal Colour Riche Lip Balm, Nourishing Nude


Buxom FUll-On Lip Cream, Mudslide


Dr. Lipp Miracle Balm


Buxom Full-On Lip Cream, Rose Julep

That's awesome! But I think Target prices them way too high. You could get the Mizon AIO for $11.96 on amazon!

My everyday products are

Clean It Zero

Cerave Hydrating Cleanser

Also sometimes Su:m 37 Miracle Rose Stick Cleanser

Hada Labo Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Lotion

.05 Tretinoin Gel

Mizon Black Snail All In One Cream

My Beauty Diary Sheet Mask - (Or something similar)

Too Cool for School Pumpkin Sleeping Pack

MISSHA All-Around Safe Block Soft Finish Sun Milk SPF50+ PA+++

Other popular products that I sometimes use:

Benton Snail Bee High Content Lotion

Benton Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream

Also seconding the Mentholatum Sunplay Skin Aqua Sunscreen. I posted about this recently in /SkincareAddiction, and I'll copy what I posted, because a lot of people have thanked me for the recommendation. Honestly, I have never found a better sunscreen. Here we go:

Hands down, this is the sunscreen you're looking for: Mentholatum Sunplay Skin Aqua UV Moisture Milk SPF50+ PA+++. Here's the ingredients. I live in Japan and this is what I use every day. Japanese sunscreens are like nothing you've ever experienced before.

It is free of alcohol and oil, and is a physical sunscreen/chemical sunscreen that uses Zinc Oxide. It doubles as a makeup primer, so it sits nicely under makeup. It is silicone based, so it rubs in quickly and feels like a liquid lotion (this is the biggest noticeable difference from Western sunscreens). And lastly it has it has some anti-aging and hydration properties that you can read about in the review listed above. :)

Looks like there are some on Amazon for about $15, but maybe you could look around a bit. In Japan, they are about $5 a bottle. But they are, in fact, a little small (40ml). I use it on my face every day and one bottle seems to last 2 months or more.

Now, I personally like this version the best: the whitening version. It has the same basic ingredients (no alcohol, oil etc.), but it has vitamin C in it to fade pigment and redness. (It does not actually "whiten you"... it "brightens you" by evening out skin tone.) I do not think it leaves a white cast at all... but I know that some people are wary of these kinds of products because they freak out when they hear the word "whiten".

There is one more version in this line: the one for oily skin and rapid absorption, but it DOES have alcohol in it. I think you'd only use this if you are sweating A LOT... which actually sums up Japan's summers, but if you aren't in a humid climate, I'd try to avoid it because it's drying.

Ingredient list and reviews for both of the other versions, whitening and oily skin here.

Someone recently added the Whitening Moisture Milk version to a comprehensive sunscreen list on /SSA too, so you can look at it and compare it to others as well.

Rave: Vanicream Lite Lotion

I’ve been using this for 4 weeks now, and it’s become a staple. It’s wonderfully simple and sinks into the skin quickly. It doesn’t leave a film on my face and is cosmetically elegant imo. I can use this in the AM, under sunscreen & makeup without it pilling! This is the first AM moisturizer I’ve found that is so functional. I've also been using this Vanicream Moisturizer at night for awhile longer, this one is more heavy duty (I like using it as my last step to seal everything in), while the Lite Lotion is more hydrating. I suggest both these moisturizers if you have oily or sensitive skin.

New Purchases: Vanicream in the tub

I like it. I’ll use it up. I've used it for over a week, and it makes my skin soft. It has prevented dry skin so I should be satisfied. I think I’m going to try other heavy cream moisturizers after this, because I’m not wowed by it. The tub version is different than the 4 oz moisturizer in the tube, even though the ingredient lists are pretty similar. The 4 oz tube is really not greasy at all and blends into the skin quickly. The larger tub is greasier, and takes a bit longer to sink into the skin.

Cotz spf 45 lip balm

I like this one a lot! It's not too stiff or waxy, but it's also not too greasy. I chose it because of this awesome review. It has a brown tint that blends into the lips well, there's a pic in the review I linked showing how it looks on the lips.

Unrelated Rave: Redken All Soft Heavy Cream

I've tried countless drugstore hair masks, and this one beats them all. It was worth every penny. I didn't use any product afterwards and my hair was soft down to the ends, shiny, and frizz free.

You're routine's great, but I would agree with \u\bluegoddess that it could potentially be the jojoba oil. I have really oily skin and have found that Meadowfoam Seed Oil made my face a lot less greasy during the day than jojoba oil.

I would also recommend a mask like Queen Helene Mint Julep or even Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. They're relatively inexpensive, but I've found that using them twice a week has, personally, decreased the oil on my face. Especially during the hot summers in Arizona.

So I've been a long time lurker and reader and thought I'd introduce myself and my new routine to the community. Special thanks to /u/mynomdeplumeisplume for the amazing guide that finally got me to pull the trigger!

 

A quick breakdown with links (all from Amazon):


Type | Product
---|---
Oil Cleanser | Banila Co. Clean It Zero Purity
Water Cleanser | Rohto Hadalabo Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam
Moisturizer | Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream
Sunscreen | Biore Aqua Rich UV Watery Essence

 

(Sk)intro and review

I'm a 24 year old male in the UK with light olive/brown skin that is pretty resilient but can be prone to spots. I have some PIH on my upper cheeks and forehead and dark circles under my eyes. Generally speaking I've gone for products that are formulated for sensitive skin and pretty "mainstream" from what I've seen in AB circles so far. They've been working great and my skin has never looked so good.

 
Special shout out to the Biore UV for being the first sunscreen that I actually don't dread using. I've not used sun protection much in the past because of how greasy it feels but this has been a dream. I'm going to stick to it for another week before adding a toner and my first essence - any suggestions for brightening/hydrating/PIH tackling would be great and also where to buy the Biore that isn't amazon. That's all for me, thanks for reading any questions and critiques would be welcome.

Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask Is my absolute fave.

It's not super harsh if not left on too long. It smells delightful and it's inexpensive!

I know people also really like the Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Pack as a gentle clay mask. I just haven't used it myself.

I'm interested in this too!! The recent price update really bummed me out.

I've found a decent vitamin c serum that is comparable to C15 (and cheaper too!) It's NuFountain's C20+Ferulic. It doesn't cointain the antioxidants that Paula's does, but it does have a higher percentage of vitamin c!

I would love to find a substitute for her BHA 2% liquid too though!

Here's what I would suggest:

Razor: either this one if you want to stay frugal or this one if you want to splurge a bit. I'd stay away from the QShave. It's a clone of a razor with a lot of design issues. One being that the head is so large it's hard to get under the nose, etc.; another issue is that it is extremely aggressive even at its lowest setting.

Brush: This synthetic brush. I think it's much better to start with a synthetic than a boar brush. Boar brushes are less comfortable on your face and actually make it more difficult to make lather until they break in. No reason to mess with those variables when you're just trying to get the hang of it. As for this specific synthetic brush, I have one and it is an amazing value for the money. It is one of about a dozen brushes I own, some of which were $200+, and this $12 brush holds its own with them.

Shaving soap: Lots of options here. Barrister & Mann's Latha line performs extremely well and is a great value. Several scents to choose from. Barrister &
Mann's Glissant line is a bit more expensive but has even better performance and more complex scents. Seville is a particularly good starting point with B&M, just an extremely clean, classic, masculine scent. Pre de Provence and Pre de Provence No. 63 are classic french soaps that smell great and perform very well.

Aftershave: Even more options here. You could go with Thayer's witch hazel with aloe, or if you want a traditional high alcohol aftershave, Fine Accoutrements is excellent. There are several scents, all based on popular and/or classic colognes. Or you could splurge and get the world's greatest aftershave product, L'Occitane Cade After Shave Balm.

Blades: Amazon has some good deals on blades in bulk but just sucks for sampler packs, and you want to start with a sampler pack because reasons. So head on over to TryABlade and order two of the "Top 10 Sampler." You can't use your Amazon credit there, but it's going to come to less than $10 including shipping.

So, if you go with the cheapest option in each category, you come out to fifty dollars or so if I'm adding right, which leaves you room to pick out one or more of those splurge options I mentioned.

I put together a mini version of my daily skin routine because I am in my early twenties and spend a lot of nights not at home.

Left to Right

1st: [Hada Labo Gokujun Cleansing Oil](r/https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B004OQHZ2M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1): a few pumps of my favorite oil cleanser in this [miniature airless pump](https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C5ZN2WY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1). Works to get off my night makeup and pull the gunk out of my easily clogged pores.

2nd: [Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser]( r/https://smile.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Gentle-Skin-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B00OK1NEX0/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1535926471&sr=1-1&keywords=cetaphil+face+wash+travel+size) in a travel size container. My preferred second cleanser that doesn’t get me as dried out as a Cetaphil Foaming cleanser does.

3rd:[Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunscreen]( https://smile.amazon.com/Sarasara-Essence-Sunscreen-Package-Cosmetic/dp/B071X4W74G/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1535926564&sr=1-1&keywords=biore%2Bsunscreen&th=1) The biggest item in my travel case, but half used up so it’s easily folded in half. For application the morning after.

4th: [Pixi Glow Tonic](https://smile.amazon.com/Tonic-Ginseng-100ml-Travel-Toner/dp/B0199EBC0Y/ref=sr_1_cc_1_a_it?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1535926715&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=pixi+glow+tonic+travel). I use this as a substitute for my preferred nip and fab glycolic fix extreme- works just as well in a pinch but doesn’t have the added salicylic acid/isn’t a convenient pad.

5th: Curology in another airless container. I only wanted to spare a few pumps of product for travel as it’s the most expensive item in my routine.

6th: [Bliss Drench n Quench]( https://smile.amazon.com/Moisture-Hydrator-Hypoallergenic-Dermatologist-Non-Comedogenic/dp/B016IXPWO6/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1535927003&sr=1-1&keywords=bliss+cream+to+water) sample size. A sub in for my Neutrogena hydro boost gel- works well enough, but not enough to persuade me to switch.

Not who you asked, but I have pretty dry skin and prefer the Canmake Mermaid UV Gel. It has the best finish of any sunscreen that I have tried and also plays well with my makeup. I've tried a few other sunscreens and they haven't compared.

Link: CANMAKE Mermaid Skin Gel UV 01 40 g https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X3E456K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_TWazDbHN4SDHM

Multiple SPF in nonsunscreen products don’t help, you would need to empty the bottle for it to matter. You need a stand alone sunscreen that is the highest possible. Remember wrinkles / sun spots / aging are primarily from the sun (other things play a factor, but the sun is the main way you age).

I would highly recommend Asian sunscreen. Two that I like are Biore smooth UV carefree kids - no alcohol
And
Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel

As for redness Asian skincare has helped there too. I love Benton Snail Bee Essence. Check out /r/AsianBeauty

If you want to not go to crazy, this is a USA brand: Cerve PM Moisturizing Lotion that helped my redness.

Oh and Azelaic acid is a godsend. I am currently testing one from The Ordinary

Paula's choice BHA is close price-wise also-- $29/120 ml ($25.65 w/ amazon subscribe and save) + it has aloe and green tea extract

I will be that person for you, lol. For reference, I have normal to oily combination skin and am prone to occasional breakouts.

AM routine:

1. Cleanse with Amorepacific Treatment Cleansing Foam (Note: This isn’t an actual foam but more of a cream cleanser, so it’s poorly named, but that’s its only flaw.)
   
   
2. Tone with Son & Park Beauty Water
   
   
3. Moisturize with Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Moisturizer
   
   
4. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. I like the Murad City Skin Age Defense Broad Spectrum SPF, but only because I work from home and seldom have to go outside during the week. Otherwise, it’d be too expensive for daily use, and I’d recommend something more affordable like Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV, Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence or Perfect Face Milk, or Skin Aqua Moisture Milk.
   
   PM routine:
   
   
5. Cleanse with Amorepacific
   
   
6. Tone with Beauty Water
   
   
7. Moisturize with Cloud Cream
   
   
8. Treat eye area with Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum
   
   
9. Treat lips with Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
   
   Once per week:
   
   
10. Drunk Elephant TLC Sukari Babyfacial followed by Drunk Elephant Marula Oil
    
    Also once per week:
    
    
11. Herbivore Blue Tansy AHA + BHA Resurfacing Clarity Mask , also followed by the marula oil
    
    Three things to note:
    
    
12. Many people double cleanse at night in order to more effectively wash off the impurities of the day. Personally, I’ve found that the Beauty Water does a pretty good job of picking up what my cleanser has missed, but if you do decide to go the double cleansing route, you’ll probably want a cleansing oil or balm to start with, so that it’s not too drying. I’ve heard that Farmacy and Tata Harper have some good options.
    
    
13. I’ve heard that retinols are the key to anti-aging, but I haven’t found one yet that I’d recommend (other than the eye serum). I tried the Kate Somerville RetAsphere Night Cream but didn’t love it. So if anyone has any suggestions, I’m all ears!
    
    
14. The Drunk Elephant items are really pricey, so if you’re looking for a dupe, you can try products from The Ordinary. I haven’t personally tried either of these yet (going to finish up my DE products and then give them a whirl), but I’ve heard great things about the brand, and it’s so cheap that even if you don’t like it, you’re not out too much money.
    
    Dupe for the Drunk Elephant Sukari Babyfacial:
    
    http://theordinary.com/product/rdn-aha-30pct-bha-2pct-peeling-solution-30ml?redir=1
    
    Dupe for the Marula Oil:
    
    http://theordinary.com/product/rdn-100pct-cold-pressed-virgin-marula-oil-30ml?redir=1
    
    There are also minis of some of these products at Sephora or on the brands’ own websites — that way, you don’t have to invest too much money off the bat if you’re not yet sure. Sephora also has a great return policy (which I will be utilizing for that retinol) and will give you samples of any of their products if you just go into a store and ask! (Somehow I did not know this until just recently.)
    
    Hope that helps!

Ooooh, girl. You need to be using sunscreen all day every day. The long term photo damage you WILL be doing to your skin is not worth the benefit that you will have from using it short term.
Try the biore watery essence. It has alcohol which might dry you out so I use it over moisturizer in the morning and sometimes reapply multiple times depending on what I’m doing.
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++ (3 Count) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071H7P3T8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_qKluDbF001CJW

Here you go. Also you can try your local Dollar General to see if they carry it.

Hi! It sounds like your boyfriend could use an AHA for both the dark spots and the KP. The AHA will likely help the acne as well but you can also try a BHA formula for breakout-prone areas. He'll probably want to cleanse his back if he doesn't do that already (a back brush with a gentle head will help to reach); I used Cetaphil's cleanser on my shoulders years ago when they used to break out. The exfoliation is liable to help with the ingrown hairs but be careful not to overdo it so his skin doesn't dry out (I imagine it's hard to moisturize the back without help). I used to have dark spots from acne scars and KP on the back of my arms but using the AHA and BHA I linked on my face and this on my arms mostly cleared them all up. You can find information on all of these issues in the wiki.

• The Ordinary Advanced Retinoid 2%
  
• The Ordinary MAP
  
• SK II FTE I hoarded samples, I'm not made of money
  
• Cosrx racist essence when my SK II ran out, it takes longer to work but it does the damn job!
  
  Edit: the cosrx DOES have niacinamide in it, so I would be careful about using it if I were you. There are a lot of similar essences w/o niacinamide which might help you! I personally found that niacinamide did nothing for my PIH so it's definitely not necessary.

Ok! Well I am a 24 yr old female with combination skin. I am normal on my cheeks but oily in my T zone. I've dealt with severe cystic acne my entire life but after seeing a dermatologist and getting chemical peels and changing my diet, it went down drastically. Now I am just left with hormonal acne on my chin and some discoloration on my skin. So here is my brand new routine I started a week ago! Many of these products have made people break out but it's just about finding what's right for you :)

Morning

Use [low ph Cleanser] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016NRXO06/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Toner] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LUU42NU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[vitamin C serum] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00G2TQNZ4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Moisturize] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AF63QQE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&th=1)

[sunscreen] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SM99KWU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

Nighttime

Oil cleanse with [this] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000V2FBAQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

same cleanser

same toner

A [random sheet mask] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BAM7F8C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

same vitamin C serum (under eyes only)

[collagen cream] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016AEC63I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[overnight moisturizer] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018IX7N2S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

I've also been taking [primrose oil supplements] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NH5AK2S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) but it's only been a week and I'm not sure if it's doing anything yet. I bought some other stuff too but since this worked for me, I am sticking with it and might change it up next week and add more things in.

I stumbled upon this subreddit, and am so excited to discover Asian beauty. I live outside the U.S. and had someone coming to visit, so everything I purchased was from Amazon Prime so that I could get it in time. Also, being such a newbie here, shopping on other sites is a bit intimidating for me. I thought this would be helpful to others that are just starting out with Asian beauty.

[Etude House Tint My Brows Gel #3 Gray Brown] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B732GT6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MWI2IS0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Skinfood Dark Circle Concealer Cream no.1 salmon] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KR392E0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Dermal Korea Collagen Essence Full Face Facial Mask Sheet, 16 Combo Pack] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BAM7F8C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[SCINIC Honey All In One Ampoule] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00STAV016/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BQM3S3C/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[C 20 Original Pure Vitamin C20 Serum] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WWLIN9U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF50+] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WE3XGAC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Missha All Around Safe Block Essence Sun SPF 45 PA+++] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ENTM3FY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[MIZON Snail Repair Eye Cream] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ILUH7E8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[My Beauty Diary Black Pearl Mask 10 pcs] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WASFDOI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[INNISFREE GREEN TEA SLEEPING PACK] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00JJGI0VW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[KOSE Softy Mo Deep Cleansing Oil] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000V2FB88/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[TONYMOLY Shiny Foot Super Peeling Liquid] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BCHME3G/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Hadalabo Japan goku jyun Hyaluronic Acid Moisture Bubble Foaming Cleanser] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EWNK83U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

[Etude House I Need You Mask Sheet 15pcs set] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NPNUTNW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

My SCINIC Honey All In One Ampoule is in plastic because the lid came loose in transit and spilled everywhere, but there is still half of it in there. So far I have tried a few face masks, and I am in love. I am so excited to try it all! :)

Ooo, I'm addicted to both Amazon and skincare so this thread is my jam.

• Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream! My skin is dry and very prone to dehydration so I can't use a lot of the popular AB sunscreens that have high amounts of alcohol. But most of the alcohol-free sunscreens I've tried never seen to dry down so they're hard to wear under makeup. This one is happily in the middle ground, it does have some alcohol in it but it's halfway down the ingredient list instead of at the top so it doesn't dry me out, and it manages to actually dry down enough to wear makeup over it.
  
  
• Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion is another favorite of mine. The "premium" version is a major upgrade from the regular version IMO. I've used them both extensively and the thicker texture of the premium version is so much nicer. Fifty Shades of Snail's review convinced me to upgrade and I've never looked back.
  
  
• Elta MD UV Pure is a really nice physical only sunscreen - good for when your skin is overly sensitive or recovering from a peel or overzealous use of actives.
  
  
• Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers are excellent for putting over whiteheads and/or zits you couldn't restrain yourself from popping.
  
  
• Packs of microfiber cloths are excellent if you like using a washcloth in your skincare routine but want something softer than terrycloth. I bought two 12-packs, I have a big pile of them next to my sink, I use a new one each night and then toss it right into the laundry to keep things super sanitary. Just learn from my mistakes don't put them in the wash with new terry cloth towels because the new towels will shed all the fuck over them and you will be picking fuzz off of them for weeks.
  
  
• Less skincare related than the rest but still sort of: this unscented Alaffia Shea Butter Bubble Bath is excellent if you have sensitive skin.
  

I've had eye issues too. This one worked glorious for me & I have tried so many.

https://www.amazon.com/CANMAKE-Mermaid-Skin-Gel-UV/dp/B00X3E456K/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

It sounds like your moisturizer is not sinking into your skin because the whole point of a moisturizer is to lock in moisture.

When you told me your skin feels tight after a shower i automatically think dehydrated skin. SkincareAddiction has a good post on dehydration

What moisturizer do you use?

If I were you id use products with hyaluronic acid, like a serum or toner and then a gel based moisturizer and then at night a layer of moisturizer over that.

I also would take a break from harsh scrubs, cleansers and masks and only use the gentlest products.


Here is what I would recommend (Asian Beauty Skincare Exchange often has decants (aka small samples of products) so you can see and test out what works for you.

To get your skin back and hydrated :

AM:
Rinse skin with water -I don't know your skin type so if you're oily, use a very gentle cleanser (which i can recommend to you if needed)

Toner/Serum Hada Labo Hyaluronic Lotion Moist - many people on the skincare reddits I am active in rave about this product, because its super cheap for the amount you get and its soooo moisturizing. I personally think it is too light for me (I am veryyy dry and dehydrated, stupid midwestern weather lol) and I use the premium version of it. Some people complain about it breaking them out, but everyone's skin is so different. But I think doing a layer of this morning and night will really help.

Moisturizing Gel - this will add moisture and hydration to your skin. My favorites are Hada Labo Plumping Gel Cream and Mizon Snail Cream
You only need a little of these, but I find they are super hydrating and comforting. The Mizon Snail is an all in one miracle.

Sunscreen- pretty important step (in my opinion), some sunscreens have occlusives in it. Occlusives mean it is holding all the moisture in. Sunscreen choice really depends on your skin type (which I am happy to recommend you as well)

PM:

Double Cleanse but gently. First an oil cleanser (to remove makeup) and then a gentle water based one.

Same as morning

Then seal it all in with your moisturizer. I am so dry that I even put vaseline on my face at night and I wake up comfortable and hydrated.

As far as trying out products, if you're in the US, /u/Gothickornchic sells decants on Asian Skincare Exchange. She ships super fast and is so nice, and helpful. you can find her post here

If you don't want to do that, Amazon and most places have great exchange and return policies. Skin is very weird and its all trial and error :[ but i hope my recs help and if you need more recs let me know!

I would swap the charcoal mask for the Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque everyone raves about here. I have great results from it as well.

[link] (http://www.amazon.com/Queen-Helene-Julep-Masque-Ounce/dp/B0014272VI)

Aww thank you so much! It means a lot to me that my rants aren't solely in the realm of old man yells at sky (yet)!

Unfortunately I'm not in the EU and I'm pretty ignorant of what is easily accessible (without insane shipping costs), but I do believe lookfantastic carries a bunch of brands and it might have free shipping!

My price-point for everything is usually around or less than $20 - I won't spend much more than that on a product. So most of my recs do hover around that price, although it should be noted that some(most?) will last longer than TO's products either due to more product being purchased, or just the formula lends itself to easier spreadability allowing for thinner layers and less product used per application.

Advanced Retinoid 2% - I actually think this is a great product and a good introduction to retinoids. You'll find a lot of other gentle retinoids on the market - a lot of 'retinol creams' actually contain gentler retinoid derivatives similar to the ones used in TOs formula, so it's not ~groundbreaking~, but it is a good product at a good price and I believe it's kind of a dupe for Sunday Riley Luna and I support that. That being said, if you go to the store and pick up any 'anti-aging' serum or cream, it's bound to have some gentle retinoids in there, usually for ~$10

Retinol 1% - This is another product I really like. $5 for retinol is fantastic, and it dilutes easily into a moisturizer. I dilute it into a 0.2% concentration, and it has lasted a very very long time. Mixes well, great product. It's rather difficult finding a low-cost retinol product since you can charge more for the gold-standard ingredient, but they do exist. There are also some Amazon retinol products that are a very good deal price/oz, and at least from the review I linked, seem to be effective as heck. As of right now, I'm unsure of whether I'll be testing an Amazon retinol product or sticking with my retinol from TO after it runs out. Differin is also OTC here now, costs ~$10. So I'm sure it will be easier to find cheap retinol products soon.

Niacinamide - Another product I really like! That said, a lot of moisturizers contain niacinamide (like a bunch of CeraVe ones), any 'lightening' serum will have niacinamide, I swear that every AB product has niacinamide in there somewhere, Skinlex has a $10 serum, and there are good diy recipes as well

Vitamin C 23% - This product is awful. I don't mind the gritty texture, I don't mind the feeling of a thousand tiny bees stinging my face for 10 minutes after application, I don't mind having to apply it to damp skin, and I don't mind having to mist my face with water after application. I can work with a product like that. It's this thick, disgusting, lard layer that it leaves on your face. It pills under everything, and it pills aggressively. Since by it's very nature you need to apply it as a first-step in your routine (both due to the low pH required and because you have to apply it to a soaking wet face), you'd think it would be a formula that layers decently under other products. Doesn't have to be perfect, I don't mind a bit of pilling. But this layer is T H I C C, and it sloughs off from the mere sight of a hydrating serum or regular bland moisturizer. So what do you do? Well, you wipe it off, of course! BUT THIS ISH DOESN'T WIPE OFF. IT IS NOW A PART OF YOUR SKIN. Scrub all you want, you'll just be left with slimey, red, irritated skin. Your only hope is another oil cleanse, and why the heck am I going in circles in my routine when I just want to get to freakin bed???

I don't know if I can get behind anhydrous vitamin C serums - of course there's the risk of fast oxidation in water-based L-AA serums, but if you buy a well-formulated (with preservatives!) product from a well-known and well-reviewed company, and store the serum properly, it really shouldn't be that much of an issue. If they can create an anhydrous serum that doesn't feel like you're slathering your face in silicone lard, then yes I can totally get behind it. But there ain't nothing wrong with a bunch of water-based L-AA serums on the market - for ~$20, you don't have to keep your face soaking wet for application, no misting required, no little grits of L-AA that explode into a thousand hornets, no disgusting layer that melds itself to your skin like Viserys's gold crown and then sheds like a moldy snake.

Anyway, Timeless, NuFountain, and Skin Actives are all good vit c serums ~$20. Simple Skincare Science just did a good overview of some vit c serums here

Vit C derivatives (MAP, SAP, ascorbyl glucoside, etc.) - Honestly, I'm not sure of alternatives because these have never really interested me, but if you go to the store and look for a vitamin C serum, chances are it's got one of these derivatives in it. Silk Naturals also has affordable MAP serums (~$15).

Lactic Acid - Again, not an ingredient I've researched extensively, but Silk Naturals has an 8% lactic for $9, and Pond's Rejuveness Anti-Wrinkle Cream has 8% lactic for $12

Azelaic Acid - Skinoren/finacea for $12 are the ones I know of (but they may be prescription? unsure), but I think this is probably a good intro to pricier azelaic acid products!

Glycolic Acid - Nip & Fab Pads, 5% glycolic acid for $10. Alpha Skincare, huge bottles of varying concentrations for ~$15. Pixi by Petra Glow Tonic, 5% glycolic for ~$15. Avon Retexturizing Peel, 10% glycolic for ~$10.

Salicylic Acid - This is everywhere. Price/oz, TO is more expensive than gosh darn Paula's Choice (which I consider to be an expensive brand.) Silk Naturals has an affordable salicylic acid toner, but imo just pick up some Stridex or equivalent product.

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution - This is a good price for a peel, I think - I don't know much about peels!

Hyaluronic Acid - Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion (~$12 for a lot of product), Mizon Hyaluronic Acid 100 (~$13), Elizavecca Hyaluronic Acid Serum (~$15 for an insane amount of product)

Various oils - these seem to be good deals, Garden of Wisdom is an alternative, NOW oils are an alternative. I used to buy my jojoba oil in bulk from H&B Oils Center on Amazon and never had an issue :)

Various primers - various drugstore primers ofc

Matrixyl - Timeless carries one for $22, I'm sure there are many others because matrixyl has been a good buzzword for a while

Alpha Arbutin & Argireline - these aren't products I've looked into tbh

Caffeine solution - I think you'd get the same effect from buying a cheap rollerball applicator, filling it with whatever serum you want, and storing it in the fridge

So there are a bunch of good products there - lactic, retinol, azelaic, probably the alpha arbutin etc. But there are definitely other brands to fill the ingredients needs out there. The brands I recommended were just the ones I have saved or found easily on the sidebar, so there's definitely way more out there!

I think there are a lot of ingredients that you can find if you go to the drugstore and look around a bit - I don't think everything needs to be vouched for by a bunch of people to make it worthwhile. Of course I love to have reviews backing my purchases, but if something is inaccessible or expensive, I can usually find something that fills that need at the drugstore. The only problem is how horribly products are named! If I'm looking for niacinamide, it helps to have niacinamide in the name, or at the very least in the product description, but you probably won't find out about it until you're knee deep in the ingredients list.

I'm seriously hoping for a stronger shift away from issue focused skincare descriptions to ingredients focused skincare descriptions, or at the very least clearer inclusion of the star ingredients (and not just like, ~organic cold pressed pea juice for lightening~ when really niacinamide is at the top of the list).

tru skin naturals!

TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum for Face, Topical Facial Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E, 1 fl oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_J316AbYMWYCDH

Yes, I definitely love my Biore too - here's an Amazon link if anyone wants to check it out: www.amazon.com/Biore-Aqua-Watery-Essence-SPF50/dp/B071H7P3T8

The dry skin gel-cream version is very similar but has no fragrance or dye. I no read good.

::Deep breath::

AM & PM:

• Slap some o' this stuff all over my face: Hada Labo Hyaluronic Acid. This shit is the shit. It makes everything else absorb better. Less slug life, more actual benefits.
  
  
• Snail Goo! Bee Goo! This is very calming, and helps with redness and itchiness from the tret irritation.
  
• Sometimes an ampoule but I haven't found an exceptional one yet.
  
• More magic: This Donkey-flavored cream. Sometimes, my face is so unhappy that even Cerave stings. This always helps. Plus, the name makes me giggle every time I open it. Don't buy it at this price, though. Memebox runs lots of sales, and I can stock up for more like $25. I'd like to find a cheaper dupe.
  
• Draw a goatee on myself with a thick cream (where my peeling and redness are worst). I don't think this is particularly special, any heavy cream does the same thing. I carry it around all day, though, and reapply said goatee. Makes my skin feel less tight, helps with the red some more, and hides the edges of the peeling for a while.
  

Of course!

I mix 1/4 food grade glycerin with 3/4 thayer's toner. I mix up the bottle, and mist it over my face after makeup is done. I use these bottles which have a pretty soft mist for the face, but since the sale happened I figured I would move the operation to a Fix + bottle once it's emptied :)

I have always been a fan of Cetaphil. It is very mild, has never dried out my skin and it doesn't have an obnoxious scent.

I have been using beauty oils a lot more. I use Boscia Tsubaki beauty oil when I mix my foundations, and it is so moisturizing. Then I use NuFountain Ferulic C20+ after I cleanse my face. My skin feels so much softer and I feel like the elasticity is a bit stronger.

I'm a bit older than your average SCA subscriber, so I'll chime in a bit. I have dryer, more mature skin and this is the basics of what I do and what has really improved my skin.

IF I were to start from scratch with the things I now know, I'd probably start with these things, in order of use.

An oil cleanser, like Hado Labo I've used straight oil and multiple oil cleanser. The ones that emulsify are a bit easier to use, and I prefer them, but I think most well regarded ones are pretty similar.

Second cleanser maybe, a ph balanced foam cleanser. I usually just oil cleanse, but use the foaming cleanser in addition every few days. This one is well regarded.

A toner. This isn't so much of a cleansing step as a first step of moisturization. Klairs supple prep tone

Holy grail product for me, Snail Creme. I love the Mizon one. It goes on before serums.

A Hyaluronic Acid serum, such as Paula's Choice

A night cream. I'd maybe use the Cerave here or another layer of the Mizon AIO. The Mizon is super light, sinks in and never greasy. It's not really a "moisturizer", so cream is a bit of a misnomer, but with everything else, it may be enough.

If you got her nothing else, I'd get her the Mizon snail creme. Seriously miracle product, IMO. I'd start with stuff like this and then maybe consider a retinol or other acid, if needed. Maybe some others can chime in with a retinol recommendation.

1) How do you prep your skin for the journey? Do you do anything differently?

My face gets a mask the night before(whenever I shower) before the entire trip leaving home. I lotion up my body with a thick layer of lotion to stay hydrated and give it ~15-20 minutes to soak in before I put clothes on.

2) Do you have a skincare routine that you do in transit?

My goal is to be comfortable, get some sleep, alleviate back pain, and cure boredom.

3) When you get to your destination, do you keep up with your regular routine, or do you have a modified routine?

I have a shortened routine with just wash, and moisturizer, and SPF. Currently, my travel routine is Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Cleansing Foam (got it as a sample), Mizon snail recovery gel cream, and Kao Biore UV PERFECT Milk SPF50+ PA++++.

For #2 & #3, do you make decants of your routine, bring along samples or travel sizes, or do you bring full-size products? For plane travel, do you check your baggage or do carry-on only, and if the latter, what are your strategies for condensing everything liquid into a quart-sized plastic bag?

I bring the mizon gel-cream because it's perfect travel size, is cheap, and I can consistently slap it on throughout the day or night as needed depending on the location. It doesn't do anything special, but it is a moisturizer I won't feel bad about using heavily. Once I finish the Biore SPF and Shiseido cleansing foam, I don't plan on repurchasing either. Most of the time I have enough samples of "safe" products that I am not worried about trying. Once that does run out, I plan on getting some decants. Once I finish my backlog of products, I plan on venturing out and trying out new stuff. For now, this will do. Oh, I also have decants of my magic hadalabo <3. I bring that everywhere and use it as my toner/hands/elbows/etc. I've been using it for years and is my holy grail toner.

I don't think it's possible to wash your hands 30 times a day and not have it be irritated at all. When you go to bed could you wear gloves filled with lotion, maybe a creamy aloe or oatmeal based one. Snail gel cream as an initial layer, covered with a creamier hand lotion, and possibly a layer of vaseline to seal it in? You'll almost definitely need to use fragrance free stuff to avoid additional irritation.

Also, it's currently sold out online but I have seen them in stores, forever21 has these which are basically sheet masks for your hands.

I think you might want to try this lotion, which is fragrance free, creamy but soaks in quickly so you can layer it, and lanolin rich. I have seen travel squeeze tubes of it at the dollar tree if you would rather not use a tub. I really like it when my hands are at their most irritated (my skin cracks and bleeds in cold, dry weather) because it doesn't hurt the way a lot of lotions do.

The snail gel cream I referred to is by Mizon, you can find their snail gel recovery cream on amazon and I find it to be incredibly good at soothing irritation and that it helps with healing. It's made a huge difference on my face, could help your hands.

Also, you need preventative measures. Use lotion before your hands are so irritated the pain makes you want to cry, that way it hopefully doesn't get quite so bad.

I wholly empathize with you. I had severe cystic acne for 12 years, and no one understood what it was like. It was a living hell, and no matter what I did, there never seemed to be an end in sight. It was overwhelming to say the least.

The first thing that stuck out to me was that you avoid moisturizers. Your routine should include a light moisturizer so that you don't dry out your skin. You want gentle but effective treatment, not collateral damage. I have oily skin, and someone gave me this moisturizer as a gift. It seems to work well, and I'm guessing it's water-based.

I completely understand your frustrating lack of funds. I have almost no income and have no health insurance at all, so I know first0hand how hard that is. Maybe you can save up for certain products or research cheaper options. Try researching moisturizers for oily skin and see what you can find. Just don't give up!

You do need to see a very knowledgeable dermatologist. If you look into it now, it may be worth the wait. I emphasize "knowledgeable," because the dermatologist you choose must know how to treat your acne as well as identify the underlying cause.

In your case, your cystic acne could be hormonal. If you have excess/unwanted hair growth, thinning scalp hair, irregular periods, weight gain, and the acne, you could have polycystic ovarian syndrome, and treatment includes a medication called Spironolactone. But, if I'm not mistaken, even if you don't have PCOS, your acne can still be hormonal.

There are other causes, too, of course, and a good dermatologist will know to dig deep and really search for good answers. Research the dermatologists in your area and look for ratings and reviews online.

Push forward. Keep going with this. And be nice to your skin! No baking soda cleansing (as this throws off the pH balance of your skin), no overly-gritty exfoliants (looking at you, St. Ives apricot scrub!), and try not to pick. Oil cleansing and micellar water cleansing can be good methods for removing every speck of makeup at bedtime.

You are in the UK, so I'm not sure what products you have available. But research, research, research! Another tip: With Google shopping, you can sort your search results from lowest to highest price.

Good luck!!

The this stuff. No mice, just a pun on the name (which has been weirder before in the past). It's a fermented essence with galactomyces extract and niacinamide.

I used the Banish Acne Kit, it's $75. Since that is pretty expensive, I started looking for alternatives. I'm about to buy this Vitamin C serum that has been recommended many times in this sub and a derma roller, both from Amazon. Make sure you have a little tub or cup filled with rubbing alcohol to sanitize the roller before and after every use.


Serum: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_17K-Bb9D6M3FH

Roller: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B073CFR8R4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_M.K-Bb927EMBK

Maggard carries the Soft Guards. As for Watery Essence, I get it on Amazon.

I've been really happy with Cetaphil's DermaControl Moisturizer w/ SPF (http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Dermacontrol-Moisturizer-Fluid-Ounce/dp/B006L2137U). It seems to have the mattifying effect it promises and seems to have decreased my oiliness over time.

I LOVE this stuff. It gets rid of my pimples in like a night. The big red ones usually take a day. Been using it for years.

There are definitely cheaper options! Cosrx snail mucin is highly concentrated and highly recommended, they sell it on amazon, on any of the AB sites, and also now available at Ulta

Cosrx also has a snail cream which is thicker and more cream based lotion also available at ulta here

Mizon also has one called Mizon Black Snail All in one Cream

And Benton has one called Benton Snail Bee Essence this also contains honey

Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence Amazon

Sidmool Fast Turn Over Rebuilding Concentrate Testerkorea

Innisfree’s White Tone Up Skin (Toner) Review

Cerave PM Tried and true.

Here is a spreadsheet for more options. It's better to layer products with niamacide than depend on one with a super high percentage.

When I ran out of Cerave a few weeks ago, I bought some Derma E at Kroger on a whim. It's actually been amazing for my skin, it's so thick and moisturizing. The tub I bought was $10, think it was in sale.

I tend to go for Tom's for deodorant and toothpaste, they're only slightly more expensive than what I used to buy.

I buy this crazy good coconut conditioner, I just can't remember the brand.. Will update with it later, promise. Oh, and Queen Helene mint julep mask!

Edit: Here's the coconut conditioner I love, and this is what I bought last time because there wasn't any of the coconut one on the shelf.

Empties:

• Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser- I loooooooove this cleanser, not a HG item since it's not like it works miracles on my skin or anything, but it doesn't irritate or break me out or any of the stuff that usually happens to my skin.
  
• Josie Maran Argan Oil- I know, I know. It's overpriced. But it's so easy to pick up a little $10 (or $14? I can't remember) bottle when in line at Sephora. I don't think I'll be repurchasing because I might have found a replacement.
  
• Coconut oil- My skin (on my body) loves this shit. Baby soft err'day. And my hair drinks it up too. I haven't had a haircut in almost a year and this helps my postpone my haircut until I decide what I want to do with it.
  
• Sample of F.A.B Ultra Repair Cream- It's okay. I didn't irritate my skin or cause a breakout, and it moisturized my skin well without feeling greasy, but it feels too plain for the price.
  
  Purchases
  
  
• Nuetrogena Naturals Purifying Face Wash- I hate this shit. My face hates it. Even my sister (who isn't at all into skincare and will basically use whatever is in the bathroom) hates it. It irritated my skin and seriously dried out my sisters face.
  
  
• St Ives Exfoliating Pads- They're very gentle. Brighten my skin overall, but do almost nothing for my post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. These irritated my sister's skin, which is strange because her skin hardly ever gets irritated, but maybe because it was her first time using any sort of chemical exfoliation (she's 17, I'm not forcing skincare products onto a 6 or 7 year old).
  
  
• Stridex Maximum Strength pads (red box)- I haven't worked up the courage to use these on my face, put they do a pretty good job with my bacne! At first I was like "fuck this shit" because after I used them on my back a few days, I started getting these big cystic pimples. I attributed them to the Stridex and just tossed them with the rest of the skincare rejects under my sink. But because I'm stupid and am not one to learn her lesson the first time, I tried them again. And tada, they worked and didn't cause big red angry bumps. I'm still not sure what caused them the first time.
  
  
• Mario Badescu Enzyme Cleansing Gel- I wash my face with this when I feel that raw honey won't be enough. I like the way it feels and smells, and it doesn't irritate my skin.
  
  
• More Raw Honey- Probably tied with Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser for my favorite cleanser. I love the way it leaves my skin moisturized and soft.
  
  
• Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask!!!- I'm excited I finally bought something that's talked about on the sub. I just got his two days ago. Spot tested it on my chin, no bad reaction, so I tried it on my forehead and nose yesterday. No big improvement, but I like the way it feels. I also think it brought some of the little bumps on my forehead to a head, so I popped those little suckers this morning. (sorry for the gross imagery, I'm a picker, I can't help it)
  
  
• Last, but not least... Hemp Oil <3 - I got it as a replacement for jojoba oil since it had a zero on the comedogenic scale (I don't know why I still really check it since something could be an absolute zero on the scale and still fuck my face up). I mixed it with some coconut oil when I got it, and oh my sweet god, it was the best body moisturizer ever. The richness of the coconut oil and the lightness of the hemp oil combined perfectly to create heavenly soft skin on my legs. I'm still not sure if I like it on my face ( I like the way it feels but I'm not sure if its clogging my pores). I decided to drink some in my smoothies at the same time I decided to try it on my face, and I broke out in a small rash/whiteheads around my mouth and chin area. This happens whenever I try to take any sort of Omega supplements, and I'm not sure why. :(
  
  TL;DR: I'm sorry this is so long. I buy and try a lot of things.

Seriously, I think mint is the holy fabu-rific (fabulous + terrific) grail for oily skinned peeps. I've been using a mint julep masque and it has totally changed my face life. Face's life. Life of my face.

Just buy it, it's rad (and I'll try the Mint Lemon next!).

No, micellar water is good for lightly cleansing and refreshing the skin. If you don't wear much makeup, then maybe look into something like the Thayers toner to help clear your pores a little each night. If you've got milia and blackheads but don't wear makeup, then your skin is getting clogged with general sweat and oil.

But the product you linked is witch hazel scented alcohol. You can get alcohol free witch hazel which would probably be safer to put around your vulva. I wouldn't want to accidentally kill all the bacteria I need up in there and give myself a yeast infection.

http://www.amazon.com/Thayers-Alcohol-Free-Witch-Formula-Unscented/dp/B001DJDP7C

Oil cleanser --> Foaming cleanser --> hydrating toner in the moist or light version --> emulsion --> cream

The Gokujyun range gets translated in all sorts of weird and wonderful ways, so it can get a little confusing. The name 'Gokujyun' simply means 'super hydrating', all of the products contain hyaluronic acid, and the range consists of the clear, hydrating 'lotion' (what is known in Western countries as a 'toner'), an emulsion/milk, which looks and feels like a thin Western moisturizer (it's white, and comes in a smaller bottle than the lotion) and then the gel-cream hybrid 'cream'.

Edited to add: you don't have to use every step from the range. You can use them in conjunction with products from other brands/ranges.

https://www.amazon.com/CAN-make-Mermaid-Skin-AF27/dp/B00X3E456K

^^ is this the right one? if so, lemme order this

So I had no idea SCA was all about TO/SkinCeuticals/Paula's Choice... I ended up scouring Amazon and got TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C. It's been working great for me, without any negative reactions!

(TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum for Face, Organic Anti-Aging Topical Facial Serum with Hyaluronic Acid, 1 fl oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_4vKEAb0797T1J)

I’ve really been liking the Biore Watery Essence. It’s pretty unlike most other sunscreens.

https://www.amazon.com/Biore-Aqua-Watery-Essence-SPF50/dp/B071H7P3T8

I like Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++

It's import-only if you are in the US because some of the ingredients have yet to be approved by the FDA.

https://www.amazon.com/Biore-Aqua-Watery-Essence-SPF50/dp/B071H7P3T8?th=1

I spent some time in Japan recently and I would highly recommend asian-made sunscreen.This is the one I bought while I was there, and it's so light, thin, and non-greasy!

Most sunscreen's I've tried both dry my skin and break me out, but I adore the Can Make Mermaid Skin UV Gel with all my heart. It feels more like a moisturizer than a sunscreen, due to the epic ingredients.

This vit c serum by TruSkin Naturals. I bought this on a whim when I was browsing amazon for skin care. I didn’t expect it to be that good but I really like it and I don’t want to try anything else.

The Mizon snail recovery gel is amazing. Asian beauty has made a huge difference in my skin, in every way. Low pH face wash, acids, elegant, light sunscreens, occlusives that don't break me out...

I have this issue, too! I usually shave because I'm lazy. For your face, you want to use less strong products (the skin on your legs is thicker) and more or less treat it like acne and keep the dead skin off it and moisturize the shit out of the area so the hair can do its thing without being trapped.

Use an exfoliator once a week and before shaving/plucking. Right now I'm obsessed with L'Oreal Paris' Pure-Clay Cleanser.

I also use the following products but just one should work:

• Benton's Snail Bee High Content Essence
  
• Claire-ity Vitamin C Serum
  
  They deliver a ton of moisture to your skin helping sooth it and keep it pliant so hair doesn't get trapped. I also like neutrogena's pore refining toner. It has a ton of alcohol and isn't great for your skin but it's the only stripping product I use and is amazing at cleaning out and reducing the appearance of pores and the only thing I've used that's worked for that.

I don’t wear foundation often but I am a shiny mess by the end of work. I use a three step skin care process every day and a gel moisturizer , primer, this shine killer, setting powder. and a matte setting spray.

You can use a foundation between the shine killer and matte setting powder. I use this when I include foundation in my routine but I don’t wear it often and definitely don’t use foundation at the hospital.

The only other thing I recommend is using an oil absorbing sheet regularly throughout the night. It’s really the best thing I’ve found to deal with oily skin.

Awww, I know that feel completely.

I've never tried any Tatcha products, however... I have been in the market for an enzyme cleanser lately, and the one I'm looking at is often cited as a great dupe of the Tatcha Rice Enzyme Cleanser in the Amazon reviews- the SRB Stabilized Rice Bran Enzyme Cleanser, $25 on Amazon or Peach & Lily. I first saw this in a Liah Yoo video and I guess due to the kinda bland packaging it's not very popular, but the reviews on Amazon and Amabie are excellent. Apparently the product is extremely gentle and the ingredients list is pretty short, so it might be ideal for you. :)

https://www.amazon.com/Rice-Bran-Cleanses-Brightens-Exfoliates/dp/B01DZDIJSS

Honestly, I'm kind of an AB noob myself, because although I research many products, I don't really have that much $$ to spend on products and try them. Since you have sensitive skin, maybe try a balm cleanser? They're apparently very nourishing and the Banila Co Clean It Zero Sensitive formula has great reviews. Renee from Gothamista has also recommended the Heimish Cleansing Balm (it has donkey milk and she's butter, oh my gosh) and I believe her skin type is also dry-sensitive.

https://sokoglam.com/products/banila-co-clean-it-zero-sensitive-skin
https://www.amazon.com/Heimish-Clean-Balm-Cleansing-120ml/dp/B01CJ639SM

Looking at the ingredients in the serum and cream, they seem somewhat similar to the Nature Republic Royal Ginseng line, all the way from the rice, royal jelly, ginseng, sodium hyaluronate, and silk extracts to the 24k gold. This line is very expensive as well, but may be less problematic to you.

The top, likely active, ingredients in the Serum are Algae Extract and Rice Extract and in the cream the Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate is the number 1 ingredient, so I think you should start looking for serums and creams high in those actives, as those are the highest concentrated ingredients in the Tatcha moisturizing products.

I couldn't find much with Algae Extract that was a moisturizer, except one Nature Republic Eye Cream, the Collagen dream eye cream.

https://www.amazon.com/NATUREREPUBLIC-Collagen-Dream-Cream-Korean/dp/B00H4HD25W

The second ingredient, the Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, is very interesting because it actually used to be the active ingredient of the famous SK-II Essence, before it was replaced by the very similar Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate. This Ingredient is likely going to be much easier to find in an essence rather than a moisturizing cream. I know that the Missha First Treatment Essence has Saccharomyces but I'm also including a link/list of SK-II dupes that contain either Galactomyces or Saccharomyces as they are very similar, and because many of the other SK-II dupes are actually cheaper (the Missha is around $50), including the CosRx Galactomyces which is only $15.

http://musicalhouses.blogspot.com/2016/01/sk-ii-facial-treatment-essence-dupe.html?m=1

https://sokoglam.com/products/time-revolution-first-treatment-essence

https://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Galactomyces-Whitening-Power-Essence/dp/B00OZE57XW

The last ingredient, Rice Extract, is present in an insane 65% potency in the CosRx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Mask, which is also a cult favorite on Reddit. And, it's less than $15.

https://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Ultimate-Nourishing-Rice-Overnight/dp/B01518D84U

Lastly, I saw sodium hyaluronate, or hyaluronic acid, in both the serum and cream, so if I were you, I'd invest in the cult favorite, Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion. I have the Premium version, and it really is wonderful and leaves your skin firm and hydrated, and is a great way to get in extra moisture before your cream.
Hada Labo Rohto Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist, 5.7 fl. oz. (170ml) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BSNBO9O/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_EZa8ybAC6S473

A final note: since your skin is sensitive, I would stay away from any artificial fragrance or irritants in any products. Hada Labo and Cosrx are both fragrance free companies that only use what they need to make the product effective. Again, check your ingredients at CosDna as well as reviews. Also many of these products are available cheaper on some other websites, I just chose who came up first. Generally, SokoGlam is a safer bet than Amazon because you won't get a fake product, but it's also slightly more expensive.

I know this is a long post but I also know how daunting the search for good, affordable skincare can be. Also, don't forget to wear sunscreen. There's no point in getting so many products just to negate their effects with UVA damage.

Best of Luck! <3

Same thing, $16.

If you're looking into skincare, then definitely start a basic routine and get a good cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen if you don't already have them. Here's a few recs I have: cleanser moisturizer sunscreen. If you're really serious about treating pimples, then look into AHAs, BHAs or maybe even trying Differin. Only thing is that you have to be committed to wearing sunscreen every day if you go that route, and your skin WILL purge (get worse before it gets better).

I recently bought Hemp Oil to try out. Usually I use "proper" balm or oil cleanser's which emulsify but after seeing posts like this I was like fuck it lets go then.
So far so good, wipes off cleanly, doesn't clog (has a condomogenic rating of 0) and no new breakouts. I will probably go back to an oil cleanser and plan on using the Hada Labo Oil Cleanser. I also love the Clinique Take The Day Off Balm and it's sort of "budget" alternative, Banila Co Balm range

Cetaphil works fine for me. Have a pump bottle on my desk and lube up frequently - particularly after washing my hands.

For the face I use this guy per my dermatologist's recommendation. Been almost a year with this routine and can't complain, life is good.

Ugh! These marks are so frustrating, aren't they? Acne is crappy enough, but then I get these red marks and they take forever to go away. It's totally unfair, and I empathize with you. Luckily, I actually do have some advice! Now, these products aren't miracle workers, and it didn't cure my spots overnight. However, I have found my recovery time has been shorter.

1. Mizon Snail Recovery Ge & Mizon All in One Snail Repair Cream: I attribute some of my success with conquering red marks to these other products below, but I think it's mostly the snail products. They've been super gentle on my skin and are pretty affordable. If you're going to go with just one of my suggestions, make it the Snail Recovery Gel. I like the Repair Cream, but I think the Recovery Gel is what's made the most progress with my spots. Bonus, I have a very pink skin tone, and it helps take a little of the redness out of my face as well. Also, keep in mind that the Recovery Gel is not a moisturizer, so you'll still need to use one with it.
   
   
2. Paula's Choice - Resist Barrier Repair Moisturizer with Retinol: Retinol is a good choice for long term minimizing marks, and I haven't had any trouble with this product burning my face or making it dry. (I have quite dry skin, and that's a real issue for me.)
   
   
3. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA & Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel: I'm sure you've probably already heard of these products. I know they're big on this sub, but I just wanted to throw it out there because I do think that chemical exfoliation has helped some with my marks.
   
   Good luck with your skin! I've been going through a bad breakout right now which is leaving new red marks on my skin, so I'd love to think that this sucky experience might help someone else even just a little.
   
   Edit: I was reading some of the other comments, and I just want to second the sunscreen comment. Super important!

this one! I've heard really good things about it over and over on mua. hopefully it was a good choice?

There's a bunch of stuff going on here. I think that your problems mainly stem from misunderstanding and a need to improve technique. I do not believe you need to buy a new razor at this time.

There's a few things going on here, and I'm going to make some assumptions which you can correct me if I'm wrong. First of all, it doesn't matter how much hair you have, you need to use soap. Soap is the protective layer between your skin and a razor sharp piece of metal that you are dragging across it. Without it you will get a bad shave. It is a necessity.

So, why are you getting irritation with the soap? One possibility is that you are allergic to the soap you have. This is very rare, and it would not be my first choice in troubleshooting your problems, but I wanted to get it out there. What's most likely is that you are not building your lather correctly. Watch this video by /u/Cadinsor and make sure you are following his advice.

If you are building your lather properly, the next possibility is that your technique needs improvement. DE shaving is a skill. You should watch the complete wetshaving tutorial from /u/Cadinsor. This will help you a lot.

A few things that you need to be sure you're doing right is that you need to be grain mapping (making sure that you are shaving with the grain, then across the grain, then across the grain again, and only when you get good at it should you be going against the grain). This does not mean just down, across, up--in parts of your face you may find that your grain goes one way and in another part of your face the grain goes another way. The best way to figure this out is to let your hair grow for a few days and then feel your face, making notes about what way the hair goes in different parts of your face.

Additionally, you need to try out a bunch of different blades. For reasons we don't understand, some blades work better than others for some people in different razors. The best blade for me may be the worst blade for you. You've only been using Astras, and that may be the worst blade in the world for you. You should buy three Top Ten Samplers from TryABlade.com. You should try them each in turn. Ask yourself, is this blade better or worse than the one I used before? Then decide on one and buy in bulk.

I also think that, in point 3, when you say "razor" you really mean blade. I base this on the fact that you call them "Astra razors" in point 2. I would say most people get around 5 shaves out of their blades. Assuming you are shaving every day or every other day, they should not be rusting. Just make sure that everything is dry when you're done, no need to use alcohol. And by dry I don't mean that you have to dry everything off with a towel, just shake it all out and you'll be fine. There is literally no need for a stand for your brush or razor (in fact, some experimentation has shown that brushes dry faster not on a stand), but, hey, if you want one get one.

Finally you need to be doing post-shave care. The quickest and easiest is to use Thayer's Alcohol Free Witch Hazel. It's cheap and effective. I personally follow up my Thayer's splash with a splash of an aftershave. The best aftershave on the market right now in my opinion is Barrister's Reserve. It's amazing. While you're at the site, you may want to consider picking up some of Barrister & Mann's soap, it is considered to be one of the best in the business. The Latha line is a great choice for someone starting out.

I hope this helps!

I don't know anything about the products you mentioned, but these are possibilities for you:

• NuFountain is a great product and price! You can also buy 3 bottles at a time for the price of 2.
  
  
• Timeless is also another brand I've heard good things about!

If there’s no health store in your city try online- there are alcohol free brands ✌️

https://www.amazon.ca/Thayers-Natural-Remedies-Alcohol-Free-Unscented/dp/B001DJDP7C/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?adgrpid=58574516782&hvadid=310045626670&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9001011&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=b&hvrand=10865128782393268273&hvtargid=kwd-302334145368&keywords=alcohol+free+witch+hazel+unscented&qid=1549883002&s=gateway&sr=8-1&tag=h0a61-20

So I had that problem bad before I got Laser (which completely got rid of it) but this is what I would do to help my legs before I got the laser -

• Use Cetaphil cleanser as shaving cream.
  
  
• When shaving - Shave with the grain of the hair once or twice, and then once against the hair. (So you would shave from your knee down first, and then from your ankle up to your knee once), this helps with irritation a LOT.
  
  
• Lotion immediately out of the shower with something like Aveeno Baby Lotion

You will have to find out what products are best for you! Cetaphil (very drying) broke me out horribly, but I recently found Cerave Foaming Face Wash and it is amazing! Moisturizer is also very important. I use Nivea Creme but a lot of people like Cerave in the tub. It breaks some people out (me) but a lot of people love it.

Not Asian but well-made and affordable prices, made fresh and ships quickly if you live in the US:

NuFountain C20 - 20% L-AA - $17

NuFountain C20+Ferulic - 20% L-AA, ferulic acid, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, panthenol - $21

NuFountain Celsignal - MAP, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid - $26

NuFountain Lightening - 20% L-AA, alpha arbutin, niacinamide - $22

I use this one:

NuFountain® C20®+Ferulic Vitamin C Serum. Made Fresh When Ordered with Free Shipping https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0039LZW78/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_XnGVzbDRKCNJG

It is a dupe for skincuticles, but without vitamin E. it is also formulated with the proper pH which is very important for vitamin c serums to work. I love mine, I've been using it for about a month and I've noticed an improvement. I keep it in the fridge and it's just as clear as the day I bought it. They are also made fresh to order

NuFountain C20+Ferulic 20% Vitamin C Serum I have been using this about 5 months now and it is easily my HG of my routine. It has everything, is made fresh (hand written date mixed comes on the label), priced right and you get it super quick once ordered.

Rant: Rohto Hada Labo Gokjuyn Cleansing Oil

I thought this cleansing oil would be amazing because of the brand. Turns out it can't even do its job at removing makeup properly. Granted, I do wear waterproof eyeliner but even then, I used 3 pumps of oil and thoroughly massaged it into my skin for more than 4 minutes and still I had so much leftover eyeliner on my eyes. I gave up and had to use the Skinfood egg white pore foam twice afterwards to fully remove my eye makeup.

The Paula's Choice Vitamin C Serum has really helped even my skin tone. I added this product to help with some spots on my face, but wasn't expecting the complexion evening that I got. My cheeks have always been prone to redness, but this really helped calm them down. I also recently added the Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence to my routine which has evened out my skin tone a little bit, as well, but I'd probably be the only to notice as it's subtle and the Vitamin C has been doing such a good job of that already.

Yes. I've had psoriasis since I was 17, I'm 25 now and it's been spreading that entire time. It's a bummer but I've learned not to let it get me down as much as I used to.

Unfortunately, /u/blackmarketbeagle is correct - because psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, anything you do from the outside is only addressing flakiness and plaques. There are shots you can get from the dermatologist (enbrel, etc) that work wonders for some people but I've never tried them personally.

That being said, my current routine is working really well to keep the flakiness and plaques at bay on my face! I'm actually really impressed with the difference. I believe it is the Hada Lobo Gokyujyun Lotion, Benton Snail Bee Toner, Snail bee essence, and Steam Cream are making the biggest difference. I use the first three twice a day (in that order) and the steam cream only at night. My face has no more flakiness from the plaques and the redness is greatly reduced.

Other things that have helped are sunlight. Direct sun exposure works wonders. Also, salt water. It sounds super weird but swimming in the ocean cleared things up for a while too. I use this salt bar to cleanse in the shower. Also, coconut oil. :)

Rosehip tends to be recommended for dry skinned, mature skin.

Squalane is more of a humectant, it helps draw in moisture, like Hyaluronic Acid. You'd need to sandwich in the squalane for it to be effective.

I would suggest the squalane sandwiched with a light moisturizer like Neutrogena HydroBoost Gel Cream or The Ordinary Moisturizing Factors. The Ordinary also sells Squalane, so you could knock two things out in one order (free shipping over $25). Don't be afraid to layer up either. And use moisurizer with your retinol at night. USE SPF in the AM! Otherwise you're undoing the work your retinol is doing at night (and maybe making it worse since retinol makes you sun sensitive)

I have combination skin too and I use the hydro boost but the version for extra dry skin with hyularonic acid and I really like it. The regular hydro boost wasn’t enough for me either. I also like to mix in a couple drops of argan oil with it!

In the morning, in the shower, I wash my face. Then I moisturize. Then I dry my hair. Then (about 15-30 minutes later), I put on my makeup.

I usually use kiehls, which is on the pricier side but read really great things about gel moisturizer and bought this.: https://www.amazon.com/Neutrogena-Hydro-Boost-Gel-Cream-Extra-Dry/dp/B00NR1YQK4

This is what I use (the Missha First Treatment Essence). There are also non-AB options like the Estee Lauder Micro Essence. They all feel pretty similar and use ferments as their main ingredients.

Some other popular choices at different price points:

TonyMoly Intense Care Galactomyces First Essence 94.5%

COSRX Galactomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence

Looking great man!
Since you are looking for a replacement sunscreen and I am a bit passionate about that; I would advice you not to get near The Ordinary’s Sunscreen. It will make you look like a ghost, unless that is the look you are going for :)

I have a couple of suggestions that you will like; they are light, airy, no white cast and better filters:

• PURITO Comfy Water Sun Block SPF50+ PA++++
  
  
• COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++.

Your questions aren't stupid! This is a lot of information to absorb.

Your skin could be sensitive to certain ingredients. You could search on skincare addiction for posts by others who are sensitive to Cetaphil cleanser for a starting point. I think patch testing would probably be your friend.

http://cosdna.com/ will also be very helpful in determining which ingredients don't agree with your skin.

I'll list my products for you, as well as my morning and evening routines. A good start for you, though, would probably to find a hydrating step and a moisturizer that you like, as well as an exfoliator to minimize the appearance of your pores. Many people find that Stridex in the red box is good for reducing the grayish color of sebaceous filaments. It's nice and cheap and seems to agree with most people's skin. I really would recommend reading the FAQ in both the Skincare Addiction and Asian Beauty subreddits.

Morning:

Cleanse with Cerave foaming or Yes to Cucumbers milk cleanser

The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension 23% + HA spheres 2%

Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion as a hydrating toner

Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner

Cosrx Birch Sap Lotion or Belif Aqua Bomb for moisturizer

Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence sunscreen

Evening:

Botanic Farm Grain Ferment Cleansing Sherbet for oil cleansing

Second cleanse with Cerave Foaming or Yes to Cucumbers Milk cleanser

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution on a cotton pad

Pea sized glob of Differin

Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion

Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner

Cosrx Birch Sap Lotion or Belif Aqua Bomb

A tiny, tiny bit of Aquaphor as an occlusive. A little bit goes a long way for me.

Sometimes I'll use a sleeping pack for moisture or brightening. I have lots of them.

My routine evolves as I try new products. You may not like some of the things I use, or your skin may not agree with some of them. I also use sheet masks (my favorites are My Beauty Diary in various flavors haha) and a couple of peptide serums from The Ordinary for wrinkles.

I welcome any and all questions. I love talking about this stuff. :)

I use this after clean it zero- Tosowoong Enzyme Powder Wash 70g Pore Deep Cleansing Trouble Care https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FFCEVM6?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I follow it with this [KLAIRS] Supple Preparation Facial Toner, toner, moisturizer, without paraben and alcohol, 180ml, 6.08oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PGOFYG0?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Their toner is definitely their most popular product by far. It's considered HG for many in this sub! You can read many reviews of it with a quick search of Klairs toner in this sub.

Everything I'm recommending can be bought on Amazon fairly cheaply:

1st Cleanser (PM only to get rid of sunscreen or makeup): The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Rich Oil Dry Skin

2nd Cleanser: Cerave hydrating Cleanser

Hydrating Toner: [Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner] (https://www.amazon.com/Preparation-Alcohol-Paraben-Cruelty-Eco-friendly/dp/B00PGOFYG0) or
Hada Labo Rohto Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist

Medium Moisturizer: Cerve PM Moisturizing Lotion

Heavy Moisturizer: Benton Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream

Sleeping Pack: Cosrx Ultimate Rice Overnight Mask

Sheet Mask: Benton Snail Bee High Content Sheet Mask, illi masks, MBD masks (these might be out of your price range as they are between $1-3 per use).

Sunscreen: [Biore Kids Sunscreen] (https://www.amazon.com/Japan-Health-Personal-Care-carefree/dp/B019IDQ57G)

Lips: Lanolin

Makeup
BB: Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream #13 (RP), Mizon Snail Repair Blemish Balm
Cushion: Innisfree
Concealer: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

I've been using La Roche Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser for a little while now, and haven't had any adverse reaction so far. It seems to calm my skin better than any cleanser has as of yet. All of Cerave's products have broken me out, and I believe the tub is giving me some texture issues.

I'm doing a bare bones routine at the moment while I try to build a better one, so I just use the LRP and then Klairs Supple Preparation Toner, followed by Neutrogena Hydroboost Gel Cream and Biore UV Watery Essence Sunscreen.

I know the LRP doesn't have any fatty alcohols, I don't know about the Klairs or sunscreen but I know the Neutrogena does have fatty alcohols.

Not exactly drugstore, but I felt that the LRP cost $15 for a pretty big bottle, and seemed worth it to me.

This one! I’m a poor college student, and it’s highly rated on amazon.

I highly, highly recommend sunscreen for everybody regardless of race or skin tone. We all need it.

I've been using Nivea Protect Super Water Gel for the last few years and I absolutely love it. It's expensive and you have to wait for shipping, but it's so worth it. It isn't thick/gluey like sunscreens stateside, goes flawlessly under makeup and doesn't give you a white cast on your skin. However, I do think it contains alcohol so if you're sensitive to that it might not be the sunscreen for you. That aside, it's fantastic. It also lacks that cloying coconut-banana smell that almost every sunscreen here has. The bottles are pretty economical too. This two pack lasts me from spring to summer with daily use on my face and neck. I use a cheaper US sunscreen on my arms and legs.

I also like Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence

My general rule of thumb is that Asian sunscreens > Western sunscreens. They take sun protection super seriously in the east, so they have it down pat. You may also wanna check out r/asianbeauty for more personalized recommendations.

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++ (3 Count)

https://www.amazon.com/Biore-Aqua-Watery-Essence-SPF50/dp/B071H7P3T8/ref=sr_1_9?crid=3C48Y92DYGMK2&keywords=biore+uv+aqua+rich&qid=1570404485&sprefix=biore+uv+%2Caps%2C161&sr=8-9

I have oily/sensitive skin and Reddit really recommended this and I love it. I live in Florida where it's hot and humid and it doesn't make me sweat. It is creamy and milky and sets on my skin all day. Highly recommend.

I got this one and this one is legit. Only thing is the sunscreen broke me out and I'm currently using it on my arms and legs.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071H7P3T8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_QIkYCbN5X1E3H

This. No white cast, not greasy. Must be reapplied every few hours however since it is not as strong as a lot of the sunscreens you and I both hate :)

avoid the forehead sunburns!

For a BHA (which is the same as the Stridex pads), I like Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA. For AHA (the same as the St. Ives), I like the Pixi Glow Tonic. Paula's Choice also makes AHAs and while I've never tried them, I'm generally happy with that line.

Here's a post on /r/SkincareAddiction that goes over the differences between AHA & BHA. The short version: AHA is better for dry skin and BHA is better for oily and acne prone skin.

If your pretty new to skincare and not sure where to start, this basic routine post and holy grail products index are both helpful!

I really like Mizon Black Snail All-In-One Cream for a summer moisturizer. It's very light, feels somewhere halfway between a cream and a gel.

http://www.amazon.com/SKIN-AQUA-Sunscreen-Moisture-Whitening/dp/B00BJEAAHY/ref=sr_1_1?rps=1&ie=UTF8&qid=1416784565&sr=8-1&keywords=skin+aqua+uv+moisture+milk

No alcohol, slightly hydrating, and out of about 10 sunscreen I have tried (including the Biore and Hada Labo), it has the nicest finish :).
Also on Amazon prime if you live int he US.

Off Amazon, right here :)

• La Roche-Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra-Light Facial Sunscreen is the BEST sunscreen to wear under makeup. It works as a great primer too. I've had issues with others being super oily and thick but you can't feel this at all...I won't leave the house without it.
  
  
• Timeless Vitamin C Serum has worked really well for me, I've noticed my skin is much brighter since I added it to my evening routine.
  
  
• MIZON Snail Extract for some slight acne scarring near my temples and redness. I've been using it for a few months and it has helped big time.
  
  
• Ponds Rejuveness Cream is my moisturizer of choice.
  
  
• Garnier Micellar Water is the best makeup remover and cleanser I've found yet. Put on cotton swabs and press on your lashes for 30 seconds and even the toughest mascara is removed.
  
  Stridex pads for a BHA.
  
  Once or twice a week I use a honey sheet mask...am always trying something new.
  
  I'm in the process of looking for a new OTC retinol, would love some suggestions if anyone has them!
  
  
  
  

Found it. PSA: It's for some of their best-selling products. It does not show up for every item in the Seller's Shop.

• Ex. 1 for HelloCos Mizon Snail repair Cream - No Sale
  
• Ex. 2 LazyGirl Sum37 Miracle Rose Cleanser - No Sale.
  
• Ex. 3 LazyGirl DearPacker Masks- Sale

I use this. It pretty much saves my life. And my ink.

And Amazon, demigod of all online stores.

When I first heard of how well AB products work, I went on a binge and tried out so many, and while all are really great, I keep reaching for the Mizon Black Snail AIO the most. I don't like any perfume smelling lotions, no matter how great they are. The Mizon black snail has no smell to it, so perfect for me. I also felt it healed my acne, acne scabs, and dry patches, and just left me with healthier, softer skin.

I'm not sure if you would be up to trying all of these items, but here's my skin regimen (to heal acne and acne scabs/scars, dry patches, and aging skin and wrinkles) to compare. I have been doing this for about six months and am tweaking very little. I haven't had any acne break outs in the last three months now (well maybe one minor pimple that heals within a day or two) and my skin is the most normal it's been in my teenage/adult life.

Morning:
Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser. I love this cleanser and am not changing.

I use two Konjac half sphere shaped sponges when cleansing. I like to use two of these at the same time, one to lather up the soap (less soap is needed with these sponges) and one to rinse it off, and then I rinse both out and run under warm water and hold the two flat halves against my eyes. The warmth feels so wonderful.

I like the red or pink clay ones, but here's a sample pack. Also they usually come with a small string looped into the sponge. If they don't, you can just get a needle and thread and put one it. This is because they need to be hung up to dry out, so they don't get any mold in them. When they dry out, make sure to run under water to re-expand them fully before use, and don't squeeze until they are fully soft and expanded again, or otherwise you will begin to degrade the sponge and it will start to fall apart.

Then I use Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner. (If you buy from there, you get a Benton Bee Snail mask try too. That mask is one of my all time favorites.)

Then I use the Benton Snail Bee Essence. (If you buy from here, you get another mask and a few samples to try too.)

New York Laboratories Dark Circle Eye Cream. Not Korean, but uses some good ingredients.

MIZON Black Snail All In One Cream

You can also add another cream over this, like one with retinol or hyalouric acid or both. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't. I am happy with the above and it works for me.
___

Evening:
Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam Facial Foaming Cleanser. I love this cleanser and am not changing.

I use the cleanser with the Konjac sponges again. I find when you use the sponges, that you don't really need to use a separate exfoliator product daily, which can be harsh on your skin. So think gentle products (See at the bottom).

Then I use the same toner as above, and the same eye cream, but sometimes I also add on Cosrx Honey Ceramide Eye Cream.

I use the same Mizon snail cream as above and then a "sleeping pack cream". I have a few I am trying at the moment and can't say which I would recommend yet, but I keep going back mostly to the SKIN CERAMIC Donkey Milk Yogurt Sleeping Pack one. It is not too greasy like some of the others and my skin feels super moist from it.

I do a sheet mask at least once a week (more if I can - lately I have been doing about 3-4 a week). I subscribe to a monthly sheet mask bag at MissTutii.com, and they will send about 7-8 sheet masks each month. I love the snail masks best, the honey ones are my second favorite, and then the donkey milk ones. My Miss Tutii is ending next month, and I am thinking of switching over to Mask Maven subscription, which sends nine masks each month.

I use only mild forms of exfoliation (I am so, so, so done with the rough kinds!!!), like Neogen Dermalogy Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Wine, to help skin turn-over maybe 1-2 times a week. I keep the jar in the fridge and use after a shower in the morning, but you can also use in the evening after you cleanse and before you apply essence/cream. When I use these pads, I skip the toner part of the regimen and sometimes essence too.

I also have Seven Seconds Morning Sheet. That one has gentle dots on the pad that exfoliate. I tend to use this one when I am in a rush and can't spend the time to do a full skin regimen. This one you just cleanse and do the pad and then you are done.

I use Nooni AHA/BHA peel pad about once a week.

About two times a month I use Laura Mercier Face Polish.

And speaking of healthy skin regimen, don't forget about getting good, quality sleep. Get yourself a few boxes of these KAO heated eye masks. They are freaking amazing! They are so nice and light and comfortable and soothing, and they do block out the light too. I love the rose smelling ones.

How much are you paying for Mizon? That brand is pretty cheap in my experience. CosRX has a similar snail cream, but I'd expect both to be around the same price point.

If you want the cheapest of the cheap you could go for the snail repair gel in the pink tube. Mizon's black snail AIO tends to be a little cheaper than the regular AIO; it has kind of an old lady smell, but I find it to be extremely soothing and still use it because I haven't found another product that works quite as well for immediately calming irritated skin.

If you're willing to move away from snail products, I've heard good things about the Rosette Aqua Ceramide gel and the Hatomugi Skin Conditioning Gel.

Avoid alcohol if you can, it is a lousy ingredient and I seriously question the people who love it. It is a penetration enhancer and basically makes products and ingredients that feel "heavy" feel "weightless." Here are two Japanese sunscreens with a matte and dewey finish (respectively) that are very budget friendly and alcohol free! The latter is definitely going to be more budget friendly - it is actually a sunscreen designed "for babies" and contains scentless plant extracts to soothe skin and increase efficacy of the sunscreen.

Go with a sunscreen without alcohol. Biore watery essence has a lot but elta md doesn't so that's surprising it emphasized the lines.
I always recommend la roche posay anthelios ultra light fluid spf 50 because it's been my holy grail since I started using it. They have a tinted one as well which blends in nicely. Skinceuticals physical fusion defense is another good one. Both of these are pricey though at around 30 bucks.
One of the few asian sunscreens without alcohol is skin aqua that I've been wanting to try. It claims to not leave a white cast and is 16 bucks.

I'm not a doctor, so if you've been prescribed tret, I would talk with your doc before adding any additional products. That said, if your skin can handle it and your doctor doesn't tell you not to, you could try adding AmLactin. Retinoids and AHAs [are different chemicals] (https://phamix.com/2008/12/alpha-hydroxy-acids-or-retinol-which-is-best) so it's possible adding one would do something slightly different for your skin.

In terms of how many products you can use, it's entirely up to you. I use anywhere from 2 to 8 or 9 products at once layered /r/AsianBeauty style, including mixing (NON-prescription strength) retinoids with an AHA. On a normal day I just use glycolic acid + CeraVe (2 products). But on a weekend evening before bed, I'll take a bath using [zinc soap] (https://www.amazon.com/DermaHarmony-Pyrithione-Zinc-ZnP-Soap/dp/B00MWB0ZGE/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493411293&sr=8-5&keywords=zinc+soap) and [physically exfoliate] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007IAE5WY/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) in the tub, spray my skin with a [low-Ph toner] (https://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Clarifying-Treatment-Toner-150ml/dp/B00OZ63ODA/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493411340&sr=1-2&keywords=mizon+aha+bha+toner), apply a [Vitamin C serum] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00THEGVCG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1), then an [AHA gel] (https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-Resurfacing-Treatment-Exfoliant/dp/B00DH21DBS/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493411427&sr=1-5&keywords=paula%27s+choice+aha+gel), then some [Retinol Cream] (https://www.amazon.com/Retinol-Surge-Moisturizer-Cream-2-5/dp/B00OQQLNG4/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1493411480&sr=1-1&keywords=body+merry+retinol), then a [more moisturizing cream] (https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-Cream-Pump-Ounce/dp/B01CTRLLFE/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493411504&sr=1-3&keywords=cerave+cream), then top it all off with an [occlusive] (https://www.amazon.com/Aquaphor-Advanced-Therapy-Ointment-Protectant/dp/B00IB0X5FS/ref=sr_1_1?srs=7301146011&ie=UTF8&qid=1493411531&sr=8-1&keywords=aquaphor) to seal in all that moisture. I might even throw an extra layer of or two of [moisturizing toner] (https://www.amazon.com/ORGANIC-ROSE-WATER-SPRAY-Uplifting/dp/B00YMMENPK/ref=sr_1_15_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493411630&sr=8-15&keywords=rose+water+toner), [tea tree oil] (https://www.amazon.com/Pure-Tea-Tree-Essential-Oil/dp/B018J6KIBW/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493411669&sr=8-5&keywords=tea+tree+serum), [snail gel] (https://www.amazon.com/Mizon-Snail-Recovery-Gel-Cream/dp/B00BQM3S3C/ref=sr_1_9_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493411704&sr=8-9&keywords=snail+gel), or [honey ampoule] (https://www.amazon.com/SCINIC-Honey-Ampoule-Types-Whitening/dp/B00STAV016/ref=sr_1_9_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1493410839&sr=8-9&keywords=honey+cream) in there if I think my skin needs extra redness reduction. Is that excessive? Absolutely. But I put all that stuff on my face to make my skin happy, so I don't see why the rest of my body shouldn't be allowed to occasionally join the party.

Rant: Ok, I know that this is probably going to be surprising to some, but I just bought Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence, and it made my skin break out in tiny pimples. Not over a large area, but isolated pimples all over my face. I used it for about a week and a half, and thought maybe my break out was just hormonal. I stopped using it for a couple of days because I was out of town, and just forgot to bring it. My skin cleared up almost immediately. I just thought, ok, my period is over, that must have caused this. So, I started it back and within 2 days the tiny pimples returned. I have since stopped using this product and my skin is much clearer. I have NEVER had a problem with pimples. I know this works wonders for many people, so this is likely a me thing, but I still want people to know that this is a possibility, and may not be the miracle working product you want it to be.

Rave: Cailyn Dizzolv'it Makeup Melt Cleansing Balm. I got a sample of this in my Birchbox a while ago and really loved it. So I bought a gigantic tub of it the other day. It's a solid balm that turns into oil as you massage your makeup off. It works SO well. My waterproof mascara doesn't stand a chance. And, it makes my skin very soft after rinsing it off. Well worth it.

I have both aging concerns (I'm 39) and breakout prone skin and early this year I started implementing a skincare routine with mostly Korean products and it has helped tremendously (thanks r/asianbeauty!) Prior to this the ONLY moisturizer I'd ever found that did not break me out in cystic spots was the Clinique DDM gel moisturizer which isn't really very moisturizing.

With the k-beauty stuff I added BHA and AHA which helps with both acne and aging.

Another important thing to consider is PH. High PH cleansers like your Neutrogena scrub or Cetaphil are really not good for your skin. Some great low PH cleansers are Cerave foaming cleanser (not Korean/Asian), Su:m 37 Miracle Rose Cleansing Stick ( https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EIMU3NU/ref=sxts2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482935590&sr=2 ) and Hado Labo Gokujyn Cleansing Foam ( https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0036MDUEM/ref=sxts1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482935590&sr=1 )


My current routine is:

AM:

• Su:m 37 stick
  
• Alcohol-free rosewater toner (Thayer's or Secret Key)
  
• Clinique DDM gel or Mizon Snail Recovery Gel (a great light moisturizer and CHEAP!) https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00NTR9B6A/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482935871&sr=8-3&keywords=mizon+snail
  
  PM:
  
  
• Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000V2FBAQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482935963&sr=8-1&keywords=kose+softymo
  
• Su:m 37 stick or Cerave cleanser
  
• rosewater toner
  
• CosRX BHA in t-zone and CosRX AHA on cheeks chin and forehead
  
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00OZEJ8R8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482936697&sr=8-1&keywords=cosrx+bha+blackhead+power+liquid
  
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00OZ9WOD8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482936735&sr=8-1&keywords=cosrx+aha
  
  (Then wait 20 minutes)
  
  
• Hado Labo Gokujyn "lotion" (really more like a toner) https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000FQUGXA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482936200&sr=8-1&keywords=hada+labo+gokujyn
  
  
• Benton Snail Bee essence https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EC60MYW/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482936253&sr=8-1&keywords=benton+snail+bee+high+content+essence
  
  
• Missha Time Revolution serum
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00ATLVNIS/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482936487&sr=8-2&keywords=missha+time+revolution
  
  
• Beauty of Joseon Dynasty cream https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01M4GQO8W/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482936552&sr=8-1&keywords=beauty+of+joseon+dynasty+cream
  
  
• Rosette Ceramide Gel https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000FQNIX0/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1482936634&sr=8-1&keywords=rosette+ceramide
  
  None of these products has broken me out. Since you are younger you might not feel the need for the anti-aging products I use (but it's never too early to start!)
  
  As far as makeup: day-to-day I use powder foundation (Dermablend Intense Powder Camo) but for special occasions I use Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation, it's the only full coverage liquid foundation that I have found that doesn't give me cystic spots OR totally break up on my nose from oil. It's pricey but a little goes a long way.
  
  HTH! Good luck!

A lot of people here including myself love this stuff. No scent that I can notice, and it’s a cross between a gel and a cream:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Face Moisturizer Gel-Cream to Hydrate and Smooth Extra-Dry Skin, 1.7 oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NR1YQK4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Qi7uCbZ6GSQ54

I have combination skin and Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence makes my skin super dewy looking without make it oily! Highly recommend.

Most people seem to use pure oils on their ears.

Many lotions contain things that can irritate the skin like fragrances. If I use any lotion besides Vanicream around my ears they swell up and become covered in an itchy dry rash.

Hi. Thank you SO much for this little ray of hope.

In regards to the products you mentioned, I am in the UK but have found this similar product to the soap that (if you could spare a minute to look at) may be a suitable alternative?

• zinc pyrithione soap https://www.stressnomore.co.uk/medicine-mama-s-zinc-facial-bar-10466.html#product-description
  
  
• moisturiser - is this the vanicream one you are talking about? https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vanicream-Moisturizing-Skin-Cream-sensitive/dp/B000NWGCZ2. Seems to be similar to the Dermol cream I have been starting to use recently.
  
  I will enquire about Amoxicillin with my gp in a month's time when I finish my course of (seemingly useless for me) Lymecyline. Fingers crossed he would prescribe it to me as he is running out of ideas!
  
  I never once considered the Simple moisturiser could be making it worse. It is the ONLY thing I have used consistently across the 2.5+ years.
  
  I have incredibly sensitive teeth so have always hoped I wouldn't have to give up my sensodyne toothpaste but I will look into alternatives without SLS.
  
  Again, thank you so much for sharing this with me. Every little bit of hope helps!

My holy grail, queen helene mint julep: https://www.amazon.com/QUEEN-HELENE-Masque-Mint-Julep/dp/B0014272VI/ref=sr_1_2_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1494891723&sr=1-2&keywords=queen+helene+mask

OP, you can also try Queen Helene's Mint Julep mask for $5.50 on Amazon or about $3.50 at your local drugstore/dollar store. The first three ingredients are distilled water, kaolin, and bentonite. You get the fun of a clay mask, you don't have to mix it yourself like the Aztec clay mask, and you save $64.

Is that this one for... $2.50?? https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0014272VI/

I would be very careful with using Vaseline as an occlusive. Definitely patch test it for a prolong period (like 2 weeks) before going all out. Better to have a small patch of blemishes than a face full of it. It does sound like your skin might benefit from something exfoliating like the C20 to help with dullness, but without some good hydrating & occlusive products, that will just land you in trouble.


My HG hydrating & moisturizing 'products':


DYI Witch Hazel, HA, & Glycerin toner (sometimes I add a few drops of high linoleic facial oil or tea tree oil to the mixture). This is my, 'I screwed up my face using too much acne medication/trying a new product that it hates' savior. I know for a fact my skin response very well to these 3 items mixed together & I can always turn to this DYI toner without risk of a reaction. It isn't hydrating enough for me just to use it without a cream of some sort, but it is the figurative lifejacket of skincare routine.



Carezone Doctor's Solution Dematology Hydra Toner, this the most hydrating toner I've ever come across that doesn't break me out.


Carezone Doctor's Solution Dematology H.A. Cream, this cream is on the heavier side, but damn if it doesn't hydrate & moisturize my skin without causing a bad reaction.


Mediheal Mediental Balhyo-Jinjeong Healing Mask is the best damned face mask I've ever used (thank you, Snow White & Asian Pear!) Comfortable to use, crazy moisturizing, & soothing as all get out. The blue, yellow, & purple versions are extremely nice, but the green one has my heart!

I tried to go with cheaper, more accessible Asian & Western products, & soooooo much regret, especially in regards to the toner & cream. As long as they make that those 2 Carezone products & that Mediheal mask, I will be a loyal customer! My only regret is they aren't the easiest to buy. I usually get all 3 off Koreadepart but I may try another vendor the next time I need to order them.


If you're not sensitive to snail, the COSRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence might be the way to go. It's got a pretty limited ingredient list & it's easy to get a hold of without breaking the bank.

Maggard Razors is a good place to start, you can create a budget starter kit from there. I use the Maggard MR1 double edge razor, definitely can't beat it at that price, and since it's the same head, any Maggard razor is going to come down to preference in handle. I have fairly sensitive skin aswell, I'd definitely recommend an unscented witch hazel aftershave, it leaves my skin feeling fantastic after a shave.

http://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/paulas-choice-product-tips/_/why-you-need-a-toner

That article lists what a toner should and shouldn't have.

https://www.google.com/amp/www.today.com/amp/style/6-reasons-why-you-should-use-facial-toner-t73941

I disagree with the other poster. Toners can be beneficial if you get the right ones. Getting an alcohol free toner is essential and there are a few good ones.


https://www.amazon.com/Thayers-Alcohol-Free-Witch-Formula-Unscented/dp/B001DJDP7C

This is a good toner, I use it personally. I tone each time after I was my face so twice a day. There's other good alcohol free toners out there you can find. Good luck!

New member to this subreddit. Looking forward to digging into the FAQ and wiki over the next few days... my current routine is not much of a routine and is very basic:

• AM - wash face/shoulders in shower with Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser (http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Gentle-Cleanser-16-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B001ET76EY)
  
  
• PM - wash face with Cetaphil Gentle Skin cleaner. Blot dry with bath towel. Occasionally apply Clean & Clear Acne Spot Treatment (http://www.cleanandclear.com/product/acne-treatments/advantage-acne-spot-treatment).
  
  I also have Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion (http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Fragrance-Moisturizing-16-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B001ET76GW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1395925959&sr=8-4&keywords=Cetaphil+Moisturizer). I only use this when my skin is visibly dry. Maybe I should be using this more often as part of my normal routine to keep my skin healthy.
  
  Thanks for your tips!

Right now I’m on Curology’s 0.04% tret, 1% clindamycin, and 9% azelaic acid (I’ve increased the tret % over many months). First, I recommend you introduce Curology slowly - like every other (or third) day for two weeks, then every day. Also, the 2% BHA may be too harsh/drying in the beginning - I’d recommend getting used to Curology first (i’m just now introducing it every third day bc I get so flaky). I love the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser & PM lotion (the AM lotion stings my eyes but YMMV - so I use the PM in the AM if that makes sense), and I love EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 for sunscreen. I currently use NuFountain C20 + Ferulic serum bc of price and am happy with it, but if price isn’t an issue, the gold standard seems to be SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic. Good luck! Be patient and consistent and you’ll see really good results!

I haven't seen anyone mention NuFountain's Vit C + Ferulic product, so I thought I'd just throw it out there. It doesn't seem too expensive.

I've been meaning to order it for some time but haven't gotten around to it.

The Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner is currently a lightning deal for $16.90.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PGOFYG0

I use a layering method and start with The Body Shop Tea Tree toner personally, non AB product that I found myself going back to again and again while I ventured through finding my routine. Tea tree oil is one of my favorite ingredients that helps keep my skin feeling fresh and aid in any hormonal breakout. I follow it up with Hadalabo Gokujun Hyaluronic Lotion Moist. A cult fave for AB is Klairs Supple Toner, Kikumasamune sake high moist lotion, and Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Liquid.

Word from the old and practiced though? BUY SAMPLES before you spring for a full sized. u/gothickornchic sells a plethora of decants to sample before you commit to a full sized. It takes 2-3 weeks to see if your skin is going to respond well to a product, and it's awful to buy a full sized and find out that it's a dud, or worse, breaks you out.

It's super fun to buy new stuff but it eventually bites you in the ass. I used to just slather stuff on my face and wish myself luck. It back fired horribly on me back in May and I'm JUST now coming around to clear skin again. Now I test half my face for a week for a break out then another week to really see results.

I’m a newbie but this is what I use. My skin is very dry and reddish. Any products that made it not dry left it feeling greasy my whole life.

First I wash with this KOSE oil cleanser which is different than just using oil! When I first put it on my face I thought I was making a huge mistake because of the texture but it just took some getting used to. It feels very slick and oily, but not greasy in a bad way. This stuff gets off any makeup or buildup from lotion and other products.

Then I wash again with Secret Key and believe me I was skeptical because I thought washing my face twice in a row would ruin my skin/life but this exfoliates and gets the oil off perfectly and leaves my skin feeling great.

I use Klairs Toner which is so different than every other toner I've used that made my skin feel dry and tight. This is about balancing your pH and getting your skin ready to absorb moisturizer and a little goes a long way.

Then I use this Benton Aloe Gel to moisturize and it feels great and leaves my face so soft!

If I'm not sitting around the house all day I use Biore sunscreen which is so light and doesn't clog my pores.

At night I use some standard ponds cream as a moisturizer.

Asian sunscreens, like Japanese or Korean. American sunscreens are greasy as fuck.

These are pretty popular among my friends:

1
2
3

I am sure you can find them cheaper in Japanese or Korean online shops.

amazon has a $5 off coupon at checkout if you add

Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner from "wishtrend" store .. so final price is $18 + free shipping ..

https://imgur.com/UJZH6cp (screenshot)

https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Klairs-Supple-Preparation-Facial/dp/B00PGOFYG0/ref=sr_1_3?m=A2ITVQXVLEC8P&s=merchant-items&ie=UTF8&qid=1541947061&sr=1-3&dpID=41rezpS9BjL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch

Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner

It's a huge bottle. I've been using a generous amount twice a day for two months and I think I can go another two months.

I like this one, which is available next day delivery from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Preparation-Alcohol-Paraben-Cruelty-Eco-friendly/dp/B00PGOFYG0/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&ref_=yo_ii_img

I can definitely relate. My first pregnancy I broke out and nothing made it better (except waiting--it was gone by about week 18 for whatever miraculous reason). But this time around, I didn't break out--I have terrible dry skin. I actually posted about it in here and I got some the advice to try the Korean skin care route. And let me tell you, what I found that really made a difference for me was moisturizing toner. I bought this stuff based on some recommendations in /r/AsianBeauty and it's great. My skin is less dry, and it even cleared up some KP I had on my upper arms.

I used Biore watery essence for a few years, it was the only sunscreen that wouldn't break me out. But it has way too much alcohol so looked for an alternative.
I found this https://www.amazon.co.uk/Canmake-Mermaid-Moisturizing-Sunscreen-SPF50/dp/B00X3E456K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=I8UXIUUJJNT3&keywords=canmake+mermaid+uv+gel&qid=1567059631&s=gateway&sprefix=canmake%2Caps%2C155&sr=8-1 and haven't looked back since. It's light, effective and has no alcohol or white cast.

Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50

It doesn’t pill under makeup. It sinks in quickly. No alcohol in the ingredients. Only $11-12 from Amazon.

We CAN make Mermaid Skin Gel UV 01 40g AF27 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X3E456K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_RSwZAbXXAQTGQ

Do you think the red spots are PIE? https://simpleskincarescience.com/pie-pih-acne-scar-treatment/

If your skin is causing emotional distress, schedule a doctor's appointment. If that's not an option right now, check out Curology, it's an online dermatology service that's very popular on this subreddit.

Right now, I think you should just focus on putting together a base routine of cleanser/moisturizer/sunscreen. Here are my recs for each category:

-Cleanser: Check out Vanicream. Almost nobody reacts to this, and it's very affordable.

-Moisturizer: Check out Cerave PM or Vanicream Lite. They're often recommended for oily-skinned folks. Cerave PM also has 4% niacinamide, which helps with oil control and reducing redness.

Sunscreen: Check out Cerave Ultra-Light SPF 30, Biore Watery Essence SPF 50, or Etude House Sunprise SPF 50.

What kind of skin type do you have in general? I for sure got little bumps over time when I wore some generic Neutrogena sunblock I got from the drugstore* (but it was 100 SPF and that's what makes it more effective right, the higher numbers?? oh foolish, sweet summer child, pre- r/asianbeauty me) but I also tried this LRP and my face didn't really take to it kindly at the start.

If you have very sensitive skin, Elta MD is the way to go. It definitely sinks in lightly and just doesn't feel like anything on your skin after maybe 2-4 minutes.

I really liked my Biore UV Aqua when I had it but I just went through it way too fast. It's the HG for a lot of people in terms of face sunscreen, but I personally can't justify the price, and don't require something with ~superb texture necessarily, since I don't wear makeup often and never wear foundation.

If your skin isn't too too sensitive I would just try different stuff Asian brands out! I've been wanting to try out this COSRX one next.

​

* Also, make sure to wash it off every night! Doesn't matter if you wore makeup or not, sunscreen you had on all day and got covered in dust/grime = no-no for sleeping with overnight. That's the reason I got little bumps, anyway!

​

Thanks for the great post. As you can tell from my username, sunscreen is important for me, but I've only been wearing it when I know I'll be outside a lot and want to work on more daily. I just wanted to make sure I have the right thing before I buy it. Thank you!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071H7P3T8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_DdJ2CbFGHSV21

Give the Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence sunscreen a try. It’s my holy grail and everyone I’ve turned on to it loves it.

Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++ (pack of 3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071H7P3T8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_F2hUCbWQWN7KG

hopefully this works

I've ordered and received from this seller a few times- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071H7P3T8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

My skin also hates Cerave. I use Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream, or, plain mineral oil.

Here's a blog reading list for you: the venerable Fiddy Snails, Fanserviced, and Snow White and the Pear. These blogs have been INVALUABLE resources for me in learning about skincare and AB.

And here's a very, very, very, VERY loose shopping list, with one major caveat: PATCH. TEST. Don't just buy a new product and slap it on your face. Choose a spot on your face - somewhere where you break out easily, like next to your nose - and dab a little of that product there every day for 10-15 days. See what happens. This is how I learned that my beloved Hadalabo Gokujyun lotion doesn't break me out, but it does break out a lot of other people.

CLEANSERS:
You need two. An oil cleanser to use in the evening to thoroughly remove sunscreen and makeup, followed by a foaming or gel cleanser. I like Hada Labo Gokujyun foaming cleanser as a second cleanser (it's the only one I use in the morning). Kose Softymo is an affordable oil cleanser for the evening.

ACTIVES:
These are ingredients that Do Things to your face, such as exfoliants (BHA, AHA, vitamin C) and disinfectants (benzoyl peroxide). I am drastically simplifying. At the moment you're using two products that contain benzoyl peroxide, a disinfectant. It's time to round out your active diet, with the big caveat that irritation = redness. I'll say it again - ditch the astringent, it's only causing the redness you're trying to avoid. If you're going to add new actives to your routine, do it very gradually. Patch test, then start using it every other day.

Things you could try: I'm in love with C21.5 vitamin C serum. This is an affordable powerhouse of vitamin C, that promotes skin cell turnover and does a bang-up job of dealing with pigmentation. It does oxidise easily, though, so you need to keep it in the fridge and toss it when it starts to turn yellow. In terms of exfoliants, Cosrx BHA Power Liquid and AHA Power Liquid are fan favourites. They feel remarkably gentle on the skin, and do a great job of gently exfoliating. If I were you I'd start with the BHA, as BHAs are great at exfoliating within the pore, soothing redness and treating/preventing acne.

SUNSCREEN
I'm here to give you the greatest lesson you'll ever learn: the best anti-ageing treatment is sunscreen. You are 15. It's time to set up a lifelong sunscreen habit. And Asian sunscreens feel better than any western equivalent. RatzillaCosme is a goldmine of sunscreen reviews. The first Asian sunscreen most people try is the legendary Biore Watery Aqua, which is inexpensive and easy to snag on Amazon.

DA SNAILZ
Snail products are wonderful at reducing redness and inflammation. There are just... so many snail products out there. A great starting point is Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream, which is a great final moisturiser at night if you've got oilier skin. I'm also partial to the all-in-one repair cream, which is actually more of a 'whipped' essence than a cream, but feels wonderfully soothing on my oilier skin.

Hope this helps!

I'd recommend starting slow. Start with a mild foaming cleanser, a basic moisturizer, and a sunscreen. If you want to add more stuff on for your acne, check out /r/SkincareAddiction and /r/AsianBeauty. Their sidebars are seriously amazing.

But for a cleanser, you can't go wrong with CeraVe foaming cleanser. It's cheap, easily available, and gentle for any kind of skin. There's a bunch of theories on which kinds are best, but I've seen all sorts recommend this cleanser.

Moisturizer is really key as well. Dry skin can cause acne just because your skin is craving moisture! CeraVe and Aquaphor as well as natural stuff like Jojoba oil or Coconut oil have been talked about a lot as good options here. I'm still in search for a really good one I gel with. I do use as a light moisturizer Mizon's Snail Recovery Gel as it also clears up small cuts and inflammation as well. Be patient with this step, as some moisturizers can break you out.

Sunscreen is honestly like 100% of skincare, I'm convinced now, after plunging head first into the two mentioned subs. I use This Japanese one cuz it's cheap on Amazon and has one of the highest pH ratings out there. This Korean one is also highly praised online.

But the fun part I really like? MASKS! OMG MASKING! I love wash offs like Origins' Charcoal Mask (great for acne!) and Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask are both awesome choices! I'm also a big fan of sheet masks (they put the good-for-you goop on a piece of fabric so it's easy to apply). These are the ones I usually buy because it's a great value and they work amazing. You usually only mask for 15-20 minutes and it's like a mini me-time spa-time for me. Doing this like twice a week has done wonders for my skin!

Have some fun with your skincare journey! I'm having fun with finding my perfect self pampering routine. It's more a form of self care for me now, so I feel a little sad if I miss any steps at this point. Hope that helps some! :)

Amazon prime!! Not sure if I’m allowed to link to that but here ya go: Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence 2 02 fl oz 60 ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EC60MYW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_RwFWBbTHG61ES

I wonder if this would be helpful, Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Face Moisturizer Gel-Cream to Hydrate and Smooth Extra-Dry Skin, 1.7 oz?

Pros

Fragrance-free

Oil-Free

Dye-free

Non-Comedogenic

Fast-Absorbing

100 % alcohol free

Olive Extract (Fatty acid)

Has some nice reviews on youtube too.

Cons

It is about $15

Only 1.7 oz

I totally understand your struggle. I have super chronically dry skin and this is the only thing that has ever worked for me. https://smile.amazon.com/Neutrogena-Hyaluronic-Hydrating-Moisturizer-Gel-Cream/dp/B00NR1YQK4 It doesn't break me out or clog my pores as my skin is also really sensitive, but I actually see and feel a noticeable difference although, everyones skin is different. Hope you find something that works for you!

Hi guys! New to this whole skin care thing but i've been super excited to get started and get new products. And a happy nat'l pet day to my lil pumkin for encouraging me.

I have normal/combo skin with dry patches. Overall minimal acne, hyperpigmentation in cheeks and around scars.

AM

Splash of Water: I prefer to only cleanse at night due to my dry skin

Neutrogena Hydroboost gel-cream for extra dry skin: I was referred this in a previous comment thread and it has quickly become my HG moisturizer. It is a gel-cream so it isn't heavy and can be layered but it is so hydrating.

Skin Aqua Sunscreen: This isn't in this picture but let me tell you this is the best sunscreen I've ever used on my face. Its a gel consistency so again light on the skin SPF50 & PA ++++ so it protects against both UVA & UVB rays. I've seen this highly recommend on AB threads so I decided to give it a go and I'm never going back.

PM

Simple Micellar cleansing water: I use this to remove my makeup with a cotton pad. Not too drying nor oily and gets the job done.

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser: This cleanser is very hydrating, I don't experience that tight feeling after washing. I would highly recommend this cleanser.

Neutrogena Hydroboost gel-cream for extra dry skin

Yeah! Neutrogena hydro boost gel cream!
I buy on amazon cuz it has the best price

>>I had previously been using all Lancome products before starting the SCA routine, and the difference has been astounding. I have skin that gets dry and flaky if I'm not careful or if I pick, but is mostly very oily.

I agree with weenieee - it sounds like you have dehydrated skin which means you need to create a protective, moisturizing barrier on your skin.

>>The Stridex pads work just fine for a light BHA, but they make my skin feel really dry and tight. I was thinking of switching to the Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid, because I like their AHA so much, but it has mixed reviews on Amazon. I would love any suggestions or advice on keeping/adding a BHA to the routine.

Personally, I love the cosrx BHA Blackhead power. I don't find it nearly as drying as other BHAs. Additionally, you can use the BHA at the same time as your AHA and give them both time to be active.

>>I just ran out of Lancome Serum and started using the Serumtologie C as a replacement. Is this correct, or was the Lancome doing more than what the Vitamin C will do?

The Vitamin C will be good for your skin, but it will not have the same impact as the Genifique. First, the Genifique has Dimethicone and Castor Oil in it. These are both occlusive moisturizers which will create a protective, moisture barrier on your skin. Second, the Genifique contains two different types of fermentated products - Bifida Ferment Lysate and Faex Extract/Yeast Extract/Extrait De Levure. You can buy fermented products from Amazon for fairly cheap. I personally like Secret Key. cosrx also has one. There are more expensive versions, but there isn't any need to pay Genifique prices.

Here is a video on fermented face products.

For the occlusive moisturizers, you can use plain squalane oil - I also buy this on Amazon. There are also squalane face masks if you don't want to use an oil everyday.

As for the vitamin C product you chose, while the version of Vitamin C is stable, it also needs time to be active on your skin to achieve its full benefits. After washing your face, apply the Vitamin C and wait 10 minutes. There are different types of Vitamin C. Some require more time than others and some are more potent than others. This particular vitamin C also has bunch of other contents, like Dandelion Root and Geranium. I find that a lot of Vitamin C products pack a bunch of ingredients that can potentially irritate your skin. If you find irritation, this might be the cause. They make Vit C serums that are way paired down on ingredients (and have more proven ingredient additions like Vit E, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Retinol.

>>I am nearly out of the Lancome eye cream, but have plenty of the Volition eye gel, which is supposed to have snail mucin in it. Is the helix good enough for night and day? If not, are there any you all would recommend?

The Volition seems like an alright eye treatment, but I would expect the snail secretion filtrate to be higher in the list of ingredients. Here is an eye cream where skin filtrate is the first ingredient. It also contains Niacinamide, which can be beneifical. I would say that your eye cream is fine if you like it, but there are potentially better options.


>>I was using the Volition moisturizer for daytime, and really liked it, but I ran out and had a Clinique sample so I tried it. The Clinique gel doesn't moisturize enough, so I'm thinking of buying more Volition Cream, but it is fairly expensive. Is the Volition Cream worth the money, or do you all have any other suggestions for a replacement?

I would take a look at the first ingredients of your Volition Cream. Chances are, like most of these other products, there are cheaper options that are just as effective if you don't want to pay the hefty price tag. I would search r/asianbeauty for the main ingredients.

With dehydrated skin, I would do either a face oil or a night pack on top of your moisturizer. Again, I recommend r/asianbeauty and Amazon.

P.S. If you feel like the Micellar water helps get that extra oil and dirt, maybe look into double cleansing. It can definitely help with flakiness.

I LOVE AZELAIC ACID. So I pretty well thought I would live with a red face forever along with a severely damaged moisture barrier. The biggest thing that helped me was azelaic acid. I use Melazepam from Amazon. Cheap and works! It's thick at first but smoothes into my skin leaving it kinda matte. At first it itched like crazy and I wasn't using it consistently enough. Then after more research, I decided to use it up and give it a chance. Along with anything high in ceramide, my skin got used to the 20% AzA. Maybe around the 10th day of twice daily use, my skin finally started to look normal. I also switch my oil cleanser to an olive oil based one and saw even more improvement in my redness. I've just added in Vit C to my under eye area and continuing to use Melazepam around the rest of my face and neck and my ENTIRE COMPLEXION is EVEN NOW! Would never have believed that was possible. Melazepam has also minimized my SFs on my nose, has finally stopped this ingrown hair on my neck from forming (I've had it for years!!!), and has cleared all the CCs on my forehead. I repeat: I loooooove azelaic acid, specifically Melazepam!

Current routine:

AM

Garnier Micellar Water - pink cap or Cerave Foaming cleanser

Cosrx Aha/bha Clarifying Treatment Toner

BELITAE Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid to my under eye area and upper cheeks

Melazepam to the rest of my face and neck, especially my nose. Sometimes I wait after the Vit C but not usually since I don't use them in the same spots.

I do wait 15-20 minutes after my actives step.

SCINIC First Treatment Essence 3 skin method. My face loves this more than the Missha FTE.

SCINIC Snail All In One Ampoule or SCINIC Honey All In One Ampoule depending on the day.

CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion

A'PIEU PURE BLOCK Natural Sun Cream SPF45/PA+++ I don't see much sunlight at all but when I do, this one keeps me from turning beet red imediately upon application.

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Derma Green-Cure Solution Recover Cream This is the best thing I've found for redness and skin barrier repair! My skin loves ceramides so much and this soothes like nothing I've found yet.

Medela Tender Care Lanolin Tube on my lips. Yes it's nip cream. I couldn't use it all up while nursing and it causes my skin to redden so it's perfect for a little lip color.

PM

ROHTO Hada Labo Gokujun Cleansing Oil My skin reacted to Holika Holika Soda Pore B.b Deep Cleansing Oil so this is my second one to try and I'm really enjoying it.

Cerave Foaming cleanser with a konjac sponge but waiting on
Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam in the mail.

Cosrx Aha/bha Clarifying Treatment Toner

BELITAE Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid to my under eye area and upper cheeks

Melazepam to the rest of my face and neck, especially my nose like the AM.

SCINIC First Treatment Essence 3 skin method.

All depending on how I'm feeling that evening:

LJH TeaTree 90 Essence

SCINIC Snail All In One Ampoule

SCINIC Honey All In One Ampoule

Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence

Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

MIZON Snail Repair Eye Cream

Petitfee Black Pearl and Gold Hydrogel Eye Patch Not sure if I like these or not honestly...

Some or all of these layers followed by CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion and

Guerisson 9 Complex Horse Oil Cream

Pretty sure my shower filter, Mermosis, has also helped my skin and hair.

I also use sometimes REVITABOOST PEEL Anti-Aging Peel Pads or Cosrx Bha Blackhead Power Liquid but I skip my AzA on those days and just go back to my regular routine the following day. These are rare for me though because they make me ridiculously red again.

Things I'm waiting on in the mail:

ROSETTE Aqua Ceramide Gel

Rumase BIFIDA Snail Toner

Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam

It's Skin Power 10 Formula - PO Effector

Hoping the all work well for me too!

I think /r/asianbeauty might be your best option for cross posting. Especially if you know which sunscreens irritated you. Here is a list of cruelty free brands. I would recommend starting here with Cosrx and moving from there.

Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+. I have very dry skin and this is definitely the creamiest, most moisturizing sunscreen I have ever used. Plus it leaves no white cast.

Not sure of your skin type but given the tret, assuming you have some dryness. If that's the case, I would suggest [Cosrx] Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50 PA+++ 50ml . It's very moisturizing and soothing, but light enough for daily wear. CosRx is a popular brand with some solid products.

You can also check the sidebar for HG sunscreens, a lot of people like the La Roche Posay or Biore Watery Essence as well.

Lol

Toners:

• Fresh- Rose Deep Hydration (the one I’m currently using)

• Klairs- Supple Preparation Facial Toner (great for layering, you can almost get a serum-y effect)

• Pyunkang Yul- Essence Toner (also layerable)

Out of the three toners, the fresh one is the most water-y feeling. However, you can’t use it as a serum-y or mask like product because of that. It doesn’t lend itself to layering if you want to do a quick super burst of hydration.

Moisturizers (specifically watery or gel-like feeling, not heavily occlusive; please bear in mind that these are over $50 and boogie af but I love them, if you’d like heavier recommendations please let me know):

• Tatcha- The Water Cream (the lightest and most watery out of all of them)

• Fresh- Rose Deep Hydration (~$40)

• Drunk Elephant- Protini (gel-like but still fairly water-y)

• Sunday Riley- Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream (also fairly watery, it comes in smaller ~$20 size if you want to make a smaller purchase before fully investing)

Again, sorry the moisturizers were expensive. The better water-y and gel-like moisturizers that I’ve found and liked for oily skin were always on the more expensive side. If you test them (you can get free samples from your local Sephora for almost any product) and find that you need something heavier, please let me know! Also, sorry if the formatting sucks. I’m trying to link and do this all on my phone.

I haven't been to Japan, but from what I understand, it is a great place for amazing and inexpensive skincare. There's a whole sub dedicated to Asian products here: /r/AsianBeauty

I'll also link you the SCA routine page. The /r/asianbeauty subreddit also has tons and tons of info in the sidebar. Start with the basics in the SCA routine if you feel overwhelmed.

Here's some of my thoughts of the products you're using:

• Nivea Soft: contains denatured alcohol, which can be drying, irritating and cause that burning sensation. The may not be the reason for your issue, but do keep it in mind
  
• Clinique toner: I don't think this is intended to be a makeup remover. Also, does this one contain a lot of denatured alcohol too? If so, that will contribute to your issues. Instead, try using an oil cleanser to remover your makeup. This one for example should be in drugstores in Japan.
  
• Jason Apricot Scrubbie exfoliator: this is going to be very rough and irritate your skin. Chemical exfoliants are considered better than physical ones. There is a section about chemical exfoliants in the SCA routine link I provided.
  
• Acure Organics Seriously Glowing Facial Serum: this is an oil blend, which is fine, but I find that oils don't moisturize my skin very well. I need a mix of other emollient and humectant ingredients. This serum is also not going to do much for acne.
  
  You didn't mention how you wash your face; do you currently use some kind of cleanser or soap?
  
  So to redo your routine, I would add in an oil cleanser and/or foaming cleanser, a chemical exfoliant like this if you can find it, a new moisturizer (I'm really only familiar with Hada Labo, so maybe this, and preferably a sunscreen (Biore, Hada Labo and Nivea should sell cheap drugstore ones). The Hada Labo ingredient lists can be found here.

Hada Labo Gokujyun Oil Cleanser is a great emulsifying oil cleanser - it rinses clean, so I personally don't need to double cleanse when I use it. It is olive oil based, not mineral oil (which my skin doesn't like).

My acne is not as severe as yours, so I don't know if what I do would help you but we can give it a shot, right?

• I use CeraVe Foaming Cleanser in both mornings and nights to wash my face
  
• I don't use a BHA anymore
  
• I do use AHA, Alpha Hydrox 10% Glycolic in both morning and night
  
• I use a Salicylic Acid Peel 20% once a week, so far it has helped, I've only used it for two weeks
  
• After the peel, I use a MBD Black Pearl mask, mainly because it's soothing and very moisturizing, which is perfect after a peel.
  
• I moisturize with Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream. People here vastly recommend CeraVe Moisturizing Cream because it has ceramides and it's pretty good.
  
• For sunscreen, I tried Cetaphil Dermacontrol, it's too oily and I didn't like it because it stung my eyes. I tried L'Oreal Ideal Moisture with SPF, didn't like it because it was heavy. I tried both Biore Aqua Rich and Biore Perfect Face Milk I loved both thoroughly; they are light, milky, smooth, they feel great on the skin and stay matte like it's nobodies business.
  
• I use the Thayer Cucumber Witch Hazel toner. No reason in special for the cucumber aside from me loving how it smells. It has helped me some with redness and inflammation.
  
  My routine is as it follows:
  
  AM
  
  
• Cleanse with CeraVe
  
• Apply Witch Hazel toner
  
• After it dries, apply AHA, wait for it to absorb 20 min
  
• Apply Cetaphil Moisturizer
  
• Apply sunscreen
  
• Makeup if any
  
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
  PM
  
  
• Remove makeup and sunscreen with Pond's Cold Cream cleanser
  
• Wash with CeraVe
  
• Apply witch hazel
  
• Apply AHA
  
• Moisturize
  
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
  
  Every Friday night each week
  
  
• Wash with CeraVe
  
• Clean face with rubbing alcohol (my face is super oily)
  
• Apply Salicylic acid peel for 2:00 min
  
• Rinse acid
  
• Apply my beauty diary sheet mask for 20 min
  
• Moisturize with Cetaphil
  
• Apply thin layer of Aquaphor
  
  ----------------------------------------------------------------------
  
  And that's it, my skin has gotten way better and something that has also helped millions is that I went on the pill, since my acne is hormonal.
  
  Remember to patch test and to not abuse your skin, the gentler the better!!!! There are things that might or might not work for you, it takes a while to find what's best for your skin. If nothing works, you can always try PocketDerm or a dermatologist around your area, don't be afraid to ask for professional help. Good luck!
  
  

I use this cetaphil one. It is both a lotion and sunscreen. It was recommended by curology back when I used that. I am thinking of trying out the cerave am one since it has zinc oxide when my current bottle rubs out but for now it does the job. It goes on easily and doesn't feel heavy or greasy.

Hi there! I also struggle with sensitive skin, and as a result I have problems with dandruff, oily skin (especially on the face), acne, acne scars, and eczema. Sensitive skin runs in my family (I'm Irish). So, I will give you a personal remedy that I developed over the last year that significantly reduced these problems.

I got some good initial information from this thread in /r/malefashionadvice. I use most of the products that he mentions there, my personal favorites being the cetaphil dermacontrol foam wash and the cetaphil dermacontrol moisturizer SPF 30.

For starters, it is important to get in a good skincare routine. I was always busy in high school and told myself that I didn't have time to waste taking care of my face. It wasn't until college that I realized my lack of skincare was really inhibiting my ability to feel confident, so that's when I decided I needed to get into a good routine. I started out by washing my face three times a day, and making sure I drink at least half a gallon of water throughout the day. Skin becomes oily when it is dehydrated, and drinking water is a good initial step to keeping it from being dehydrated.

I didn't really solidify my routine until I stumbled upon the /r/malefashionadvice skincare thread. It all depends on what works for your skin type, but for my oily sensitive skin, this is what I found works best:

• I wash my face three times a day, once in the morning and afternoon each with cetaphil gentle skin cleanser, and before bed with the cetaphil dermacontrol foam wash.
  
  
• Each time after washing my face, I also apply the Dickinson's witch hazel pore perfecting toner. It's a lot harder to find than the cetaphil products (I just picked those up from walgreens), but it is definitely worth it. I've tried two or three other toners and all of them left my skin very oily and irritated. It smells a little off, but it's not really a lingering smell
  
  
• After the toner has set in, I apply cetaphil dermacontrol moisturizer SPF 30. I'll also apply this throughout the day if I'm outside a lot. It helps control the sheen of my skin by keeping it moisturized. Make sure you wash your hands with soap and water before putting this on because you do not want dirt getting into your pores!
  
  
• To get rid of the stubborn blackheads that won't go away, I use pore strips about once a week.
  
  
• I wash my pillowcase once a week and my bedsheets every two weeks. Every night sweat and dirt and dead skin comes off of your face and hair and goes into your pillowcase and bedsheets. Keep them clean so your face has a nice sanitary place to rest for 8 hours every night.
  
  
• I also wash my towels once a week. I have four that I cycle throughout the week (one every two days). Washing your towels is just as important as washing your pillowcase/bedsheets because they are supposed to wipe away the dirt in your face, so if you don't wash them regularly, that dirt just accumulates and goes back into your pores.
  
  After finally getting into a good facial skincare routine, I started having problems with excema and dandruff. I fortunately had a routine physical with my doctor where I asked him what I could do about these problems. This is where you may disagree with me, but he told me that I should not shower more than once a week. As I mentioned earlier, skin becomes oily/irritated when it is dehydrated, and one of the easiest ways to dehydrate your skin is excessive bathing. The doctor told me to shower once a week and more importantly to not use soap on areas besides the face, armpits, and genitals.
  
  I told my doctor that I shower everyday because I go to the gym and sweat furiously. He told me to just take a quick rinse after the gym to wipe the sweat off, and to apply lotion daily. I apply Jergen's Ultra Healing lotion once every night before bed.
  
  As for dandruff, this is where you may need to look elsewhere. While I do have dandruff, it's not much of a problem for me simply because it isn't very severe. I wash my hair three or four times a week with Dove Men + Care Sensitive Scalp. Since I don't shower, I usually just do this before bed by getting my hair wet in the shower, scrubbing the shampoo in vigorously with my fingers, then washing it out while also massaging my scalp. If that product doesn't work for you, you can't go wrong with some Head & Shoulders.
  
  I hope this helps you, let me know if you think there's anything I left out!
  
  EDIT: added towel-washing regimen

http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/collections/Clear-for-Blemishes/_/Clear-Regular-Strength-Anti-Redness-Exfoliating-Solution-With-Two-Percent-Salicylic-Acid/?=

https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-Perfecting-Salicylic-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ

Sry for the rudeness, but it takes u only 10 seconds to check the sidebar and find some recommendations bro. Sort by /top and look what the other dudes in their routines, might help a lot! Kill ALL the pimples!

Idk about OP, but this every night before bed, followed by an non-comedogenic moisturizer (I use Dermalogica), and one of these once a week has made all the difference for me, and I've had multiple people compare my nose to an orange peel in the past.

Sunscreen: ROHTO Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk SPF50 PA ++++. It’s extremely lightweight, not greasy at all, feels literally like the consistency of 2% milk, dries quickly. It’s about 1/4 of the price of many higher end US sunscreens, too. It ships from Japan, tho. So, depending on location (assuming USA), expect up to 2 weeks in shipping. Get two.


Moisturizer: MIZON All In One Snail Repair Cream. Lightweight, not greasy, great moisturizer, snail mucin will help with healing her moisture barrier and soothing irritations. Easy to apply under sunscreen. A little goes a long way. Get 1.

MIZON All In One Snail Repair Cream, 75 Grams https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AF63QQE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_b8qUBb5XV16JM

This stuff has really helped my scars. Actually need to order more myself.

You might like snail mucin. I’m a fan of this one. Put it on overnight after cleansing, and you’ll notice a difference by the next morning, if it’s gonna work for you.

Three caveats though:

1. Do NOT use in a routine with acids. The copper peptides in the snail mucin apparently react with a lot of them.
   
   
2. As with all tub products, use a spatula - avoid dipping fingers in the tub. You can also find this one in a tube form, or else CosRx makes an essence in a pump, though I have never tried the latter, so I can’t vouch for it.
   
   
3. Although this says it is a “cream”, it is very very light. This is actually something nice about it - it soaks riiiiight in really really quickly - but if you like to put a thick moisturizer or occlusive on at night, you’ll want to put that on top of this.
   
   Lastly - I find this stuff is GREAT to smear onto an area right after waxing or plucking (cleanse off any wax first, of course). Kills the redness.

My arms are absolutely fucked, even more than 6 years later. However, mine were way beyond regular tracks. If you’re a nurse in training a lot of what I’m going to say may be redundant but I’m going through basics in case some dude with no idea comes in here looking for ideas.

Skincare products that did the most:

Any sunscreen you like. Keep your scars out of the sun. A tan may seem to disguise them temporarily but if you want the actual pigmentation to fade you’re going to need to protect them from UV. I’m big on Asian products and love Biore’s Japanese Sunscreens. They feel great, no white cast, not smelly.

Second, keep that shit moisturized. Bio oil, cocoa butter, any basic moisturizer you like is going to be better than nothing. The idea is keep the skin healthy and prime so it can do it’s job breaking down that extra pigment and scar tissue. However, I saw the most results from Korean Snail products. They also don’t smell girly or feel thick. This is listed as a facial moisturizer but I rub this shit everywhere.

Other options:


That’s the basics of care. As for actual treatment? Lasers. I have seen the most astonishing results with scar reduction in laser resurfacing techniques. I have only seen it first hand on nontrack scars but it’s the most dramatic improvement in a short time.

There’s also microneedling which I’ve seen having amazing results on hyperpigmentation and lumpy scars. This is cheaper and more accessible.

I hope some of this rambling help, I have class and gotta run! College at 30, a chance I only got thanks to the ‘done :)

For Tokyo ABers:

Does anyone know if any stores in Tokyo have these Korean products? I tried a few stores in Shin Okubo and none had them.

Sunscreen - Innisfree Triple Care
https://www.amazon.com/Innisfree-Perfect-Protection-Triple-RESISTANT/dp/B01GHO4I00

Moisturizer 1 - MIZON Black Snail All In One Cream
https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Black-Snail-Cream-Ounce/dp/B00B4PWEJU

Cleanser 1 - Banila co Clean It Zero Purity
https://www.amazon.com/Banila-Clean-Zero-Purity-Ounce/dp/B00FOTIV8U?th=1

Cleanser 2 - Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser
https://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Good-Morning-Cleanser-150ml/dp/B016NRXO06

Sheet Mask - Tosowoong masksheet Propolis
https://www.amazon.com/Tosowoong-masksheet-Essence-Blueberry-Propolis/dp/B00K6XVYLK?th=1

Sleep Mask - Corsx Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight
https://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Ultimate-Nourishing-Rice-Overnight/dp/B01518D84U

Patches - Corsx Patch
https://www.amazon.com/Cosrx-Acne-Pimple-Master-Patch/dp/B00PBX3TN6

Oops my bad for not reading the text underneath your title, have you tried any physical/chemical combos? That way you get the best of both worlds usually - no white cast, cosmetic finish, etc. Skin Aqua has a popular one a lot of AB's like. Elta MD this one I experienced no white cast with, but I've heard darker people might. Also you might want to consider this La Roche Posay one. Its PPD is awesome.

I've looked into (on makeupaddiction, asianbeauty, skincareaddiction etc) and tested a bunch of things and hands down Skin Aqua moisture milk is THE BEST.

It feels really light and has no scent. No sensitivity. It's fantastic and I will buy this forever.

This is my winter sunscreen. It contains no alcohol and adds a thin layer of moisture: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BJEAAHY/ref=mp_s_a_1_8?qid=1451203762&sr=8-8&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=Aqua+whitening+uv&dpPl=1&dpID=51obJNZjWYL&ref=plSrch

I really like SkinAqua UV. It comes out as a milk and feels very moisturizing. I don't know if it has alcohol, though. The whitening version has some extra skincare ingredients that are good for the skin, as well, but I haven't tried that, yet.

Edit: Just looked up the whitening version doesn't have alcohol.

I have very sensitive acne prone skin and use Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gentle Cleansing Lotion and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream for Extra Dry Skin. These can both be found in most drug stores and on Amazon and are fragrance free and non-comedogenic.

Vanicream is also a popular brand for those with sensitivities. My mom is severely allergic to a myriad of ingredients: fragrance, linalool, benzyl alcohol, propolis. She uses Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser and Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream. They are also fragrance free and formulated for people with extreme sensitivities. She hasn't had any problems with them.

Sorry, meant to include the link

https://www.amazon.com/Vanicream-Skin-Cream-Pump-Dispenser/dp/B000NWGCZ2

I stuck to simpler, mineral oil based products.
although is pricy, Avene cream for intolerant skin was my savior (it's recently been replaced by the Skin Recovery Cream, im not sure how the formulations compair). Cheaper option is vanicream, which is super thick, best at nighttime (you can thin it out with water if needed). Also some one-ingredient moisturizers; shea butter and jojoba oil worked for me. /u/yvva also mentioned Safflower and MeadowFoam oils in another post about retinoids and cerave burning.

So many suggestions to make!

Vanicream is less irritating than CeraVe in the tub.

At night I layer Rohto Hadalabo Shirojyun Albutin Milk underneath Sebamed Clear Face Gel. If you're still not getting enough moisture, put a little Vaseline on top to seal everything in while you sleep.

Good luck!

If they've been that way a long time, you may be out of luck, but yoi could try pore minimizer on those pores. Whenever I needed it, I always just used Witch hazel (spend a little more to get alcohol free if you're going to use it often or have dry skin). It's next to the rubbing alcohol and you just dab it on with a cotton ball. There are also actual products specifically labeled "pore minimizer" or "pore tightener". Clay masks can also help. I use some green peppermint one. Can't remember the name, I think it starts with a J, it's at Walmart.

Edit : Queen Helen Mint Julep Clay Mask that's what I have, knew there was a J in there somewhere :)

Hey, uh, while you're here...how often do we apply these grit vacuuming masks?^^I ^^couldn't ^^find ^^anything ^^in ^^the ^^wiki ^^and ^^figured ^^it'd ^^be ^^faster ^^than ^^waiting ^^till ^^wednesday ^^for ^^stupid ^^questions ^^thread

I love Thayer's Witch Hazel as a toner, and recently picked up Cerave in the tub for a moisturizer, and am wondering why I waited so long to get it because it's been amazing on my skin.

It looks like it's a good recipe overall, although I'm not crazy about adding alcohol, perfume or colorants to shaved skin. I still recommend pure aloe gel or witch hazel over this, but if it doesn't cause any irritation (using it vs using nothing), then it's probably fine.

I found this on Amazon, which looks like it would be awesome for any kind of irritated skin. No fillers, alcohol free, and each of those ingredients is known to be either an astringent, anti-inflammatory, or have moisturizing properties. This would be great as a female "aftershave".

Personally, I like the Thayer's alcohol-free witch hazel, because, well, its alcohol-free. Witch hazel is already drying, and an astingent, so I personally don't see the added benefit of also having alcohol in the mix. I also like Thayer's because when I'm feeling fancy, they also make witch hazel with aloe, rosewater, cucumber,...

There are a ton of options for witch hazel, though, and I've found versions of it at CVS, RiteAid, Walgreens, grocery stores, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, etc....

Afaik, that brand of witch hazel has 14% alcohol in it. This might be contributing to the oily tzone. Instead I would try Thayer's brand.

NuFountain C20+Ferulic. It's inexpensive and also effective. And orderable on Amazon!

I don't think the beginner's skincare routine really has any age bracket, so it's still worth checking out.

If she's in her 70s, I don't know that a tretinoin will do too much on the level of deep wrinkles, but she can certainly ask her dermatologist about it!

Otherwise the best addition IMO would be a vitamin C and/or ferulic acid serum, and there are plenty available on the market:

• Paula's Choice C15 Serum
  
• SkinCeuticals Vitamin C E Ferulic Serum
  
• Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic Acid + Retinol Brightening Serum
  
• NuFountain's Vitamin C Serum
  
• Or you can work together to DIY a Vitamin C serum! /u/SaraSays posted an awesome guide on how to make a DIY Vitamin C serum here. Family bonding ftw!

I've been using it since the beginning of october. I started w/ once every three days. After three weeks, I added back in my vit C, then had to switch up my cleanser, so I only just went up to once every two days.

Skin-type: Sensitive. What sensitive means for me: sometimes my face will just burn and sting even with the same routine i've had for months. I can get really dry on my cheeks no matter how much I moisturize.

AM:

1. Wash: Simple Water Boost Micellar Facial Gel Wash I prefer this to Cerave Hydrating cleanser because I felt like Cerave just wasn't washing my face. I could wash my face three times with Cerave and still have makeup come off on my towel. Simple doesn't do that. It also doesn't dry out my cheeks like other cleansers have.
   
   
2. Clindamycin topical on affected areas (prescription)
   
   
3. Vitamin C I like this one because it's made fresh when you buy it (they even write the date on the label). I keep it in my fridge. It was made on Aug 31 and it has yet to oxidize.
   
   
4. Cerave Moisturizer
   
   
5. Silky and Light Sun Milk sunscreen So far the only Asian sunscreen that hasn't broken me out. It's a bit shiny, has a fragrance, but is really easy to apply and makes my skin feel soft. No white cast.
   
   Morning Routine usually takes about ten/fifteen minutes
   
   PM:
   
   
6. Wash
   
   
7. Tretinoin on a tret day (buffer w/ moisturizer on cheeks only right after wash, then wait 15 min prior to applying)
   
   
8. Moisturize
   
   
9. Petroleum jelly (thin layer) on tret day
   
   Night routine takes less than five minutes on a regular day, +15 min on a tret day

Helloooo everyone! So I've been using the Mad Hippie vitamin C serum for a couple months and I like it but after reading more about vitamin C I think I'd like to try a different kind with L-AA to see if I get better results.

So I'm considering:

• Cosmetic Skin Solutions https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0049OLZ84/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Yc9SzbSRJNZ2G
  
  
• NuFountain https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0039LZW78/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Sg9Szb804KPNT
  
  
• Timeless https://www.timelessha.com/products/20-vitamin-c-e-ferulic-acid-serum-1-oz
  
  I'm looking for experiences with any of these or recommendations of other vitamin c serums that you feel brought you results! I have sensitive skin that is dry/combination, and I'm mostly looking to fade one scar particularly and even out some small sun spots, as well as just reap the anti-aging benefits of a good vitamin c serum :)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0039LZW78 this! I find that a lot of vit c serums have vitamin e oil in them, which makes me break out. This one my skin has no problems with :)

I use an Asian brand which is on amazon which is this

Another really popular brand (which I also love) is a DHC brand!

My favorite moisturizer right now is the Vanicream skin cream. I've been using it every day during the seasonal change - and it's been very kind to me.

The stuff is great. Suuuuper gentle! and for the weight, quite cheap. It come with and without a pump... of course I prefer the pump.

link

I've also seen it at Walgreens.

For sure. A lot of people have luck with the CeraVe moisturizing cream, this product works for me and I have dry sensitive skin. A lot of people also recommend Vanicream moisturizer (I personally have not used, but I see a lot of people on here recommending it). These are both supposedly basic and calming products to repair the moisture barrier. They are also not super expensive which is nice.

Right now I am using the Purito centella unscented sunscreen as my daily moisturizer. It is very very moisturizing and my sensitive skin likes it. During night I am using the Purito green cream. Both these products contain centella asiatica which is supposed to decrease redness.

EDIT: Another gentle moisturizer I've read that people recommend on here and r/SkincareAddiction is Cosx ceramide comfort cream.

EDIT2: If you are just starting out with a skincare routine, you should really go check out the bountiful resources at r/SkincareAddiction. For example go on the right hand panel and they have a lot of stuff. Check out the HG (holy grail) threads for moisturizers, etc. They have a whole wiki devoted to

• Rosacea too.
  
• Info on moisturizers
  
• Routine steps

My husband has eczema flareups behind his knees and uses Vanicream behind his knees before bed. It works really well and we use it when my toddler has behind the knee flareups as well.

It sounds like you have a good start with the Dove and Cetaphil dupe lotion. Those generally are not irritating. I think the Stridex could irritate what you're describing on your legs. I think Stridex is meant more for facial acne and facial skin is oilier than leg skin.

I would say to use unscented Dove or sea salt soap (works great for irritated skin; I think you can find it at Whole Foods.) And then switch to more intensely moisturizing lotion or a body oil like jojoba or almond oil. I like Vanicream for intense moisture.

Yep my son got the same thing. His ears were particularly bad. We cleaned the area with warm water and soap and applied a lotion called Vanicream
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NWGCZ2/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_8VvSzbWPK5KSH


https://imgur.com/5pfyXR1
https://imgur.com/tvBRpUy

Here are before and after pics. The before pic was after he cried for a hour which inflamed the spots. Took about 2 weeks and we still have probably another week until his cheeks are soft again

I’ve been reading through this thread with interest!

I have combo skin, with an oily forehead and nose, but dry skin everywhere else (including around my nostrils). I have a bit of redness especially around my nose and chin. I also have weird dry patches on both sides of my chin that, if I slack off on skincare, sometimes have reddish bumps (they don’t appear to be pimples, just inflamed slightly raised areas).

My routine is -
AM:

• either water only or this cleanser
  
  -Biore Aqua Rich Water Essence Sunscreen
  
  PM:
  
  
• if I have time, a mask of some sort. I alternate between Queen Helene mint or this blackhead mask on my t-zone, or I recently started using the Ren Evercalm mask for my whole face
  
  
• then I use this AHA
  
  
• then I moisturize, either with Neutrogena or Paula’s Choice hydrating mask
  
  My goals are to even out my redness, eliminate flaking and dryness around my nose and chin, and slow down my t-zone oil production. After reading this thread I’m planning on trying niacinamide, azelaic acid, and jojoba oil.
  

I use Shiseido's Perfect Whip foaming cleanser (it's like slapping marshmallow whip on your face, the foam is so thick) and I use Queen Helene's Mint Julep Mask.

They have them on amazon.ca! :)
It's a great mask.

I like a lighter moisturizer in the morning and I'll use Thayer's Witch Hazel Toner after I splash my face with water.

You might want to pick up Aztec Healing Clay. Maybe stop by Sally's Beauty Supply for Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque.

I've got dehydrated oily skin prone to acne, FYI.

New Purchase - Queen Helene's Mint Julep Masque. Amazon

Did a bang up job on my face after the first use. I can tell the difference with a lot of my current blemishes and those what could have sprung up. My PIH also reduced! I'm a Black lady and my skin was always prone to scar, bruise and leave a mark after many outbreaks over the years, leaving a LOT of damage to the left side of my face and along my jaw line on the right side. After two uses I noticed that the mark are lightening up, my current blemishes don't survive long, and reduces a lot of the redness and inflammation of the most bothersome pimples on my face. It does a fabulous job leaving my skin nice and soft and after a good moisturizing with a few drops of coconut oil, feels oh so soft.

This mask has bergamot and orange oils in it which I would not recommend putting on your face since these oils are photo toxic and can be irritating. Most mask users here use the Aztec Healing Clay mixed with Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar. I think Queen Helene's Mint Julep Mask is still a perennial favorite as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Aztec-Secret-Indian-Healing-Cleansing/dp/B0014P8L9W

http://www.amazon.com/Bragg-Apple-Cider-Vinegar-Organic/dp/B00B7E2D9Y/ref=sr_1_cc_2?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1372640551&sr=1-2-catcorr&keywords=braggs+apple+cider+vinegar

http://www.amazon.com/Queen-Helene-Julep-Masque-Ounce/dp/B0014272VI/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1372640593&sr=1-1&keywords=queen+helene+mint+julep+masque

I buy mine off Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0014272VI/

I use a vitamin c moisturiser mornings and nights, i also use a face mask 3x a week.

this is the moisturiser

Face mask i use

Witch hazel can also be a nightmare for others. If you want to try some products that have been given good reviews based on skin sensitivities check out Pacific Shaving Company's Shave Cream - $9.99 Prime and Pacific Shaving Company's Moisturizer(aftershave) - $9.99 Prime. For another natural alternative, though $$$, check out Aveda's Shaving Cream - $18.00 and Aveda's Aftershave - $35.00. When my skin is irritated I use Aveda with confidence. I blame my father-in-law for getting me hooked on their stuff.

If you haven't tried witch hazel it's worth a shot. You can pick up the highly regarded Thayers witch hazel for around $10.00.

I personally use Nivea Double action Q10 Balm after shaving and haven't had an issue with dry skin afterward.

On days I don't shave, I use Cerave Moisturizing lotion. It has ceramides and hyaluronic acid, super lightweight, absorbs fast, and won't leave you feeling greasy at all. PH balanced and non-comedogenic (so it won't break you out).

Before I apply my balm/lotion, I apply some Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel as it'll help your skin better absorb the lotion/balm.

If neither of those looks like good options, I'd suggest heading over to /r/SkincareAddiction and hopefully they can help you out!

Thayer's Unscented Witch Hazel

CeraVe SPF50 Face Lotion

Noble Formula 2% Pyrithione Zinc Bar Soap, recommended to me by my PocketDerm doc!

I am hoping I will have good luck with the CeraVe sunscreen. I have been using the Shiseido SENKA Mineral Water UV Gel SPF50 PA+++, which I love, but I think it's giving me a weird rash/dry skin where my glasses sit on my nose. Possibly from the alcohol content?

I started getting similar breakouts near my chin after getting on birth control. After trying a lot of different things, I tried adding an evening primrose oil supplement to my vitamin regimen due to my research on this sub and elsewhere. It's only been 2 months (I know that's not a long time in skin-care land), but I have already seen a big difference in my skin, especially around my period. Though I do still get some breakouts, they are MUCH smaller and clear up almost immediately.

My regimen:

Morning: rinse face with water, moisturize with Cetaphil (in the tub), take vitamins/supplements after breakfast (one 1000 mg pill of evening primrose oil, one multivitamin, one 400 IU pill of vitamin E)

Evening: wash with Cetaphil gentle cleanser & pink Sephora manual face cleansing brush, apply coconut oil(I literally just dip my fingers in the jar and apply to my face).

I may up my intake of the evening primrose oil (the bottle recommends taking 3 pills per day), but I wanted to test it out first. I've also heard good things about spearmint tea helping with hormonal breakouts, but no personal experience. Good luck to you!

my daughter suffers from eczema and isn't into makeup yet, so we've had a little experience in reducing the redness without cosmetics... for her, what's worked best is a combination including

gentle face wash

https://smile.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Gentle-Cleanser-16-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B001ET76EY/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1466127828&sr=8-2&keywords=cetaphil+face

good, consistent moisturizing

overnight:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B00BHZQ8KI/ref=sr_ph_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1466127739&sr=1&keywords=eczema

daily:

https://smile.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizers-Moisturizing-Cream-Ounce/dp/B001V9SXXU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1466127889&sr=1-1&keywords=cerave+moisturizing+cream

and sunscreen

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PBX3FLW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

and when there's time for "extras" she's been really happy using some soothing sheet masks, too in both Aloe and Green Tea

https://smile.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_2_16?url=search-alias%3Dbeauty&field-keywords=etude+house+mask+sheet&sprefix=etude+house+mask%2Cbeauty%2C153

I know it's not exactly what you were looking for, but there's a chance that some additions to your skincare could help reduce the symptoms you'd like to hide... if I'm way off base and you're looking for makeup, please let me know and I'll run through my husbands "cheat sheet" stuff for presentations!

This one. http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Gentle-Cleanser-16-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B001ET76EY/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1341935988&sr=1-1

I use both this: https://www.amazon.com/Purpose-Gentle-Cleansing-6-Ounce-Bottle/dp/B0009RFAPY?th=1

and this: https://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Gentle-Cleanser-16-Ounce-Bottles/dp/B001ET76EY/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1478098040&sr=1-1&keywords=cetaphil+cleanser

with great results

American Crew shampoo / conditioner.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser facewach.

St Ives Apricot Scrub (might switch to the sensitive skin version, which IIRC doesn't contain apricot shell pieces which are bad for your skin).

Luffa sponge with Method Body Wash. The natural luffa is great; I just started using the Method body wash because my girlfriend hates Dr. Bronner's, which I was using previously.

• Since it's your first time, i'd recommend a 0.5mm dermaroller. Anything lower than that would not be deep enough to stimulate collagen growth. Also, don't cheap out and get a low quality one.
  
  
• Well, you can but it's best that you just buy one size first, in case you find that microneedling isn't your thing. Some people can take up to 6 months or even a year to move from 0.5mm to 1mm. Your skin needs to get used to it first. One dermaroller can last you a couple of months btw. If the needles start looking dull and blunt, replace it with a new one or else you'll end up damaging your skin instead.
  
  
• A 0.5mm shouldn't hurt too much but anything higher than that would definitely hurt so in the future, once you move up to a longer needle size, you would probably need a numbing cream. Also, always wash your face first before you dermaroll!
  
  In terms of sanitizing the roller before and after, this is what I do. First, I clean it with water (you can also use soap if you like) then I put it in head first in a clean plastic cup and pour 70% Isopropyl Alcohol in the cup so it's just enough to cover the head (I prefer 70% because a higher alcohol content will make it evaporate faster and logic says it won't have enough time to sanitize!). Anyway, just let it sit in the cup for 10-15 minutes, take it out and then wait about 2 minutes or so. Once it's dry-ish, I run it under hot water and let it completely air dry before applying it to my skin.
  
  After you finish rolling, repeat the same procedure. Wash the roller, dunk it in alcohol for 10-15 minutes, run it under hot water, let air dry then put it somewhere clean (preferably in a box).
  
  
• It depends on the size. With a 0.5mm, you can use it once every 2-3 weeks. If you go higher, like 0.75mm or 1mm then you should use it sparingly like once every 4-6 weeks because it takes time for your skin to properly heal. Do not use it everyday.
  
  
• I noticed you said that you don't really have a routine? You should definitely have at least a moisturizer and a sunscreen (this is a given) before you start dermarolling. After you dermaroll, your skin will be a bit sensitive and tight and it will definitely feel like a bad sunburn so you should pamper it a bit. I find that sheet masks are also great to calm down the redness and irritation.
  
  The most important thing for me is using a Vitamin C serum. I use one with 20% L-ascorbic acid everyday (also right after I dermaroll) and it has significantly reduced some of my scars (it stings a little bit though). This is where sunscreen is important!!! Wearing sunscreen helps protect your skin (and scars) from getting darker. Those products you linked look great but you should definitely patch test them first to see if you have any bad reaction to them or not before you start microneedling.
  
  Here are some other Vitamin C serums which are well loved by many:
  
  http://www.amazon.com/NuFountain-L-Ascorbic-Hylaronic-Youthful-Complextion/dp/B0039LZW78
  
  http://www.amazon.com/20-Vitamin-Ferulic-Acid-Serum/dp/B0036BI56G
  
  Lastly, one important thing about microneedling is patience. You won't see improvements right away but you will if you keep on maintaining it. Hope that helps! :-)

So it sounds like Melano isn't working that great for you if you're still concerned with PIH and increasing brightness? Have you ever tried a 20% Ascorbic acid serum? It really helps to decrease pigmentation issues and increases brightness for me. I used to use 15% Ascorbic acid serum but I really got effects when I switched to 20%. I would recommend a 20% Vitamin C serum especially if you can't use ferments.

Here are some 20% Vitamin C serums that seem to fit your needs with not having any aloe, carbomer, fatty alcohols, denatured alcohol, or ferments. (I don't think I missed anything if I did I apologize. The ingredients lists all look to be without the ingredients you mentioned). One of these is on Amazon and all are under $40:

-Nufountain 20% Vitamin C serum: https://www.amazon.com/NuFountain®-Ferulic-Vitamin-Ordered-Shipping/dp/B0039LZW78

-C21.5% serum but it's from Wishtrend: http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1215-pure-vitamin-c215-advanced-serum-by-wishtrend.html

Then I would also recommend a 5% or higher Niacinimide product to help lighten PIH and increase brightness. Here is one of my favorites that seems to not have any of the ingredients you can't use: https://www.stratiaskin.com/products/rewind

Otherwise here is a good resource for high % niacinimide ab products:

https://www.reddit.com/r/AsianBeauty/comments/4gck4u/spreadsheet_of_commonly_suggested_high/

I would also recommend considering adding ginseng into your skin care regimen to increase brightness. I've found ginseng to help increase my skins brightness and glow, similar to ferments but more "lively" of an effect.

This is my new favorite ginseng product, also from Wishtrend and it's under $40 and doesn't appear to have any of the ingredients you mentioned: http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1669-ginseng-serum-iam-from.html?search_query=Ginseng&results=14

They also have a ginseng mask: http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1671-ginseng-mask-i-m-from.html?search_query=Ginseng&results=14

ETA: wait, can you use propylene glycol, caprylyl glycol or butylene glycol or are those also off limits? I'm not sensitive to fatty alcohols so idk if it's particular ones you're sensitive to or literally all of them. God they're in everything wtf?!

If you're sensitive to all then it looks like the C21.5 is your safest bet for high % Ascorbic acid serum? And you can also look at the ab products with Niacinimide resource link I gave as well. High % Ascorbic acid serum and high % Niacinimide should help to lighten PIH and increase brightness :)

You got a bunch of great suggestions already, but if you really want to try a fancy serum, I'd recommend vitamin C. I use this one because vitamin C degrades as it ages, and these guys say they make it fresh when it's ordered. It's got decent scientific evidence for anti-aging, unlike most of the stuff out there that's trendy but lacking evidence and probably snake oil. It's an exfoliant, but it supposedly doesn't leave you more vulnerable to UV damage like most chemical exfoliants do. And something about free radicals, idk.

I use that after I rinse my face in the morning, just a couple of drops in your palm then spread it all over your face neck and chest. Then I top it off with CeraVe AM for a moisturizer + SPF. Exfoliate, moisturize and sunblock are the heavy hitters of skin care, as far as I can tell. Those two guys touch all three bases.

I can't even pretend to help with the other there, I suck at all those. But I think I got skincare pretty well figured out; I read a lot anyway. lol

Thanks for replying🙂 I read about Timeless but haven’t tried it yet. Was debating between that or NuFountain C20 and using it layered with retina a. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0039LZW78/ref=cm_cr_arp_mb_bdcrb_top?ie=UTF8

A Hada Labo one, although the price has shot up remarkably on Prime. I've never paid more than $12 for it, have gone through I don't know how many bottles of it.

After reading fiddy's page it seems you are kind of using an oil cleanser to do OCM? could you just quickly tell me why using an emulsifying cleansing oil is better/different to say using jojoba oil?

I am pretty certain I want to try this to but thought i had better ask as OCM with stand alone oil's has never worked for me.

Also is this the oil you use?

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rohto-Hadalabo-Gokujun-Cleansing-Oil/dp/B004OQHZ2M/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1462147195&sr=1-1&keywords=hada+labo+oil

thanks

My skin is also super picky about oil cleansers as I found out. I tried quite a few before finding this one I like that it has no mineral oil and is affordable and amazon prime! It busts through sunscreen and makeup so well!

Otherwise I would suggest a micellar water. It's not AB but I like the Simple Brand micellar water. It's very gentle and they don't use perfumes or anything harsh in it.

For for products with hyaluronic acid in it Hada Labo is your friend. They have a [hydrating hyaluronic acid toner] (https://www.amazon.com/Hada-Labo-Gokujyn-Hyaluronic-Lotion/dp/B000FQUGXA) and facial wash that is loved in this sub. They also have a HA sheet masks, sunscreen, moisterizer and oil cleanser so you could technically make an entire routine with products with HA in them!

I used that cetaphil one too, and it was WAY too drying for me. I got that same dry, tight feeling. I use the CeraVe hydrating one now, and it works very well. It seems like your skin might not like foaming cleansers, so that one might be a good fit for you. If you have a problem with oil, an emulsifying oil cleanser instead of just oil would be a good idea. This is the one I use: https://www.amazon.com/ROHTO-Hadalabo-Gokujun-Cleansing-Pound/dp/B004OQHZ2M
but Neutrogena and Burt's Bees also have ones that you can find in the drugstore.

ROHTO Hadalabo Gokujun Cleansing Oil 200ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004OQHZ2M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_DVDZAbT41KTTB

Love this cleansing oil! I have dry skin that can’t tolerate any foaming cleansers. I use this and then follow up with a cotton round & Micellar Water to really make sure I get every last trace. The oil emulsifies nicely and rinses off without leftover oily residue.

Yeah, it is fragrance free and rinses clean. Here is another good one is one by Hada Labo. They're both great for sensitive skin!

https://smile.amazon.com/ROHTO-Hadalabo-Gokujun-Cleansing-Oil/dp/B004OQHZ2M/

Coconut oil or cleansing oil

Are you familiar with using snail products? (I guess I assumed because you mentioned a couple of Asian beauty products.) Anyways if you're not, snail "slime" is really soothing and fairly hydrating if your skin is more combo/oily - it wouldn't suffice on its own for hydration if you're more dry. Here's the snail recovery gel cream that I love; another popular option from Mizon is the "All in One Snail Repair cream" that's a bit thicker!

Here is a thread from r/AsianBeauty about using the Mizon Snail Recovery as a moisturizer.

Don't be sorry at all, this was super helpful!!!

I searched for light moisturizers, would any of these be suitable?

Mizon Snail Recovery Gel,

Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion,

Innisfree Green Tea Fresh Essence

I'll def be spacing these out, the shipping for everything varies wildly haha.

Maybe something like this. It's not to replace a moisturizer but rather its a treatment that helps heal the skin. It's RAVED about on the Asian Beauty subreddit.

FYI, not sure if this is the product you use but it's pretty darn cheap with free shipping on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BQM3S3C?pc_redir=1405945775&robot_redir=1

I just have some comments on your PM routine.
Speaking from my experience, Cetaphil Cleanser is not that good at removing makeup. Your sunscreen is a physical one, which is even harder to remove, and I highly doubt that Cetaphil is enough. Also, coconut oil can clog pores, which leads to closed comedones (the tiny white bumps in your pic 02 look a lot like closed comedones). I definitely think you should replace it with some other non-comedogenic oil. (But that's only if you still want to include oil in your cleansing routine.)
Another thing is that microfiber cloth is a great physical exfoliant, but using it everyday can be a very bad thing, especially when you're already using BHA and retinol.

> What nighttime moisturizer do you guys use?

My skin is on the oily side (and a bit on the crazy side) as well. Silicones, fatty alcohols, fragrance will very likely break me out, so I avoid all those things. I've settled with this babe (Benton Snail Bee Essence) for years now and I'm still very happy with it.

Hey! No I have not.

Is this the product you think might be good for me?

[Snail Bee Essence] (https://www.amazon.com/BENTON-Snail-High-Content-Essence/dp/B00EC60MYW/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1510160263&sr=1-1&keywords=Benton+Snail+Bee+essence)

Where would this fit into my routine btw

I'm adding AB products to my current routine, slowly. I added https://www.amazon.com/Benton-Snail-High-Content-Essence/dp/B00EC60MYW to my routine and the difference was so noticable two weeks later. My skin is glowing~.

HOWEVER.

How does everyone afford daily sheet masks? I'm not being a smartass, but $30/mo for one "product" doesn't really sit well with me. That $20 of essence has lasted me about two months already, and it's not even halfway through.

I know of the option of buying blank masks and using my essence, but I can only see a lot of potential product being wasted there.

Am I missing something?

Hey, you're probably not going to get many hits at that price for the benton essence. It's ~14 shipped brand new on amazon.

You may have better luck selling off decants of what's left for a couple bucks if you really don't want to use it.

• Skin Type: Combination + Redness | Country/Climate I'm in: Dry Southern California | Top Skin Concern: Redness/Whitening/Filaments
  
• Current Routine/Products I'm Using:
  
  AM
  
  
• CeraVe Foaming Cleanser
  
• Klairs Supple Toner
  
• PC 2% BHA Liquid
  
• Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Essence
  
• OST C20 Serum
  
• It's Skin WH Effector w/Arbutin Serum
  
• CeraVe PM Lotion
  
• Nivea SPF50/PA++++
  
  PM
  
  
• Have yet to do, but am thinking same as AM minus sunblock, and maybe minus BHA liquid also
  
  I'm new to skincare and did a bulk buy of the above products based on what I've read in this sub. I'd appreciate advice on...
  
  
• Are the products in the correct order of usage?
  
• How much time should I wait between using each step? (cleanser --> toner --> essence --> serums --> lotion)
  
• During my first run through the above products, I experienced redness and a bit of a burning sensation. I will start the process of elimination with PC BHA liquid.
  
• Am looking to replace WH Effector serum with Benton SnailBee Essence. Yay/Nay/KeepBoth?
  
• Thanks! :)
  

It's my birthday today and went on a purchasing splurge!

New Purchases:

Refillable Atomizer Bottles - Came in 6 pieces and a little soft bag! Originally I was gonna use this for my colognes and perfumes; easily fits in pockets so I can spray on the go (also bonus point quick air freshener for bathrooms cuz some men's rooms be rank af.....); but then I was on the hunt for misters for my toners and realized I could use these perfectly for them! It's color-coded too so I don't mistake one of my scents for a toner!

-I filled the pink one with Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion
-the red one with Thayer's Witch Hazel Toner w/ Rose
-the blue one with Secret Key Milk (new)
-and the gold one with Secret Key Aloe (new)
The secret key ones are new purchases im trying out B) giving them about 2 weeks trial runs each before I rotate them in my routine!

Benton Snail Bee Essence - I enjoyed using the sheet masks once a week beforehand, and figured I'll up it to a more frequent usage so I went ahead and got the essence bottle! \o/ Dipped my toes with sheet masks first cuz I wasn't too sure about the bee venom ingredient (especially considering I get a bad reaction from stings) but it's gentler than I thought and no allergic reaction!

Etude House Sunprise Airy Finish SPF 50+ PA+++ - Received this 2 days ago! Previously I used Cerave AM and disliked the pilling and white cast on just a beige skintone! This is my first time using a sunmilk and the consistency is really nice! Goes on smoothly and can layer easily, with no whitecast after absorbing! If I wanted to, I could layer a moisturizer underneath without worrying about it pilling as well! Since I'm oily enough I'm not as concerned with it's lack of moisturizing and I find just toning layers is enough for me underneath! Great for oil control so far!

Australian Gold Botanical Sunscreen Tinted Face SPF 50 - Got this about a week ago! Since summer is around the corner, and the etude house isn't a waterproof sunscreen, I went with this that I bought at ulta! This matched my skintone pretty well so there was pretty much no whitecast. If it's a really sweaty day or I'm gonna be somewhere where there happens to be water/rain, this waterproof sunscreen was perfect! (and reef-safe for ocean trips)

Rohto Melano CC - On the way in the mail but excited to try this out since I was looking for a vitamin C, but wanted to start out gently!

Kao Success Scalp Washing Brush (Normal Type) - Sort of skincare since it has to do with the scalp, this is also on it's way on the mail. I'm a fan of scalp brushes since my hair is pretty thick (and also dandruff woes). The tips of it has little bumps on them and there's 3 types of tips on a single brush for that jam packed scalp action, so gonna give it a whirl and see how different it is from the standard silicone scalp brush!

-----------------------------------------------------

Repurchase:

Tony Moly Chok Chok Green Tea Watery Cream - I realized using stridex as my gentle BHA exfoliator and a Cerave SA cream on top of that meant I technically had 2 BHAs in a night routine, so I'm returning back to chok chok! Good point to change tbh since the cream is too heavy for summer. The tony moly one is pretty light and had good oil control!

Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Pads - Bringing back AHAs into my life for my PIH; I'm gonna rotate them with my BHAs. I prefer low %s so the 2.8% was perfect!

Not a problem! I'm happy to help. :)


Warning: lots of info ahead


I'm into /r/asianbeauty and really like the Kikumasamune Moist Lotion (in Japan they refer to hydrating toners as lotions). I apply it right after washing my face with CeraVe foaming. It adds a light layer of moisture without making my skin greasy, and absorbs quickly. The smell is odd but it fades quickly. Then I will follow up with either Benton's Snail Bee Essence or Scinic Aqua all-in-one... I wait a good 5 minutes in between each step to make sure it all soaks in nicely and doesn't get sticky. But the Benton does tend to stay sticky unless I wait like twenty minutes haha. But it goes away if I put stuff on top anyways. Then very last is CeraVe PM at night or Cosrx 92 Snail cream in the AM. :) I find the CeraVe PM causes my skin to flush a bit due to the niacinamide so I only use it at night. and I've recently started using jojoba oil as my oil cleanser (some people mix it into their moisturizer or even put oil in their foundation) and it's really nice! Feels very luxurious 😍 I usually do it at night because that's when I remove all my makeup. It's much more moisturizing than mineral oil, in my opinion. And you can use it on your hair too!

I really like the NARS pressed powder because it has a velvety finish on my skin, so it feels nice to me. Some people might not enjoy it as much as I do 😂 but it seems to last all day on me. Occasionally I'll have to reapply to my chin if I ate some crazy greasy food, but it's very portable so I carry it in my purse anyways. And I haven't noticed any flashback at all either. Can't remember if I already said that haha.

AND FINALLY I will definitely PM you when I use the smashbox color corrector! Probably Tuesday since that's when I work. :)

Edit to add that I'm also testing out the Shara Shara berry bomb, which is another Asian beauty product. It's nice so far. And a lot of people really like the Cosrx 96 Snail essence (different than the cream) which I've heard is great for adding a layer of soothing moisture.

Always recommend the cera ve SA renewal cleanser. It’s amazing and events your skin and brightens it. I actually use the SA renewal body wash, you get a lot and I can use it on my face as well. The Cera Ve SA body lotion is also love, sometimes I use it on my face. Makes body super smooth, these two are dream team.

I think the dream routine:

Am:

• cera ve SA acid cleanser
  
• Son&Parks Beauty Water Toner
  
• niod multi-molecular HA serum 15 types of HA.
  
• stratias liquid gold
  
• shishoedo mineral uv gel SPF50++++
  
  Pm:
  
• Sunday Riley Blue moon cleansing balm Blue Tansy for redness OR if you like oils, KOSE softymo SPEEDY cleansing oil
  
• cera ve SA cleanser with Clarisonic
  
• biologique Recherche pm400 or regular p50 toner or cheaper alternative tarte knockout tingle treatment
  
• niode HA serum
  -melazepam 20% important and alternate between this and Retin a, but not everyone can handle either of these. But it goes to say these are anti-aging power horses
  
• Holy Snails Sauce Di Mois in Hangbang/spooky shark or whatever works for you.
  
• an oil, Squalene, seabuckthorn, rosehip, jojoba, rotate what works.
  
• an occlusive, like embroliysse concentrated lait creme , cera ve healing ointment , skinfix 12 hour miracle ointment All of these are better than basic Vaseline or squalor.
  
  Great products:
  
  
• to 10% lactic acid in spheres
  
• skinceutics vitamin c in feurlic acid (super $, results worthy).
  
• timeless vit c serum (affordable)
  
• to 30% bha peel
  
• avene Blue Tansy Oil (knockoff of lapis Blue Tansy Oil for $12 vs $72) helps redness/moisturizes
  
• dr. Jart cicapair serum for redness
  
• Dr. Jart ceramidin serum plus the cream (use together for best results on rebuilding skin barrier if using actives).
  
• hada labo HA lotion/milky lotion or Hada Labo premium HA lotion (more moisture, not great for warmer months).
  Benton snail bee essence (the masks, steam pacts, everything..)
  
• peter Thomas Roth pumpkin enzyme mask (great chemical exfoliating and physical exfoliate mask that works)
  
• niod flavonne mud mask (super detoxing good for congested skin)
  
• kanebo soap powder (good ph, enzyme powered soap powder)
  
• aquaring ampoule mask (good ab face mask)
  
• Paula’s choice bha liquid
  
• cosrx bha blackhead liquid
  
• cosrx aha whitehead liquid
  
  Just a few products to think about. I am by no way saying jump and add any of these to your routine instantly. I’ve looked around and found a lot of, what I’d consider to be talked about products and decided to make it easier and list them for you.
  
  
  I think a basic SA cleanser like cera ve would be a good place to start, a good spf that is non-irritating. Find a moisturizing Oil thst your skin likes and then maybe start trying actives. Don’t go jumping in until you find a routine that calms your skin and that your skin really likes. Then start testing the waters with maybe azelic acid like melazepem (strongest you can get in us is on amazon) or vitamin c. Possible acid peel pads. We kind of have to know your skin type and current routine. Things that have worked and have not, and what you want out of a new skin routine— in order to give you better direction.

Where does a "Essence Toner" go into a routine? I'm so confused. Is it the "hydrating toner" step? In that case, is it after the "First Essence" and before the essence? What's the difference between a first essence and essence? @ _ @ What if the product just says essence?


Is the Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence a "First Essence"? And would the Corsx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence, and BENTON Snail Bee High Content Essence just be normal essences that go after the first essence and hydrating toner?


And what would this be classified as?


o w o; Sorry for all the questions. I've read dozens of product order posts but they're always slightly different, and it's hard to keep track of what products go where since they all kind of seem different.


edit: added links and changed formatting.

I'm in scandinavia, my skin is dehydrated and acne prone, so I'm looking for products that don't brake me out and helps my skin stay hydrated.
I'm currently using Epiduo 2-3 nights a week for my acne (which has finally disappeared - yay!) so my skin needs all the moisture it can get.

I buy almost all mu stuff online :)

• Eucerin hydrating cleanser
  
• HadaLabo Gukyjuon lotion
  
• Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence
  
• Sebamed clear face gel as /u/TheeBananananas mentioned. Bought at a pharmacy. This stuff stings like a bitch when I apply it the nights I use Epiduo though :(
  
• Shiseido sunscreen
  
  I'm super satisfied with the HadaLabo lotion and Benton Snail Bee Essence, but I'm thinking about trying this HadaLabo cleanser and Suncreen and the Benton Snail Bee Steam Cream :)

Hi everyone! I'm very new to AB and after reading through many guides and articles, I created my first routine, and it's made up of the basics (since you guys said to limit your haul to 4-5 items), I have these items in my amazon cart ready to go, but I wanted to get a second opinion!

Skin Type: Dry/Acne-Prone | Country/Climate I'm in: Seattle - Rainy and Cold | Top Skin Concern: PIH/Acne


AM

• [Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam]
  (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CE5P580/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?smid=ALWX5VVJPZEDR&psc=1)
  
  
  
• Rohto Hadalabo Shirojyun Albutin Milk
  
  
  
• Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++
  
  
  
  PM
  
  
  
• Etude House Real Art Cleansing Oil Moisture Advanced
  
  
  
• Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Cleansing Foam
  
  
  
• BENTON Snail Bee High Content Essence
  
  
  
• Rohto Hadalabo Shirojyun Albutin Milk
  
  
  I'm mostly curious about the BENTON serum. I've heard that it's best to only use it once (at night), but some blogs have you using them in the morning as well. Also, with the BENTON serum would I have to wait 20 minutes before moving on to emulsion? Any other comments/criticisms would be appreciated! Thank you AB!
  
  

Nivea face cream or Pond's cold cream (my favorite!) are great affordable options.

Besides that,

• Weleda skin food is incredibly hydrating, full of essential oils, and smells amazing. It's a cult favorite.
  
  
• Neutrogena's gel cream is naturally formulated, has a great texture, and is great for being moisturizing without being oily.
  
  
• Aveeno Active Naturals is great for balancing out combination skin- it's really light.
  
  
• People might recommend Burt's Bees but I just want to add that personally, I didn't find the price worth it- it's good for keeping acne at bay, but it's not super moisturizing and doesn't help get rid of acne already present. Of course, it might work really well for you, especially if you've got sensitive skin!
  
  
• Bag Balm was used for cow udders until people co-opted it for their dry skin. Fuckin' weird, but who cares as long as it works?
  
  
• Aquaphor is a cult favorite here in the states.
  
  
• Kiss My Face is a great option for moisturizing on the go (although idk how you feel about spray moisturizers- they scare me).
  
  A random super cheap trick is to cleanse with coconut oil. It can be a great, moisturizing cleanser, but it's not for everyone. Not a moisturizer, but if you're acne-prone these are amazing, especially right after the gym. Really helps to prevent dirt and sweat from building up. I don't know what the water is like in Denmark, but I've heard of French models using this instead of tap water.
  
  Sucks about the CeraVe- they don't tell you how frustrating and costly taking good care of your skin will be. As always, don't hesitate to go to a dermatologist (I don't know how insurance works in Denmark)- they are fantastic with recommendations (and sometimes will give you free samples!) since it's their job. Anyway, whew! Good luck & hope this helps!
  
  
  

Are you having any redness or inflammation? I don't get dry skin, so I use a lot of water gel creams. In the morning use just a warm washcloth or splash water on your face or use micellar water then I would apply hyaluronic acid serum to a lightly damp face, I am a huge fan of hyaluronic acid because it works well for everyone and it can hold 1,000 times of its own weight and it's a humectant and will pull in moisture and is kind of like a barrier. I like high molecular weight, but I rarely find products that list the weight of the HA. I make my own and it is easy, if you want to do it yourself I can point you in the right direction. I have used this one and it's a good one Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Skin-- 100% Pure-Highest Quality, Anti-Aging Serum-- Intense Hydration + Moisture, Non-greasy, Paraben-free-Best Hyaluronic Acid for Your Face (Pro Formula) 2 Fl. Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0090UJFYI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_ewNPDbHWGCTHA
I also have this vichy 89 serum which I love, but it does cost a little much. Vichy Mineral 89 Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum and Daily Skin Booster, For Stronger, Healthier Looking Skin, 1.01 Fl Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BWHF8VQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_zINPDbS58YS3B
You want to apply a moisturizer on top the hyaluronic acid serum and I would recommend Neutrogena water gel cream, there is a water gel one, but use the water gel cream. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Face Moisturizer Gel-Cream to Hydrate and Smooth Extra-Dry Skin, 1.7 Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NR1YQK4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OENPDbWW4YNDA
It has silicones in it so it doesn't dry down sticky IMO. I usually don't do well with silicones but I have no issues with this formula.
At night use a cleanser and wait 15-30 minutes before you apply the differin gel and then wait another 15-30 minutes and apply a moisturizer on top. I use cerave pm ultralight moisturizer, but that might be too light for you. I think Straita liquid gold might be a good fit for you, but I haven't used this moisturizer yet, but I plan to make it. The ingredients are good stuff and are meant to repair the skins moisture barrier. https://www.stratiaskin.com/products/liquid-gold
On the nights you aren't using the diffiren you can use the hyaluronic acid, with liquid gold or another moisturizer on top, and then an occlusive like Vaseline petroleum on top to give your skin a high dose of moisture.

My favorite super soothing moisturizer is Loreal Age Perfect Golden Balm. It's suuuuuuper thick and leaves a bit of a film on my skin, which I personally like. It's not talked about much in this sub and may not agree with everyone, but my skin drinks this up, particularly when it's very red, flakey and painful.

You may also want to consider adding Aquaphor or an oil as the last step over your skincare before you go to bed. This, combined with a humidifier in my room, has really helped my skin from losing all of its moisture overnight, which has been an ongoing issue for me.

I still use the Loreal under makeup - it provides a great base. BUt as something lighter, I use Neutrogena Hydro Boost for dry skin.

**Skin type and skin concerns:**

Main concerns: Dryness, acne (cystic and general acne all over chin and cheeks), and splotchy discoloration all over my face (my dermatologist said it was melasma). My skin is consistently congested and breaking out, yet my entire face is sensitive, dull, itchy and flakey. After years of reading tips here, I've finally gotten to the point where redness and the majority of flaking is gone and products don't burn when they touch me, but my skin remains dull and feels tight.

​

While the products I've selected are relatively affordable, they add up. Plus I'm worried I'm doing more damage than good by overwhelming my skin with all these product. Mostly though, I'm so jealous of all your minimalist routines I see on here, and I want to create one that would work for me. I don't know where to start. What are your thoughts?

​

**Skincare routine with full product names**

AM

1. Wipe face gently with Neutrogena Makeup Removing Wipes
   
2. Spritz face with rose water to re-moisten (currently using Leven Rose Rose Water)
   
3. Eva Naturals Vitamin B3 5% Niacinamide Serum(daily)
   
4. Spritz face with Kikumasamune Sake High Moisture Skin Lotion Tonerbefore skin dries completely
   
5. Moisturize with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
   
6. Spritz face again with Kiku to keep moist
   
7. Warm two drops of The Ordinary 100% Plant-Derived Hemi-Squalanein hands and pat all over face (I just added this to my routine and I have high hopes)
   
8. Australian Gold Botanical Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50
   
9. Coola Liplux Lip Balm Sunscreen SPF 30
   
10. 1-2 times per week, exfoliate face with Baiden Mitten Exfoliator Glove
    
11. 1-2 times per week exfoliate lips with Hanalei Sugar Lip Scrub
    
    PM
    
    
12. First cleanse with Illiyoon Total Aging Care Cleansing Oil (I'm finishing up this bottle and then I'm going back to using Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil).
    
13. Second cleanse with CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
    
14. Saturate cotton pad (White Rabbit organic cotton) with Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner and gently wipe face and neck
    
15. Spritz face with rose water to re-moisten
    
16. Elizavecca Hell Pore Control Hyaluronic acid Serum(nightly)
    
17. Spritz face with Kiku before skin dries completely
    
18. Moisturize with Elizavecca Milky Piggy Retinol Cream
    
19. Spritz face again with Kiku to keep moist
    
20. Additional moisturizer layer with Mizon Black Snail All in One Cream (I'm sure this is unnecessary, but I feel like the snail cream has done more for me than any other product and I'm emotionally attached to it now lol)
    
21. Warm two drops of TO squalane oil in hands and pat all over face (NEW)
    
22. Hanalei Lip Treatment
    
23. Cover any cystic acne with spot treatment patches
    
24. Once a week, spot treat dry problem areas with Origins drink up intensive overnight mask(it looks like they recently changed the formula for this, so I'm going to have to find something new when this runs out)
    
25. Once a week, spot treat acne problem areas with Proactiv Skin Purifying Mask
    
    ​
    
    **Daily behaviors possibly impacting skin:**
    
    My diet is crap. While I don't eat a lot of processed food, I eat too much sugar, too much oily and fatty foods, too much red meat and not enough vegetables. Because of my family, it's going to be difficult to make adjustments, and honestly I'm not sure where to start. Caffeine consumption is pretty high, while I only have the occasional coffee, I drink a TON of green tea and oolong tea. Water intake is fair, and I usually refill my 32oz water bottle 2 times a day (yes, I have to run to the bathroom at least every 30 minutes). I pretty much stopped wearing makeup a little over a year ago, now I only wear for special occasions and the occasional eye liner.

Hey, definitely stop using body lotion on your face. It's gonna have a lot of comedogenic ingredients that face lotion wouldn't have.

Here's three simple items you can order from Amazon - no attention drawn:

• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gentle Cleansing Lotion
  
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cream (Unscented)
  
• Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Face Liquid Sunscreen SPF 50
  
  None of these bad boys will break you out, are fragrance free, and will keep ya moisturized. You can get them on Amazon or at Target for decent prices. :) The sunscreen absorbs like a dream, minimal white cast, and has literally no scent. I use all three of these and like them all a lot.

I also wanted to note for others with the same sensitivity/breakout issues I currently use Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream face moisturizer, it doesn't seem to bother me, but I don't love it, it's become my fall back/interim moisturizer until I find *the one* because it doesn't seem to make my face better or worse. I'm also allergic to chemical sunscreens, and until about two weeks ago haven't been able to find a sunscreen for my face that doesn't make my skin hate me, that being said I just recently started using Cerave Skin Renewing Day Cream SPF 30 w/Retinol and even tho it contains part chemical part mineral sunscreen/block, it doesn't bother my skin at all and I don't notice I'm wearing it (a RARE occurrence for me). I don't like too use too many days in a row just in case, I live in NY so right now some days are more sunny than others. Just an FYI =). Also like others said Cerave PM was my all time fav, until I noticed when I stopped using I stopped getting little bumps on the sides of my face, perhaps coincidence, but due to all of the Cerave PM fans below, I may just try it out again ! =)

Aaannd Part 2^(the links made it too long ;_;)



On the 11th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me eleven Yeasty Essences, ten Brightening Essences, nine Ceramide Gels, eight Melting Lip Tints, seven Warming Eye Masks, six Donkey Sheet Masks, five Sleeping Masks, four Berry Bombs, three pH Strips, two facial oils, and a Kikumasamune.

On the 12th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me twelve Green Tea Serums, eleven Yeasty Essences, ten Brightening Essences, nine Ceramide Gels, eight Melting Lip Tints, seven Warming Eye Masks, six Donkey Sheet Masks, five Sleeping Masks, four Berry Bombs, three pH Strips, two facial oils, and a Kikumasamune.

Phew! It'd be so lovely if Christmas were like this :P

Edit: Formatting^(I knew I'd mess up somewhere! lol)

the coconut oil is usually in a solid state in cool temps so I mix it with the mineral oil in a small bottle to keep it dissolved. Then I just rub it all over my face to remove makeup dirt and grime. I leave it on for about 4-5 minutes while I hop in the shower and take it off with the neutrogena. Also /r/skincareaddiction has great sidebar material on it.

The essence I use is this.

Yes I rotate the aha and bha because they do different things.

Yes after all the lotions and stuff I put the oil that i used from step one as a thin coat to seal in all the lotions.

That is exactly the snail mucin I use.

I have noticed a very huge difference in my skin. It feels fuller, softer, brighter, and more youthful.

Hello AB! I'm super new to this sub, but I've been trying to learn.

Skin Type: Dry/dehydrated (?) with hella oily t-zone

Country/Climate I'm in: Southeast U.S.

Top Skin Concern: controlling oil and PIE

Current Routine/Products I'm Using:

AM

1. Splash face with water
   
2. Stridex in the red box
   
3. Ponds Rejuveness Anti-Wrinkle Cream
   
4. Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream (this might be out of order but my foundation looks amaze when I use this last)
   
5. I know I'm missing a sunscreen and currently patch testing Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream
   
   PM
   
   
6. Remove make up with Simple Micellar Water & cotton round
   
7. Cleanse with jojoba oil, remove gently with tissue
   
8. Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream
   
9. SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Ant-Aging Moisturizer
   
10. Prescription adapalene 0.1%
    
11. Aquaphor
    
    I'm specifically looking for help with my oily t-zone. I swear, it's like that one episode of The Office where they use grease to get the boxes of paper into the truck. Using Innisfree No Sebum powder helps, and I use a lot of blotting sheets, but I'm worried this much oil production means my skin isn't retaining any moisture?
    
    Every cleanser I've tried makes me feel dry, even micellar water or splashing with regular water. I'm still very new to learning about AB, so I haven't tried any AB cleansing products.
    
    Any advice, or suggestions to improve my routine, is very much welcome! Like I said, I'm very new to this so if anything outside of my main concern is a red flag, please feel free to let me know!

You can find other great stuff on their Amazon store

wow your skin is so glowy!! i'm jelly! A starter kit I would recommend:

-oil cleanser: Kose Speedy Oil Cleanser (washes away clean, non-stripping, takes errrthang off)

-regular cleanser: Cerave Hydrating Cleanser (non-stripping, no frills)

-exfoliating toner: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid toner (can help with your issues described, sounds like closed comedones)

-essence: Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence Rose Edition (plumping, even skin tone over time)

-anti-aging specific: The Ordinary Buffet (or buffet+peptides wow good stuff!)

-moisturizer: Peach Slices Honey Aqua Glow (lightweight gel moisturizer that packs a punch!) or The Ordinary NMF (no frills, does the job)

-SPF: CosRX Aloe Soothing Sunscreen(no white caste, dries to a natural finish, non-drying)

Eucerin used to be my favorite before I went vegan. I really like the Cosrx Aloe Sun Cream for a daily facial moisturizer. It's a little thicker than the Eucerin but won't make you greasy or break you out. https://www.amazon.com/COSRX-Aloe-Soothing-Cream-SPF50/dp/B00PBX3FLW/ref=sr_1_14_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1548962895&sr=1-14&keywords=cosrx

I have only 1 recommendations because my country don't take in a lot of sunscreens because of strong regulations.but i would look into mineral sunscreens. This is one of the few i have tried and really love. My 1 recommendation is Cosrx mineral sunscreen without whitecast, few ingredients and aloe vera. https://www.amazon.com/COSRX-Aloe-Soothing-Cream-SPF50/dp/B00PBX3FLW

It does However have an addition of fragrance, its not heavy but If you have very sensitive skin i would be aware of that. I have combination/oily skin and very acne prone, and I love this one.

Does your skin flake or feel dry/tight? Rather than layering moisturizers, you could try adding in a moisturizing toner. A few that I like are

• the one's for dry skin from Paula's Choice
  
  
• the "Kikumasamune Sake Skin Lotion High Moisture" which you can buy from amazon or ebay. It smells kinda weird, but really does wonders for most people who use it.
  
  
• Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner is also great and you can find it on amazon or ebay
  
  I personally think exfoliating and using retin a and maybe even niacinimide is what's going to make the difference in your skin rather than layering on moisturizers. But if you are really dry, you should try playing around with moisturizing toner under your creams and maybe adding a face oil (or Vaseline) at the end of your routine. You can find a better way to get beneficial ingredients into your skincare rather than moisturizers and personally think you should cut back on using so many.
  

I'm also in the Seattle area and this winter has been really hard on my skin. It's a lot colder and dryer than our winters usually are. I recently added the Klairs Supple Preparation Toner and it seems like my skin really likes it.

My humidity sensor in my bedroom has been telling me that our humidity has been around 20% for a lot of this winter. That might not be enough to use products heavy in HA, from what I understand. The Klairs has HA, but it's one of several humectant ingredients. I have no way of verifying this, but I've read that in dryer conditions glycerine might be a better option than HA. So you may want to pause on your HA toners for a bit, or follow them up with a mist before moving onto your next step.

Have you considered trading your CosRX cleanser for CeraVe Hydrating for a bit? Target carries a travel size that would let you test it if you haven't to see if it works for you.

Looking at your above comments- I agree with the other poster, patch test a little area on your cheek or something with the squalane but honestly you should be fine. It's a great oil, I haven't met a face that doesn't like it! Fun (well sorta fun I guess) fact- the Squalane Oil from TO was the founder who recently passed away, Brandon Truaxe's favorite product. The company gave it away for free with purchases made in stores after he died because he was so passionate about the product.

Ahh hydrating toner recommendations-

Dear Klairs

Corsx essence

Missha essence

Those are the three I see recommend on here the most, like all the time. I use the STUPIDLY expensive SK-II would never recommend this it does nothing that every other hydrating toner/essence does- I have one or two more applications left in the bottle then it's going in the trash. I also use and love the Son & Park Beauty Water it's a huge bottle and it just feels wonderful on the skin!!

​

You'll know things are working trust me. Your skin will look and feel better, glowing and happier!! And yes in a month (??) once your face is plump and happily hydrated the routine you came up with looks good!

I have long days and long nights so I usually go to the gym around 3pm while not doing my skincare routine till 11:30pm.

Here’s my gym routine:
Olay Daily Facials . Holy crap these things are amazing. They’ve been endorsed by a bunch of youtubers and I caved and bought them. They are great. They claim to remove makeup, cleanse, tone AND mask. I don’t think it does all of those things but they do remove makeup very well and do moisturize. I prefer this version b/c I have dry skin but there are other versions to fit a variety of skin types. I can’t recommend these enough. Mini review: 12/10.

Mario Badescu Rose Water

Klairs toner

And the Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream .

This is after the gym but if I’m wearing makeup, before the workout, i wash my face with a cleansing balm. then I follow up with mist and moisturizer.

Hydrating toners really helped me out, you can find a ton of suggestions on the /r/asianbeauty sub, some you can get on Amazon like hada labo gokyugin , or klairs supple preparation

Also it may sound counter intuitive, but putting straight water on your face and letting it air dry can be more drying to your skin, dry your face well after you wash it!

Hydrating toners we're a game changer for me, I won't be without one anymore!

Hi, welcome Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel is the only one without alcohol and PA++++ I have found that isn't crazy expensive and doesn't break me out!

Which sunscreen are you using? I have oily skin too and I've had good luck with the Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel.

Thanks! I used to be intimidated by some of the unfamiliar brands because I thought they'd be really expensive, but I continue to be pleasantly surprised at the cost. Here's a link to where I buy my canmake:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X3E456K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_j3-ZDbE3HR40X

There are lots of recs/reviews in the HG thread I linked. I personally use Asian sunscreens exclusively, as they tend to be more cosmetically elegant than western sunscreens. Popular options that are not drying include [Biore Watery Essence] (https://www.amazon.com/Biore-Aqua-Watery-Essence-SPF50/dp/B06XX7VW8Z), [Skin Aqua Moisture Milk] (https://www.amazon.com/ROHTO-Skin-Super-Moisture-SPF50/dp/B01MRBST6H) (alcohol free), and [Canmake Mermaid Skin] (https://www.amazon.com/CAN-make-Mermaid-Skin-AF27/dp/B00X3E456K) (alcohol free). Check out reviews in this sub and r/AsianBeauty before you buy

Yes I did see noticeable improvement, however it's no miracle cure and I do still have dark circles, just not nearly as dark as they used to be. The SAP serum I'm currently using is TruSkin Vitamin C Serum which I got off Amazon, however I bought this serum before really getting into skincare and therefore bought it because it was convenient and had great reviews, not necessarily because it was the "best" as a result of extensive research :) I think next I will try the Mad Hippie vitamin C serum because that also uses SAP and has the vit C listed much higher on its ingredients.

I will say that I also bought Truskin's Eye Gel and, when used together with their SAP serum, I think gave me the strongest results (like stronger than the SAP serum alone). I'm not 100% on this because it's been awhile since I've used it and I might be mis-remembering, but I wanted to mention it just in case. I do feel like my circles have re-darkened a bit since I stopped use, but that might be due to it being winter or something. I noticed at the time I was using it that the Eye Gel alone without the SAP serum did not nearly give me the results as the Eye Gel with the SAP serum, hence why I repurchased the SAP serum and didn't bother with the Eye Gel (I thought all my results were from the serum... Which they might have been... Ah now I need to repurchase it and test again :P).

By the way, have you ever heard of laser treatments to lessen under eye circles? In my area you can get them for $400 per treatment and it takes 3ish treatments to fully treat. I haven't done it but was seriously considering for awhile. Might be worth it in the long run when you think of all the products you buy looking for the answer. I still might do them.

Also, the BEST cover up for super dark circles is Dermablend Leg and Body Cover. It is meant for covering up bruises and tattoos, so not only is it high-coverage, but is a little orange-y to counteract the bluey-purple of the dark circles. I usually apply a tiny amount just to take the dark out from under my eyes and then put another layer of a better-matching foundation on top. Since it's meant for body wear, it does not wear off throughout the day. I only use it for special events now because my dark circles have gotten better, but back in the day it was my HG for covering these suckers up. It makes it look like you don't even have dark circles.

Hopefully this helps!

Hello all! So excited to post here! Dehydrated/combination skin. I'm looking to add a vitamin C serum into my routine and am deciding between a few. I've been working on my routine for awhile now. Fairly minimal atm:

AM

• Simple Hydrating Micellar Water (this is the one with the blue cap; I like the green-cap regular formulation better because it has niacinamide)
  
  
• Lush's Breath of Fresh Air Toner
  
  
• Cerave PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
  
  
• Missha All Around Safe Block Sun Essence SPF 45+++
  
  
  PM
  
  
• Lush's 9 to 5 Cleansing Lotion
  
  
• Simple Hydrating Micellar Water (for any last traces of makeup)
  
  
• Lush's Breath of Fresh Air Toner
  
  
• Stridex (the red bottle; I only do this as needed, like 1x/day every other day, if my skin has a breakout - usually hormonal)
  
  
• Cerave PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, mixed with a drop of argan oil OR just argan oil if I'm using Stridex
  
  
  I've been using this routine for about four months now and am super pleased with it! Breakouts are reduced a ton and my skin feels generally happy. I am still noticing some excess oil production and old acne scarring/PIE on my t-zone, so I'd like to add an additional brightening and hydrating component by adding a Vitamin C serum into my routine.
  
  I'm deciding between Silk Naturals' Super Serum and Truskin Naturals' Vitamin C serum. Any thoughts from those who have used these serums? Any other recommendations?

Hello! I've been following this subreddit for a while and I'm so excited to ask my first question! This is going to be a long one because I have so many questions and am curious as to what I can do for my face to be its best self :)


First, a little bit about me! I’m 22F living in US - I have PCOS so I’ve struggled with hormonal acne and I have acne prone and dull skin.
I got a lot of tiny whiteheads along my chin area and forehead (pretty much both T and U zones). I also get a bunch of blackheads on my nose, and the area on my cheeks near my nose.
I used to get 2-3 cystic pimples a month but that changed once I started going to my current dermatologist. (My routine started in August, and helped a bunch! The & in my routine mean I added them last month!) Unfortunately, while my face has cleared up, I’m still experiencing occasional breakouts (which I know are normal) and haven’t been able to get rid of those stubborn whiteheads. It seems that my skin also seems dull and lacking glow and I also get a bunch of dark spots from where i get pimples.


My dermatologist’s products are also a bit on the pricey end, so i’m looking to replace 1-2 of them//add to my routine to make it more effective and also restore my face.


For reference of some of the products I mention:
My dermatologist’s brand is called DermaNissé and her products are some that finally worked for my skin!


DermaNissé Clean Care Cleanser: https://store.lasersurgery.net/dermanisse-cleancare-cleanser-sarp.html


DermaNissé Purifying Hydrating Cream: https://store.lasersurgery.net/dermanisse-purifying-hydrating-cream.html


DermaNissé Hyaluronic Acid Serum: https://store.lasersurgery.net/dermanisse-hyaluronic-acid-serum-sarp.html


Solar Protection Sunscreen:
www.skinelite.com/tota-002.html


DermaNissé Glyco-C Acne Treatment gel:
https://store.lasersurgery.net/dermanisse-glyco-c-acne-treatment-gel.html


Anthelios Sunscreen: https://www.ulta.com/anthelios-60-clear-skin-dry-touch-sunscreen-spf-60?productId=xlsImpprod13791275&sku=2301523&_requestid=4502569



Potential Vitamin C Serum: https://www.amazon.com/TruSkin-Naturals-Vitamin-Anti-Aging-Hyaluronic/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&keywords=vitamin%2Bc%2Bserum&linkCode=sl1&linkId=bdcc9ad2cd05ddb5b67d9cbbb81f074f&qid=1515545361&s=beauty&sr=1-1-spons&tag=mangolift08-20&th=1&ref_=nav_ya_signin&_encoding=UTF8


SKINCARE ROUTINE



AM

• DN Clean Care Cleanser
  
  
  
• Rx: Clindamycin Phosphate (1%) and Benzoyl Peroxide Gel (5%) - Mylar. I leave on my clean face for 15 minutes, then clean off with warm water
  
  
  
• Pixi Glow Tonic &
  
  
  
• Thayer’s Witch Hazel Rose Water Toner &
  
  
  
• DN Hyaluronic Acid Serum
  
  
  
• DN Purifying Hydrating Cream
  
  
  
• Solar Protection Sunscreen
  
  
  
  
  
  PM
  
  
  
• Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water &
  
  
  
• DN Clean Care Cleanser
  
  
  
• I switch between these two next
  
  
  
• 5x a week Rx: Azelex azelaic acid cream 20%. I leave on clean face for 15 minutes then clean off
  
  
  
• 2x a week, i use DermaNissé Glyco-C Acne Treatment Gel
  
  
  
• Thayer’s Witch Hazel Rose Water Toner &
  
  
  
• DN Hyaluronic Acid Serum
  
  
  
• DN Purifying Hydrating Cream
  
  
  
  
  Throughout the day
  

• If i can, throughout the day I use Rx. Clindamycin Phosphate Topical Solution (1%) Pledgets. They’re little pads with the solution to clean face.
  
  
  Questions
  Any suggestions for:
  
  
  

• An eye cream to fight against fine lines, under eye bags, and dark circles that I can add?
  
  
  
• Vitamin C Serum I can add? I was thinking of getting the TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C. I see this subreddit suggests Oz Naturals vitamin C, but according to this website, it’s to be avoided? https://myawesomebeauty.com/best-vitamin-c-serum/
  
  
  
• Another face moisturizer since I feel the hydrating cream my doctor gives me is just enough but doesn’t let me feel like my skin is thriving? I’m thinking of getting Trader Joe’s Argan Oil
  
  
  
• Do you recommend Anthelios Clear Skin Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 60? I’m thinking of switching from Solar Protection to this one?
  
  
  
• I’m trying to figure out if I can replace the DermaNissé Hyaluronic Acid Serum to the Trader Joe’s Hyaluronic Moisture Boost Serum. The only difference in ingredients is that the TJ brand has Propanediol.
  
  
  
• Should I switch out the order? Use some things less than others? http://www.snowwhiteandtheasianpear.com/2015/01/skincare-discovery-putting-your.html
  
  
  
• Should I add more AHA/BHA products? such as the BHA Blackhead power liquid?
  
  
  
• Any other gentle anti-aging treatments I can add? I get concerned that with all the acne treatments I’m getting, I’m aging my skin more :(
  
  
  
• Any Weekly treatments/masks I could add?
  
  
  
  Thank you a million in advance!
  
  
  
  edit: formatting, location

Hi guys. I have combination skin. I suffer from occasional acne breakouts. But in general, my skin texture is not smooth. I think I have large pores too. I wanted your opinion on this Tea tree Oil Face Creammoisturizer. My current face routine includes:

1. Cleanser
   
2. Exfoliator
   
3. Toner
   
4. Serum
   
5. Moisturizer (switching to a new one)
   
6. Sunscreen
   
   Any comment on other products is appreciated too. Thanks!

Throughout highschool I had a couple bad pimples, but they would go away after a couple days and there would not be any scarring from it. I asked my local clinic for some acne cream medicine and they pescribed Acne Medication 5. This worked a bit but it really caused my skin to become dry so I stoped. About 6 months ago my acne really started to get worse. I start noticing more pimples along the the chin and started developing acne scars around the jaw area and along the side my head. I tried the Clean and Clear daily essential 3 pc but it did not show much help. My parents then bought a different regime shown in the pictures and it stopped my pimples a bit, but the main concern now is getting rid of the scarring. I also tried using another product from Vietnam called Cortibion after positive reviews from my relatives who suffered from acne, but I haven't seen any results yet. My skin is often very sensitive is often reacts negatively if I eat any dairy, greasy, or chocolate contain foods. I have been trying to drink plenty of water and eating more healthy and it slighly helps but I want to find a new product or regime that will help increase the recovering process to clear acne. I think but am not 100% sure if I have hyperpigmentation so the products I was looking at reflect that. These are the two products I was considering purchasing to help with my scarring but any other recommenations is welcomed.

https://www.amazon.com/TruSkin-Naturals-Vitamin-Anti-Aging-Hyaluronic/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8&th=1

https://www.amazon.com/Hyperpigmentation-Advanced-Hyaluronic-Revitalize-Complexion/dp/B00K6NPKV0/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

This is the link to the scarring on my face and the products I was using

https://imgur.com/gallery/RYK8f

TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

I started using this 2 weeks ago and I notice a huge difference in hydration. It has vitamin e and c as well as hyaluronic acid. I also use the hydrating treatment lotion from Aveda under the serum. And FAB ultra hydrating creme over top of everything once it’s all absorbed. Good luck!

Hello folks! I was hoping for some help on my routine. My skin is okay, but I struggle with hormonal acne, am 28 years old, and generally feel greasy at the end of the day. I don't wear makeup because it makes my acne worse, so I don't have to worry about that. I have combination skin (chin and jawline dry, oily everywhere else).

​

Morning:

Cleanser: Trader Joe's All-In-One

Toner: Witch Hazel

Serum: Birch Juice Hydro Essence Skin

Vitamin C Serum

Moisturizer: Trader Joe's Nourish Oil-Free

Sunscreen: Neutrogena Clear Face

​

Evening:

Cleanser: Trader Joe's All-In-One

Mask (2x per week): Aztec Secret (used with ACV)

Toner: Witch Hazel

Serum: Birch Juice Hydro Essence Skin

Retinal: The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 5% in Squalane

Sheet mask (2x week when I use a mask): Whatever is hydrating at CVS

Moisturizer: Trader Joe's Nourish Oil-Free

​

I have done my absolute best to try to figure out if this is an okay group of products, but skincare is as incomprehensible as finances to me so some help would be appreciated!

TruSkin Naturals Vitamin C Serum for Face, Topical Facial Serum with Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E, 1 fl oz. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M4MCUAF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fmSWBb2YJ12ZZ

Is this a good vit c serum? Seems to have amazing reviews

He recommended in another comment the vitamin C serum www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01M4MCUAF

I'm sensitive to a bunch of stuff in sunscreen and I love this stuff: https://www.amazon.com/Biore-Aqua-Watery-Essence-SPF50/dp/B071H7P3T8. It's super light and moisturizing and doesn't break me out!

I use biore watery essence every single day of my life, and have for years, and I've never had anything weird happen in a photo. I wear it under my makeup. It's also a monster sunblock as not only do I never burn but I don't even get freckles anymore (which I'm sort of sad about, but not getting skin cancer is cuter than freckles).

Yeah I tried the sunscreen-in-other-stuff too and wasn't a fan. I feel like most products just don't get sunscreen right. It's too thick, smells bad, feels weird, there's always something wrong with it. A link to the one i use! > https://www.amazon.com/Biore-Aqua-Watery-Essence-SPF50/dp/B071H7P3T8

If you get it, I hope you love it as much as i do!

Depends on the seller; there isn't just one person selling on Amazon. This one is legit. More generally when buying online there's always a chance it's fake, so you have to do your due diligence and get recs from people who buy on that website regularly.

More broadly, a lot of the European and Asian sunscreens won't be found anywhere other than online at places like Amazon, Yesstyle, and Ebay because they use filters the FDA has not approved (the FDA has been notoriously slow to update its list of approved filters and it's a sticking point for many people).

Not to push products on you, but as soon as I got off of birth control my face went BONKERS. I had always had excellent skin and then it started becoming AWFUL. I finally got it to clear up with benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid BUT…you can’t use those when you’re pregnant. Cue pregnancy hormone induced acne awfulness. It just got worse and worse but I have to say…CeraVe’s foaming facial cleanser: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003YMJJSK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1 and Cetaphil’s AM lotion with SPF 30 for acne-prone skin: https://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Dermacontrol-Moisturizer-Fluid-Ounce/dp/B006L2137U/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473999265&sr=1-1-fkmr1&keywords=cetaphil+am+moisturizer+acne+prone+skin and my skin isn’t perfect yet but it has significantly cleared up. Obviously, if you can find cheaper products with the same ingredients, go that route. But no one had any good product recommendations for me when I was going through this so I figured maybe this would help a bit. Good luck, momma!

Hey friends! Hopefully simple product request here.

I started using a Cetaphil DermaControl SPF 30 moisturizer at the recommendation of my Curology provider, but found that it stings my eyes later in the day if I apply it under my eyebrows and start to sweat.

I also happen to have those pesky puffy dark circles under my eyes, even when I sleep 8 hours a night, so I figured I'd look for a solution for that, instead of buying one of the more expensive moisturizers with SPF.

I'm looking for a cheap, non-comedogenic, non-irritating eye cream that's mainly for puffiness/dark circles. Anti-aging shenanigans certainly doesn't hurt, but isn't my top priority right now.


I checked the 2017 Holy Grail Eye Cream thread, but it looks like most things on the cheaper end of the spectrum focused on anti-aging, rather than the dark puffy circles.

My "progress" pics

I moved to Germany in August, in September I starting breaking out like I did at 14 years old, and in October I got serious about clearing up.

Morning:

Wash with Cetaphil

Moisturize with Mary Kay formula 2

Night:

Wipe with B. Pure Micellar Water

Wash with Cetaphil

Use Pocketderm

Moisturize with Markay

Take Yasmin BC

My mother is an angel and is sending some of my products from the USA. My Pocketderm is 4% Niacinamide, 1% Clindamycin, 4% Azeliac Acid, but my new prescription will be .018% Tretinoin, 1% Clindamycin, 4% Azeliac Acid.

Also, I think I start PC 2% lotion and switch to Cetaphil Dermacontrol Moisturizer SPF 30. The Mary Kay was just the first face lotion that I didn't hate, and I just got stuck on it.

I switched to Yasmin about a month ago from a BC that uses Nogestrel (ugh, how could I have been so wrong with that for so long), and started uses the micellar water about a week ago. I'm suspicious that Yasmin gives me the large cyst-like acne on my jaw and neck since it started about the same time as I began the perscription. I've always had pretty moderate to severe acne since I'm been a teen, but even this is unusual for me. I'm touching my face less, washing my bedding often with a kind of free and clear soap, picking less* (guilty), and cutting out dairy.

I'm definitely going to stick it out and try to improve my routine, but I just feel like everything I knew about acne care was soooo wrong. I welcome all ideas, and even wild speculations, about what is happening to my face.

It really depends on what you're using at night.
Aveeno Clear Complexion has .05% salicylic acid in it which could possibly be highly irritating to your sensitive skin. Also, you really need SPF 30 or higher due to the medication. SPF 15 isn't going to cut it.
Eucerin
and Cetaphil
Both make an spf 30 lotion that should work very well with your skin. (My dermatologist recommended these two when I was on acne meds).

I found that using a gentle cleanser helped tone down my skin a lot because it didn't strip my skin. But the most important part was to
moisturize! This is the one I use. Any lightweight moisturizer should be fine so definitely find something that works best for your skin.

I recommended this already in this thread, but Cetaphil SPF 30 is the best. I have combination skin and it keeps the dry areas of my skin from flaking all day (and it's super gentle).

Additionally, I recommend getting a humidifier. That way, you're taking in a decent amount of moisture into your skin during the day/night even though all of the moisture in the winter air has been sapped by the cold.

Just the liquid:

This one

Is it this?

Honestly thats understandable, but from my 10 years of trial and error i found that its never provides a consistent complexion. Changing variables such as diet, vitamins, sleep, water, non-comedogenic products, washing 1x daily , twice daily, not at all seem to always lead be back to square one.

​

I hate using chemical products as well but, the chemicals provide reliability. This is what I use now. keep in mind that this regimen i got 95% clear consistently, quit because i thought i didnt need it anymore. only have the nightmares bumps come back and have to go through the whole process again. which put me back 4 months just to get clear again. And I did this 4 times, dumb me...

​

1, cerave foaming face cleanser

2. paula choice salicydic acid

3. acne.org benzyl peroxide gel

4. cerave nightime pm moisturizer stacked with cerave moisturizing cream.

5 paula choice aha gel for exfoliation.

​

Instructions.

Use 1,2,3 wait 10 mins, then 4 day time

then at night or when u take shower use 1,2,3,5,

​

Good luck.

​

links below

cleanser

bha

bp

pm

heavy moisturuzier

aha

​

Everything was going great until a few weeks ago. Then finals happened. Then my face blew up haha.

I'm probably going to add 3 products - Exfoliate, Treatment, and a different moisturizer as recommended by the site. When I realized I was globbing on the moisturizer (and changed to using less) I saw drastic improvement, so I'm thinking that the CeraVe might be too heavy for oily skin.

I dont use anything in particular to cleanse my skin just water, i am thinking if i should try using micellar water (from La Roche).

Alright will do it from now on.

Thats what i have been thinking about ! would this paulas choice 2% be a good first start? <-- amazon.de link

Hey would love any product recommendation specifically for a chemical exfoliant and sunscreen.

1. I used up my bottle of Paula's choice sample size (2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant) which I thought was great but at 30 dollars for a 4 oz bottle, it's kind of expensive.
   
   I was looking at The Ordinary which has 2% BHA but also 30% AHA? Which I'm not quite sure what that is. Would this be somewhat comparable to the Paula's choice? Or should I go with a different brand.
   
   I may just go with the regular Paula's choice bottle if I can't find anything else as it's a nice product!
   
   ​
   
   
2. I hate using sunscreen, I hate the smell and the heaviness I feel on my skin after using. I "use" Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch on occasion but I usually go without sunscreen most of the time. Any recommendations for a light weight ish sunscreen that doesn't smell bad?

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 have erythematotelangiectatic rosacea with a papule or two every month. My cheeks are covered in permanent telangiectasias, but I don't mind them because I can cover it with makeup easily. I've had them since I was a kid. Occasionally I get a small papule or two

My nose has worsened over the last 5 years. I have no telangiectasias but my whole nose up to the bridge has diffuse erythema. Above the bridge of my nose has some redness too, leaving the bridge of my nose white... The redness goes away if I press on my nose (it blanches - not permanent). It is difficult to keep makeup on my nose throughout the day without it coming off. This is the most annoying thing about rosacea for me.

My forehead has patches of eczema either side that I've had success treating with elidel (pimecrolimus cream) and a better skincare routine. I have rosacea in the middle of my forehead. Easy to cover with makeup.

I've tried metrogel and finacea, both without effect. Finacea just hurts my skin. I'm taking 50mg doxycycline capsules and I thought they were working, but then I forgot for a while. It's difficult to tell. Rosacea is difficult to control, unfortunately.

___

I currently use the following of an evening:

• Mineral oil massage to remove makeup - emulsify and remove in the shower with water.
  
  
• Sulwhasoo Snowise Ex Cleansing Foam - low pH cleansing foam that leaves my skin lovely and clean without over-cleansing.
  
  
• Actives - Elidel for eczema if required.
  
  
• Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Toner - Not astrigent at all. Super slippery base makes the next steps more effective.
  
  
• Holy Snails Shark Sauce and Snowbang Essence - Small amount, mix together in hand and wipe across face. Contains ceramides to help replenish lipid barrier, niacinamide and n-acetyl glucosamine for anti-inflammatory effects, lots more lovely stuff.
  
  
• Mizon Snail Repair All In One cream - Small amount all over face. It's a very light cream, almost like a gel. It has a lovely texture.
  
  
• Shara Shara Honey Bomb Ampoule - niacinamide, so good. Small amount, all over face.
  
  
• La Roche Posay Lipikar Baume AP+ - One pump to cover whole face (400ml bottle has a pump). I love this stuff. Niacinamide (anti-inflammatory), glycerin (humectant), shea butter (emollient), mineral oil & silicone (occlusive emollients).
  
  
• CosRX Ultimate Moisturising Honey Overnight Mask OR Mizon Snail Repair Recovery Gel - Moisturising gel to "set" the layers of moisturiser beneath. I'm still testing out the snail recovery gel, not sure if I like it because it doesn't "set" as well.
  
  In the morning I gently wash the set slippery layers off with water and apply:
  
  
• Actives - Elidel for eczema if required.
  
  
• Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Toner
  
  
• Holy Snails Shark Sauce & Snowbang Essence
  
  
• Mizon Snail Repair All In One cream
  
  
• Lipikar Baume AP+ on bad skin days, or CosRX Ultimate Honey Overnight Mask on good days.
  
  
• Shiseido Hada Senka Mineral Water Gel SPF 50+ - I love the finish of this sunscreen. Sunscreen is super, super important, especially with the niacinamide use. Use a sunscreen every single day, even in winter, even if only inside. Every day!
  
  I take a resveratrol capsule every day to combat sirtuin inhibition caused by niacinamide.
  
  I've been following this routine for four months and my skin has improved a lot in terms of texture. The flaky patches went away and the eczema almost completely disappeared with occasional maintenance use of elidel and just generally looking after my skin. The rosacea erythema has stayed the same, but I have developed fewer papules. Hopefully, if I can remember to take the doxycycline, the redness of my nose may also improve.

Pretty much what it sounds like d: It's snail mucus and praised for its regenerative properties. A lot of people love it. I tried this brand and didn't feel like I noticed anything in either direction? I didn't hate it at all but it just didn't seem worth the purchase. But that exact same product sounds like it is an HG for /u/SadestLittleGirl - I would definitely suggest trying it!

if you don't need two, it's $13.99 each on amazon with prime shipping.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AF63QQE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've started only showering every other day. But I make sure to moisturize my face morning and night. I know my showers are causing a lot of the irritation. I use a wet cloth to wash up on non shower days.

I'm using an Asian skincare routine on my face, it has made a big difference. But you don't have time to start one in 1 week, you don't know how you will react to products in that short period of time.

If your skin is angry in the morning, is that when you shower? If you are getting irritated from your moisturizer, you may want to switch. The open sores are going to sting, but it shouldn't "become swollen/inflamed/very red". It sounds like you may be reacting to one of the ingredients in your moisturizer. I don't know if 1 week is enough time to find another one, because you don't know which ingredient is setting you off.

This is what I use, I know it sounds gross but it is very light and absorbs immediately and feels amazing. MIZON Black Snail All In One Cream, 2.40 Ounce

I picked this up to use next because I was annoyed at dipping my hand into a jar. MIZON Snail Recovery Gel Cream 45ml 1.52 fl.oz. Pack of 2

Here you go. You could try those three! Total = $36

Cosrx AHA, Andalou Roses Foam, Mizon Black Snail.

Reminder that you need a sunscreen if you're using AHA, try this.

Yes, Mizon black snail. http://www.amazon.com/COSMETICS-mitigate-anti-wrinkle-whitening-moisturizing/dp/B00B4PWEJU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427594498&sr=8-1&keywords=mizon+black+snail

I'm 29 with super oily skin. Since I live in a very dry climate, I also try to look for anti-aging products. This cream has worked pretty well for me. Light weight and doesn't leave my skin feeling oily.

I also run a humidifier in my room at night. Not sure where you live, but if you're in a dry climate like me, you should definitely look into humidifiers to go along with anti-aging creams or serums.

Might be a long shot, but is anyone else here active on /r/SkincareAddiction or specifically /r/AsianBeauty ???

I've definitely been researching skin care as I've gone through the whole fashion basics a few times. I'd say the hardest part is finding a good sunscreen, so here is my cop list

SKIN AQUA | Sunscreen Lotion | Moisture Milk Whitening | SPF50+ PA+++ 40ml | for Face and Body (Japan Import) by Skin Aqua

Shiseido Senka Aging Care UV Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++

I am looking for cosmetically elegant, matte finish, preferably alcohol free but I have slight oily skin, fragrance free, preferably paraben free, at least a PA rating of +++, at least SPF 30, under $40, photo stable, preferably physical and chemical combo.

Pretty specific, does anyone else have a suggestion?

definitely azelaic acid, niacinamide, sunscreen. I have papular rosacea which leaves much worse, yet similar small dots all over my face and they are drastically improving with these ingredients.
i have a prescription for azelaic acid called Finacea but you can get it OTC in many different forms.

Niacinamide can be taken orally or topically in many forms OTC as well. right now im using thishttp://www.amazon.com/Niacinamide-Vitamin-Cream-Serum-5%25-/dp/B00I80TBHM/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1454256177&sr=1-3&keywords=niacinamide+serum

as for sunscreen I'd recommendhttp://www.amazon.com/Sarasara-Waterly-Essence-Sunscreen-Bior%C3%A9/dp/B004LRO7DO/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1454256233&sr=1-3&keywords=biore+uv+aqua+rich+watery+essence

or


http://www.amazon.com/SKIN-AQUA-Sunscreen-Moisture-Whitening/dp/B00BJEAAHY/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1454256275&sr=1-2&keywords=uv+milk+sunscreen+aqua+skin

or the Elta md line

This one! The seller let me know that the photo in the listing is the old packaging, that’s why it looks different.

Sure! It's Skin Aqua Moisture Milk whitening spf 50+. I discovered that many Asian cehmical sunscreens don't make my face burn the way American chemical sunscreens do. This is my favorite of the ones I've tried.

I like this sunscreen: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BJEAAHY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

THIS STUFF is awesome. I got my brows waxed and dyed and had the requisite 3-4 tiny breakouts after. A night of snail gel took them down, and another night took out the redness. By the end of the week they were never there.
I patted a thin coat of Mizon Snail Recovery Gel on my whole brow area after nightly cleaning and moisturizing (use this as the last step, even though it's a gel - Mizon says to).

I highly recommend these 2 products, I use them daily and they are amazing.

Etude House Baking Powder B.B Deep Cleansing Foam-I also have acne prone super sensitive skin and I love this face wash. I use it at least 2 times a day and my skin have never been irritated once, it also helps cut oil and reduce acne.



Snail Repair Cleansing & Skin Care- This is magic in a bottle! I use this when I have extremely dry or irritated skin mostly because I want to save it for as long as I can. I can't express how well it works and it feels amazing on my skin.

Hope this helps a little! :3

So as a disclaimer I'm pretty acne prone so normal primers don't typically work for me very well because they tend to clog my pores, so my primer choices are a little unconventional. That being said I have a similar skin type to you and live in similar weather conditions so this is what works for me:

Nivea Shaving Balm: I know this sub has a tendency to rave about this, but in my opinion there's good reason to. This keeps my face from getting too shiny, even when I'm sweating and holds everything in place for hours. At the very most I'll need to touch up my powder after about 7-8 hours, but that's usually only on very hot days when I'm doing more physical activity than normal. There is a more manly smell to it, but I find it fades after about 5-10 minutes of putting it on and no one has ever commented on being able to smell it after I finish my makeup (yes I've had my friends sniff my face to be sure).

Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Okay so this stuff is snail slime, which I realize might be a little bit of an ick factor, but bare with me. This stuff is amazing and is currently my every day primer. It's essentially designed to help lock in your moisturizer to keep your skin from becoming too dehydrated, but because of this it makes a great primer. My skin actually feels better after using this stuff and it locks in and performs equally as well as the shaving balm in my opinion.

Two suggestions you may want to try. For summer, or just if you're looking for something light to wear throughout the day, 100% aloe vera gel is a fantastic option. If you're looking for something a tad heavier for winter or at night that'll leave a bit more of that moisturized feel on your skin, try out Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream. You just have to be man enough to use a pink bottle. And putting snails on your face isn't as bad as Fear Factor makes it seem.

Hey, I'm new to AB and am thinking of buying the Hada Labo Cleansing oil. Does anyone know if this Amazon seller is legit, or if not where the best place to get it is?

https://www.amazon.com/ROHTO-Hadalabo-Gokujun-Cleansing-200ml/dp/B004OQHZ2M

I'm sensitive to mineral oil, too- the Hada Labo Gokujyun Cleansing Oil is almost exactly the same price (+/- $1 USD on Amazon) and it's an HG for me. It's olive and jojoba oil-based. :) I see you're in the UK, so here's the relevant UK Amazon link.

I'm looking into the Hadalabo cleansing oil and have found 2 on Amazon, so I'm wondering if they're the same with different packaging or if one is a different formula or..?? This one is the original link that I followed off 50 Shades of Snail's blog and it links to this, which it says is a newer version of the item. I would just go ahead and buy the first linked item, as it seems reputable with many many reviews, but it's gone up in price to $25 and the second one is $16. Really hoping someone can help bc Google wasn't very helpful when I searched for things like "hadalabo cleansing oil new packaging" "new formula" etc lol.. Thanks in advance for any help! :)

I would start with an oil cleanser. I use this one and love it! It's mineral oil free which I found is an ingredient that breaks me out so I was happy to find one without it. After that I would make sure your face cleanser is around 5 or below. Low ph is essential in a cleanser. I use Innisfree bija trouble cleansing gel which is a ph of 3.2. After that I would find things like a toner or an essence that targets a problem area for you. Also a moisturizer! The other essential is a sunscreen! Sunscreen is sooooooo important! It will help with pih and evening skintone as well as preventing future damage! There are lots of good Asian sunscreens that are very different than American ones and work well with makeup.

Jolse is fantastic and has a lot of brands to offer and I feel has the best makeup selection. I actually just got a huge order from RoseRoseShop that I got in 3 days! I was so excited and surprised it came that fast. I had never splurged for EMS shipping before but man it was worth the extra pennies!

I use Cetaphil Dermacontrol. It moisturizes my face and protects me from the sun while also helping to keep my oily skin under control.

This other Cetaphil moisturizer is pretty great, too, and it has a higher SPF.

I also have trouble with moisturizers breaking me out, and I think it's the cetyl/cetearyl/stearyl alcohols that most moisturizers have.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006L2137U/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=B1VD7NCGL5MF&coliid=I3HHHJ1VRY3DOI

This Cetaphil moisturizer doesn't have any fatty alcohols. I haven't tried it but it has great reviews, and it's on my future buy list for when my current fatty alcohol containing moisturizer runs out (I have yet to find my perfect moisturizer).

For a cleanser, my personal favorite is Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser, also without fatty alcohols.

I haven't had any issues with my pores being blocked with using the No Shine Hydrator. I've also used Cetaphil's dermacontrol and liked it as welll (http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Dermacontrol-Moisturizer-Fluid-Ounce/dp/B006L2137U/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1370577241&sr=1-2&keywords=oil+free+non+comedogenic+moisturizer)

I used this for the first four months of my course and then used (and still use) the biore aqua rich watery essence 50 spf

I use a cetaphil moisturizer with SPF 30 in it, I use it as my daily moisturizer and just re-apply if I'll be outside. It's reasonably priced for a sensative/acne prone skincare product (not sure if you have either of those issues though). Can't really help on body because I only use body sunscreen if I'm at the beach or a pool, but I use this on my hands.

http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Dermacontrol-Moisturizer-Fluid-Ounce/dp/B006L2137U

Woops! I was thinking of using an aloe vera moisturizer. Do you think that's okay?

Also, do you recommend the 30spf one instead?

Thanks for replying. The scars on my cheek indeed appear to be post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The ones on my temple actually cave inward like micro-cavities, so I am unsure what those are and how to treat them.

I do generously apply generic (non-moisturizing sunblock) after the salicylic foam before leaving my apartment each day. Would you suggest trying something like this before my morning/night regimen?

http://www.amazon.com/Olay-Complete-Moisturizer-Sunscreen-Spectrum/dp/B000052YQ2

The Cetaphil dermacontrol equivalent I found features "oil-control" which sounds counterproductive to drying from the salicylic acid:

http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Dermacontrol-Moisturizer-Fluid-Ounce/dp/B006L2137U/

Cetaphil Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30, you won't get the lavender or seaweed for this price - $14 - obviously.

Located in CA, US. Oily skin, moderate acne issues. I've been lurking this sub for a few months and would love any tips on my routine. Sometimes I am not sure when to use each project / in what order! Any and all suggestions are welcome!

Morning:
Wash face with warm water
Wash with La Roche-Posay Effaclar Facial Cleanser for Oily Skin Purifying Foaming Gel Face Wash
Apply Stri-Dex Medicated Pads, Sensitive
Sometimes I apply Cetaphil Dermacontrol Moisturizer SPF 30 but sometimes I forget (I know I know)

Evening:
Same routine, except once my face is dry and right before bed, I will apply Claire-ity Skincare 25% Vitamin C Serum with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E to the areas on my face with acne scars. Mostly on my cheeks, a few on my forehead, and some on my chin.

Occasionally (weekly) before the evening routine, I'll use either of these masks. I like them both:


Pure Body Naturals Dead Sea Mud Mask

LUSH Mask of Magnaminty

A few notes:
I don't wear makeup and I will add extra sunscreen when I exercise, which is about 5 days a week. I mostly use something like this Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid Lotion Sunscreen For Acne-Prone Skin for my face.

I found a Cetaphil moisturizer for acne prone skin that's SPF 30.

I've definitely noticed less redness on my cheeks after using this in situations when I would normally get a little red just from walking outside for a few minutes, but if I'm going to be in the sun for longer I still definitely use something more heavy duty.

I don't think that you should stop taking the meds during your vacation since you're really close to being done with it. Call you dermo and ask them.

As for sunscreen, I like the Cetaphil Dermacontrol Moisturizer SPF 30. I've been using it for 3 months now and I love it. You might want to go with higher SPF though if you're gonna be spending most of your day on the beach. I haven't tried [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Cetaphil-Daily-Facial-Moisturizer-Sunscreen/dp/B00E4MRLI4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1427730970&sr=8-1&keywords=cetaphil+spf+50) but I've heard good things about it. I can't really recommend body spf as I don't really use them. I'm covered completely by clothes everyday so... yeah. But the minimum SPF you should be wearing on your body is 50.

My last piece of advice would be for you to stay hydrated and try to stay under shade most of the time. Even when you're on the beach, try to be under those big umbrellas. Don't even THINK about tanning! Good luck and have fun :D I'm jealous -.-

EltaMD UV Clear is good. For something a little cheaper, look at Cetaphil Dermacontrol Moisturizer SPF30 http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B006L2137U?pc_redir=1410743498&robot_redir=1

Those are the only ones I've used thus far and haven't broken me out.

Thx for the info. Here's my super long post but I wanted to give you useful information. I think you’re on the right track in terms of “active” ingredients (BHA, AHA, retinol, etc.) but I’d switch your routine up to ensure maximum product efficacy (the order you layer your products effects their absorption) and I'd switch your products to more tried-and-true ones like inthegloww suggested as well. Below are my suggestions with a little science behind them, courtesy of the bloggers “snow white and the Asian Pear” and “lab muffin”. As others have noted, unfortunately there’s no magic bullet formula for flawless skin, so you’ll just have to keep monitoring your skin daily and adjust your products accordingly.

Definitely ditch the following:

1. Burt’s Bee’s Brightening Face Wash: Unsure of the pH. Us acne-prone folks need to use a low pH cleanser.
   
2. the hyaluronic acid (HA): I know there’s a lot of hype around HA right now but it could be making your skin drier if there’s no moisture in the air since its humectant. You need to lock it in with an occlusive on top (sealant). I think a good moisturizer will be more than sufficient.
   
3. the moisturizer with the vitamin C:
   a.) I don’t think you need vitamin C at this stage of the game and;
   b.) It might not even be effective in the moisturizer since Vit C is a finicky active. (It comes in many forms, some are pH dependent; needs to be in a concentration of 20% to be effective; begins to oxidize if mixed w/water so stabilizers are needed [serums tend to be more stable then cream formulas for this reason]; air/photosensitive so it needs to be in dark air tight packaging like a pump. It’s a pain in the butt.)
   
   AM Routine
   1. Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser - $12
   —Acidic Cleanser: Clinical studies have shown that an alkaline cleanser, high pH (greater than 6.0 pH), contributes to the proliferation of acne bacteria on the skin. An acidic pH (less than 6.0 pH) is less bacteria-friendly. CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser has a 5.5 pH, and contains ceramides which help protect the skin barrier.
   2. Active: Salicylic acid (BHA) - Humane Clarifying Toner. If you feel like switching, try [Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid] (https://smile.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-SKIN-PERFECTING-Exfoliant-Facial-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518761128&sr=1-1&keywords=paulas%2Bchoice%2Bbha&th=1) - $25 on Amazon // $30 on her site but she frequently runs 20% sales + you can use a rebate site too to save even more (Coupon Cabin is 8.5% back currently).
   —BHA: Salicylic acid is only effective at certain pHs 3-4pH and concentrations (1 – 2%). Paula’s Choice is pH range of 3.2–3.8
   3. Active: AHA - AHA Enhanced Renewal Cream. Apply AHA following BHA, but only 1-2x a week to start. If you feel like switching, try [Mizon AHA 8% Peeling Serum] (https://smile.amazon.com/Mizon-AHA-8-Peeling-Serum/dp/B00F35GT0W/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1518760920&sr=8-4&keywords=Mizon%27s+AHA+8%25+Peeling+Serum&dpID=41diUr7YN6L&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch)
   —AHAs are not oil-soluble (difficulty penetrating oily areas of your face such as the T-zone) but BHAs are. So, apply the BHA first to clear out the sebum in your pores, then apply the AHA which can then penetrate your skin more effectively. Ideally, you’d wait 15-20 min. between applications for optimal results but who has time for that?
   4. Moisturizer: [CeraVe Facial Moisturizer PM] (https://smile.amazon.com/CeraVe-Facial-Moisturizing-Lotion-Lightweight/dp/B00365DABC/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518763286&sr=1-4&keywords=CeraVe+Facial+Moisturizer+PM) - $9
   Contains ceramides and niacinamide which has been shown to reduce pore size.
   5. Sunscreen: Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF50+/PA++++
   —Japanese sunscreen. Non gloopy physical/chemical combo, doesn’t leave a white cast, some folks like to use it as primer pre-makeup
   
   PM Routine:
   1. Cleanser: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
   2. Active: Antioxidant - [Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant] (https://smile.amazon.com/Trilogy-Rosehip-Antioxidant-1-01-Ounce/dp/B0081JE0VM/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1518761377&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=Trilogy+Rosehip+Oil+Antioxidant&psc=1) - $22
   —Rosehip Oil: A linoleic-rich oil (an omega-6 fatty acid). Acne-prone skin tends to have a low % of linoleic acid and high % of oleic acid in the sebum. It’s thought that these low levels could be one of the things causing acne. Oils with a high linoliec acid content typical go rancid w/in 3-6 months but the antioxidants in this brand keep it shelf stable for three 3 yrs.
   3. Active: Retinoid - I'd try azelaic acid, Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% - $8. If you want it stronger, it comes in Rx as well.
   —Azelaic Acid: "According to Wikipedia, it can treat mild to moderate acne, both comedonal acne and inflammatory acne. It works by killing acne bacteria that infect skin pores AND it decreases the production of keratin, which is a natural substance that promotes the growth of acne bacteria. So it tackles clogged pores like a BHA preventing future acne and kills bacteria to improve current acne. It also fades hyperpigmentation, like an AHA, but without photosensitivity and unlike some forms of AHA, it can be safely used by those with deeper skin tones." quoting snow white and the Asian Pear
   4. Moisturizer**: CeraVe Facial Moisturizer PM or [CeraVe Moisturizing Cream] (https://smile.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-Cream-Daily-Moisturizer/dp/B001V9SXXU/ref=sr_ph_1_s_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1518769817&sr=sr-1&keywords=cerave&th=1) if you need something heavier - $12

is this what i want? http://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-BHA-Liquid-Perfecting/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1407929181&sr=8-1&keywords=bha

I realized BP might not be such a good idea since I have rather brown/tannish skin. I decided to go with this instead. Thoughts?

Clean&Clear Cleanser (http://www.amazon.com/Clean-Clear-Essentials-Cleanser-Sensitive/dp/B002B4K8J6/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1411492326&sr=8-2&keywords=clean+and+clear+cleanser)

Clean&Clear Toner (http://www.amazon.com/Clean-Clear-Essentials-Cleaning-Sensitive/dp/B0009RFAPE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1411492344&sr=8-1&keywords=clean+and+clear+toner)

Paula's Choice BHA (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=sr_ph?ie=UTF8&qid=1411492367&sr=1&keywords=paula%27s+choice+bha)

CeraVe AM Moisturizer (http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Facial-Moisturizing-Lotion-Packaging/dp/B004TS06HG/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1411492390&sr=1-2&keywords=cerave+moisturizer)

The red comes before the moisturizer -- my face feels really dry and hot after putting the AHA on so I usually put a fair amount on, which makes my face shiny the rest of the day, annoying. But the red face problem was before I added the AHA to this routine.

AM:

• Splash face with cool/room temp water
  
• Biore SARASARA UV Bright Face Milk BIHADA Sunscreen 30ml SPF50+
  
• Sometimes Clinique DDMG, most of the time just the sun screen
  
  
  PM:
  
  
• Derma E Natural Bodycare Hyaluronic Hydrating Cleanser
  
• Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid
  
• Alpha Hydrox AHA Enhanced Lotion
  
• Nivea Creme
  
  
  My question: Do I really need the AHA? I am a 24 year old female, my skin is dehydrated/oily with minor acne, maybe 1 pimple popping up every week or so (THANKS SCA!!!). Started the Nivea Creme this week for dehydration, really love it so far.

The past four months my acnes exploded. I'm 20.I've always had it but never this bad. In that picture those whiteheads came in during the day over the course of 8 hours. I normally have somewhat oily skin I guess? I'm not sure how to measure that other than after several hours with no product I can feel some oil after rubbing my finger across my face somewhere. Iv been using Neutrogena ultra gentle daily cleaner foaming formula twice a day with Neutrogena oil free moisturiser spf15 for almost 2 months no change. I did NOT notice a difference .i just started using Paula's choice 2% bha salicylic acid, I have had it for about four days and have been using it at night. Cleanser to bha then sometimes moisturizer. Moisturizer always after cleanser during the day.and its hasn't gotten better. Should I wait it out? Is 2℅bha the right product. what would y'all recommend? Considering going to a dermatologist because when I got put on antibiotics for something unrelated it cleared perfectly up then came back after a week of being off the antibiotics. Is that the obvious choice? I'm weary of doctors just throwing medicine at you.
Any product recommendations I don't have a price range if it's worth it.
Link to my three products if anybody needs them.

PC bha https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00949CTQQ/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1#featureBulletsAndDetailBullets_secondary_view_div_1474407713542
Gentle cleaner https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Neutrogena-Extra-Gentle-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B000052ZB2&ved=0ahUKEwiyzIiL_57PAhWGQyYKHfCiAvwQFgg9MAA&usg=AFQjCNHi8usPfIHMsMmVQjHtrtN7YsOiIw&sig2=YkhSwvgK-TncZFE8cfoRfA

Moisturizer https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.amazon.com/Neutrogena-Oil-Free-Moisture-SPF-Ounce/dp/B000052YP1&ved=0ahUKEwi1nZuy_57PAhXKKiYKHRdZDDgQFghXMAE&usg=AFQjCNHzhrwe7aWp8taViTH-doQ7VBni3Q&sig2=wTz8d2nU7110NReHXYmevg

1. I say sorry for nearly everything. It's just habit, from my childhood, but it's enough to make people notice.
   
   
2. This lovely stuff for my skin.
   
   
3. fuck it, I'm human.
   
   
4. Thanks for the contest!

can you post a link to the product page? I can't find it either and there are 73 pages of beauty deals with no search function (it doesn't show up in normal search)

this is the product: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/

Oooo after getting engaged, I was finally motivated to "treat" myself to a skincare routine. Honestly the two biggest things have been lotion (CeraVe) and sunscreen (Watery Essence). The routine starts at "night" in my mind:

• Splash of water.
  
  
• Wipe with micellular water
  
  
• Splash of water.
  
  
• Tone with witch hazel
  
  
• Exfoliate with salicylic acid
  
  
• Moisturize with lotion
  
  Then in the morning ...
  
  
• Wash face in shower
  
  
• Moisturize again (more CeraVe)
  
  
• SPF++++
  

I see, that makes sense. I'm still trying to learn about proper skincare so this really helps. Regarding the Paula's Choice BHA, the links in the "Acne" tab for those products are all broken, is this the one the correct one if I were to buy it? I notice that there's a lot of different versions on the paulaschoice website.

Regarding a new moisturizer, what are your thoughts on CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM, I saw that it had Niacinamide and wasn't sure what most people thought about Niacinamide in moisturizers. I originally read that it would be beneficial but then I came across a thread here that talked about how it made a lot of people break out. I was thinking I could use that for both the morning and nights, but if you had any recommendations for different moisturizers I'd be glad to hear them.

Lastly, if you don't mind, would this routine be alright?

AM:

• Water / (Cleanse ?)
  
  
• Moisturize
  
  PM:
  
  
• Cleanser
  
  
• BHA (twice a week)
  
  
• Moisturize
  
  I know it's very basic but I've never had a proper routine so I just want to make sure before I follow with it on a daily basis.

i've been using this stuff for the last month and my skin has never looked clearer. given i did not have cystic acne or really bad skin to start with, but it's been amazing results https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-PERFECTING-Salicylic-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ

Get a hyaluronic acid serum such as Neutrogena hydro boost. Hyaluronic is very hydrating.

You can use it on its own or together with a normal, mild moisturizer such as Aveeno, which is great.

To exfoliate, you can use an AHA (i.e., glycolic or lactic acid) or BHA (salicylic acid) exfoliant such as Paula's Choice 2% BHA. Urea 5% is also great and potentially less drying.

Are these the products that you are talking about:

• Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_f1E9AbYXFVA6F
  
  *CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser 3 oz Travel Size Face Wash, Normal to Oily Skin https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IINMRWU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_q2E9Ab3RHX7AH
  
  For the salicylic acid should I invest in the liquid or gel kind?
  

My question is, does the Mizon Snail Repair Cream and theRetinol Night Cream act as moisturizers in and of themselves? (The snail cream I use in the morning before sunscreen and the retinol before bed.) Or are they more for repair and I should also be adding in a separate moisturizer? My skin has been feeling pretty dry lately.

Sending out from Boston!

Mizon Snail Cream

Mizon White Sleeping Mask

Etude House Wonder Pore Freshener

Shiseido Perfect Whip

Let me know if anyone has products to trade! I'm a dude so no makeup please. Haha.

EDIT: All jars were used with spatulas so don't worry about bacteria. Cream was used once and didn't agree with my skin, toners was used three or four times and didn't work for me either. The perfect whip was used about 5 or 6 times and just dried me out too much. Let me know if you guys have anymore questions!

https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Repair-Cream-Grams/dp/B00AF63QQE/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1541979430&sr=8-3&keywords=Mizon+snail

Also the black one for $14

https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Black-Snail-Repair-Cream/dp/B00B4PWEJU/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1541979454&sr=8-5&keywords=Mizon+snail

Whats the order I should be using the following products in? :

• Cetaphil oil absorbing moisturizer
  
  
• Aromatica tea tree toner
  
  
• Vivant mandelic acid exfoliating cleanser
  
  
• Mizon snail cream
  
  
• Oil blotting tissues

I believed they had a rebranding with their logo. You can also find it explain here: Mizon All In One Snail Repair Cream, Day and Night Face Moisturizer with Snail Mucin Extract, 75ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AF63QQE/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_nyI2DbWD29RZW ) (scroll down). I messaged their official insta and this is their official account on Amazon. Since i just recently checked, might as well share the info.

You paid $38 for [a $12 product???] (https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Repair-Cream-Grams/dp/B00AF63QQE/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1506555043&sr=8-2&keywords=mizon%2Ball%2Bin%2Bone&th=1) :o

I swear by this one https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Repair-Cream-Grams/dp/B00AF63QQE/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=Mizon&qid=1555537148&s=beauty&sr=1-3


I've been using it in rotation with Lenige one, the results have been amazing

I've recently bought Mizon Snail Repair cream
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AF63QQE/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1406442786&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40
And definitely can recommend this one! Even though It didn't help my acne, it vastly improved overall skin and appearance. I'm 29 old female with constant adult acne and all my life I have to buy Acne related products and Mizon was the first cream that I've tried for the "rest of my face" that doesn't have an active blemishes. I found it healing, firming, brightening, not very moisturizing.... , but the other huge bonus for me is that it acts supremely under makeup. It stays all day. So even though it's not an cure for acne the rest of your face will love it!

How much is it normally then? I bought mine on Amazon and the seller I used has the full price as $39.99 (though its always on sale for $20). O.O?

[This] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AF63QQE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s02?ie=UTF8&th=1) along with my biore watery essence sunscreen is my fave for keeping my oily skin...not so oily haha.

Sorry in advance for the length of my comment but speaking from personal experience, your acne could be caused by fungus/yeast, not bacteria. It's called Malassezia Yeast and we all have it on our skin, but it can cause issues when it becomes overgrown. This overgrowth is called Pityrosporum folliculitis and looks almost identical to other forms of acne.

Other evidence that points towards fungus is the fact that you're breaking out on other parts of your body. The fungus spreads easily, especially if you give it a nice environment to thrive, like sweaty workouts!

I had perfect skin until I was about 22, and suddenly developed acne on my face, chest, and back. It was so bizarre and none of the traditional acne treatments were helping because, as I later figured out, most products are geared towards bacterial breakouts, including benzoyl peroxide. In fact, overuse of these products can cause fungus/yeast to take over the balance and cause all sorts of issues!

So, after months of research I came to the conclusion that I did indeed have fungal acne, so I started a routine to combat it. I was desperate at first, so I bought an anti-dandruff shampoo (because dandruff is commonly caused by fungus). [This one is great because its SLS free!]
(https://www.amazon.com/Regenepure-Shampoo-Treatment-Supports-Growth/dp/B0032FSDOA/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1485317432&sr=8-1&keywords=dr.+regenepure) In the shower, I slathered it all all over my face and body, let it sit for 5 minutes, then rinsed it off. All of the breakouts started disappearing overnight, literally.

I felt strange using shampoo on my face so I decided to do more research and discovered that zinc is an amazing natural antifungal. So, I purchased this bar of soap, which contains 2% Pyrithione Zinc (an antimicrobial) and it was also very effective. I only use that about every three days now, and only on my body, because I have super sensitive skin and it is too drying for my face.

For my face, I now use Curology because they offer Zinc Pyrithione as an ingredient! My current formulation is .25% Zinc Pyrithione, 1% Clindamycin, and 4% Niacinamide and it is AMAZING. I'm now free of any and all breakouts.

I also use this mineral sunscreen because it uses zinc oxide - another form of zinc that is an antifungal!

For me, I have to maintain a routine or else the overgrowth returns, so I also take zinc picolinate supplements.
So, yeah, I hope this helps give some insight on your skincare journey!!

*EDIT!

I also want to point out the necessity of being super gentle on your skin, in general. I always think "kill it with kindness" when it comes to skin issues. You definitely don't want to make things worse by over-exfoliating (chemical and physical), using harsh cleansers that strip your natural oils, and above all you must keep your moisture barrier in tip top shape because it will protect you from excess fungus and bacteria!

I decided to give you my whole routine as an example, so here it is! I focus on moisture.

AM:

• Rinse face with water
  
  
• Apply Thayer's Witch Hazel Lavendar Toner on cotton ball and wipe face
  
  
• Apply Paula's Choice Calm Redness Relief Repairing Serum, pat dry
  
  
• Apply Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream, pat dry
  
  
• Apply Paula's Choice SKIN RECOVERY Daily Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
  
  
  PM:
  
  
• Wash face with Paula's Choice Perfectly Balanced Cleanser - extremely moisturizing cleanser
  
  
• Apply Thayer's Witch Hazel Lavendar Toner on cotton ball and wipe face
  
  
• Apply Paula's Choice Calm Redness Relief Repairing Serum, pat dry
  
  
• Apply Curology, let dry for ~10 Min
  
  
• Apply Mizon Black Snail All In One Cream, pat dry
  
  
• Apply Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Hydrating Treatment Mask, keep on overnight
  
  ONCE/TWICE WEEKLY:
  
  I loooove sheet masks. Especially the Benton Snail Bee Essence one. Head over to r/AsianBeauty for more recs on these and SO MANY MORE THINGS. warning: it's addicting.
  
  
  

Recently brought a bunch of new products and wasn't sure if I'm using them in the right order. So I appreciate it if anyone can chime in on if I'm doing it correctly or if I should add anything else to my lineup. My daily routine goes as follow:

AM:

• Etude House Acne Foam Cleaner/Konjac Sponge
  
• Etude House Wonder Pore Freshner
  
• Etude House Wonder Pore Tightening Essence
  
• MISSHA Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence
  
• Paula's Choice Clear Acne Treatment 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide
  
• MIZON Black Snail All In One Cream
  
• MIZON Snail Recovery Gel Cream
  
• Shiseido SENKA Sunscreen SPF50/Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF50
  
  PM:
  
  
• Etude House Acne Foam Cleaner/Konjac Sponge
  
• Stridex Daily Care Acne Pads (BHA)
  
• Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 8% AHA Gel Exofoliant
  
• Etude House Wonder Pore Freshner
  
• Etude House Wonder Pore Tightening Essence
  
• MISSHA Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence
  
• Paula's Choice Clear Acne Treatment 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide
  
• MIZON Black Snail All In One Cream
  
• MIZON Snail Recovery Gel Cream
  
  Thanks for reading!

$10.49 with prime shipping

MIZON Black Snail All In One Cream, 2.40 Ounce https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B4PWEJU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_MgDOybWD7Z24Q

For AB makeup, which eyeliner do you recommend, Dolly Wink Koji Liquid Eyeliner or the Kiss Me Heroine Make Smooth Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner? Or any other liquid eyeliners are fine too~ (pencil and gel just don't work for these oily eyelids T^T)

For starting a routine, do you recommend starting out with a moisturizer? Also is a second cleanser needed? Because I feel like an oil cleanser (for your sunscreen and makeup), and a toner would just be alright (consider it cleans the remaining debris off our skin and I feel like I would be wasting my money idk... sorry if I am wrong...

For oily and acne-prone skin, do you recommend the TONYMOLY The Chok Chok Green Tea Watery Cream or the MIZON Black All in One Snail Repair Cream?

Also, which one is it:

1. https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Recovery-Cream-fl-oz/dp/B00NTR9B6A/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1492577127&sr=8-3&keywords=Snail+mizon
   
   
2. https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Black-Snail-Cream-Ounce/dp/B00B4PWEJU/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1492577127&sr=8-4&keywords=Snail+mizon
   
   
3. https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Repair-Perfect-fl-oz/dp/B00HKFCSNK/ref=sr_1_8_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1492577127&sr=8-8&keywords=Snail+mizon
   
   

My two favorite moisturizers are both under $40 - I use the Mizon Black Snail AIO Cream when it's warmer, and the Banila Co. Miss Flower and Mr. Honey Cream at night during the winter months. The honey cream is a lot heavier than the Mizon one, but they're both great.

I found it on Amazon: https://amazon.com/MIZON-Black-Snail-Cream-Ounce/dp/B00B4PWEJU/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1482597116&sr=1-1&keywords=mizon+black+snail+cream

I've been using a lactic acid serum (8.5% lactic acid and 1.5% salicylic acid at pH 3.6) for exfoliating, predominantly, and I use it daily. I've been happy with it overall. But I've switched the rest of my skincare over to AB products and would like to switch this out as I'm nearing the end of the bottle.

I like daily exfoliating otherwise my skin is just flaky and rough. I have some hyperpigmentation going on as well so my main skin concerns are keeping the flakies away, smoothing the skin, and keeping the darkened skin at bay. I am not looking for miracles and am not looking to add multiple products.

I was eyeing the CosRX Whitehead as a replacement but am not sure that's exactly right.

Current routine (inasmuch as I have a routine):

Banila Clean It Zero Sherbet (3-5 times a week)
CeraVe cleanser (either gentle or foaming, depending on how dry I feel)
LacSal Serum -or-
CeraVe Serum

[Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQM3S3C)
Mizon Black Snail All In One Cream

I will typically do this every other day (the full thing) or I splash with water and use of the serums and moisture on the off days. I am really bad with routines and dislike using a lot of product so this is where I've settled and I love how my skin looks, overall, I just need a replacement for the serum. I'm using up the CeraVe products and will switch those out when empty.

Has anyone had experience with the Amazon Seller hellocos? They look pretty legit and have good ratings, but it wasn't in the list of reputable sellers in the sidebar. I'm looking to buy the Mizon Black Snail All In One cream!

Hey, which product do you recommend amongst these two?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ENZHXEO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1#customerReviews

and

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B4PWEJU/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_3_w#customerReviews

I got the Skin Aqua UV moisture milk white SPF50 on a recommendation from here.

Its lovely, very light. Doesn't upset my, or my boy's sensitive skin. Stands up to Australian Sun :) Seems to last for ever... I was about to haul my arse out to look for a body sunscreen for the summer, but this stuff goes so far that I think I'll be using it as a body sunscreen too. Got mine at random from ebay for about $13. Can find out exactly who and how much if you're interested.

Edited: turns out I brought it randomly at Amazon :) here

This one is actually a lot of peoples holy grail. That being said I dont know how high the Vit C % is in there. But its definitely a product a lot of people here love.

https://www.amazon.com/SKIN-AQUA-Sunscreen-Moisture-Whitening/dp/B00BJEAAHY

I got this. Is this good for me?

Coui sunscreen for day to day use

Sunplay - Skin Aqua for days when I'll be in the sun all day

I've been using OCM, meaning I cleanse with mineral oil, wipe that off, and then rub some olive oil back into my skin and then wait for it to seep in before applying vitamin C. I don't really have an acne issue, when I do it's always the result of hormones.

I don't know which one mine is, unfortunately. Any ideas?

Seconded, but you don't really need to see a doctor. Get a Lamisil anti fungal. I find that the Continuous Spray kind works best, but the creams are good too as long s you can reach all of your spots with it, but I still think that the spray works best.

I would not use the powder sprays, they are annoying, smelly and cover poorly.

The active ingredient in Lamisil has proven much more effective for me personally than that in Lotrimin, but both do work, Lotrimin just takes longer.

I was diagnosed with this condition back when the current active ingredient concentration was still prescription only. Now that it's available over the counter, I have found that the continuous spray works just as well as the script ever did.

FWIW my doctor told me it was something I would always have to deal with occasionally and that some people "were genetically predisposed to an overgrowth of this naturally occurring fungus."

I also found that this sunscreen has gotten rid of my spots too, which was surprising.

I'm about to go on a trip that will have me in full sunlight, all day most likely. I use this on my face normally along Skin79 BB cream, but according to the Amazon review this sunscreen will not be enough protection for my face. Can anyone recommend a good face and body sunscreen? How often should I ideally be applying it?

Also, I'm going to be in the sun a lot soon, as I'm a server and our patio just opened up. Most likely I'll be in the sun from 4 PM to sunset. I will absolutely be way too busy to stop mid-service to reapply sunscreen. How big of an issue is that? Can anyone recommend a good, fairly scentless sunscreen for that?

I worked the patio all last summer without sunscreen. It makes me shudder. I still have some sun damage on my chest.

Thank you, thank you, sank you!!!! I am in South America, and these are hard to find, but I'll get them shipped. I just got the Shiseido SENKA | Sunscreen | Mineral Water UV Gel SPF50 PA+++ and the SKIN AQUA | Sunscreen Lotion | Moisture Milk Whitening | SPF50+ PA+++ So I guess I'll be a happy little girl out in the sun as soon as they arrive. Right now I'm using Avène très haute protection lotion 50SPF, but it leaves me looking like a ghost, a mime, a mummy!!! it protects alright but I have a yellowish/olive tint on my skin and you can't imagine how weird that shit looks on me, even makeup doesn't cover it all that well... agh

I was originally using this cetaphil moisturizer and sunscreen: http://www.cetaphil.com/dermacontrol-oil-control-moisturizer-spf-30.
But I recently switched to applying this one everyday: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BJEAAHY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

So, micellar water actually is a facial rinse that removes makeup as well. So, even thought I remove eye makeup before I wash my face, I like the micellar water for rinsing. Iam not great as getting all of my mascara off and so washing my face still means I get raccoon eyes. I generally like it as a "swoosh" of the face that gives a wash and gently grabs all the eye mess as well. The bonus is, for the nights when I am lazy, using a couple cotton pads of this gets enough of the job mostly done and I got to stop using those wipes that were aggravating my already angry skin.

Now, for also saving some $$$, here's a few suggestions for a starter routine. These are the things that made the most immediate difference for me. But, please search out reviews for these yourself so you can see if they are right for you.

Wash: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser (drugstore and amazon)

Micellar Water: Garnier or Simple (drugstore or amazon). Bottle is HUGE so should last for five or six months.

Toner: Witch Hazel (drugstore and amazon). I use Dickinsons. Again, huge bottle, lasts forever. Also, cheap.

Vitamin C: Timeless C+E+ Ferulic Acid (amazon) Other brands are far more popular, but this one was the least expensive I could find that had good reviews. I'm quite happy with it and don’t feel the need to check out the fancier stuff. . Vitamin C has made a HUGE difference for my fine lines and the brightness and "visual healthiness" of my total complexion.

Chemical exfoliant: I think this step is just as important as Vitamin C. What's tough here is that there are A LOT of options. I currently us CosRx products here (amazon), but I started with drugstore and they worked GREAT too. The Stridex and the Nip/Fab pads are great and you can even cut each pad in half to extend your purchase. I used them and I liked them. See this link:

https://www.reddit.com/r/SkincareAddiction/wiki/exfoliation_recs

After exfoliants is where you can start adding LOTS of things (and I rotate through a bunch) but for keeping it simple and keeping a budget in mind, I'd recommend a repairing cream and then a moisturizer that also has healing elements.

I use Mizon for a repairing get. It made a huge difference in the tone of my skin and helped fade a lot of my acne marks.
https://www.amazon.com/Mizon-Snail-Recovery-Gel-Cream/dp/B00BQM3S3C

I use CeraVe for healing moisturizer. CeraVe has a cult following but people are obsessed with it because it is a fantastic product. I use the Cerave PM in both the morning and evening since I put on sunscreen anyway. But, there's a lot to choose from here and this one is just as loved and is a little less expensive.

https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizers/dp/B00UWID7VY/ref=pd_sim_194_1?ie=UTF8&dpID=51ZaZjhMUML&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=N4BH7JX0NB3Y5J1K6BJ5

This was probably too much information and if you add it all up, this may be beyond your budget. So, for the absolute musts, here's where I'd spend my first dollars:

Face Wash: Cerave Foaming or Cetaphil Gentle. You can even get the trial sizes to check them out.

Vitmin C or Exfoliant: Having both is ideal, but may not be practical. Choose one. If you choose the exfoliant, the Stridex and Nip/Fab pads are great depending on if you want a BHA or an AHA.

Moisturize: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. You can get a smaller size here as a tester too.

My advice is just start somewhere and add if you can or want to. I needed 1) daily/nightly care and 2) HEALING. You may think your skin is oily but it is likely dehydrated. I ditched my clarisonic too. I thought the clarisonic was giving me a deep clean, but it was really hurting my skin and making it angry and break out. Terrible.

IMO, pretty much assume your skin is dehydrated and give it some TLC. As you clean it and restore it's moisture barrier, you can look at what you want to do next.

Skincare can be comforting and relaxing and I hope it's also fun! I also enjoy flossing...but I only use one type of toothpaste. Am I missing out?

I was told this would be a better place to ask about this Mizon snail cream, Im using Cerave foaming cleanser and im going to be adding a bha (stridex or pc) and i want a new moisturizer because cerave pm was making things worse... the thing that worries me about this snail cream is dimethicone which cerave pm also contains, and ive heard it can clog pores (what most of my acne is i think). My skins oily-ish.

I just got Mizon's Snail Recovery Cream Gel a couple of days ago. I've only tried it a couple of times. I have tried some other, heavier snail creams that I didn't like. I'd actually given up on snail, thinking it wasn't for me! But this cream gel gives me hope. It is very light. It fully absorbs and leaves only softness behind.

The Mizon snail line and Benton snail bee line both have high concentrations of snail secretion filtrate. You can find almost the entire Mizon line on Amazon and I personally buy my Benton products from W2Beauty.

Same here! I specifically use the CLEAR BHA because acne and redness are my main problem. When I have acne spots that are healing, the Mizon Snail Recovery Gel really helps heal them faster.

A few times a week I'll put The Ordinary Vitamin C on at night, which might I add is dirt-cheap for a Vitamin C.

Skinfoods peach sake toner has been really good for my oily/acne skin and it smells sooo good my mouth waters.

I would get a moisturizer with snail in it. It will really help heal the leftover marks from acne. Something like Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream could be a good place to start. You could do a snail essence/serum/ampoule but you really should use a moisturizer somewhere in your routine.

Also, it's not skincare related but Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder is really wonderful for oil control throughout the day.

Don't try everything at once! If you react badly to something (as acne prone people often do) you won't know what it's from. Good luck :)

Does anyone know where to buy the [Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream] (http://www.amazon.com/Mizon-Snail-Recovery-Gel-Cream/dp/B00BQM3S3C) in a physical store in Los Angeles?

Are you using any other moisturizers?

Hyaluronic acid (HA) usually draws moisture from the air and into the skin. Living with high humidity is actually better since there is moisture for it to draw from. If you had lived in a dry climate, the HA would dry your skin by pulling moisture from your own skin instead.

Try applying onto damp skin and then sealing it with a good occlusive. I use the Mizon Snail Recovery Gel, which is highly recommended over at r/asianbeauty.

Hello! Longtime lurker, first time poster (female, 27 years old). Since my early 20s, my routine has consisted of using sunscreen in the morning and washing it off with water at night, and overall I am happy with my skin. However, for the last couple years I've been wanting to add in some products for exfoliation and to fade some spots; in order to add an AHA/BHA/vitamin C/other similar products, I figured I needed to get a good skincare routine with a cleanser and moisturizer in place first before incorporating actives. After reading Skincare Addiction and Asian Beauty posts for years I finally started building a skincare routine a few months ago, but I am confused and I need some help!

Pics of skin: https://imgur.com/a/BIDre I think the lighting is more flattering in the first picture, but my skin was also in a better place. The redness and bumpiness in the second picture started a few days ago, and I stopped using the moisturizer that was causing it so hopefully it will get better soon.

Issues: old scar on my cheek (from a weird patch of dry skin that lingered for months), sunspots/freckles on cheeks, PIH, a few CCs, dry skin flakes (especially in winter), one stubborn milia on my cheek (a milium?), occasional acne around that time of the month

Skin type: dry, sensitive (reacts to many products, but overall fairly resilient as long as I stop using all products for a few days after a reaction)

Current routine:

Morning:

• splash with water
  
  
• Bobbi Brown SPF 50 Protective Face Base: link (no makeup after, even though I think this sunscreen is for use under foundation)
  
  Evening:
  
  
• rinse with room temperature or lukewarm water
  
  
• use La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ moisturizing cream; previously Nivea Creme
  
  How long/anything new: I just switched to the La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm last night. For 2-3 weeks I was using Nivea Crème every night, but I noticed new whiteheads, redness, and bumps around my mouth recently. I have been trying out new skincare products for around 2-3 months.
  
  Goals for skincare routine over next 3 months: find a moisturizer that I can use morning and night, ideally one that also heals skin; add a cleanser for nighttime
  
  Goals for skincare routine over next year: add an AHA for exfoliation and fading scar on cheek, sun damage, and PIH; possibly add a vitamin C or other product to fade spots more; possibly switch out expensive Bobbi Brown sunscreen for one of the AB sunscreens I have (the Bobbi Brown sunscreen sort of doubles as a moisturizer for me, and my skin felt dry when using the AB ones since I didn't have a real moisturizer underneath. Once I find a good moisturizer, I'm planning to try the AB ones again)
  
  My location: USA
  
  Need recommendations for: