I think it might be a carbonated clay mask

I wasn't sure if this would fit in product questions or diy, so I put it in misc.

Seriously though, I get that the brand is a lot of the price, but these are just pure ingredients. The brand didn't do much other than create packaging with their brand on it.

You can get all of these, with more product, for less than $15 on amazon with just a quick search and hardly any effort.

Squalene, 2 fl oz (60 ml):
www.amazon.com/dp/B003MJG19K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_9UIBzbJZ2ASP5

Argan Oil, 4 fl oz (120 ml):
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QVR0O6Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_FLIBzbJPQ620Q

Shea Butter, 7 oz:
www.amazon.com/dp/B000F4J8VI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_5KIBzbV2CPQG2

You can get them for even cheaper if you bought them from ingredient suppliers as well.

I haven't seen it posted but this looks like Milky Piggy's Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask.

Like others have said it's messy, probably doesn't do much, but I had fun taking selfies with it too.

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.

I've had eczema for 24 years, and here are some products I swear by:

100% squalane oil - this is more expensive per ounce than hemp oil, but my god is it effective for flare-ups. Squalane is the hydrogenized form of squalene, an oil naturally found in your skin.

Cerave Moisturizing Cream - this is the holy grail for eczema lotion. It can sting when you put it on, if the flare-up is bad. It works really well when mixed with a few drops of squalane. Cerave's claim to fame is the ceramides. Skin with eczema is frequently lacking in these crucial lipids.

Colloidal Oatmeal Lotion - there are a few brands of these that are mostly the same, but this is the one I like. This is best for those really, really nasty flare-ups, especially the kind where you scratch yourself raw/bloody, because it's so gentle and thick.

Similarly, colloidal oatmeal for baths. If you've got a full-body flare-up going on, or a flare-up somewhere that lotion can't reach (like on your scalp), this can be incredibly soothing.

Dove Beauty Bar For Sensitive Skin - accept no substitutes. This is the only bar soap my skin can handle, and it is the only soap that every dermatologist I've ever seen has recommended for my eczema. That's because it's not technically soap, it's actually a gentle detergent mixed with moisturizer.

Sulfate-free shampoo - SLS, sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate, is a big trigger for me, and a common one. (I also have to use SLS-free toothpaste.) If you're prone to scalp flare-ups, this might be a good first line of defense. For a cheaper option, Johnson's Baby Shampoo is also sulfate-free.

If I sound like a brochure, I'm sorry. I've spent years dealing with this, and I'm kind of a skincare hobbyist (who also dabbles in hair care), so I've tried a lot of stuff.

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.

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)

So I'll give some general skincare advice and some acne specific advice since many of the posters here are dealing with that. If the acne part isn't relevant, you can skip ahead.

Acne

Acne is caused by sebum (skin oil), the oil clogs pores and attracts bacteria, leading to inflammation, which causes pus formation and pimples. Tendency to develop acne is sometimes genetic, but you can still kill it.

Get the sebum under control first. Make sure you're washing your bedsheets and pillow cases regularly (at least once per week).

Wash you face twice daily with a gentle, non pope-clogging cleaner. You don't want to use harsh cleaner with fragrances because it makes inflammation worse. I used Cetaphil Daily when I had acne, it works great. Wash your face morning and night with the cleaner using your hands. Every few days or so, lightly use a washcloth to aid in using the cleaner. You want to exfoliate dead skin and gunk, but not inflame your skin. Do not use astringent products, EVER.

After washing your face, use Persa-Gel on your pimples. The stuff is no joke and it's been proven for decades.

General Skincare

For people that don't have acne or have it under control, you want exfoliating cleaner and moisturizer. I only use two products.

Body Merry Glycolic Acid Cleaner for the face and neck. I use it once per day about 4 times a week, but you might want to start out twice a week at first to build tolerance, it's a gentle acid. You want to scrub the product on gently with your hands. This shit will change your game, trust me.

For moisturizer, I use CeraVe Lotion. Rub a small amount onto your face and neck once per day morning or night after your face wash. If you'd rather use it at night or you don't need the sunscreen, I'd recommend getting the PM formulation at a drug store because it's super expensive on Amazon.

Nutrition

Not only are fruit and vegetables good for you and alleviate depressive feelings, but people that eat more fruits and veggies are objectively more attractive. The pigments from the veggies/fruits deposit in your skin and give you a glow that's similar, but more attractive than tanning. You don't have to go crazy, but try and implement sweet potatoes, berries, green leafy veggies and other produce into your diet. Ditch the soda period. Stay hydrated. Pick up a nice water bottle and use it like there's no tomorrow. Stay away from refined sugar and white bread as well, these things cause inflammation. Whole grain bread is your friend (and will also help you lose weight if needed).

Also you gotta control the heavy drinking. And if you smoke cigs, quit ASAP.

Hopefully this helps. I'm not a doctor but I have a science background and a degree in biological science from a well regarded school. Also I have a lot of Asian friends and a family who care about skincare. Good luck to you guys and keep me posted with any progress :)

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.
   

Check out Asian and European sunscreens that arent sold in the US because they are lighter weight(cosmetically elegant as they call it) and they have better filters. My favorite is Sun Aqua Moisture Gel SPF 50 PA++++ its a lightweight gel that is like there is nothing on the skin. It's my HG. Def not greasy at all! It even sinks in when I apply over my whole routine. And it works well under makeup

Even with tret and 8-9 hour days outside with no reapplying I dont burn. I've burned after 2 hours with other supposed SPF 50 high ppd sunscreens(looking at you Australian Gold)

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

Raves:

[Rohto SKIN AQUA SARAFIT Essence UV (SPF50+ PA++++)]
(https://www.amazon.com/Rohto-SARAFIT-Essence-SPF50-JAPAN/dp/B01BM1UQS6)
This was a random purchase from Amazon, and I’m pleasantly surprised that it has worked out so well for my skin.
This sunscreen is inexpensive, $6.50 for 80 ml, works out to be only $2.40 per oz. Sunscreen filters include octinoxate, uvinul A plus, and tinosorb S. This doesn’t break me out! It contains no fatty alcohols, no irritating plant extracts, and my skin feels slightly moisturized after using this. It does contain alcohol, but it doesn’t feel drying. Makeup applies like a dream over this, and there’s no white cast. This dries down slightly dewy, really somewhere between matte and dewy. It’s not as matte as Biore UV Perfect Milk. At first it looks shiny, but after 3-5 minutes it dries down. I could see this working for both oily and dry skin types. Honestly though, dry skin types would probably like the Skin Aqua Moisture Gel more. I have that one, I’ve been using it on my neck, chest, and hands. It’s much more moisturizing. I'm seriously thrilled with my Skin Aqua discovery. If I was deserted on a desert island and could only pick one sunscreen to have for the rest of my life, I would pick this one.

Smith’s Strawberry Lip Balm
I reviewed the ingredient lists of all the different Smith’s lip balms, and the strawberry stuck out to me because it consists of petrolatum, lanolin, and beeswax. No plant extracts. The other formulas are just petrolatum, maybe an oil, and plant extracts. This is moisturizing and lasts for several hours on my lips. It’s not to waxy, not to sticky, just lovely. When you open the tin there is a strawberry fragrance, but this doesn’t linger on my lips at all. The scent reminds me of strawberry cake. It isn’t my favorite but isn’t terrible. I’ve been using this on my cuticles too. It works well, but I do find Bag Balm is a more moisturizing and effective petrolatum/lanolin product.

Jack Black Lip Balm spf 25
The hype is real. This is one of the most moisturizing lip balms I’ve ever tried in my life. It just melts into my lips and isn’t waxy or greasy at all. It does seem to wear off after 2-3 hours, but it leaves my lips softer. The packaging is amazing, this is one of the best squeeze tubs I’ve ever used. It’s hard to explain it. It’s very easy to squeeze a small amount out, it’s very easy to control. Everything about this balm comes across as high quality, and I’m surprised it’s selling for only $7.50. I accidently ordered the mint & shea butter, when I really wanted the blackberry version. The mint and shea butter does tingle for a few seconds, and this freaks me out. There isn’t menthol or mint in the ingredient list, and this doesn’t irritate my lips…but I’m not a huge fan of the tingling sensation.

Rants:

Smith’s Rosebud Salve

This is very different than the Strawberry balm. The Rosebud Salve is overrated and not worth the hype imo. The ingredient list includes petrolatum and cottonseed oil, and I wondered if the cottonseed oil would make it more moisturizing then regular Vaseline. Nope, it’s not more moisturizing than plain Vaseline. It’s essentially pink petrolatum with rose fragrance. I’m disappointed in myself for purchasing this despite my gut feeling that I wouldn’t be happy with it because of the ingredient list.


New Purchases:

Skinlex’s 20% LAA Serum

This meets all the requirements I want out of a vitamin C serum.

1. It uses an airtight pump, not a dropper
   
   
2. The pH isn’t too low (3-3.3). The Timeless vitamin C serum gave me a lot of trouble, I think it’s very low pH (2.4) contributed to the irritation I experienced
   
   
3. Contains ferulic acid but no vit E. It's been hard to find an LAA serum with just ferulic acid, not vit E
   
   
4. No oils or ingredients that would break me out
   
   Skinlex’s Alpha Arbutin Serum
   
   I’ve just about finished up my bottle of The Ordinary’s Alpha Arbutin, and Skinlex’s product seems a lot better. It’s cheaper per oz at $6.80 (bottle includes 2 oz) vs TO’s Arbutin at $8.90. It also includes so many great ingredients…niacinamide, MAP, tranexamic acid, panthenol, licorice root extract, hyaluronic acid, allantoin….I’m crossing my fingers this doesn’t break me out.
   
   edit: lol I didn't realize I wrote a book long post until I hit submit
   
   

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.

Cure Natural Aqua Gel

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!

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.

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.

This is the one I got. That will last me 5+ months.

Milky Piggy's Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask

She might be allergic to zinc oxide. It's uncommon, but some people figure out they have it because they react badly to diaper cream.

So, I'd avoid sunscreens containing avobenzone and zinc oxide. This leaves you with European or Asian sunscreens. Some mild ones include:

• Biore Carefree Kids Milk Water and sweat resistant. Best for dry skin.
  
• Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel NOT water or sweat resistant. Best for normal to dry skin.
  
• Nivea Super Water Gel NOT water or sweat resistant. Best for normal to dry skin.

I've made a list of product recs for this!

Recs for hydrating serums & toners:

the serums & toners HG thread,

> Scinic Honey All In One Ampoule (review, jolse)

> Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence (review, jolse)

> Paula's Choice SKIN RECOVERY Enriched Calming Toner (Paula's Choice)

the dry & dehydrated skin thread,

> RUMASE BIFIDA Snail Toner (review, ibbi)

> Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion (review, amazon)

> Klairs Supple Preparation Toner (review, wishtrend)

> Kiku-Masamune High Moist Lotion (review, amazon)

and AB products for dry, sensitive, or over-exfoliation skin

> Dear by Enprani Moistfull Booskin (review)

> Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner (review, jolse)

> COSRX Galactomyces 95 Whitening Power Essence (review, jolse)

> Benton Snail Bee High Content Essence (review, jolse)

> Guerisson 9-Complex Horse Oil Essence (review)

> Innisfree The Green Tea Seed Serum (review, jolse)

> Superdrug Simple Hydrating Serum (review, £2.99 on superdrug)

> Scinic Aqua AIO Ampoule (review, jolse)

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

Recs for emulsions & light lotions:

the AB products for dry, sensitive, or over-exfoliation skin

> Skin Watchers Ceramizing Essence Toner (first impressions review)

> Holika Holika - Skin & Good Cera Ceramide Ultra Toner (review, jolse)

> Thank You Farmer Miracle Age Emulsion (review)

> COSRX Oil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap (review, jolse)

> Nature Republic Snail Solution Emulsion (review, jolse)

the dry & dehydrated skin thread

> Dr. Jart ceramidin liquid (review, amazon)

my own recs:

> Innisfree Green Tea Moisture Essence (review - coming soon!, jolse)

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

Recs for gels:

the AB products for dry, sensitive, or over-exfoliation skin

> Rosette Ceramide Gel (review, amazon)

> Hada Labo Rohto Gokujun Perfect Gel (review, amazon)

> Mizon Snail Recovery Gel Cream (review, jolse)

> Nature Republic Super Aqua Max Moisture Watery Cream (review, jolse)

> * Skin Ceramic Donkey Milk Yogurt All-In-One Gel Cream (review, yesstyle)

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

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

It's approximately 50% Witch Hazel, 25% Hyaluronic Acid (1% serum), 20% Glycerin, & the remaining 5% is a dropper full of Argan Oil & 2-3 drops of Tea Tree Oil. I stick it in a little dark blue glass bottle & give it a shake before use. The percentages work well for me, but you can change it up to suit your skin. The more Glycerin you add, the more sticky it gets, so keep that in mind. Also, keep the Tea Tree oil to a bare minimum, too much it it can definitely irritate your skin. You can try adding other stuff, but this combo work well for me; hydrating & a bit anti-inflammatory. All the ingredients are finished products that can be used on their own as well.

http://www.amazon.com/Thayers-Alcohol-free-Petal-Witch-Hazel/dp/B00016XJ4M

http://www.amazon.com/Solutions-Glycerine-Vegetable-16-Fluid-Ounces/dp/B0019LWU2K

http://www.amazon.com/Original-Hyaluronic-Acid-Serum-100/dp/B003MJ7Z0O

http://www.amazon.com/Organic-Argan-Pressed-Virgin-Golden/dp/B00397SNMS

http://www.amazon.com/NOW-Foods-Tea-Tree-Oil/dp/B000ELP5KA

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! :)

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 am obsessed with Skin79 Hot Pink. They sell a 4 set sampler of Skin79 with shipping on Amazon for like $10.

I got to try out all 4 creams and found the right one for me.

http://www.amazon.com/Skin79-Cream-Miniature-Mini-Black/dp/B002HPBF32/ref=sr_1_4?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1376522529&sr=1-4&keywords=skin79

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)

I have low porosity 4c hair. Lately i've been i've been making my own moisturizing cream by mixing shea butter + glycerin + grapeseed oil. Some water in my hair + this cream makes it SO SOFT!

Shea butter: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00D9NV2D4/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1543325799&sr=8-3&keywords=shea+butter&dpPl=1&dpID=41NORnT1QuL&ref=plSrch

Glycerin: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0019LWU2K/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1543326071&sr=8-3&keywords=glycerin&dpPl=1&dpID=410vsDWu-mL&ref=plSrch

Grapeseed oil: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000RZPVV6/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1543326138&sr=8-3&keywords=grapeseed+oil&dpPl=1&dpID=31HE6YXHi0L&ref=plSrch

P.S. it's cool to see what products everyone loves, but it's pretty useless to others unless you let us know what your hair type is!

::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.
  

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.

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!!

I use CeraVe daily facial moisturizing lotion

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 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.

Those are sheets, I think it's this one: https://www.amazon.com/Elizavecca-Milky-Piggy-Carbonated-Bubble/dp/B00MWI2IS0/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2RCFXSKBZQTHG&keywords=milky+piggy+carbonated+bubble+clay+mask&qid=1551271591&s=gateway&sprefix=Milky&sr=8-3

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream 19 oz Daily Face and Body Moisturizer for Dry Ski

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TTD9BRC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_6crMBbWZSDVD3

Linkining in case ops never doesn't know we call it "in the tub" lol.
I also think this would be his best bet. It has hyaluronic acid in it too!

I really like the Japanese sunscreens. This one has almost no odor, feels like moisturizer, and is non-sweaty (at least for me).

I really, really love my Skin Aqua UV gel. This guy here. Comes in a good sized bottle, sinks in quick, good protection (SPF50+ PA++++), and moisturizing without being greasy or overly dewy. Pretty sure it's not an extended use or "outdoor" sunscreen though, so be aware of that.

Yes, this is a common problem. Regular cleaning eliminates this problem for me, but if cleaning it doesn't help, try using some lubricant. Vegetable glycerine works great, and is the same as what's in the lubricant that Ploom offers. Just apply a drop of that to the mouthpiece stem and click it up and down a few times, and that should take care of your problem. Don't forget to still clean it regularly, though!

It largely depends on where you live and how quickly you need the items. As a general rule, if you're willing to wait a bit, you can find items much cheaper from non-Prime sellers on Amazon and overseas sellers on eBay. Also, if you're just purchasing a few things and they are heavy items, I find it's usually cheaper to stay away from sites with high shipping charges by weight, like Testerkorea and RoseRoseShop.

I usually do a lot of research when I make a new product purchase to find the lowest price from a reputable seller that I can. Partly because I just like shopping online for AB stuff and partly because I make it into a sort of game to see how cheap I can find something. It's like a hobby for me.

I recommend the Honey browser extension for Amazon. If you're looking for something it will tell you if there's a cheaper price available from another seller. It also goes through available coupon codes on many other online sites to see if there's one in the database that works for your order.

Anyway, I'm not sure where you live, but I did a bit of looking (I'm in the U.S.), and this is what I came up with. I can't guarantee these are the best prices out there -- just what I found from a bit of quick looking at a few different places.

Hado Labo foam for $9.40 with free shipping on Amazon (not Prime) here

The Face Shop Cleansing Oil - $9.58 with free shipping from Jolse here or $10.20 on Amazon Prime here.

Shiseido Aging Care Sunscreen on Amazon for $8.20 with free shipping (non-Prime) here.

Rosette Aqua Ceramide Gel - $12.45 with free shipping (non-Prime) on Amazon here.

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.

It may have also been due to SLS or SLES! I recently switched over to Vanicream cleanser, $7 and 10% sulfur ointment, $8 as recommended as my curology provider and a lot of the irritation and texture is slowly beginning to fade from my face. Also, I read that snail mucin is excellent for hydration; Cosrx snail 96 mucin is only 15 bucks on Amazon. No fragrance or SLS for me anymore...

Same here. It has made a lot of difference for me.

Witch Hazel

Moisturizer

Face wash

That’s all 3 things I use. The last 2 have lasted me 5 months and I use them both morning and night. The toner lasts about 2-3 months.

Ok! (I have melasma too. Grrrr, I hate it!)

Have you always been on the 0.05%? Did you start at a lower dose and work up? I use tret too, and it is ferocious when you first start using it, it has kind of a long acclimation period. How long have you been using it?

For your routine, I have a few thoughts. You've got some potent products going on, which is ok.

Right off the bat, I'd suggest switching to a non-foaming cleanser. Foaming cleansers generally have an ingredient in them to produce a lather (it's normally an SLS) and they can dry your skin out extra. Look for a gentle hydrating facial cleanser. Since you are using a CeraVe now, you can try the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. I would recommend this one from Cetaphil though. It's super gentle, AND! You can get a travel-sized bottle from the mini's section at Target for under $2 to try it out.

I like the silicone scrubbies! It's nice for tret users because of the peelies. Just be gentle with it, and maybe even switch to every other day use.

Are you using the oil control moisturizer because you're oily? You definitely want a moisturizer in the AM. You may want to find something with ceramides and/or niacinamide and/or hylauronic acid to really help your moisture barrier during the day. This would go under your sunscreen and after your hydroquinone.

Ok, then the next big thing I think will really help, is adding a good moisturizer at night. You don't even have to use a fancy one. Both CeraVe PM or CeraVe moisturizing cream are good options. The former has some extra goodies in it (niacinamide), but the later is really creamy and rich (you can also but it all over your body. It also comes in a smaller "travel size" tube for less $$$ if you just want to try it out).

Since you are on a kinda beefy dose of Retnin-A I would recommend mixing a pea-sized amount for your entire face into a dollop of the moisturizer you chose and apply it that way. This won't change the potency of the retnin-A at all, it just provides a bit of a buffer for your moisture barrier.

Personally, I take this a step further and wait 15 minutes for everything to sink in, apply a little more moisturizer, then apply vaseline ALL OVER my face before I go to sleep. This may or may not help you out-- I don't know how your face and your acne responds to occlusives. But, the vaseline step is what was crucial for my skin to stop being so red and peely on retnin-A, because it locks the moisturizer in while you sleep.

Edit: Sorry, this post was getting long so I figured I'd send it. I know we haven't even talked sunscreen yet! But, I strongly suspect the sunscreen isn't the root of the problem, so I wanted to talk about your routine first.

I think my skin looks pretty good without bragging. I still deal with Sebaceous Filaments and some Closed Comedones that will show up from time to time. But I think wearing sunscreen religiously for this long contributed to fading some sun spots that resulted from my childhood. Growing up in the 70s-80s, Sunscreen was a luxury for us and the highest SPF I remember seeing was 8! So you can imagine the damage that was done.

Friends and even people I meet always tell me I look in my 30s instead of 46. But to be honest, I wear sunscreen mainly for skin Cancer prevention not for vanity but I still want to look good while wearing it :).

My favorite sunscreens for now are:

For hot and humid days

• MAKEP:REM UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Fluid SPF 50
  
  
• EltaMd UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50
  
  For everyday light activity use
  
  
• EltaMd UV Lotion Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Plus
  
  
• Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel pump (SPF50 + PA ++++)
  
  For winter
  
  
• EltaMd UV Lotion Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 Plus
  
  
• HYDRALIGHT Shine-Free Mineral Complex SPF 30.

This is my holy grail: https://smile.amazon.com/Skin-Aqua-Super-Moisture-SPF50/dp/B01BM1USNO/ref=sr_1_2_a_it


I have bought it again and again--from Japan, but now you can get it on Amazon. It's a huge bottle for the money.

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

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

My favorite skincare that I get on Amazon. Sheet masks are fun, and my skin just loves squalane and urea as ingredients. I also find something satisfying about slathering myself in oil before bed (probably because I was told to avoid them like the plague as a child).

Face masks: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MAYSKYT/

Squalane oil: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003MJG19K/

Urea creamy oil: https://www.amazon.com/Excipial-Hydrating-Healing-Lotion-Ounce/dp/B014QVWLUA/

Have fun shopping!

As far as the squalane goes, 100% plant derived squalane is 100% plant derived squalane. Timeless (2oz bottle) has a better price per ounce plus free shipping, both prime and non-prime. TO's squalane (1oz bottle) is going to run you over twice as much an ounce after shipping is paid for.

Squalane is a good if your skin likes facial oils, though. I like to mix it into creams/serums/other products because the very thin texture can make it difficult to apply on its own. It's good if you're looking for your routine to be more moisturizing. It's not very occlusive, so I'd look for another oil if that's something you want.

Hey ScA! Found a few products that I wanted to add to my routine through reccs here and research so I thought I'd share them. I have combination skin, Fitzpatrick type IV, and my daily struggles are mainly with hyperpigmentation, a wonky texture on my forehead, and hydration. If you have any friendly advice, warnings, criticisms, I'm all ears. :)

-From Left to Right-

• Radha Beauty Rosehip Oil: Bought mainly for the linoleic acid. The bottle is huge, the dropper is nice, and it should last a while sitting in its nook in my fridge.
  
• Peach Slices Citrus-Honey Aqua Glow: a gel moisturizer with a light, citrus scent that absorbs like lightning and sits well under my sunscreen. I'm patch testing this right now but I'm very happy with it. Confession: shamelessly bought for the packaging.
  
• CVS samples! :)
  
• Timeless 100% Pure Squalane Oil: emollient, comes in a glass bottle and I'm probably going to mix a few drops in with my moisturizers or use it in its own step.
  
• AmLactin AHA Body Lotion: My boyfriend and I both suffer from keratosis pilaris, so we're giving this a shot in conjunction with a daily SPF on the arms.
  
• Biore Perfect UV Face Milk: This is a repurchase, it lasts surprisingly long for only being 30 ml (then again, I don't reapply, tsk tsk), is cosmetically elegant, and though there's a bit of a white cast, it goes away after a few minutes even on my darker skin. It is a bit drying, though, which makes sense since its supposed to be a matte sunscreen but I might replace it when I get around to it. Still highly recommend, especially for oily skin!
  
  Also picked up some cod liver oil. Will it do anything for my skin? Uh, maybe! Mom's been getting on me about my omega-3s so I humored her. :)

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.

1. Cleanser - CeraVe Foaming Cleaner
   
   
2. Moisturizer - CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (known as CeraVe in the Tub)
   
   
3. BHA - Paula's Choice 2% BHA
   
   
4. AHA - Paula's Choice 8% AHA
   
   
5. Sunscreen - Paula's Choice 50SPF
   
   
6. Skin Mask - The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2%
   
   
7. Niacinamide - The Ordinary
   
   
8. Caffeine - The Ordinary
   
   
9. Weekly Skin Mask - 1:1 Aztec Healing Clay and Apple Cider Vineager
   
   
10. Toner - Thayer's Witch Hazel
    
    Though tbh, I've been taking good care of my skin for >6 months now and I don't need to use most of this stuff anymore, just my cleanser and moisturizer twice a day.

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!

You can always get the one from Timeless! It's actually cheaper because you get twice as much. There's nothing special about The Ordinary's squalane. Squalane is squalane.


If you don't have Amazon Prime, you can also order directly from Timeless's website. They have free shipping.

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

For PP care (uncomplicated vaginal birth, 1st degree tear) I used Depends Adult Diapers (maybe 20? Had a few left over), Dermoplast (the blue can!!!), Tucks Pads, and made padsicles (20ish) before hand (extra large maxi pads, alo vera gel, alcohol free witch hazel, a spattering of tea tree oil, pop in freezer). Hands down would recommend. My hospital didn't send me home with any supplies so I'm glad I went ahead and got some "just in case" items before hand. The adult diapers were pretty much like wearing comfy granny panties, not at all "diaper feeling" like I thought they'd be, and I could pop a padsicle in every few hours easy peasy without worrying about ruining underpants or leaking everywhere. Once the Depends needed to be changed out I'd just trash the whole thing and start fresh. No clean up - 10/10.

Pricing everything out I've listed (lazily) on Amazon my "kit" would be around $80, but you can find these things for much cheaper in CVS or your local drug store. Looking at the quantities included in your kit I'm thinking you'd have to buy additional products anyway (more pads for sure, more briefs most likely, and I'm not sure how easy it is to clean the compresses but the padsicles are awesome and disposable, major plus in my book). I'm not sure it's as great a kit as it looks at first glance.

ETA - I didn't need these for PP care but I do love having chux for the kiddo. I have a few in the diaper bag and lay them on nasty public changing tables before I lay down his changing pad for an extra layer of protection (and so I don't drag a dirty pad back into the diaper bag).

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!

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.

Raves:

Etude House Cat Headband- I got this as a freebie and I looove it. I feel so cute when I do my routine, it keeps my bangs out of my products, and my SO seems to like it too. It's funny that such a small thing can make me feel happy~

It's My Cushion(Black and Mint)- I am so upset with myself for waiting so long to get a cushion. I use the Black for BB Cream and the Mint for sunscreen.

I don't get gross BB Cream or sunscreen all over the back of my hand, I feel like it's more sanitary because I'm not touching all over my freshly cleaned face, and it gives a better finish to my application. I also use less product. And since I'm using my own BB cream, I can refill it easily(one bottle costs about the same as a good BB cushion, and lasts me around two years)

Rosette Ceramide Gel- The elusive "chok chok" feeling, just like CosRx Honey Ceramide Cream gave me, but without an allergic reaction from the honey. It dries a little more slowly, but is also more matte, which makes applying my sunscreen and makeup easier. To me, it also feels a lot lighter, but only a tiny bit less moisturizing than the CosRx.

Rave/Rant:

Beauty People Lip Tattoo(Tomato and Strawberry)- TL;DR Great product, but why does Korea only ever make lip products in four colors?!

First, the good: It doesn't dry my lips out horribly like most lip tints, and it lasts. Like, will not come off even with oil cleanser. And it doesn't highlight damaged parts of my lip like other tints. Full coverage!

It's very pigmented. If you look good in bright lipsticks, you will love this. The tomato is(well, like a tomato, facepalm) bright orange-red, not a true red, which was disappointing to me as I look horrible in orange. And the strawberry is like if you added cool undertones to hot pink. However, I favor a more natural look. I was hoping to do what I did with my old tint, and either only put on a thin layer, or apply it more thickly, then heavily blot to bring it close to my natural color.

You can't apply it thinly, it just doesn't work. But you can do the blotting method if you're very quick. If you leave the product sitting for more than about 7-10 seconds, it'll be there the rest of the day. Nothing you can do about it. Don't touch it with your fingers, and don't try and use your toothbrush to remove it either(stained hands and one ruined toothbrush later...)

Even a thin layer does last all day though. I think this would be a fantastic product for someone who loves bright lipstick. It's also great for people whose lips get dried out from other lip tints, or for people who tend to rub off their lip products.

I do like the lasting power and I can make it work for now, so I'm keeping the Tomato and getting rid of Strawberry. But I'll be trying other lip stains until I can find an HG that is long lasting and a good color, so I'll have more reviews for you later. Please let me know if you have any suggestions!

I've heard PeriPera Inks are nice too, but they have pretty much the same shades, so I'll probably try something else...

I ordered a bottle of Cure Natural Aqua Gel exfoliator stuff out of pure curiousity. While I was researching it I found loads of rave reviews along with skeptical assessments that because of its ingredients it shouldn't work. I have to find out for myself.


I also ordered another bottle of Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence, making this my third repurchase. My skin really loves this stuff and it seems to miss it when I run out.


I'm trying to decide which facial sunscreen to try next and would appreciate recommendations, particularly AB! I'm currently finishing a tube of Missha All Around Safe Block and like it a lot but fancy trying something different. I've also used and enjoyed Shiseido Hada Senka Mineral UV Gel, Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essences, Supergoop Everyday, Supergoop Soothing, and both of the ones from Elta MD. Ones I didn't like so much were Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch, Benefit Dream Screen, or any of the ones from La Roche Posay. I have dry skin and my budget is pretty open, and I don't have a preference between physical and chemical sunscreens.

It's this stuff.

If anyone is looking for a similar product (but not in a sheet), this one from Amazon is really fun!

[This] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MWI2IS0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1) one is pretty fun....it makes your face look like a cloud. I also love [this] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GL2IPAC/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_8?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A2U8F4XRQGNQLX) one. The best of the best is the indian aztec secret healing clay.

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.

I'm pre-HRT, but here's my skincare routine, with links to the exact products I use. I tried my best to define any skincare terminology. I recommend doing this before bed. Make sure to do the steps in the order listed.

Night time skincare routine

1) Exfoliate. This removes dead skin and other crud. Without exfoliating, you'd be applying skincare products on top of your layer of dead skin, which wouldn't be as effective. I use a Salux brand exfoliating cloth in the shower, lathered with Dove brand bar soap. You should only exfoliate and shave 2 to 3 times a week because it's abrasive. Other steps can be done every night. Side note: if you've never exfoliated before, I highly recommend trying it once. You will feel cleaner than you've ever felt after showering.

2) Shave. If you need to shave, now is the time to do it. If you've had laser hair removal, or simply don't have much body hair, move on to the next step. I don't have specific recommendations for shaving products. The most important thing is to use a clean razor. If you are reusing a razor, wash it with soap and hot water, and use rubbing alcohol to kill any leftover bacteria. Exfoliating before shaving can reduce razor burn because you're cleaner, and therefore less likely to get dead skin and bacteria into the "micro cuts" caused by shaving. Even if you don't cut yourself deeply enough to bleed, dragging a metal blade across your face is always slightly irritating. (Side note: I can't effing wait to get laser.) If you cut yourself shaving, you may apply some 70% rubbing alcohol, only to the cut. I've seen sources that recommend applying rubbing alcohol everywhere after shaving, to kill bacteria and therefore reduce irritation. I don't recommend this because rubbing alcohol is harsh and will dry your skin.

3) Toner. This step cleans your skin further. Similar to exfoliating, the idea is to remove as much dirt and dead skin as possible, so that the skincare products can actually absorb into your skin. I pour some Thayers brand alcohol-free, rose scented witch hazel on a cotton ball and apply to my face and neck. Another reason why the order of the steps is important: This toner contains witch hazel, which is an astringent. This means it tightens your skin. Using witch hazel after shaving may reduce irritation by causing any micro cuts to contract. Let your skin air-dry before moving on.

4) Serum. Now that you're clean, it's time for products that will actually be absorbed by your skin. There are many types of serum available. I typically use retinol, which tightens your skin and prevents wrinkles. I apply a few drops of retinol serum to my face and neck and rub it in. I wait a few moments to let the serum dry before the next step.

5) Moisturizer. Last step. This hydrates your skin and keeps you looking young. I use CeraVe moisturizing cream. It comes in a white tub with a blue label. Most nights I just apply to my face and neck. On the nights that I exfoliate, I use moisturizer on my whole body. The main reason is that it can be time consuming, so I only moisturize my whole body after exfoliating, when my skin will better absorb the moisturizer. Additionally, I use this moisturizer on my hands several times throughout the day (especially after washing my hands because soap can be drying.) This makes a significant difference in reducing dry skin, especially noticeable in the winter. If you only get one skincare product, I recommend this one.

Other important things

That's my nightly skincare routine, but wait, there's more! Any day there's a chance you'll spend time in the sun, wear sunscreen!! This is probably more important than all the other steps put together. You can apply sunscreen on top of your moisturizer, or use a moisturizer that includes SPF. Recently I've been experimenting with using this SPF moisturizer on my face every morning.

Last thing: some people think skincare is all about applying products to your skin, so they'll buy fancier and more expensive products. This is like pulling harder on one lever without realizing there are many other levers available. Diet, exercise, hydration, sleep, having fun, and avoiding stress are all important too. Drink water!! Like, drink a little more water than you think you need.

Edit: Can't believe I forgot this. Don't smoke, and don't use hard drugs. Please don't drink alcohol at your age because it can cause brain damage. When you're older, if you choose to drink, do so in moderation. I don't want to come across as "no fun allowed," but please learn from my experience. Binge drinking is not only bad for your skin, it will make you feel like complete poop the next day. Not worth it.

Edit 2: Fixed formatting, and added details.

Good luck, sis!

Asian sunscreens! My bf is the same way and i bought a bunch of stuff for him but I finally got him by letting him use my $17 from amazon sunscreen! Figured he wouldn’t like it because it’s what I use and is spf 50++++, but the UV skin aqua moisture gel sunscreen works for both of us now :) he says “wow it’s really like water!” All the time lol. Linked on amazon below- takes 1-2 weeks to get but comes with cool Japanese postage stamps :)

Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel pump (SPF50 + PA ++++) 140g https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BM1USNO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_erA6Cb7H5RX3Z

Cleansers (Unless you're using a medicated cleanser most skincare products aren't really going to prevent acne.)

Mochitto Mochi Mochi Face Wash

Hada Labo Gokujun Oil Cleanser (200ml)

Hada Labo Gokujun Hyaluronic Cleansing Foam (160ml)

Medicated Deep Cleansing Oil L (200ml)

Cow Brand Additive-Free Foaming Facial Cleanser (200ml)

Rohto Hadalabo es cleansing foam type (160ML)

Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion (170ml)

Spot Treatment

Since your acne is deep in the skin I would look for a dermatologist that also serves foreigners because unless I'm mistaken a lot of products with Benzoyl Peroxide etc are prescription only.

Hydrating Toners

Meishoku Cosmetics Meishoku Facial Water Medicated Skin Lotion 2.7 oz (80 ml) - Acne Prevention

Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Solution (170ml)

Hada Labo Gokujyun "Hyaluronic-Eki" Large-Capacity Pump-Type 400ml

Matsuyama Skin Moisturizing Water, Light Type

Kikumasamune High Moist Lotion

Mebika Moist Lotion

Cezanne High Moist Lotion


Meishoku Cosmetics Ceracolla Super Moist Face Lotion 6 fl oz (180ml)


Gels

Hada Labo Shirojyun Cool Hyaluronic Jelly (200ml)

Naturie Skin Conditioning Gel

Rosette Ceramide Gel

Meishoku Cerracolla Perfect Gel

Moisturisers

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Eaude Muge Medicated Skin Cream - 40g - Acne Prevention


Lion Pair Acne Clean Lotion - Look for the cream as well!

Meishoku Cerracolla Perfect Cream

MUJI Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Milk - Moisture (200ml)

Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Cream 50g

Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Milky Lotion 140ml

Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Milky Emulsion (140ml)

Sunscreens

CANMAKE Mermaid Skin Gel UV

Nivea Protect Water Gel SPF35/PA+++ Pump 140g

Biore Sarasara UV Perfect Face Milk SPF50+/PA++++ 30ml

Biore Sarasara UV Perfect Milk SPF50+/PA++++ 40ml

Hada Labo Gokujun Perfect UV Gel (50g)

Welcome! :) Ceramide products are good at repairing your skin's moisture barrier and are good moisturizing products. If these sound like things you are looking for, I highly recommend getting some products with ceramide in them! A popular product is the Rosette Ceramide Gel.

Vitamin C is a good idea, just make sure you start slow, like once a week. Also, actives such as vitamin C are a form of chemical exfoliation. You want to make sure you have a few solid moisturizers at the ready to compensate for the drying nature of actives.

Snails are a great idea too, but they don't have the same mind-blowing affect for everyone who uses them. Its a very Your Milage May Vary (YMMV) sort of thing! A popular snail product is the Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence. This product has 96% snail mucin, so it'd be a good way to see if snail is an effective ingredient for you. (because 10% snail in a good cream may give you good results, but it may not be because of the snail if you catch my drift!)

However! First and foremost, if hyperpigmentation is your problem and you have no routine, start with a sunscreen! If the word makes you cringe, don't worry, AB sunscreens don't tend to be as thick and sticky as Western suncreens.

Which brings me to two threads you should start with. The AB Beginner Guide is a good place for basic information. The Holy Grail Thread is a good place to see what products people with your same skintype swear by.

ALSO I wouldn't recommend using sheet masks meant for your face on the rest of your body. Sheet masks are usually a temporary fix for your skin issues and I would not rely on them to do any major skin whitening. I'd pick a product that you can use on the body and that will give you consistent results. Try products with niacinimide and arbutin, which are whitening ingredients.

That's what I have to contribute! Feel free to ask more questions and good luck!

I got this one, and it had a seal with the little spatula on top of the seal: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FQNIX0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

My first time trying the product -- I think it's real and my skin seems to like it. Hoping the one you got was not this seller :/

I've been using vegetable glycerin for awhile now. The first bottle I got was pretty small. It said it could also be used as a sweetener, which I never used it for that. But I noticed when it accidentally got on my lips it tasted rather sweet. I ran out. Bought a new bottle, from a different brand. It seems like this vegetable glycerin isn't sweet at all and seems to not.. work as well/not seem as sticky? Does that sound crazy? What gives?

Edit: Maybe one is food grade and the other cosmetic grade? What kinda differences are between those two types? This is the one I first bought, this is the bigger bottle I bought.

You can DIY it pretty inexpensively. All you need is 4 parts distilled water, 1 part vegetable glycerin and a few drops of the essential oils of your choice. I also like to add a little of my conditioner to the mix.

Okay, so a while ago I said I was going to make a gummy bear tutorial and I never did so I thought it was about time I at least made a write up for them. This recipe will get you right around 200 gummy bears.

Tools:

• Small non stick pot with a lid
  
• medium non stick pot
  
• 60ml Syringe - Here
  
• stiff silicone spatula - Here
  
• 2 small pyrex dishes - Here
  
• Candy theremometer - Here
  
• Fork to stir with
  
• Gummy bear molds (or any other you like) - Here I also just found these
  
• Measuring Cup
  
• Measuring Spoon
  
• Strainer - Here
  
• Medium/large bowl
  
• Partchment paper
  
• A few large tupperware containers
  
• Dram droppers for the flavorings - Here
  
  Ingredients:
  
  
• 1 Package of Jello (85 grams if you have a scale) in the flavor of gummies you want
  
• LorAnn oils concentrated flavorings - Here
  
• LorAnns oils mold Inhibitor - Here
  
• LorAnns oils Preserve-it Antioxidant - Here
  
• 5 Tbsp plain gelatin powder - low quality / less chewie here High quality / more chewie here
  
• 1 tsp of Soy lecthin powder - Here
  
• 1/2 cup of Real Fruit juice of the flavor you want to make, get creative here, needs to be cold. Cold water can also be used but the flavor is not as good.
  
• 1/4 cup of sugar
  
• Glycerin - Here
  
• 6 grams of Concentrates (AKA: BHO, Shatter, Wax, Oil, Hash oil, etc)
  
• 1 Tbsp Coconut oil
  
• Cornstartch
  
  Decarbing
  
  Pre-heat your oven to 250F - 260F, use the digital theremometer to keep an eye on the temp to make sure it stays around there and does not get above 260F. I like to place my concentrates into the small pyrex dish and decarb in that. Put the dish with your concentrates in the oven for 30 minutes. You can check it around the 30 minute mark and see if it is fully decarbed. Look for it to be pretty clear of all little "carbination" like bubbles. When those are mostly gone you are done decarbing. It will take around 30 minutes. Go a little longer if you want couch lock / sleepy time gummies.
  
  When it is done decarbing pull it out and set it to the side for a minute.
  
  Infusing the coconut oil
  
  Grab your medium sized pot and put a few inches of water in it. get it to a boil then turn the temp all the way down to a very low heat. When the water is ready place your dish with the freshly decarbed oil into the water bath and add the 1 Tbsp of coconut oil to the dish.
  
  Let the two mix for a few minutes until they are nicely combined. It shouldn't take long maybe 10 minutes max.
  
  Grease your molds
  
  At this point if you dont have silicone molds (I do and I still grease mine for precautions) grease your molds so you don't forget to do it before adding your gummies.
  
  Preping fruit juice (or water)
  
  In the second small pyrex dish pour your real fruit juice / water or whatever base liquid you are using for your gummies. I havent tried much besides fruit juice and water but you can experiment with other liquids, but don't do an experiment on a batch with THC in it just in case something doesn't work out.
  
  To the fruit juice / water add 1 tsp of soy lecthin and stir with the fork. Place the dish in the fridge for 5 minutes or so and stir again. Let it sit in the fridge stirring occasionaly until the soy lecthin is fully desolved.
  
  This liquid mixture NEEDS TO BE COLD for the blooming process to work so make sure to keep it cold.
  
  Mixing the dry ingredients
  
  In your small non-stick pot mix the following together: 85 grams of Jello, 5 Tbsp of Gelatin, 1/4 cup of sugar. Completely mix them all together and dont let any of them get wet yet. Stir and stir until they are completely mixed.
  
  Blooming
  
  Take your mixed dry ingredients and pour in your friut juice (water) soy lecthin mixture. Stir it and get everything evenly mixed and make sure there are no lumps. When everything is evenly mixed place the lid on the small pot and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  
  This is called "blooming" the gelatin and allows the gelatin to absorbe the water. The water needs to be cold because gelatin activates at about 120F and after that will start to set when it cools. We don't want it setting right now.
  
  

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

Well, there's a few ways of telling. Easiest way (for me) is to look at the veins on the inside of your wrist/forearm. If they are generally brown or green, you probably have golden undertones but you could have olive undertones (olive skin tends to be darker, though.) If they are generally blue or violet, you probably have pink undertones. If you honestly can't tell, you're probably neutral.

I am pretty pale with really strong golden undertones. The veins on the inside of my wrist are bluish green, but the veins going down the inside of my forearm are green. That same kind of green you see sometimes in healing bruises. The veins on the backs of my hands are also straight-up green.

You can also make a best guess by what kind of metal jewelry you think you look better with - folks with pink undertones tend to look better in silver, and folks with golden undertones tend to look better in gold. Neutral can wear both equally well. I never wear silver - gold always looks better on me.

The reason why this is important to figure out is because most BBs only come in a few colors, and they are usually all the same undertone. So for instance, while the Missha M perfect in shade 13 is the perfect paleness for me, it has pretty strong pink undertones...which looks awful on me. It's a total mismatch.

The best way to swatch colors is apply and blend a small amount to the side of your neck. I guess you can do this with the inside of your forearm also, but your neck is going to be closes to the tone your face should be. You should also give BBs about 10 minutes after you apply them before you gauge how well they match. Most BBs oxidize and turn a little darker as they set. The one that matches is the one that you really can't see (and look in natural light if you can!)

Skin79 also has a nice sample pack you can get here. It doesn't have all their lines (most notably missing are the Oriental Gold and Orange), but it's a good place to start. You can also easily get small 1-2 mL packet samples for brands like Holika Holika and Lioele on ebay.

Only about $10 including shipping! From Amazon I can't find it as cheap now but there it is

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.

Sad but true: Cerave isn't for everyone.

I'd start with the Dehydrated Skin Guide (humectants) and add one of the Acne Guide actives after ~2 weeks (SAP is the gentlest, whereas BP and SA may irritate sensitive skin). Continue for ~1 month, and see where your skin is at. Also, sunscreen is a must for rosacea - sun exposure is a common trigger for flare ups - and mineral/physical sunscreens are reccomended.


Personally, I don't have rosacea but I do have delicate, incredibly reactive skin. My best advice is to patch test everything and keep ingredients as simple as possible to make it easy to identify irritants. Some products that have worked for me are:

Cleanser - Bioderma Sebium H2O Micellar Water + microfiber cloth

SAP - Derma-e Vitamin C Serum

Humectants - Timeless Squalane, Rose Water + Glycerin (DIY, 10% Glycerin in a Target spray bottle),

Occlusives - Good Ol' Aquaphor

Mineral/Physical Sunscreen - Neutrogena Sheer Zinc SPF 50

YYMV!

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.

For the past few days, I've been trying out the double-cleansing method with jojoba oil as make-up remover and then going in with Garnier Clean+ Smoothing Cleanser for Dry Skin on my spin brush. I'm loving it so far! My face feels very smooth and cleansed afterwards.

Since I don't have toner in my routine yet, I went ahead and ordered Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera I'm super excited to receive it in a couple days and try it!

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!

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. :)

I like Cerave Hydrating Cleanser for face wash. It's mild, and doesn't strip as much oil off as some washes (my face isn't overly oily, so I just get dry skin from tougher washes). Good for daily washes in the shower.

I also use their moisturizer with SPF daily after washing. It's not greasy, and absorbs well. No issues with clogged pores.

Check out /r/SkincareAddiction, they have good guides and product recommendations if you have acne or specific skin issues (even if you don't, the product reviews and wiki are great). Cerave is often recommended in the sub since it's cheap, and all their products have ceramides, a lipid/oil your skin needs for moisturizing that you produce less of as you age.

CeraVe has daily moisturizer with sunscreen, since you already use a CeraVe moisturizer it’s probably a good choice. I use this one: CeraVe Sunscreen Face Lotion SPF 50 2 oz with Zinc Oxide, Niacinamide and Ceramides for Broad Spectrum Sun Protection https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BGBUQXS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_q0yNAb2B8V9GD however I walk to work and work outside on a farm half the year.
My MIL uses this CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 3 oz with Broad Spectrum protection, Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides for Daytime Use https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_G2yNAbCWRCW4B
She works in an office with no windows.

• 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.

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!

I use this:

CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 3 oz with Broad Spectrum protection, Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides for Daytime Use https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_kGLSAb09NMRB0

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.

I have very sensitive dry skin as well.

I use Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream on my face. It's non-comedogenic, fragrance free, and has colloidal oatmeal for redness/irritation and ceramides for moisture.

I got it as a dupe for the expensive First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, which has irritants like eucalyptus oil.

I highly recommend the Eucerin. It's the only heavy cream I can use that doesn't break me out and calms my tretinoin induced redness and irritation.

In terms of a facial oil: Timeless Squalane 100% Pure is a non-comedogenic, bland, non-greasy option that would be a great place to start. I use it as well and it does not break me out or cause any irritation.

Sunscreen sunscreen sunscreen, and in case you missed it, sunscreen. If you’re like me at this age we’ve had plenty of sun exposure without sunscreen on, and the sun absolutely can and will wreck our skin if we don’t put some damn sunscreen on.

As for my daily routine there isn’t much to it, so it should be a pinch for you to copy and adapt to your own needs.

• Wash with a bar of shea butter soap.
  
  
• Then wash again with CVS brand Cetafil for sensitive skin that’s mixed with a bit of fine salt I just got from a grocery store. The salt acts as an exfoliant and doesn’t leave crappy micro beads in the environment (I’m on a well so anything small enough that goes down the drain ends up in the environment around me.)
  
  
• Dry off then apply some Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner with Aloe Vera, or whatever toner works for you.
  
  
• Finally after the toner is dry I put on some water based Neutrogena mosturizer.
  
  That’s it. I do the first two steps in the shower every morning and then at night I just wash my face with the soap and reapply a little bit of the moisturizer. There are other things I do now to help my skin out like changing my bed sheets every few days, pillow cover every 4 (flip and rotate the pillow every night to use the 4 sides), and again put on some damn sunscreen and wear a hat if I’m going to be outside for a good while even in the winter. I’m bald and shave my head completely clean so the hat and sunscreen are extra important for me.

Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Clay Mask, if you can deal with the bubbles on this one

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay mixed with a little apple cider vinegar


Both have been more effective and cheaper than the Origins mask in my experience.

I just ordered a bunch of stuff!

I've always had an issue with acne. Early on I developed CSP (r/compulsiveskinpicking). Of course I didn't know this until recently and am working on it with my therapist. It's a small part of a larger issue.

However, my battle recently has been with my sebaceous filaments and blackheads. So I am going to follow this. I ordered the following:

• Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask
  
• The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Light Oil 150ml
  
• Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid 100ml
  
  So my current plan is this:
  
  Daily evenings:
  
  
• Remove make up with wipes.
  
• Wash face. With this
  
• Apply lotion (I have easily clogged pores so any recommendation on lotions would be appreciated)
  
  Daily mornings:
  
  
• Splash of water
  
• Sunscreen/lotion
  
  Every second morning:
  
  
• This
  
  I only wash my face in the evening otherwise it gets too dry. The less I touch (and pick) my face the clearer it is. It's a work in progress, but I'm excited to try my new supplies!

Another fun face mask for Dave to try are the Carbonated bubble Clay Mask (link to Canadian Amazon). You put them on then they poof up with bubbles making you look very crazy.

Part III
Makeup Brushes:

• ACONCEPT A: Brush Set - 5 brushes $11.45
  was $17.62
  Amazon NOT AVAILABLE
  
  Contour:
  
  
• ACONCEPT A: Shape of My Face Triple Contour - $9.13
  was $14.04
  Amazon $14.99
  
  Masks:
  
  
• nada SODA THE PORE CARE PACK - $7.14
  was $10.98
  Amazon NOT AVAILABLE
  
  
• Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask - $7.63
  was $11.74
  Amazon $9.03
  
  
• secretKey Snow White Milky Pack - $9.20
  was $14.16
  Amazon $15.65
  
  

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.

Is the redness just general redness in your skin, or is it redness leftover by acne? Either way:

I would start by finding a new cleanser, both AM and PM. Scrubs are very harsh and bar soaps are stripping and typically not the right pH for skin. Both off these things can compromise your skin barrier and make it look and feel worse, as well as inhibit it's ability to protect itself and heal. Your skin is your largest organ, don't think of it as something that needs to be dried out and stripped, it needs to be hydrated, moisturized, and healthy. I think this could definitely be contributing to your redness, at least in part. The most popular recommendations are listed in the holy grail cleanser thread, but CeraVe Hydrating, Neutrogena Hydrating, or Vanicream are good places to start.

I couldn't find your moisturizer, so I've got nothing in it specifically, but yet again, there's a holy grail thread for that. If you're concerned about redness, you could look for one that contains niacinamide, which helps a lot in reducing redness. CeraVe PM is a good drugstore moisturizer that contains ceramides, hylauronic acid, and niacinamide, all of which are very good for your skin.

The last thing you need for a good basic routine (and before you should start adding anything heavy duty like chemical exfoliation) is a good sunscreen. Wearing this everyday will help a lot with your redness. Oh look, a holy grail thread for that too!

Since you're relatively new at this, don't forget to patch test new products. And wait at least a week or two before adding the next new product. This can be time consuming but it makes it much easier if you start to break out to pinpoint which product is causing it.

Sorry, I realize this is very long, but getting a solid basic routine of cleanse, moisturize, and SPF is the most important and beneficial thing you can do. If you're getting into skincare and adding lots of things, you really need a baseline to fall back on if you need to. I'm glad you posted! Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions, this subreddit is very helpful and only wants you to succeed!

Edit: I totally neglected to mention the side bar in this sub. Not sure If you've checked it out yet, but it is full of fantastic information that is very helpful.

I use Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser. It's the only cleanser I've been able to find that's completely free of fatty alcohols, SLS, and fragrances! I think it's just straight fairy dust. It also comes in a bar form that I've been using for the last 3 - 4 days since my local store didn't have the pump and it seems to be working fine. I bought a little container for the bar to keep it clean.

Cerave Moisturizing Cream is god send. I've been using this while on both Accutane and Epiduo at the same time. These are very drying acne treatments. But I also layer on other moisturizers too.

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.

Lots of people like the Kiku holy long name watchacallit lotion moist (it's the pink bottle). It's a toner so I don't know how you would prefer that.

There's also the Rosette Ceramide Gel. People say that's pretty nice too.

Edit: found the links

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/

Amazon Link to purchase the glycerin. Might be able to find it cheaper elsewhere, but this is where I'm going to buy mine.

Yes, this is the kind I used: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0019LWU2K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1FhXCbHS8VE5Q

I like her little experiment here involving "chemical exfoliants." I use Cure Natural Aqua Gel and I always wondered how it worked.

Edit: Also, I am not affiliated with this blog at all.

Starting with the sunscreens on the right.

1.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007408QD2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

2.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Q1WT58/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

3.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007408PIS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

4.)http://www.amazon.com/Cure-Natural-Aqua-Gel-250ml/dp/B001ABLKK2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1425251492&sr=8-1&keywords=cure+natural+aqua+gel

5.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BSNBO9O/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

6.)http://www.amazon.com/Rohto-CP-Hadalabo-Hyaluronic-Lotion/dp/B000VSYBDI/ref=pd_sbs_bt_4?ie=UTF8&refRID=0JJEE4XYH7P2Z5QBB82C

7.) PD

8.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BS3Q372/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

9.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0036MDUEM/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

10.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002BN4BT0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

11.)http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0036MDUE2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have combination acne prone skin. I see decent results. I don't much care for aha+bha cleanser, #10, because it leaves my skin feeling dry, and because it seems a bit gimmicky. I also don't care much for #6 because it makes my skin feel too greasy for the day, and not greasy enough for night.

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!

Amazon, Jolse

Jolse's in Korea though, shipping might take longer although the products are generally cheaper for not people not based in the US (a lot of kbeauty stores in Australia mark up the prices so much T_T). Oh and I recommend putting it on before she goes shower, washing it off is mess if she does it at the sink.

digging the mask game. I used this for a while and I loved the boho-ogre look after it settles.

Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask

I used it once and am afraid to try it again. I had the reddest, sorest donut around my mouth. It was awful and took days to subside. The irritation was a 10/10.

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.

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.

Hey, I’m a guy with “good skin”. What honestly surprised me was the quality of my skin after using sunscreen regularly — I didn’t realize how much sun affected things. I know you say you have normal skin, but some of the below should hopefully help getting started on a basic routine that’ll become evident in the quality of your complexion.

Pick up a gently cleanser like Cerave Hydrating cleanser or Vanicreams cleanser.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSSDEPK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_164sDbD3WQJP7

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QY1XZ4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_U74sDbF98WZ87


Wash the face morning and night. It’s helpful to use a little bit of moisturizer since sunscreens are kind of hit and miss in this regard, so I’d suggest Cerave cream in the white tub to apply to your damp face as needed.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TTD9BRC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_P84sDb7M4J10J


Afterwards, ideally, slather on a bit of sunscreen on your face, neck, ears, and other sun exposed places. My personal favorite currently is the Jack Black sun guard since it’s not greasy and I use it on my arms and hands too, Otherwise, pick up Cerave’s AM moisturizer. It’s my favorite drug store type sunscreen. A nicer one too are the EltaMD sunscreens.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003CR4KRM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_V94sDbQXPSZ8R

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_b.4sDbR7T9R88


If your face is shiny after some of thing I’d suggest picking up something like Magical Moringa from Lush that’s mattefying. A shine control powder to dab lightly on can work good too — doesn’t look like you have anything on while still taking care of your skin.

https://www.lushusa.com/face/moisturizers/magical-moringa/07218.html

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Neutrogena-Shine-Control-Powder-Invisible-10-37-Oz/21009034?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1150&adid=22222222228015245274&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=m&wl3=40843087352&wl4=pla-78656555792&wl5=9014228&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112549851&wl11=online&wl12=21009034&veh=sem&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzIWmraTy4wIVhZ-fCh0RsQczEAUYASABEgJquPD_BwE


At night I really see a difference in the brightness and luminosity with my skin with this “overnight mask”.

COSRX Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Spa Mask, 60ml https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N13W31F/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Qf5sDbYFN01FC

That’s basically my suggestions at least. At night just use moisturizer and the mask after washing.


As far as the back acne, in the shower let some salicylic acid sit on the area for a minute or two and rinse it off. I use Zapzyt. The other thing I would recommend after the shower is to apply some Differin to the affected area — Differin used to be what a dermatologist prescribed me years ago and it now available over the counter fortunately. Should be cleared up in no time.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BG92E26/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dn5sDbJDAXBTV

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L1PHSY9/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ip5sDbBCQ71AW

I am loving my vanicream! It is creamy but it still gives a ladder so I can use it with my Clarisonic. I think the pH is around 5.5, from what I read on this very informative acne blog. And it's cheap!
https://www.amazon.com/Vanicream-Gentle-Cleanser-sensitive-Dispenser/dp/B00QY1XZ4W

Looks like the Cetaphil contains both a sulfate and fragrance. I'd suggest trying something like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser.

I had this problem too!

​

It would burn in areas that are generally sensitive for me (that's under my nose and on the sides of my chin). I've never had this experience with another cleanser.

​

I recommend simply switching to another face wash (you probably have one laying around).

​

Right now, I am using the Acne.org Cleanser with no issues, but I think any gentle cleanser (with the proper PH) should be fine. From what I've read, the Vanicream cleanser is really gentle and soothing to the skin.

​

I hope this helped! Good luck!

​

Hi, u/mihaelalala7! :)

I would suggest replacing the micellar water with a cleansing oil or a cleansing balm (even though your dermatologist suggested it), as it would do, in my opinion, a much better job at breaking down the gunk that's on your face that your regular water-based cleanser won't be able to dissolve. Even though it might seem strange to put oil on your already oily skin, the excess sebum that builds up on the skin and in our pores cannot dissolve in a water-based formula, and maybe even certain ingredients from your SPF and such. Micellar water does a similar job, but I don't find it as effective. Then I Met You has a nice, fragrance-free cleansing balm.

When building up a skin care routine, the most important things to look for are skin barrier support and sun protection. For your skin to be happy, you have to provide a good SPF, gentle cleansing and proper hydration through a good moisturizer. By looking at the ingredient list of your Isis Pharma moisturizer, I came to the conclusion that you should definitely replace it. It contains a lot of fragrance, which should definitely be avoided in skin care, and it also contains a really harsh surfactant, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, that is just terrible for the face. Sodium Laureth Sulfate is basically the stuff that makes up regular soap, which we all know we should not put on our faces. It really strips the skin, and can definitely lead to skin barrier damage that will worsen your skin concerns (breakouts, comedones, dullness etc.). A much, much better option would be the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, that is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, MUCH gentler and hydrating. It contains ceramides, compounds that are present in our skin's own moisturizing system. Your cleanser is by far the worst product in your routine and you should replace it in my opinion.

When it comes to the exfoliating acids, I think you'll do a much better job preventing breakouts and smoothing your skin texture by using your Salicylic Acid as a primary exfoliant, since it does basically the same job as the Lactic Acid, but it also has the property of being soluble in oil, thus unclogging your pores while also providing a gentle exfoliation. Salicylic Acid also can help with controlling excess sebum production and it also has antibacterial properties. Be aware that the overuse of chemical exfoliants can lead to irritation, dryness, redness and peeling, so maybe use them a few times a week, and don't apply them on areas where you don't experience congestion. You can switch to using the Salicylic Acid on your breakout-prone, textured areas, 2-3 days a week, and see if your skin tolerates it well. If not, you can go back to the Lactic Acid. Do not use your chemical exfoliants on the sensitive parts of the face, such as the under-eye area, as it's simply unnecessary, and the risk of getting irritated is much higher on the extremely thin skin under our eyes.

I'll have to mention fragrance again when talking about your moisturizer. It's definitely not as bad as your cleanser, but I'd look into other options that are fragrance-free, such as CeraVe's Moisturizing Cream, that is also non-comedogenic and contains ceramides.

The SPF you're using is most likely fine, and you should continue using it if you like the product. La Roche Posay, Eucerin, Cetaphil and CeraVe also provide good sunscreens that you can explore in the future.

The witch hazel may or may not help, you can keep using it if you like it. For sebum production control and anti-inflammatory properties you can also try incorporating Niacinamide into your routine, as it's a proven ingredient that can definitely help with the appearence of breakouts and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark spots) from acne scarring. The Ordinary has a great Niacinamide 10% + Zinc serum.

Also, the order in which you apply your products is of utmost importance. There are a lot of sources online where you can find more about this, but generally you should look to apply your products from the thinnest to thickest, starting with your cleansing oil and water-based cleanser, and ending with your sunscreen/moisturizer at PM.

So, to summarize: definitely look to replace your cleanser, you can improve your PM double-cleanse by replacing your micellar water with a cleansing oil/balm, be careful with your exfoliating acids, look to get rid of fragrance and harsh ingredients in your products by paying close attention to the ingredient list of the products that you're buying and doing research on that (Dr. Dray is board-certified dermatologist that has a YouTube channel, her advice is just pure gold, you can learn a lot from her). Our skin is a living, breathing organ, that is perfectly capable of self-sustaining and protecting itself. Our job is to enhance its mechanisms, and not overwhelm it by using too many products, harsh ingredients and fragrance.

Since you're not dealing with really bad skin concerns, having a really good, gentle double-cleanse, potent moisturizer, SPF 30+ sunscreen, using frangrance-free, non-comedogenic products and mildy exfoliating your skin with a gentle BHA (Salicylic Acid product) should really be all you need to get your skin to a good state. I'm glad you asked for advice, I'm extremely happy that you specificed the products you use, because otherwise I wouldn't have been able to identify some of the mistakes in your skin care (and potentially the biggest), and I hope you'll find my advice helpful.

All the best!

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

Nivea Super Water Gel

Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel

Are these what you’re referring to? I wanna look into them!!

I’ve heard physicals are better for your skin(?), but every single one I’ve tried turned me purple from the white cast. I don’t have a problem with it on my makeup days, but I find it a hassle just to wear makeup so I don’t look like Tinky Winky on days when I want my skin to breathe or I’m only running errands.

I'm telling you, Asians know what's up. They're way ahead of American sunscreens. Try this stuff: https://www.amazon.com/Skin-Aqua-Super-Moisture-SPF50/dp/B01BM1USNO/ref=cm_wl_huc_item

Hey friends! I'm pretty much a sunscreen virgin and I could use some help.

I've read through the sidebar, done a ton of searching through old posts, and have opened probably 100 amazon tabs today, but I still feel lost. Here's some relevant information, if it helps:

• 26 years old female, living in Oregon.
  
• Don't go outdoors much.
  
• Not really concerned with anti-aging stuff, much more concerned with preventing skin damage/cancer and whatnot.
  
• Pretty normal skin, dry/flaky forehead and back/boob acne-prone
  
• I don't THINK alcohol in products is a huge problem for me? The skin around my eyes gets fairly pissy fairly quickly, haha, but it seems unrelated from any skincare products I use.
  
• Rarely wear makeup, not hugely concerned about whitecast but am nervous about looking greasy
  
• Lastly and most pertinent to my current situation, I'd really like to find as big a bottle as I can for a reasonable price (10-15 USD if possible); I really like the idea of the popular Asian products but the bottles are sooo tiny, I can't afford to buy them every month. If I can get a bigass bottle of sunscreen, I have my own little travel bottle that I can put some in for commuting around town.
  
  With all that in mind... is there something I can find? I've heard US sunscreens aren't great, and though it'd be fantastic if I could just go to a local grocery store and grab a bottle, I'm willing to order online if there just aren't any suitable US brands.
  
  Please help? :(
  
  ETA these are the two most promising ones I've found so far:
  Nivea Perfect Water Gel and Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel
  
  Still a little small (around 4 oz, I'd really like to find something AMERICAN-SIZED lol, like 10/12 oz or larger if possible) but better. Would one of these be okay? Are there better options?
  
  (edited to fix formatting)

A lot of people swear by the Rohto gel sunscreen, which supposedly has no white cast (I've never used so I can't comment): https://www.amazon.com/Skin-Aqua-Super-Moisture-SPF50/dp/B01BM1USNO

Personally I use the Rohto Moisture Milk sunscreen (also on Amazon) because I have drier skin and I love it. It blends in easily and I don't notice a white cast, but then again I'm very fair. But I'd definitely recommend checking both out because they're pretty cheap and have great protection!

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 :)

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!

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

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

estrogen causes your skin to dry out, happens to cis women too. i use gold bond ultimate healing for my body and CeraVe AM on my face.

Thank you! I think I'm just going to have to keep trying (and hopefully not too much "error-ing") like you said. I have heard many good things about Elta MD UV Clear...I am just hesistant about the price. However, I haven't tried it because last year I tried the Cerave AM moisturizing lotion and I had the most terrible reaction (even worse than my current reaction!). I did some research and chalked it up to the niaciamide...which apparently is great for some but for others can be a rosacea trigger? (https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Facial-Moisturizing-Lotion-AM/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1524769178&sr=1-4&keywords=cerave%2Bam%2Bfacial%2Bmoisturizing%2Blotion%2Bspf%2B30&th=1) So I'm hesitant to try anything with niaciamide again. (I know...I'm a pain in the butt!) Thank you for the suggestion, though...I really appreciate it!

Here and here and here

This baby is currently on sale. MUA seems to like Coastal Scents.

If you're looking for light coverage with a moisturizer I would recommend a BB cream. There are many samplers you can try to find the best one.
Sephora Dr. Jart
Skin79
Retro Wombat's Sample Store (Closed now but will be open soon)

On brows, I really can't give you much advice because I personally don't like filling them in much. I just have a little NYX brow kit.

There are many other eye palettes you can get but the Coastal Scents one seems to be pretty good for its price.

Just a note about BB creams, they do not replace your sunscreen or moisturizer. You need about a dime sized sunscreen spot on your face, and you're not going to use that much BB cream.

If you're not sure about a product you can always buy/swap/resell at /r/makeupexchange. Just make sure the user is verified.

As a final note, there are no "must haves". Every body has different needs something that is a "must have" for some is a waste of money for others.

You have such beautiful skin! I'm totally biased but I totally think you should try Skin79 Hot Pink BB cream. I'm NW15, and it's way more forgiving than foundation, while evening out my skintone without looking caked and makeupy (is that a word?). There are other formulations of the Skin79 BB cream too, you can get a sampler pack here.

For undereye bags, I currently use Maybelline Dark Circles Eraser in the Brightener shade. It's a perfect match for my skintone, though I'm currently looking for something with a little more coverage. It might be a good place for you to start though.

Would love to see you wear a subtle pink lipstick. The Revlon Lip Butters are a good way to gently introduce yourself to lipstick, if you don't usually wear it. Try Peach Parfait, Juicy Papaya, or Berry Smoothie. Here are swatches of some of my favorites:

• 025 Peach Parfait
  
• 027 Juicy Papaya
  
• 015 Tutti Frutti
  
• 045 Cotton Candy
  
• 050 Berry Smoothie
  
• 001 Pink Truffle
  
• 085 Sugar Plum
  
  EDIT: Oops, forgot to mention that the first swatch is actually Revlon Super Lustrous in Peach Me. There we go, now the swatches should match my list. :)

Hm, I don't know if I am the best person to answer this since I'm not nearly as experienced as some of the ladies here, but maybe that will give you a better "beginner's" perspective...

• Skin : I find starting with a prime canvas to be best! This means look at your skincare routine first before checking out makeup. I'd rather combat blemishes and other issues naturally instead of covering them up. Getting that under control is a big help!
  
  I've seen BB Cream described here as like a "gateway drug" to the world of makeup. Seriously, it's so easy to use. I'd suggest starting with some kind of sample set to test out what you like, but before that I suggest What the Heck is BB Cream, and Why Should I Care? as recommended reading.
  
  
• Lips If color is scary and you just want something to make your lips look shiny, I personally feel there's nothing better than good old vaseline; you can get a tube in Target for like a buck, and it's easy as pie.
  
  
• Eyes If "popping" eyes are something you're interested in, I personally would suggest (keep in mind I'm not some seasoned pro) learning to curl your eyelashes and apply mascara first. I think these two little things can make a world of difference. Eyeliner is great and all, but I personally feel it doesn't quite have the same impact!
  
  If you feel like you want to move on and check out eyeshadow and just want to start experimenting, I think Wet N' Wild's Walking on Eggshells is a great starter neutral palette. It's cheap, they're one of the more pigmented drugstore lines, and having a basic lid/crease/corner color to start is a fantastic way to learn what looks good and how to apply it.
  
  Since you're just getting started, I'd focus on the "how" rather than the "what"--makeup can get expensive, and I started out with really basic drugstore items first and worked my way up as I grew more comfortable.

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!

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 :)

https://www.amazon.com/Squalane-100-Pure-60-mL/dp/B003MJG19K

I got this one from Amazon!

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

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

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 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).

The playa poses a few challenges to taking care of your skin:

1 - Maintaining the pH balance of your acid mantle

Believe it or not, the skin on your face is slightly acidic (pH of about 5.5). This helps protect your skin from acne-causing bacteria. However, playa dust is alkali and can throw your pH off kilter. You know that "squeaky clean" feeling you get after washing with some soaps? Unfortunately that's your acid mantle being washed away by alkali detergents which leaves your skin more sensitive to all sorts of nasty stuff (bacteria, fungus, pollutants, etc). Thus all the stuff you hear about using a "gentle cleanser" for washing your face. This actually means a pH neutral cleanser.

2 - Keeping your skin from getting too dry

Another aspect of protecting your acid mantle is to make sure it isn't too dry (meaning too little oil or water). The structure of your skin's acid mantle contains fatty lipids which help form this protective barrier. Dry it out and your skin is again vulnerable. For those who say their skin clears up on the playa, I'm guessing these folks may have oily skin so the dry atmosphere may help them balance shit out. Since you are already on a topical solution, I think you'd be especially sensitive to dry skin issues.

3 - Protecting your skin from the sun

Sun damage is real, m'kay? The sun's rays slow down the production of new skins cells. Age also slows down this process. You know how little kids rarely get scars? That's because their skin "heals faster" vs. adults, meaning their skin cells regenerate faster. If you are trying to heal acne or some sort of scratch, use sunscreen! You'll be amazed how much faster your skin starts to look better.



So, what should you do on the playa? I recommend cleaning your face using a cotton pad and a mild organic toner twice a day. The toner removes the playa dust, adds some skin-loving vitamins, and helps the skin from getting dried out. You also need to use sunscreen (ideally a physical formula) so it stays on a good chunk of the day.


TL:DR -- clean your face with a cotton pad and a mild toner 2X a day and use sunscreen.

I’ve been struggling with blackheads/redness/combo for awhile now and the biggest miracle worker I’ve found is Thayer’s Witch Hazel Toner w/ Rose Petals. I use it right after I wash my face in the morning, let it dry and then apply a light moisturizer.

They have a selection of toners (rose, cucumber, etc.) and I swear it’s been magical- no, I haven’t been paid lol. Hope this helps!!

https://smile.amazon.com/Thayers-Alcohol-Free-Petal-Formula-12-Facial/dp/B007HD570Q/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?keywords=thayers+rose+petal+witch+hazel+alcohol-free+toner&qid=1569137801&sprefix=thayers&sr=8-3

Hi! I suffered from oily sensitive skin problems too before! Here's the routine I followed and I noticed a big difference:

Face Wash (2 times a day): I used simple korean face washes and these worked wonders for me! You can find really cheap face washes at Marshalls/TJ Maxx or at Amazon. Here's a good brand: https://www.amazon.com/Etude-House-Baking-Powder-Cleansing/dp/B00819F4OO/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1520014584&sr=8-1&keywords=korean+baking+soda+face+wash

Toner (2 times a day): SUPER IMPORTANT! I used alcohol free which is super important if you have sensitive skin. I highly recommend this toner I still use it to this day and my skin has calmed a lot and become so soft. You can get this on amazon or any local stores really like Sprouts or even Marshalls TJ Maxx. Link: https://www.amazon.com/Thayers-Alcohol-Free-Petal-Witch-Hazel/dp/B007HD570Q/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1520014674&sr=1-3&keywords=thayers

Moisturize (2 times a day): I know it seems weird to moisturize an oily face but trust me its needed. Sometimes your skin might be super oily since its not receiving enough moisture and thus overcompensates by producing a bunch of oil (I've heard this before I'm not a doctor though). You just can't use super creamy moisturizers. This is my go to really light moisturizer. I prefer gel moisturizers since they don't feel as heavy on my face and provide a good balance to my skin. Link: https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Recovery-Cream-Count/dp/B00NTR9B6A/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1520014798&sr=1-6&keywords=mizon+snail

Face Mask (once or twice a week): Since you have sensitive skin I don't recommend using Charcoal as it might be too harsh. I instead use any exfoilating (or non exfoliating) masks with tumeric. It's a great anti inflammatory perfect for sensitive skin. I use this one personally: https://www.amazon.com/YLLO-Turmeric-Scrub-Chickpea-Exfoliant/dp/B0764M4MWT/ref=sr_1_13_sspa?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1520014932&sr=1-13-spons&keywords=tumeric+mask&psc=1

Again you just have to experiment with what works best for your skin. It's a difficult process but I'm sure you'll find a way. Sorry for the really long post but I hope this helps! :)

HAIR:

• Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Shampoo. I get this at Target, where they have the jumbo bottle for $10. I really like that it's super gentle and doesn't have sulfates in it (I have a fairly dry, curly hair type). It also smells soft, almost like play dough, and I love that. I also use the matching conditioner.
  
  TEETH:
  
  
• Earth Paste Toothpaste. I get this at my local health food store and I have seen it at Whole Foods and New Seasons. This toothpaste makes my teeth feel the cleanest they've ever been, but you should know that the mouth feel is a little different from a traditional foaming toothpaste. Before this I used Tom's Of Maine.
  
  
• Modest Planet Natural Bamboo Toothbrush. Just got this recently but so far I like it just fine.
  
  BODY:
  
  
• I don't shave, so I don't have any current recommendations for this. HOWEVER I know that safety razors are a great option as far as finding cruelty free (plus they're more eco conscious) and I used to like using coconut oil to shave my legs.
  
  
• Wild Carrots Vanilla Bean Skin Cream. I just checked their website and this appears to have been discontinued. :(
  
  
• Tom's Of Maine Deodorant. I like the Wild Lavender and Maine Woodspice scents. I don't sweat much, so these do fine for me, but might not be great for someone who sweats a lot.
  
  SKINCARE:
  
  
• I just found out my cleanser isnt vegan, I need recs for this again.
  
  
• Thayer's Alcohol Free Rose Witch Hazel. It's gentle and calming. I used to wipe it on with a cotton round but I've discovered I actually like spritzing my toner on better.
  
  
• Derma E Hydrating Day Cream. This is very moisturizing but still light. It sinks in really well, which I love because I like to layer skin creams. It also smells delicious and light.
  
  
• Derma E Hydrating Night Cream. This is thick. This is rich. I want to marry it. I have pretty dry skin so I actually layer a dab of this over my day cream as well.
  
  
• Pure Maracuja Oil.This is the one I use right now, and before this I used the Tarte one. It's softening and helps my breakouts a little bit.
  
  
• Pure Neem Oil. I'm allergic to Tea Tree and my skin doesn't like Salicylic Acid very much so I use this instead. Sometimes I apply like a spot treatment, sometimes all over. I love what it does for me but it smells like burning peanuts so I only use it at night.
  
  
• Shea Moisture African Water Mint Lip Balm. This is really thick so I like it for lip prep before lipstick. My only complaint is the packaging. It's so hard to open.
  
  MAKEUP:
  
  
• Hard Candy Color Correcting Primer in Green. I just learned that this is LE. WHY the FUCK..... Before this I was using elf Hydrating Mineral Primer.
  
  
• I don't use foundation much anymore, but when I do I rotate between Wet N Wild Photofocus, Sonia Kashuk Perfecting Luminous Foundation and Urban Decay Naked Skin. All three are lightweight, thin formulas, and medium coverage.
  
  
• Kat Von D Lock It Concealer Creme. This is beautiful. And let me tell you, my skin is AWFUL but I can just use this instead of foundation and it looks awesome. Best makeup purchase of my life.
  
  
• Essence Stay Matt Powder. I use this to "bake" and set my face all over. It's very effective and has a great blurring effect. Sometimes if I have a bad foundation day, this actually fixes it.
  
  
• Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid in Moonstone. I like to put this on top of my base but under powder. It gives a nice subtle glow.
  
  
• Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer. This is beautiful and it smells delicious, and it's very easy to blend.
  
  
• Urban Decay Blush in Fetish. The formula on these is just so soft and beautiful, without being powdery at all. This is also a pretty similar color to Tarte's Exposed (not vegan) though slightly pinker.
  
  
• Still need an eye primer replacement and am working on the eye shadows.
  
  
• elf Mineral Infused Mascara. This makes my lashes so fluttery and curly. Perfect for everyday. For more dramatic lashes, I really like the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara.
  
  
• My favorite lipsticks are the Kat Von D Liquid Lipsticks and the Milani Matte Lipsticks.
  
  NOW AFTER ALL OF THAT. Please make sure you check the HG Masterlist in the sidebar. I made it just for these situations! There's tons more products listed there!

Jealous you got to go to Japan! Tokyo is a travel goal.

Neogen's Bio-peel exfoliating pads are incredible, and I use them once to twice a week. I just finished my pack of the wine exfoliants, and purchased the green tea one as a replacement. The wine one contains antioxidants and seemed to be more of an anti-aging product, whereas the green tea one appears to be more of a cleanse and tone and neutralize type of effect. Both are great, although I've only used the green tea one twice thus far. The wine one really helped mitigate some acne scars I had on my cheek, and has the highest ratings on Amazon.

I follow the exfoliant with a quick wash (just normal Neutrogena face wash) and tone with Thayer's Rose Water Witch Hazel. It's a non-alcoholic toner that moisturizes while tightening up the pores and cleansing a little extra. Most drugstore toners contain alcohol, which serves the opposite purpose of drying your skin out, and accelerating oil production, thereby creating more acne. You can purchase Thayer's at CVS or most drugstores; there's several other witch hazel alternatives that seem to work fine as well. This one just smells extra nice.

After toning, I slather on some aloe vera gel. The one by Nature Republic is dirt cheap, gets the job done, and the tub lasted me like six months. Aloe Vera is a great moisturizer because it's all natural, contains little to no additives, and isn't oily so it won't clog up your pores. It also feels great on the skin, kind of a cool jelly feeling.

Once that's done, I put a small dab of Skinfood's Royal Honey Propolis Serum. This shit is pricey, but it's magic. This, paired with the Neogen exfoliator, really wiped out the acne scars. It doesn't have a smell, and the consistency is thick and syrupy, so just use a small drop and it goes a long way. Your skin will feel super glowy afterwards.

A few times a week, before bed I'll wrap up the above skincare routine with Etude House's Moistfull Collagen Sleeping Pack. Legit, the morning after wearing this, I won't put on makeup because my skin's so on healthy. If you exfoliate, do the whole aforementioned skincare shebang, and then sleep with this baby on your face, you will be RADIANT. The sleeping pack is a jelly-like cream that you slather over your face in a thin layer. I've had my pack of it for like two months and it's still more than half full. It dries up within about five minutes, and is barely visible. It rinses off easily the next morning, with a little soap and warm water.

​

Hope this helps!!! I freaking love skincare lmao, if you couldn't tell.

The only other options I can think of are a ceramide gel and/or a sleeping pack nightly. Ceramides repair the moisture barrier and essential work to cure dehydration of the skin. Sleeping packs seal in moisture overnight and you rinse them off in the morning. I'm partial to Korean skincare products so I'd suggest checking out r/AsianBeauty . There's a thread with recent holy grail items here!

You could try the Rosette Ceramide Gel. I've heard some great things about it here.
Here's a link to it on Amazon. I've purchased it from here recently, I haven't gotten it yet to review though.
And a link to a reddit thread about it.

I can totally relate!!! It's taken me about 4-5 months. I began seeing results within a couple weeks, but consistency is key.

Vaseline and ROSETTE have helped me a lot! I find that layering helps. Depending on the weather, I only wash my face once a day -
when taking off my makeup. SPF 30 or greater is an absolute must. There are options that are more moisturizing than others. I have sensitive skin so I have to be mindful of products that have fragrance.

If there is an ingredient that irritates your skin by making it drier then I would find products without that ingredient.

ROSETTE: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000FQNIX0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

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 don't frequently do it, but I do keep a bottle of glycerine around. It's pretty cheap: $6.49 for 16 oz. I'll usually use it with average performing creams. The general consensus is that creams, on average, aren't as slick as soaps. Throwing in a dash of glycerine into a cream kicks up the slickness enough to make it as good as most soaps. I've used it with creams like TOBS, which are fine by themselves but nothing to write home about. But they aren't interesting enough to trade them on BST or bad enough to throw straight into the trash bin. In those cases, using glycerine to improve performance is worth it.

I rinse every pass and apply pure glycerin before every lather. I love this method. I have found it less drying than MR GLO.

Mantic has a video where he was shaved by a trufitt and hill barber. He explained something about why it's important to rinse off the lather everytime. But exactly why I can't remember. :/

does anyone have any suggestions on dark spots? i'm african and I get horrible dark spots from acne scars on my face and chest.

Also, i'm looking into a chemical exfoliate. what are your thoughts on this? It says #1 in Japan. https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Aqua-Gel-Cure-250ml/dp/B001ABLKK2/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1494948909&sr=8-2&keywords=chemical+exfoliant

What I actually use regularly:

• CeraVe Hydrating facial Cleanser
  
• CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (in the tub)
  
• CeraVe Skin Renewing Cream Serum
  
  • Only on my eyes at night, it has retinol which isn't good in the sun
    
• CeraVe Skin Renewing Gel Oil
  
  • At night as a sort of night mask
    
• Clean & Clear Deep Cleaning Astringent Toner
  
  • as a spot treatment for pimples
    
• Heritage Rose Water and Gylcerin Spray
  
• Cure Natural Aqua Gel
  
  • This is the best product I own. I use it once or twice a week, all those "grey snakes" just roll right off your face.
    
• CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
  
  • I use this as body lotion
    
    Remaining items on bottom shelf: picture
    
    
• CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
  
  • Not a fan of this for my face so now I use it to clean my Make up brushes
    
• CeraVe Eye Repair Cream
  
• Bite Agave Lip Mask
  
• Ancient Healing Clay
  
  • Just bought this after reading good things about Benonite Clay but it dried out my skin so I'm not sure how I like it
    
• Peter Thomas Roth Poten-C Power Serum sample Packets
  
• Jade Facial Roller
  
  • I got this as a gift at work, not sure if it actually does anything
    
    Remaining Middle Shelf: Picture
    
    
• Ole Henriksen Find Your Balance Oil Control Cleanser
  
• Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
  
  • So I don't use this and I just remembered that it's because the last time I did my sensitive skin was not happy with it at all, my whole face turned red and puffy. I will be throwing this away.
    
• Peter Thomas Roth 6 Piece Mask Kit
  
• Clearasil Rapid Action Vanishing Acne Treatment
  
  • My Clean & Clear Toner seems to work a lot better than this stuff
    
• Prescriptives All You Need Moisturizer Sample
  
  Top Shelf: Picture
  
  
• La Mer Samples: My mom got me these for Christmas and I do like it all but I've been trying to save them for a special occasion where I can feel like I'm glowing because I have hundreds of dollars of skin care slabbed onto my face. Not exactly sure if the results live up to the reputation.
  
  • Replenishing Oil Exfoliator
    
  • Cleansing Oil
    
  • The Eye Concentrate
    
  • The Cleansing Micellar Water
    
  • The Regenerating Serum x2

People react to me better

>Japan's most popular exfoliator

This interests me.

E.: Do you mean this?

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.

REQUEST

I've been using Can Make Mermaid UV Skin Gel for a while now and ADORE IT. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. It's a hydrating SPF emulsion that hydrates, has no white cast, and is sooo lovely to use. I'm spoiled, and now that warm temperatures are on and ten thousand layers are off, I want a similarly luxurious SPF for my chest/arms/legs/feet for day to day wear. No white cast, no SPF smell, hopefully that's also hydrating. The Mermaid gel isn't expensive... but it will be if I use it everywhere (I want to use it everywhere.) I'm not trying to get spendy here.. but I can probably be convinced :) Also, if you haven't tried this sunscreen, what are you doing? I feel for you. It's the best. Especially if you are prone to breaking out!

REVIEWS

• Khiel's makes this mud mask that I feel confident is helping to deep cleanse my pores, decreasing their apparent size. It tingles just a bit, which I don't mind. This is my first clay mask, so I'm not sure what to compare it to, but it seems to do it's job! I'm open to trying other ones for sure. There's some Australian made clay mask that I keep seeing on Instagram which has caught my interest.
  
  
• Dr. Gross's universal peeling pads are not bad, oh, at, all. They leave my skin feeling really really clean and ready for the next steps without adding tightness. They do add about five minutes to my routine, since you're supposed to use the pads all over the face until the pads are dry. But I really think these, and my clay mask, are to thank for the drastic decrease in pore size.
  
  
• After patch testing, I've used The Ordinary peeling solution once so far but it's pretty great! It's a fun product to apply.. very viscous and bright raspberry in color. Doesn't tingle or burn at all, and I noticed a lot of dry skin coming up around my forehead and temples which is new for me so success!
  
  
• The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane made me peel the morning after use, and is SO GENTLE. No tingling or redness at all! I'm in love.
  
  
• The Ordinary Vitamin C in HA is definitely a tingly product, but it's amazing. My skin is looking so much more refined and even in tone, IMO. It's a gritty suspension so I only do this at night. But highly recommend it!
  
  
• The Ordinary Marine HA is another great one. It's a very watery essence step that instantly moisturizes... I feel like it hydrates deeply, and it also absorbs rather quickly as well! So in love. Love love love. It does smell like algae and sea organic matter, to be expected. It feels amazing but smells kinda gross.
  
  
• The Ordinary HA Moisturizing Factors is lovely. It's so lightweight and fluffy... it's a surprisingly luxurious experience for such a low cost. I notice I do value the Khiel's day oil in combination with this for some added festivity... but I can't go without this stuff!
  
  
• I got a sample of the Rosette ceramide gel and quite like it as a replacement for the Dr. Jardt gel moisturizer I'd been using. It's got a nice ingredient list, and that shows :) Macadamia nut oil seems to be a good thing for my skin.
  
  
• I bought the Dermaflash device when I went to Nordstrom and just tried it yesteray! I don't assume it is as effective as a professional dermaplaning service, but if you'd like something to tide you over between professional services, to test out the concept of dermaplaning, or if you're disinterested in actual dermaplaning! I didn't realize just how much dead skin was clinging to my face! My products really are absorbing sooo much better already, I love not using Nair to remove the peach fuzz on my face. It's awesome! I had to charge a few times during the process, which wasn't ideal, but all in all? I'd totally recommend this. I used it on my chest as well and love how soft all my skin is now :) I love this thing! Excited to try actual dermaplaning to determine the difference :)
  
  
• I've been using the Laura Mercier blemishless primer and think I love Laura Mercier primer like u/theartnomad always said I would... but I don't like this one. It says it prevents breakthrough shine, and it DOES, except I want my breakthrough shine as a bright spring with dry skin perpetually on the hunt for a dewy glowing complexion. It's even a bit too matte for when I want to be more professional in terms of skin finish. I'm not sure if I want the radiance primer (it adds a pearlescent finish... which I like, but I'm wary of white cast, which I think the bronze might help with) or the hydrating one? I'll get some samples at Sephora soon :)
  
  
• Christophe Robin makes a volumizing hair line and I am obsessed. The spray was lackluster for me, but I haven't experimented thoroughly with it. The scalp scrub feels AMAZING, dissolves completely, and the conditioner is so hydrating (makes detangling very easy) and my hair is visibly thicker and fluffier and shinier after use. I'd like to get the non-scrub shampoo as well to add in for my third weekly wash. Highly recommend.
  
  
• Christophe Robin's moisturizing kit is also nice, but I simply don't need that much moisture. Can't comment on the styling product as I'm allergic to the almond oil included. This is a great option for a deeper conditioning, or any one with breakage/damage I'd imagine, but it left my hair very sleek, if my goal weren't huge massive voluminous hair I'd be a happy camper!
  
  
• u/littlegoosegirl recommended the Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo and it's AWESOME. Leaves my hair feeling totally perfectly squeaky clean! Not drying or damaging either, it wouldn't appear. I use this to remove the deep cleansing product I treat my hair with I've reviewed in the past, and it's a dream.
  
  
• I've long been in love with Khiel's Midnight Recovery Oil but am now entirely in love with the day version of this oil. Totally recommend. It's a drier, faster absorbing oil that lays fabulously under makeup. The warm citrusy scent is absolutely a plus.

What are you using to wash your skin? It might be too harsh and drying. Also, if Cerave is burning your skin you should stop using it. It sounds like your skin is dry, dehydrated and irritated. Have you tried olive oil, Vaseline or cocoa butter on your face before? Right now, it appears that your skin doesn't like one or more of the products that you have been using. So if you are introducing those things for the first time, definitely try it on a tiny part of your face before using it all over your skin.

Personally, Cerave, olive oil, cocoa butter and Vaseline all irritated my skin. If none of them work for you, you will have to buy additional skincare products. I use this and this for when my skin is irritated and damaged. I also like this but shipping and processing takes much longer.

For more immediate relief, I suggest stop washing your skin with a cleanser, stay in the steamy bathroom after a shower and put on some aloe vera or Vaseline (if you already know your skin is fine with this). Once you do the patch test and find things that won't irritate your skin, then you can start applying them.

Hi there! I only have KP on my arms, but I have been using Pond's Rejuveness Anti-Wrinkle Cream (not AB, sorry). I originally bought it to use as an AHA step for my face, but I'm taking a break from actives on my face right now. So, not wanting to waste it, I started using it on my arms. It has actually really helped! Probably thanks to the AHA. You might also want to add a BHA if your pores are getting clogged.

Also, I haven't tried this on my arms, but I've recently started the Rosette Ceramide Gel on my face and HOLY WOW. In like 3 days it's drastically improved my skin. It is so much smoother and glowing! I might try using it on my arms soon, I feel like it would help the texture drastically.

I have a feeling that moisturizing helps my KP in general, so whatever I use I try to make sure my skin stays nice and moisturized. YMMV, though.

Really? The link I'm looking at has it on Prime: here for $13.80. I apologize if you're looking for it from outside the US though and would also suggest Rakuten otherwise.

Thanks for your great reply :)

I'm unsure whether I'm sensitive to fatty alcohols tbh but I don't think my skin is usually sensitive to alcohol

I checked out the things you recommended:

• CeraVe is unfortunately not available in my country except online for $26 not including shipping.
  
• I found the Rosette Skin Care Aqua Ceramide Gel for the cheapest price on Ebay for $25 here but I'm not sure if I have to pay for shipping or not because the description is kind of confusing... and on Amazon for $18 here but I haven't used Amazon before and I'm not sure which would get to me faster.
  
• The Laneige Multiberry Yoghurt Pack is almost $40 so it's too expensive unfortunately :( I've been looking around and I can't find any samples for it?
  
• The Innisfree masks seem pretty good $17 for 5.
  
  I'm really trying to do what's best! :( I'm using Cetaphil cleanser but it stings my face :( I do have Innisfree Bija gel cleanser coming maybe that will be better but who knows.
  
  This would be a lot easier if I had money lol
  
  
  
  

I love this idea!! Here goes!

On the 1st day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me a Kikumasamune.

On the 2nd day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me two facial oils, and a Kikumasamune.

On the 3rd day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me three pH Strips, two facial oils, and a Kikumasamune.

On the 4th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me, four Berry Bombs, three pH Strips, two facial oils, and a Kikumasamune.

On the 5th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me five Sleeping Masks, four Berry Bombs, three pH Strips, two facial oils, and a Kikumasamune.

On the 6th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me six Donkey Sheet Masks, five Sleeping Masks, four Berry Bombs, three pH Strips, two facial oils, and a Kikumasamune.

On the 7th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me 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 8th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me 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 9th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me 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 10th day of Christmas, my Snailer snailed to me 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.

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

If you have trouble getting a good lather, I use one or two drops of this vegetable glycerin seriously a bottle will last years.

not to be "that" person....but

I don't use chemicals on my dogs.

I tried them 1 year....even they didn't work so I researched some home remedies. since then it's all i use and my vet approves.

their drinking water : about 2 teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar per gallon of water

as a Spray: mix 50/50 Apple Cider Vinegar and water in a spray bottle....apply as frequently as needed.

shampoo: 1pint water, 1 pint original blue dawn dish soap NOT the concentrated stuff; 1 pint Apple Cider Vinegar, 2 oz glycerin




I've used this since the bad infestation a couple years ago. I have yet to see a flea on them. They didn't get them even when we moved into a new place, and it was infested by a previous tenant. Nor did they get one when I puppy sat for a neighbor one weakend, and didn't know the puppy had a bad case of fleas until a couple hours before she went home.

I have a regular shampoo that i use for general bathing, and wipe downs. The dawn mix is what I use in the warmer months if I need to.

if you dont' want to make the shampoo, you can always just do a rinse with the vinegar after a normal bath.

yup its all in the link happy to answer any questions you have but it all starts with food safe vegetable glycerine heres a link... you can also save money by mixing your own cig e juice actually and you can flavor it your self. these links are the majority of what you need. the rest a minute with the doc i linked before and you should be good to go.

Edit: use only that glycerine. dont go to wallgreens and think that you can vape the glycerine they have there or you might end up in the hospital. =) dont let that scare you, but use this glycerine and you will be a ok and being much safer than smoking.
http://www.amazon.com/Foods-Glycerine-Vegetable-16-Fluid-Ounces/dp/B0019LWU2K

https://www.lorannoils.com/c-202-new-natural-flavors.aspx

I just use a washcloth but there may be better things out there. I used to find glycerin in the grocery store (might carry it in drug stores too?) but now I just get it on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/NOW-Solutions-Vegetable-Glycerine-16-Ounce/dp/B0019LWU2K/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1538168604&sr=8-3&keywords=now+foods+glycerin

​

You're welcome, hope it helps!

Some people discovered that adding Trumper's Skin Food to their shaving cream/soap made a thicker, creamier lather. Vegetable glycerin seems to be the main ingredient of it as well and since TSF is so expensive some people will use the pure vegetable glycerin which is pretty cheap to buy.

Load your brush by swirling it on a shaving soap and put a dollop of shaving cream in your bowl, combine the two to make a "super lather", add some glycerin to the mix and you get "uber lather".

https://www.amazon.com/Cure-Natural-Aqua-Gel-250/dp/B001ABLKK2

It’s not so much a mask as it is a odorless gel that you rub on your face and then it turns into flaky bits (think the stuff that comes off when you use an eraser)

This is the next regiment I'm phasing in (as in one or two new products every month) after a month of lurking on here. Please feel free to throw suggestions at the newbies guys!

In the morning:

• CeraVe facial cleansers (I've ordered both the foaming and gel kind to compare and for travel) to replace my Burt's Bee's Radiance face wash.
  
  
• A month after starting CeraVe, starting at once a week, then working my way up, the Green Cream as a strong, non-prescription retinol.
  
  
  
• The [CeraVe SPF50 sunscreen] (http://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Sunscreen-Face-Lotion-Ounce/dp/B00BGBUQXS/ref=sr_1_7?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1396217386&sr=1-7&keywords=cerave+face+cream). I know the amazon reviews say that it leaves a film, etc, but I really want to avoid the silliness of layering product upon product in the morning. Everyone's going on and on about CeraVe and the importance of SPF 50, so voila I'm getting this product.
  
  
  Starting at twice a week, after work:
  
• [The Cure exfoliator] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ABLKK2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AI7FJRPU7LRRY) to replace my Angels on Bare Skin physical exfoliator from Lush. Chemical exfoliation sounded scary for the longest time, but after some research I kind of see why it would be more effective and less damaging than manual exfoliation. This product seems to be one of the gentlest and most effective.
  
  
• A DYI face mask: ground oatmeal, milk, aloe vera gel, honey.
  
  At night:
  
• CeraVe face wash
  
• My old Lush Eau Roma toner and Skin's Shangri-La cream until they run out,
  
• After which I would switch to CeraVe in the tub both for my face and as body lotion--this makes some people break out, but with my skin type I can risk it. I think I'm going to skip toning entirely.
  
  As for shaving "down there", I've been advised to just use those electric buzzers they use for hair cuts. Leaves a stubble but worth not having ingrown hairs. (Sorry for the gross imagery). Otherwise, I would imagine the same rules apply as for men avoiding ingrown hair on their face, which comes with a plethora of articles and products. Not wearing tight jeans/pants two or three days after shaving helps (men are advised to not wear tight collars after shaving to avoid ingrown hair), as does using shaving cream. Also, those round electric shavers are supposed to be better than razors because they don't "dig" at the hair under the follicle and facilitate ingrown hair.
  
  Not using a shaving cream allows the razor to irritate your skin, and following that with a body wash, no matter how gentle and natural, will likely cause your skin to itch. Source: I stubbornly refused shaving cream for years. Still skip it sometimes out of laziness, but life is so much better when I at least remember to shave my legs before rinsing off my soap lather in the shower.
  
  Oh and I started drinking 3 liters of water a day. Absolute game changer for my skin. Yay!

https://www.amazon.com/Cure-Natural-Aqua-Gel-250/dp/B001ABLKK2/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1510050724&sr=8-2&keywords=the+cure+gel

2420yen per bottle on Amazon Japan.

$28.99 isn't a bad price considering they are paying eBay fees, PayPal fees, and offering free shipping.

Is it beneficial to use both an AHA exfoliant like Paula's Choice 8% AHA gel AND another exfoliant like Cure Natural Aqua Gel? Or is just one or the other optimal (considering cost, too, which is expensive for both)?

^ Dutch girl who owns a cat and recommends Cure. :P

1. Cleanser -link - Remove dirt, really powerful. It has gotten rid of my blackheads, and I had a lot.

2. Exfoliator -link - Only whenever my skin can handle it. Will get rid of all of that flakey skin you have for a smooth finish. It'll make your skin 100% smooth without flakes after 1 use.

3. Essence -link - Skin treatment after exfoliator, replacement for toner. Repairs damaged skin as well and is good protection.

Finally, any Korean BB Cream that goes well with your skin tone. A good BB cream is protective tinted moisturizer to hide your imperfections. Asian BB Cream products are way superior than the American versions.

I would recommend this for you as good BB Creams if you're ever interested:

Choice One - Link - Whitening, Wrinkle Repair, Moisturizer, Tinted, Sunblock. This one is a bit stronger.

Choice Two - Link - Whitening, Wrinkle Repair, Moisturizer, Tinted, Sunblock. This one is more popular.

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.

May I recommend a little Thayer Witch Hazel. Very soothing.

1. Exfoliate a few times in the days before beginning hair removal.
   
   
2. For not-short-hairs, reduce length before going to the full hair removal. Example: use scissors to cut down the chest forest or perform a not-close shave on your legs.
   
   
3. Make sure your skin is hydrated & supple immediately before hair removal (just out of - or in - a luke-warm shower, warm room for hair removal, etc.)
   
   
4. Perform hair removal (waxing, epilator, close shave).
   
   
5. Treat your skin immediately after you're done. A good lotion or (better) oil (even light olive oil) should be rubbed on to soothe the skin. I'm going whole hog next time. I just bought a witch hazel - aloe product.
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B007HD570Q/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1
   
   
6. Follow up treatments for bumps & ingrown hairs as necessary (oh man, the ingrown hairs I got the first time round - aiieeee). Like this:
   
   https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GDFYDE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
   
   Note: I just bought these on the recommendation of others. Personal experience in a week or so.
   
   My HRT (2 months) hasn't gone on long enough to expect body hair changes. Also, no clue on back or ass wax. I'm going to have to look into a professional soon, as I don't have a patient significant other.

Just the liquid:

This one

Is it this?

• 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! :)
  

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!

this one? https://www.amazon.com/MIZON-Snail-Repair-Cream-Grams/dp/B00AF63QQE

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

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.

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?

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!
  
  

You should definitely look at /r/SkincareAddiction. That said, I also have oily, breakout-prone, very sensitive skin, and these products keep me clear 99% of the time. It's not the cheapest routine though, so be warned.

For cleansing, I only use water to wash my face. I have never been able to find a cleanser that doesn't dry me out and cause breakouts. Not even non-foaming cream cleansers work on me. In the past I've used the oil cleansing method, which didn't cause problems, but also didn't provide much benefit. Plus it was kind of messy, so I stopped.

At night before bed I rinse my face with water, and then apply Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Pore-Refining Treatment With 2% BHA. Once a week, instead of that product, I mix together RESIST Daily Smoothing Treatment With 5% AHA and RESIST Weekly Resurfacing Treatment With 10% AHA and apply that before bed.

In the morning I rinse with water. Then I mix together 15% azelaic acid (I use Finacea) and Eucerin Replenishing Skin Relief Face Cream (with 5% Urea) and apply. These two products make a ton of difference for me. Azelaic acid is OTC in many countries, but if you're in the US it's prescription only, which makes it more expensive. Also the Eucerin lotion with urea is great but not available in the US which is why I order it from overseas via Amazon. My skin is very oily, but also dehydrated. The Eucerin stuff is very moisturizing, not pore-clogging, and even though it's pricey, a little goes a long way, so the small bottle lasts a surprisingly long time.

In the morning, after the Finacea and Eucerin, I put on Paula's Choice Shine Stopper. Honestly, this might be my favorite product. Before I started using it, my skin would get shiny and wet looking within an hour or two of taking a shower. This stuff makes me look normal all day. It can't take care of all the oil, but at the end of the day I'll look "dewy" rather than looking like I just went to the gym. I don't know what I'll do if they ever stop making it.

Anyway, you said you were looking for low-cost, and my skin is particularly finicky and sensitive in addition to being oily, so everything I just suggested is probably overkill for you. If I were you, I would start with either no cleanser, or CeraVe Foaming Cleanser (Amazon link, but you can find that stuff at most drug/grocery stores in the US), a 2% BHA from Paula's Choice, and a non-pore-clogging moisturizer (CeraVe also makes good moisturizers that you can find in stores). And if you want to control the look of oily skin, I really can't recommend the PC Shine Stopper highly enough. I know it's a more expensive item, but in my opinion it's worth it.

AM - Use any gentle face wash, however I recommend this Neutrogena one, works like a charm. Then I use my AM CeraVe Moisturizer and that’s it.

And in the PM - Use any gentle face wash, however I recommend this Neutrogena one, then I use my PM Moisturizer and a layer of Vaseline as an occlusive on top of that. I don’t recommend using Vaseline during your am routine unless you wanna be shiny all day.

My skin stays moist and never peels during the day, I recommend this routine.

Just realized this wasn’t a product recommendation thread..

Do you think this would do the trick?

My other cheek has the exact same piece of acne as well, and i also included a picture of my nose as it's very rough! I'm not sure what to do i wash my face, moisturize, and exfoliate once a week.


Facial Cleanser: https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Foaming-Facial-Cleanser-Ounce/dp/B003YMJJSK/?th=1


Exfoliate: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000F61S64/?th=1


Moisturizer: https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-AM-Moisturizer-Daytime/dp/B00F97FHAW?th=1

Google, my friend. I myself wash my face with a very gentle squalane gel-to-milk cleanser that is absolutely perfect for me. And I’ve researched the living shit out of the internet which products may work for my skin. Start with just three things: cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. Do that for a couple of weeks and then add in serums that contains ceramides, Hyaluronic acid, cholesterol etc that really build up your skin barrier. I’ll give you my routine as an example:

1. Squalan cleansing gel
   
2. CosRx Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner
   
3. CosRx Hyaluronic acid hydra power essense > apply to damp skin
   
4. CosRx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin power essence
   
5. Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel > high dosage of aloe Vera which is really great for irritated skin
   
6. Eucerin Dry Skin Relief Face Cream 5% Urea > urea makes your skin hold moisture a lot better and the day cream also mildly exfoliates
   
7. CeraVe moisturizing cream - normal to dry skin > very good for barrier repair, contains ceramides, Hyaluronic acid and cholesterol. Make sure you have the normal to dry skin version. In the EU they have a different formula and is called dry to very dry.
   
8. CeraVe AM sunscreen for daytime
   
9. Squalane oil in the evening = unicorn tears <3
   
   As you see I do not have any acids in my routine because even AHA gives me veeeery painful and irritated skin.
   
   EDIT: snail mucin really helped my skin a lot, give it a try! AND do not take hot showers and keep your face damp when you come out of the shower.
   
   EDIT 2: buy a humidifier :) low humidity absolutely dries the living shit out of my face

My hands down favorite is Banana Boat Dry Balance. It absorbs well, has a completely matte finish, and has a nice strawberry-ish scent that I really like but don't find overpowering.

My other favorite is Cerave Facial Moisturizing Lotion, SPF 30. This one is pretty greasy and takes forever to sink in, but after about an hour it's good to go.

A couple of the worst I have tried were Cerave SPF 50 Face lotion and Drunk Elephant Umbra Sheer Physical Defense. Both of these never sink in for me and look perpetually greasy until I start sweating and eventually sweat them all the way off. I'm relatively fair (NC10) and the white cast I get from these is unreal. Could be that I don't like mineral sunscreens in general, but these two were mega losers for me.

https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-protection-Hyaluronic-Ceramides/dp/B00F97FHAW/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1521589311&sr=1-3&keywords=cerave+daily

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

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F97FHAW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

My sister recommended it to me and I love it! It doesn't make leave my face looking white or shiny. It goes on very smoothly.

Try this one: https://www.amazon.com/Skin-Aqua-Super-Moisture-SPF50/dp/B01BM1USNO/

Use two pumps to cover your entire face.

What's the difference between the gel and the milk? It seems you get 3x more with the gel for the same price. https://www.amazon.com/Skin-Aqua-Super-Moisture-SPF50/dp/B01BM1USNO/

I'm not sure the difference between the one you mentioned and the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel that people have mentioned above, but that one comes in a large bottle with a pump! It's on my next-to-try list. And I hear you, Asian sunscreens in small bottles drive me nuts.

Hello all! First off, I am so glad I found this sub. I am a 27 year old male, and I am a noob. All I used to do was just put on Neutrogena facial moisturizer, and wash my face in the shower with body scrub. Then I found this sub because I really realized that I need to take better care of my skin. I read the WIKI and FAQ and got my current routine from the helpful info on this sub.

The issue: Ever since I started this routine, I am breaking out in both my lower cheeks. I have maybe...9-10 pimples on my face. This is not normal as I usually only have 1-2 at most when breaking out, but normally I have none.

Skin type OILY!

Current routine:So I got all but 1 these product recommendations from this sub. Soo my routine is:

MORNING:
Wash face with Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, for normal to oily skin

Afterwards apply CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion, and do this every 2-3 hours during the day

NIGHT:
Wash face with Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, for normal to oily skin

Right before going to sleep, I put on Neutrogena® Men Age Fighter Face Moisturizer with Retinol. This is the only product that I did not get from this site. I used this product for months, and my skin never reacted bad to it. Here is a link in case you guys want to see what ingredients are in it:
>Ensulizole (1%), Octinoxate (6%). Inactive Ingredients: Water, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Panthenol, Retinol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, BHT, Tocopherol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Disodium EDTA, Titanium Dioxide, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Silica, Alumina, Methylparaben, Isopropylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Butylparaben.

How long:The age fighter with retinol I have used for almost a year. The rest of the products that I got from this subs HG thread, I have been using for about 9 days now

Anything new:Everything except the age fighter

Your location: Los Angeles

Other notes:I got this stuff from Amazon. The facial cleanser is supposed to be unscented.......however it defiantly has a sent. I got all my stuff from Amazon.com...is it possible I got fake/knock offs? I am looking at my Amazon history, here is the link to the one I got:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ET79H8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

I just also noticed that the latest reviews are horrible..

Also:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F97FHAW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Any help at all would be greatly appreciated. I kind of don't know what to do right now since both my cheeks are breaking out pretty bad. My face actually was a lot more clear prior to this routine. However because I never washed my face this much, IDK if this is "normal" or not.

I think you'll enjoy the Elizavecca bubble mask! It's supposed to puff up and get super bubbly which makes it fun, but I think a lot of people actually like it because it works well too. They also have a gold mask that looks like it would be fun for a girls night!

I'm currently using this Freeman mask and it's not as fun and exciting as the other two lol but it works well for acne prone skin, it's cheap, and it feels nice on my skin. I would probably check out some of the other Freeman masks too, they have a lot of different types.

https://www.amazon.com/Elizavecca-Milky-Piggy-Carbonated-Bubble/dp/B00MWI2IS0/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1510524813&sr=8-2&keywords=foaming+clay+mask

I think this is it.

Skin Type: Combination |
Country/Climate I'm in: Canada, winter (close to -30 celsius this week) |
Top Skin Concern: sun protection (but don't want vitamin D deficiency!)

 

Current Routine/Products I'm Using:

AM
Cerave Hydrating Cleanser
Cetaphil Daily Moisturizer SPF

 

PM
Cerave Hydrating Cleanser
Noxzema Anti-Blemish Pads
Cerave PM Moisturizer

 

I discovered this subreddit last week and bought my first sheet masks! Tony Moly's Rice mask is amazing. I'm looking into getting AB cleansers and sunscreen, and I've compiled a list of stuff to get from amazon. I am super confused about the sunscreen though. I don't want to dry out my skin with too much alcohol. I also need proper sun protection because I'll be going outside quite a bit, and the snow reflects UV rays. Windburn is also a problem. Also is there anywhere I can buy bulk sheet masks?¸

 

How's this for my first Amazon haul (I haven't bought anything yet, any advice is welcome):

 

TONYMOLY I'm Real Mask Sheet Pack of 11
KOSE COSMEPORT softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil 230ml
Elizavecca Milky Piggy Carbonated Bubble Clay Mask

 

Which sunscreen should I get?? I want something that looks good and isn't too drying. Good smell would be nice as well:

 

Tonymoly Magic Food Mango Mild Sunblock 45g

OR

Biore KAO JAPAN AQUA RICH Sarasara SPF50+ PA++++ NEW 2015 50g Sunscreen

OR


Japanese Skincare Mommy UV mild Gel N 100g AF27

 

Thanks!

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00MWI2IS0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This mask!!! I tried it once and my skin looks so nice! It's from Korea but it's worth the wait + it's fun to do haha http://i.imgur.com/0GYeWwA.png (not me)

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!

Try Vanicream! Here’s an amazon link

If you try the Cerave Baby wash, and don't like it/break out, you could also try Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser.
I've tried it and it's somewhere between a hydrating and foaming cleanser. It is somewhat opaque like a hydrating cleanser, but it does foam up. It's somewhere in the middle, but more closer to a foaming cleanser. Plus its very good at removing makeup and has a perfect score of 0 on cosdna.com. The only downside is that it doesn't have any "beneficial" ingredients like how the Cerave Baby has ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. The Vanicream doesn't have any of that.

What are my next steps? I’ve read all over the FAQs and Wiki, but I'm not sure where to head next with my routine. I've been using the same routine for approx. 9 months now and I’m no longer seeing positive changes or results that I want.

The issues: I still have acne, though not as severe as it was a year ago. I have quite large pores and very sensitive skin when it comes to what I use. I’m allergic(eczema) to methylisothiazolinone or others like it. It’s found in many many liquid soaps, lotions, treatments etc.

Skin Type: I would say combination, as I am prone to acne, eczema, have somewhat oily skin, and flaking skin as well. Left profile Right Profile

Current routine: The routine I’ve been using for the past 9 months is as follows:
My mornings and evenings have been somewhat interchangeable, depending on if I shower in the morning or evenings, so I will combine it in to daily, with the exception of 1 product.

Daily:

• Cleanse: Rinse with water OR Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser (1-3x per week) OR Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask (1-2x per week)
  
  
• Moisturize: None if rinsed with water, unless feeling dry OR Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream on my cheeks, nose, and chin.
  
  Evening:
  
  
• Tretinoin Cream 0.025% every night.
  
  Occasionally Used:
  
  
• Neutrogena Rapid Clear(BP) for active large pimples.
  
  Anything New: I am currently reducing(eventually to zero) an antidepressant, so hormonal changes will probably cause acne to pick up. I exercise regularly, drink approx. 3 liters of water every day, and eat very healthy.
  
  Location: Southern Maine region.
  
  Thank you for your help SCA World!
  

Hey there, sure I can let you know what worked for me. Just some set up- I've always had acne since a teen, now 30 years old (female), surface bumps, sure, but my the main bane of my existence was painful cystic acne. I'd always have a couple at various stages (since you know... you feel the big painful bumps coming in and it takes time to surface, then time to heal, so each one has a 2-4 week lifespan, ugh)

I've never used any prescription medication to address it, but I've tried any and all over the counter solutions. In the last year I found the following products that actually worked for me, hoping they might work for you but of course everyone is different:

• LUSH Dark Angels Scrub - this really seemed to reduce the number of breakouts, not completely, but I did feel like I noticed some improvement. I use this 1-2 a week in the shower
  
• Glossier Solution- I was always using toner, but this stuff changed my life. I noticed a flair up in small surface zits the first 2 weeks, almost like my skin was purging or something, but I hung in there and I have never had such clear skin in my life. I do get an occasional zit here or there, nothing like before though (usually around my period, not too uncommon). Again, not sure if this will work for everyone but it really changed the game for me. I use this every night before bed. Solution contains a particular 10% blend of three acid groups: Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), and Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) -> you can google search for a dupe of this product, there's probably something with similar ingredients for less.
  
• Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser - pretty cheap non-scented no frills cleaner. I use this with my Clairsonic after using the LUSH scrub in the shower
  
• Clairsonic Brush - I got one of those vibrating brush doo-dads, you can certainly find cheaper alternatives, but this really helped me get that deeper clean.
  
  I'm locked into this routine because it's the only one that's ever worked for me. I know the Scrub and Solution toner can be a lil' pricey- I think you can request a sample of the scrub from a LUSH store for free. As for toner, before the Glossier one I was using this Nutrogena toner daily that sorta helped, better than nothing :)
  
  I think a reduction in dairy products has helped (which sucks cause I love cheese), as well as the increase in water.
  
  Good luck!!!
  
  ​

You could try albolene or vanicream.

You should also read this thread

The dove soap bar is a cleanser and so is the panoxyl bp wash. I know this post is old and I really really hope you are doing well. It sounds like your skin is angry and being overworked. I would try vanicream cleanser, it's gentle. Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser for sensitive Skin with Pump Dispenser, 8 Fl Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QY1XZ4W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_j8mBDbFHMKK6Z

I am a huge fan of hyaluronic acid, it's a humectant. I sweat easily especially from my face and when I have hyaluronic acid serum on my skin, it acts like a shield. Keeping in my oils and sweat and not letting anything into your skin except moisture. You just want to apply it to your face when it's damp after cleansing or you can use rose water. Then you can apply light moisturizer on top of it, if you want. I prefer water creams. 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_ganBDbP79RSA0

Benzoyl peroxide really irritates my skin and doesn't help my acne. I think the reason you are producing so much oil is that your skin is trying to heal it's skins barrier. Don't use hot or cold water on your face, both can aggravate your skin. You need to go back to the basics and nuture your skin and yourself. https://www.getthegloss.com/article/sense-and-sensitivity-how-to-build-up-your-skin-barrier

Looking to add TO Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% to my routine to help with PIE/PIH. Where in my routine would I incorporate it?

Current routine for the last few months:

• BIOSSANCE Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil (occasional, PM only)
  
• Vanicream gentle cleanser
  
• .05% Tretinoin (PM only)
  
• Klairs Supple Preparation Toner Unscented
  
• Hadalabo Gokujun premium hyaluronic solution
  
• CosRX Snail Mucin
  
• CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
  
• Vaseline (PM only, occasional)
  
• Paula's Choice Skin Recovery SPF 30 (AM only)
  
  26F, dry skin, main concerns are dry skin from tret, closed comedones, PIE/PIH. Located in Canada/pacific northwest. No new shampoo, toothpaste, changes in diet/lifestyle, or medication recently. I drink plenty of water, exercise, etc.
  
  Thanks!

Hey everyone,

I suffer from Seborrheic dermatitis, so the only products I am using are from this helpful list. I am currently using the Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel mixed with The Ordinary's Squalane and the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser and for the first time I feel like I am having actual success.


So I wanted to make the next step and introduce sunscreen. I ordered the CōTZ FACE Natural Tinted
SPF 40, but unfortunately it breaks me out.


I definitely wanted a mattifying sunscreen, since regardless of which product I am using, I always get noticeably oily/greasy 1-2 hours after applying products. So to try other sunscreens from that list, I ordered the Biore Uv Perfect Face Milk Spf50 + / Pa ++++ and the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk (SPF50 PA ++++). It is going to take some time until they arrive, but I thought I could already ask some questions:


According to Fiftyshadesofsnail the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk dries down to a clear satin finish that can go more matte or more dewy depending on your skin condition and what skincare you have underneath. Considering my situation, it might end up too dewy for me. My inital idea was to simply apply it over my Benton Aloe Propolis Gel + Squalane mix and in case that this will end up too dewy, I wanted to test using this over the Benton Gel without the squalane. However if this still ends up being too dewy, would it be okay to use the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Milk without any actual moisturizer under it, or would I be missing out on some important skin benefits?


My next question would be if the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser will be enough to remove the Biore and the Skin Aqua sunscreens. I have read somewhere that I might need an oil cleanser for this. I currently have this Mystic Moments White Mineral Oil Carrier Oil 100% Pure, but I didn't like how it doesn't really get off when using water. I have read that if you mix it with 10-15% cromollient SCE it'll be better, but I live in Europe, Germany and I don't know where I can get that here.


Thank you for any kind of help!

Anyone tried the Vanicream Gentle Skin Cleanser? I've recently tried the Cerave hydrating cleanser and Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser and both gave me a couple of hives. Not sure if they share ingredients that I'm allergic to or simply sensitive to. Anyway, I want to know if anyone has had luck with the Vanicream cleanser. I'm desperate for a truly gentle cleanser. I'd appreciate any recs

Vanicream is CF & vegan, super gentle. I love their cleanser, lite lotion and regular lotion for those super dry days. Similar price point to cetaphil. I highly recommend!


Amazon link

AM

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

Pixi Glow Tonic

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea

TO Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

TO Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

TO Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

COSRX Snail All in One Cream

La Roche Posay Anthelios Shaka Fluid

​

PM

Kose Softymo Deep Cleansing Oil

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser

Pixi Glow Tonic

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea

TO 100% Organic Cold-pressed Rose Hip Oil

TO Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA

TO Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

COSRX Snail All in One Cream

I like using Vanicream! It's been incredibly gentle on my sensitive skin, and it doesn't have tons of extra junk in it.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QY1XZ4W/

Body Skin Type: Normal-to-dry, Keratosis Pilaris on arms, upper stomach, and thighs, occasional body acne

Shower Routine (every other day):

• Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar w/ Salux Exfoliating Cloth, focusing on my upper arms where my KP is the worst
  
  Post-Shower Routine:
  
  
• Alpha Skin Care 12% Glycolic Acid Renewal Body Lotion, every other day. I love this stuff. It smooths out my KP quite a bit, and leaves my whole body feeling so soft. Calloused areas become noticeably softer with continued use for me, as well. I've been using it for about 3-4 months, now, and will definitely repurchase when the I run out.
  
  
• CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, every night. I wait 30 minutes on nights that I apply my AHA to apply this. My skin loves the extra moisture, but the AHA lotion is very moisturizing on its own, so this step could probably be skipped, if necessary.
  
  I'm still looking for a solution to the mild redness caused by my KP on my arms, but other than that I'm pretty content with my routine, as is. So soft!

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

Sunscreen, moisturizer, and gentle cleansers.

More specifically, I use CeraVe bar soap for cleansing my face and the same brand lotion for post-shower moisturizer.

Yes! I recommend CeraVe, I think it's good for sensitive skin and is unscented:

https://www.amazon.com/CeraVe-Moisturizing-Cream-Daily-Moisturizer/dp/B00TTD9BRC/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=cerave+moisturizing+cream&qid=1573176471&sprefix=cerave&sr=8-2

I grind beans fresh, my 91 year old grandfather has some of the old metal folger cans. I use cerave lotion containers after I clean them out. Have 4 of them empty and they hold about 100 9mm rounds per jar.

Seconding the Nivea Sun Protect Water Gel! I have it and it feels SO nice on the skin. There's also the Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel.

Not AB sunscreen, but I'm currently trying Sunsense Ultra SPF50+ as a body sunscreen. My nose doesn't detect any typical sunscreen smell, though it does have a very slight chemical smell, but none too distracting. It comes in 50ml, 125ml, 200g and 500ml bottles. It has a light consistency (compared to most non AB sunscreen I've tried) and is not too greasy once applied. I took a leap of faith and purchased the 500ml bottle haha. So far so good. The pump bottle is handy.

P.S. My current face sunscreen is Kose SUNCUT UV Protect Gel SPF50+ PA++++. This is my second AB sunscreen, which I like more than my first, Etude House Sunprise Mild Watery Light (SPF50+/PA+++). The EH Sunprise has a rather distracting smell for me. Will try Skin Aqua Sarafit Essence UV (SPF50+ PA++++) and Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel (SPF50 + PA ++++) next.

Might I also recommend this?

Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel pump (SPF50 + PA ++++) 140g https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BM1USNO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_kAcXBbD73VN3T

It's so light I honestly can't even remember if I've applied it sometimes. Spreads with no effort, absorbs INSTANTLY and there's none of that typical sunscreen smell. No greasy residue at all. It's also graded SPF 50 for added bonus.

I can guarantee it works. I have a sun sensitivity and have never gotten hives while using this. It's also cheap enough to use on your body if you only want to bring one item while traveling. Super super highly recommended.

I use this one which I guess is the gel:

Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel pump (SPF50 + PA ++++) 140g https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BM1USNO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_n73IBbTGJWNX2

It really doesn't feel like a gel to me, but it does sink in great. I layer it over Hada Labo gyokijyun hydrating toner and a single pump of stratia liquid gold so I'm not sure how it would do on its own in terms of feeling stiff or drying, but over that it's fantastic. I will say it smells strongly of...alcohol i think? at first, but it evaporates quickly. You need 2.5 pumps to get the full 1/4 teaspoon you need for full sun protection but the bottle is a nice size. I love Asian sunscreens!!!!

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?

Usually with BB creams, they tend to oxidize after a couple of minutes after you put it on your skin, so that being said, I'd still say to swatch the colors to see which would match your skin tone. Sephora/Ulta carry a few BB creams, so you can always go in one day to swatch the different colors.

As for Asian BB creams, they tend to have more coverage and are higher in SPF (thus a bit more ~beneficial~). I personally own 2 Asian BB creams (the Skin 79 Hot Pink BB and thefaceshop BB emulsion (oil cut dual... i can't find a link for this) as well as "American/Western" BB creams like the L'oreal Youth Code and the Garnier.

From my personal experience, I've found the Asian BB creams to have too much of a grey-cast (despite being of asian skin tone myself) and sometimes, quite thick (especially the Skin79 one) while the American/Western BB creams to be too light. My current personal favorites are the Dr. Jart Water Fuse BB cream and the Mixa Expert Peau Sensible BB Crème Unifiante (which I bought in France). Both are not too dry on my face and give a good medium-ish coverage that doesn't feel too heavy. Additionally, both of them match my skin tone better as well.

Now, if you're looking for something light, I'd say definitely swatch/test out the Western brands one because most of them definitely have a lighter coverage in my opinions, but if you're looking for BB creams that have more "benefits," I've heard good things about the Etude House, and I personally know a lot of my friends like Missha (although imo it still gives too much of a grey cast...). You can also always order samples of diff Asian BB creams before making any purchase, and if you don't have any Asian cosmetics/beauty stores around your area too like these or these. I'm sure there are more selections online as well! Good luck finding your perfect BB cream!

**PS: these might help you out, asian bb creams vs americans also there are a lot of youtubers who do comparisons, so check those out as well!

Yup on amazon! You can find it here.

http://www.amazon.com/Skin79-Cream-Miniature-Mini-Black/dp/B002HPBF32

No guarantees that they're not fakes though. Be cautious!

Edit: try Yes Style (UK)

http://www.yesstyle.com/en/skin79-bb-cream-miniature-set-black-5g-x-4/m/info.html/pid.1021570947

I read somewhere their stuff is legit.

I use the L'oreal BB cream. It has less coverage than some, but I use other foundations and powders, so it works for what I need. It's only around $10 and has lasted me three months so far.

I've heard that Skin79 is by far the best brand. You can buy the sampler pack on Amazon for around $10 and find which kind works best for you. It's expensive for the big containers, but people say it's totally worth it.

If you're looking for everyday makeup advice, /r/MakeupAddiction is a great place to go. Just do a search for BB cream and you'll find tons of threads with advice.

There are sample sets of Asian BB creams like this one you could get and try before shelling out for a fullsize product.

If you're interested in Asian BB creams (which work better IMO) my friend linked me to 2 sample packs on amazon and if you have prime they'll still get to you in 4 or 5 days.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002HPBF32/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_nGN9ub0ZMA8YM

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LEVMTHQ/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_wIN9ub041MH0G

I found a [sampler on Amazon] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002HPBF32/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) that included both the gold and the hot pink for $10. I suggest checking it out!

This may help.

That is how I was able to test them out!

Just FYI, I purchased this back in March and really enjoyed trying the different kinds!

• 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 :)

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

The body butter probably has ingredients I usually avoid like fragrance and what not. I use stuff like that if I’m being luxurious but my everyday skincare I use something simpler. Like cerave or eucerin.

I use this squalane


https://www.amazon.com/Squalane-100-Pure-60-mL/dp/B003MJG19K

It could get pricy. I only use it on my face and chest but honestly a little goes a long way. Jojoba is a cheaper option for full body.

Sometimes, if the foundation I'm using is more drying. I don't notice it affecting the wear time, but my skin is so dry that I never have a problem with base products not lasting on me, so I might not be the best judge of that.

Squalane oil is another one that's really nice. It's lighter and absorbs really quickly. It has a lovely, silky feel, and it mixes well with foundation. I got mine on Amazon for about $12 for 2 oz. It was this one.

[Try squalane oil](Squalane 100% Pure (2 oz (60 mL)) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MJG19K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Uya6CbYYTS9MJ)Worked best for me and has no other ingredients that feed the Malassezia

Your pictures aren’t loading for me, not why. Anyway, your skin sounds like it’s super dehydrated and desperately needs the help of a good moisturizer. The oiliness might be your skin reacting to being dehydrated by overproducing oil. I wouldn’t be surprised if the clogged pores and closed comedones you’re experiencing are because of the dry skin clogging you up.

Switch to a lotion type cleanser like CeraVe Hydrating cleanser. The SA CeraVe cleanser has salicylic acid in it which can further dry out your skin. If you wear makeup everyday, you might want to try double cleansing with an oil cleanser first to remove the makeup and then the gentle cleanser afterwards. If you’ve never used a lotion style cleanser before, be aware that they don’t foam up like most cleanser but that’s a good thing. They will remove oil and dirt without over-cleansing and stripping your already dry skin.

Next, you need a heavy moisturizer. Since you already use a CeraVe product you might be familiar with their cream. It’s a favorite among the users on this sub because it’s well formulated and well tolerated. You might also want to consider a facial oil. Squalane oil is a popular choice on this sub because it won’t clog pores. I’ve used Timeless Squalane oil for a while and I really like it. The Ordinary also sells inexpensive squalane oil.

To help dehydrated and dry skin, many people on this sub also put an occlusive layer on their face before going to bed. Basically, you take an occlusive like Vaseline, Aquaphor, CeraVe Healing Ointment, etc. and put a nice thick layer on before going to bed. It can feel a bit gross but the results are truly worth it. Personally, I’d also recommend investing in a humidifier to put in your bedroom. They are pretty inexpensive on Amazon.

I wouldn’t be surprised if your issues with clogged pores and undereye bags get much better after your skin is properly hydrated. If they don’t, those issues can be addressed later on since your skin really doesn’t seem like it can handle an acids or other actives at the moment. Hope this helps.

Timeless Squalane Oil is amazing.

I like using jojoba oil as well

I don’t love TO’s Squalane. I had a bottle of the Timeless SqualaneTimeless Squalane and then replaced it with the TO and I far preferred the Timeless version. The Timeless oil sunk into my skin faster and I find the TO version is slicker and takes longer to sink in for me From reading around here on SCA Timeless’ is Olive derived Squalane and TO’s is sugar derived and the difference between the 2 is just personal preference.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MJG19K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_eTjYCbN90RE0Z

I'm still trying to finish this one, but a cheaper alternative is Timeless Skin Care. It's 60 mL for $10.80!

Product Name: 100% Pure Squalane Oil

Price: $22

Country of purchase: Canada (Ordered from Amazon)

Skin info: Combo-oily in summer, combo-dry in winter and prone to breakouts. Fitzpatrick type 4

Ingredients list: Olive derived squalane oil

Special info: This is the one I purchased from Amazon, you can also get it from The Ordinary, Peter Thomas Roth, Indie Lee and Biossance at varying price points. I highly recommend this article that explains why most other facial oils (rosehip oil, argan oil etc.) that are marketed as moisturizing are actually doing more harm to your skin and why squalane oil is the only oil that can actually be used as an effective moisturizer.

Experience & opinion: I have been using this as a moisturizer since I have had zero luck with any of the other hyped up moisturizers. CeraVe PM was behind my suspicious breakouts as it is too fatty for me, the Neutrogena Hydroboost has too many silicones in it that make me break out like crazy. I've been using squalane oil as both night time and day moisturizer and I am obsessed with how smooth and silky it makes my skin feel. It also absorbs quite well. Unfortunately, it is not super hydrating if you have drier skin. As the cooler weather is settling in, I find I still have some dry spots, and I might need a thicker overnight moisturizer for the colder months. However, I can see myself using this all year round.

I also finds this works really well under makeup. It makes my concealer and foundation blend soooo smoothly and gives a nice dewy finish without making the makeup slip around.

If you are having problems finding a regular moisturizer I would definitely recommend this. I think why it worked so well for me was the simplicity of it. A lot of moisturizers have silicones, fragrances, AHAs or something that just doesn't work with different people's skin. This is very different from other oils I've used for moisturizing (argan oil, almond oil etc.) since it actually absorbs very well instead of sitting on top of your skin and doesn't leave you looking like an oil slick.

You could try squalane or something as the carrier if you want to definitely not feed the Malassezia.

You could try adding a couple drops of squalane oil to your moisturizer. It absorbs really easily and doesn't leave an oily feeling.


If you do a search for squalane oil and skin, you'll find tons of articles about the benefits of it for all skin types. Paula's Choice has it ranked as a Best ingredient.


If you decide to give it a try, make sure you're getting squalAne, not squalEne, which is heavier and can be irritating.

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

Bare minimum:

Heimish All Clean Balm

Cerave Foaming Cleanser

Thayers Rose Petal Toner

Tony Moly Chok Chok Green Tea Watery Cream

I got it from Amazon! https://www.amazon.ca/Thayers-Alcohol-Free-Petal-Witch-Hazel/dp/B007HD570Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1523933572&sr=8-1&keywords=thayer&dpID=4186rx-UsfL&preST=_SY300_QL70_&dpSrc=srch :-)

I'm not great at skincare stuff, but make sure to look for a witch hazel that doesn't contain alcohol. The one I see most mentioned here is Thayers (alcohol free) rose petal witch hazel toner. Not sure about cheap moisturisers but someone else here will probably have some cheap recs!

I shave in the shower. After lathering up and making sure my skin is softer, i'll shave with a razor (DollarShaveClub FTW) and afterward use witch hazel to calm down any redness or bumps.

Biore sunscreens typically get a lot of love. I think the most common/popular one is Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence. You'll need to invest in a cleanser to properly remove it though. Biore sunscreens also tend to have alcohol in them, which I'm not sure if you're trying to avoid.

Not mrs_muffin and this isn't AB but I used to use Thayers Rose Petal Toner which is alcohol-free.

• cerave facial cleanser
  Foaming Facial Cleanser - Normal To Oily Skin by CeraVe for Unisex - 12 oz Cleanser https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B003YMJJSK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_J0IPCb46RTP22
  
  
• thayers witch hazel toner
  Thayers Natural Remedies Witch Hazel Toner, Rose Petal, 12 fl. Oz. https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B007HD570Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_g2IPCbDH2BAVP
  
  
  
  
• all natural advice 20% vitamin c serum
  20% Vitamin C Serum - 60 ml / 2 oz Made in Canada - Certified Organic + 11% Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin E Moisturizer + Collagen Boost - Reverse Skin Aging, Remove Sun Spots, Wrinkles and Dark Circles, Excellent for Sensitive Skin + Includes Pump & Dropper https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00PL3DK26/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_c0IPCb5SGGMPX
  
  
• brickell eye restoring cream
  Brickell Men's Restoring Eye Cream for Men - Anti Aging Eye Balm To Reduce Puffiness, Wrinkles, Dark Circles, Under Eye Bags - .5 oz https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00QL67MY4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_m1IPCbD5SEVN4
  
  
• all natural advice daily moisturizer
  All Natural Advice Daily Moisturizer with Peptide and Hyaluronic Acid | Canadian Made | Organic | Age-Defying Skincare for Face and Neck | Anti-Aging Complex for Natural Skin Tone and Healthy Radiance | 120 ml | Double the Size https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B06XVZDGGR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8YIPCbGEHFHYF
  
  i also ordered elta md broad spectrum sun screen
  EltaMD UV Facial Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30+, 3 Ounces https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MTJ02SX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_42IPCbABTWHS5
  
  .
  I've read some sunscreens have a matte finish so hoping this might.
  
  I'm a guy fwiw who just recently went down the skin care rabbit hole after getting an essential oil diffuser and reading they have skin benefits as well, so this is all new to me
  
  

I just tested my Thayer's alcohol free toner and it's a pH of 5 so if you're looking for something inexpensive, that's an economical option:

http://www.amazon.com/Thayers-Alcohol-Free-Witch-Formula-Unscented/dp/B001DJDP7C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449301858&sr=8-1&keywords=thayers+alcohol+free

The Azzaro Chrome aftershave you're using is alcohol-based, and will likely dry your skin. Feel that burn? Yeah, it's nice, but I prefer the soothing and less-astringent Witch Hazel alternative.

Listed in order of recommended products:

• Nivea for Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm, Active Comfort System, 3.3-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 4) note: witch-hazel based, so good for your face
  
  
• Yes To Carrots Fragrance-Free Intense Hydration Night Cream, 1.7 Fluid Ounce
  
  
• Yes To Carrots Nourishing Exfoliating Cleanser, 3.38-Ounce Boxes (Pack of 2)
  
  
• Musgo Real Lime Glyce Oil (MR GLO) Soap (use for pre-shave beard and face conditioning)
  
  I have not personally used MR GLO but the glycerin in it is great for skin hydration, and I plan on picking some up to add to my pre-shave routine.
  
  Looks like a lot of money, I know that, but I'm just tossing you some options here. I would highly recommend the night cream if you can at all afford it, since my face in particular dries out overnight if I don't apply this stuff. YMMV, but I can definitely vouch for the night cream, which is also available at Target.
  
  My local Target has discontinued the exfoliator, but I get mine on Amazon now. Feels fantastic on dry skin, just massage in with fingers until your skin feels buffed out. Not necessary, since your razor will exfoliate you plenty (and all you really care about are your shaved areas), but I use it on my whole face.
  
  And of course, Nivea Sensitive Post-Shave Balm works amazingly well for an off-the-shelf solution, also found at Target.
  
  PS: A cheap easy way to really clean up before you apply your aftershave balm is to apply straight-up Witch Hazel to your face using Cotton Rounds. Wipe it on generously, fan it to feel a cooling sensation if you want, let it sit for about a minute, then rub in what hasn't dried off. Apply aftershave balm, and enjoy your well-maintained face. Witch hazel and rounds are easily available at your local Target/Wally World/Walgreens.

Try some witch hazel. Thayer's makes some of the best ones.

I bought this though, http://www.amazon.com/Skin79-Cream-Miniature-Mini-Black/dp/B002HPBF32/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1394842081&sr=8-5&keywords=skin+79 so that I could try them all.

My favourite movie is Dirty Dancing because of it's cheesy lines, awesome soundtrack and the impact it had on my teenage years. I watch it often, and I think about how the warm fuzzy feeling still gets me at the end even after 29 years!

I want to win this for myself because I love make up.

cute thing on my list

Sprout and bubble
Thanks for the contest!

Heat Wave!

My amazon shopping cart is full of these kinds of things

I think the BB cream sampler would be a good foundation (ha) to give me a gateway into the BB cream world and whether it's my thing or not. Thank you for hosting!

I've actually never tried the gold skin79, but it's on the top of my list of things to buy when I run out. I opted to buy the hot pink because some reviews from people with oily skin said the gold didn't work for them--it slid off, accentuated their oiliness, but I've recently found more reviews raving about it. If I had to repurchase BB cream, i would probably get this. This way, she can try a few and find the exact one.

So I don't knit or crochet...at all...but I really love animal hats and zebras, so this is probably the coolest thing ever.


black yarn

White yarn

purple yarn

I hope I did that yarn thing right. =/ Anyway, yarnasaurus rex :D

I really want to try these! :D

I hope that you have fun looking through all of these patterns!

Here's my ratchet no warpaint face [:)] (http://imgur.com/qVNGS77) and I'm really self conscious about my tummy (obvs, I'm rather chunky haha), my arms which are covered in raised red bumps of unknown origin, and that one tooth I have that's all crooked and pointy (y'all can see it in the picture) :)
Edit: [item] (http://www.amazon.com/Skin79-Cream-Miniature-Mini-Black/dp/B002HPBF32/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=337XGNTAUQ2R8&coliid=I3OCW87HUDSA6V)

I'm a happa with dry/sensitive skin. I personally love the pink and the gold SKIN79 BB's.

They provide solid, buildable coverage and don't make me feel all dry and ashy-like after I pat it into my face. It does come in kind of greyish undertones, though, so definitely look into the mini sample set.

The price for the full bottle isn't so bad if you get it from certain retailers. I got mine from Amazon. Prime is the best!

Oh wow you are so nice! I am new to the community, so not as glam-less as some of the more longtime members, but I would love to enter. Glam me please! I would be so happy to get this! The item is 5 and the shipping is 4.99

123

1. BB Cream
   
   
2. Pikachu
   
   
3. Chopsticks
   
   
4. Foods
   
   
5. I really love Knick Knacks like this

I have this [Skin 79 Miniatures set] (http://www.amazon.com/Skin79-Cream-Miniature-Mini-Black/dp/B002HPBF32/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1360865668&sr=8-4&keywords=skin79) that is virtually unused. A pinhead sized amount of the pink and gold were swatched only for me to discover they weren't my color, the other two are brand new and untouched. Still in the box. If you're interested, let me know.

Here is the link http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002HPBF32/ref=oh_o02_s00_i00_details

Where did you get the skin79 sample set from? I got a set a few weeks ago and the packaging is a bit different from the website official picture, and it looks like yours is a bit off in the same way (I noticed it after I saw this picture). Is that just a packaging change do you think? Or actually not genuine product...

Here are the links that went with it:

http://amzn.com/B007GM2U0S

http://i.imgur.com/DlqaW9C.jpg

http://amzn.com/B002B9DWBC

http://amzn.com/B00BBNWNX2

http://imgur.com/a/wvqCm

http://amzn.com/B002HPBF32

http://amzn.com/B0020ZEA40

http://amzn.com/B008F5DCFC

Morning
Simple Micellar Cleansing Water
CosRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
NuFountain C20+ Ferulic Serum
Paula's Choice Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner
Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster
Paula's Choice Invisible Finish Moisture Gel
Paula's Choice Extra Care Non-Greasy Sunscreen SPF 50

Evening
Julep Love Your Bare Face Cleansing Oil
CosRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Blue light therapy mask
Garden of Wisdom Mandelic Acid 10%
Paula's Choice Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner
Paula's Choice Intensive Wrinkle Repair Retinol Serum
Scinic Honey AIO Ampoule
LJH Tea Tree 90 Essence
Garden of Wisdom Blemish Prone Serum
Customized mix of Prickly Pear, Marula, Passionfruit, Camelia Japonica, and Seabuckthorn Oils, all purchased from Garden of Wisdom
CeraVe Healing Ointment

I really like the NuFountain C + Ferulic serum.

I like that they date it and its always been fresh. One time I got a bottle of Timeless and it was already yellow when I got it. Plus I feel like my skin is clearer when with the NuFountain than with the Timeless because of the Vitamin E.

To keep it fresh longer I usually keep the main bottle in the fridge and fill up a .5 oz dropper bottle halfway that I keep in the bathroom and refill as needed.

L-ascorbic acid does, however, the serum has to either be at a pH of less than 3.5, or it must be in a waterless serum, like The Ordinary's.

I'm currently using this one. After cleansing, I apply 6 drops to my face, wait 15 mins, then follow with the rest of my routine. It lasts me about 4 months, which is about how long it takes for it to start oxidizing. I've also used NuFountain and Timeless in the past. I just never found them to give me the results that Paula's Choice has.

Also, it will take about 3 or so months for you to start seeing improvements. The same thing goes for starting a peptide serum.

I have three suggestions for you. Since it's one spot and it's on his body, not his face, he can use a higher concentrated spot treatment.

1. You can get him a high percentage AHA treatment, like the 10% AHA Body Lotion by Paula's Choice. AHA works well to fade sun damage and discolorations but its drawback is that it makes your skin sun sensitive so it's very important to be diligent about applying sunscreen. If you don't, you might end up with a burn, and/or worse sun damage. Sunscreen use should be continued for about two weeks after the last application.
   
   
2. You can get him a Vitamin C serum. Properly formulated ones are absolutely amazing at fading sun damage and other discolorations. Using one has made the biggest difference in my sun damaged skin. They can get expensive, and the market is oversaturated with absolutely SHIT formulations that do nothing, so it's important to know what to look for. 95% of the vitamin C serums on Amazon are crap, for example. However, I can recommend NuFountain's C20 serum. It uses L-Ascorbic Acid, which is the most effective form of vitamin C, has a minimal ingredient list, includes ferulic acid to stabilize the L-AA, and is made fresh when you order. The reason these things are important is that L-AA is very finicky and prone to oxidizing and becoming ineffective. It's also the cheapest well-formulated L-AA serum I've found. The downside to using a Vitamin C serum is that it has to be kept in the fridge if you want it to last long enough to be able to finish the bottle. Otherwise it'll eventually turn orange and stain your skin.
   
   
   
3. You can also get him a 2% hydroquinone cream. I don't have any experience with them, so I don't have any specific recommendations. But they are also effective for discolorations of all sorts. The downside to them is again, photosensitivity, meaning your dad will have to be careful about applying sunscreen every day.
   
   
   I know for sure that you can can combine options 1 and 2, but I'm not sure about combining hydroquinone with other products. I just haven't done any research on that.

Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0039LZW78/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1426191308&sr=8-1&keywords=NuFountain

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

Hi. Looking into getting my first Vitamin C product and Amazon led me to this one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0039LZW78/ref=aw_wl_ov_dp_2_4?colid=1F6GBJALG22I7&coliid=I2YY50E1LZXXB1

It has some good reviews but isn't AB. I'm new to this sub and have been reading about Vit C but would love some advice on this particular product. Thanks!

Ingredients:
"Purified Water, 20% L-Ascorbic Acid, Ethoxydiglycol, DL- Panthenol, Glycerin, Magnesium Sulfate, Ferulic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium PCA, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid. pH of 2.5-3."

The Cerave AM have low UVA (responsible for aging) protection.

Look for higher UVA protection/PPD, usually found in Asian and European sunscreen.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0039LZW78/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1426191308&sr=8-1&keywords=NuFountain

VERY VERY small amount like 1 drop. I ONLY use this oil as it does not feed the yeast and some skins in seb derm are deficient in it. https://www.amazon.ca/Squalane-100-Pure-60-mL/dp/B003MJG19K

Around my mouth and mustache area I am more liberal with the oil and prefer to use the oil in the areas only for the most part because it skins in the beard and mustache easier where as moisturizers don't.

If you use Amazon, you can buy it there for less $ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003MJG19K/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_XrtuzbR2WYZX9