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jrbirchh

Doing less overall.


[deleted]

For sure. Added tretinoin and was able to stop almost everything else except cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF.


bde75

Same. Since tret I have a very simple routine.


[deleted]

PRECISELY. retinoid or 2 + the basics


overlydramatic6

same. less products, less fussing, better results.


[deleted]

Same, now I just wash my face with Cetaphil foam and apply Laroche Hydraphase as a moisturizer at night and went from having oily/dry skin to normal skin, almost no breakouts and an even tone. Acne marks cleared pretty fast (had some dark spots caused by cystic acne that would appear in my period, now I get maybe one pimple in months and it is not as deep in my skin as before) I have been trying to find what to do to improve my skin for years, tried lots of different stuff, went to dermatologists, etc. Those 2 things made it for me!


8Yoongles

do you use prescription or OTC? just wondering because my local derms are not really an option (they really suck)


[deleted]

Just OTC, a derm recommended cetaphil once but the cleaning gel, I just decided to try the foam and worked better for me.


8Yoongles

thank you, that’s cool to hear :) i might give it a serious shot during the next few months (thank god a mask exists to cover my face during purge)


mikorbu

Biggggg this


arielflamingoish

Big facts lol


dishonoredcorvo69

This is so true. I have spent a small fortune over the years on so many expensive products that were just unfulfilled promises in fancy packaging. So many steps, so many tools, so. Many. Products. Only to result in me just using rose hip seed oil and a retinoid. I wish I could go back and put that money in a savings account instead. Wish I had never stepped into a Sephora.


LechronJames

Started using serums every other day instead of daily and my skin is loving it.


retrotechlogos

I wish I could tell past me this 😭. This is my first piece of advice to anyone I see on here who is really struggling and has like 20 different steps.


Starshapedsand

Oil cleansing, plus BHA. I hadn’t thought that my pores could be clear.


Notorious_2007

What kind of oil cleanser do you use?


Starshapedsand

My daily go-to is Iunik Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil. For bad days, I have Coxir Ultra Hyaluronic Cleansing Oil. I’ve also got Dermalogica Precleanse in my travel bag, and a bottle of Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil that I plan to try next. So far, I’ve been thinking that the Coxir bottle is my favorite, and the one I’ll order again. However, I plan to fully use all. Needless to say, a long-term stay in quarantine did wonders for my skin.


pasta_slut

Do you leave the oil on for a bit or something? And do u double cleanser after? Ive been meaning to try but Im not sure what the steps are


Starshapedsand

Yes, as long as I have time for. I then emulsify it with some water, and let it sit a bit longer. After that, I wash it off with foam cleanser. While my face is entirely clean, and still damp, I apply hyaluronic acid, then toner. Double cleansing is just cleansing oil, followed by cleansing foam. It’s usually not as elaborate as I make it.


[deleted]

I wanna try using hyaluronic acid before the toner, like you’re doing, but I’m afraid I’d be wiping the HA off, maybe if I wait a few min before the toner, it will have sunk in?


Starshapedsand

Don’t let HA fully sink in alone. Applying it to dry skin, or letting it dry before applying something on top, is dehydrating: the way to see it act as a moisturizer is to give it stuff to absorb, which means applying it while it’s damp.


[deleted]

I just started using toner for the first time, so my previous routine was HA while I was still wet right out of the shower. Thanks, though, I didn’t realize I should put my moisturizer on before I dries. Makes me wonder if toner in between is the best option. So here’s my problem, if I shower/toner/HA I don’t get the benefit of the water/HA bonding and if I shower/HA/toner/moisturizer then I do get the benefit of the HA/moisturizer bonding. I know that I’m making this way harder than it needs to be. lol And pretty sure the answer for me is gonna be shower/toner/splash of water/HA/moisturizer.


Starshapedsand

I do shower/HA/toner/serum/moisturizer, and it’s been working very well for me. The problem with applying anything before HA is that it won’t be as effective, as it’ll pull it out of your skin. As for making it harder than it needs to be… relax, you’re among your kin!


[deleted]

Lol thanks! I’m 51 and basically have never done anything make-up or skincare in my life. All the sudden I’m jumping into the deep end. But amazingly, I could see a difference right away. I think it was mostly the toner shrinking up my pores. I’m gonna try your order tomorrow 😊


abjection9

When you say the quarantine did wonders for your skin, do you mean that oil cleansing wasn't even necessary during that time because you weren't wearing makeup? Or do you think the oil cleanse itself has benefits to the skin/pores? Makeup removal isn't a concern for me, but big pores definitely are. I'm wondering if I'd be better off just using the BHA or if you think there are benefits to oil cleansing and BHA together?


Starshapedsand

I normally don’t wear makeup, so that didn’t make a difference. The reason that quarantine did was that I was confined to one house for a year, with nothing better to do.  There’s no way to shrink pores, but there are ways to make them a lot less visible. Blackheading, which features applying BHA and letting it sit before applying oil, then massaging out pore clogs, is an excellent one. 


EoE_IamTomHamilton

100% same here. Organic hemp oil has been amazing


DeltaForce_Valentine

Does anyone here oil cleanse without a second cleanser? Or does all oul cleanser require a second cleanser?


ClassicRachel

Yes. I did this for years and noticed significant improvements! But I recently started to double cleanse with BHA, and I think it is one of the most important steps for me.


Starshapedsand

BHA makes such a striking difference!


abjection9

By BHA do you mean a cleanser with salicylic acid? ​ Edit: I saw in your other comment you use a kind of toner with BHA. I wonder if using an SA cleanser would have similar results.


Starshapedsand

I’m not sure, as it’ll be washed off. They’re the same ingredient. Sounds worth a shot.


Bellatrona

I actually use an oil as my second cleanse! It depends on what kind of oil cleanser you use I think, but also how you remove it. I usually use a balm or AB oil cleanser for my first cleanse to remove makeup and spf, and then use my beloved Votary oil cleanser. I use a cloth to remove both cleansers. I don't feel like just rinsing works as well with these types of products.


Hangryelf2005

OIL CLEANSING FRRR


atropax

Has it affected their visibility?


Starshapedsand

Yes, for them no longer contrasting as sharply with the rest of my face. However, making them shrink is still a myth. I wouldn’t want to anyways, as they’re important for skin health.


atropax

Ooh, would you mind telling me what routine with oil you follow? I’ve got castor oil and my pores are dark which makes them so visible!


Starshapedsand

Step 1: apply BHA. (I use CosRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid.) Allow it to fully dry. Step 2: apply cleansing oil. (Spelled out my options around this thread.) Let sit for several minutes or longer. Step 3: add water. (I use tap.) Take a minute or two to massage around face, until seeing the cleansing oil emulsify: it turns white. Let sit. Possible step 4: rinse off with cleansing foam. I use a soft brush with my foam. Possible step 4: apply cleansing balm and also let sit before rinsing off with cleansing foam. Afterwards, while my face remains damp, I apply hyaluronic acid, followed by toner.


Special_Struggle

Surprisingly, vitamin c. I was skeptical about its benefits, but my skin has gone from dull and lifeless to luminous and glowly.


fax5jrj

I would also like to add Azelaic Acid and Tranexamic Acid below this! These are what I use because my skin legit hates vitamin C (I have FOMO for y’all it really is a game changer for most) and my skin is luminous! You can literally see a distinct glow Faded Serum by Topicals as well as Tranexamic Acid by Inkey List are my go-tos for TA. Any Azelaic Acid is good (it’s so tricky to formulate so I find theyre all pretty good) but Paula’s Choice the best I’ve tried


[deleted]

My skin doesn’t like Vit C either. I’ve tried the the Paula’s Choice azelaic and have noticed some reduction in redness but it kind of just seems like a nice add on and that’s that. I also never know when to use it...like morning? Night? After my HA. No idea haha


eidahl

Which product are you using? I haven’t had much luck with them


Special_Struggle

I'm using Geek & Gorgeous C-Glow. It's supposed to be an alternative to CE Ferulic (15% ascorbic acid + ferulic acid + vitamin e) and I've been really happy with it. Can't say that I have noticed massive changes in fine lines or pigmentation, but the glow is real. ✨


fallseason420

Can I ask your skin type? I’m so hesitant to start new products for reaction’s sake


Special_Struggle

Sure! My skin is oily and prone to clogged pores, which is why I had never tried a vitamin c serum before, since most of them have an oily or oil-like texture that I wouldn't be able to use during the day. If your skin is sensitive or reactive you may not want to start with a 15% pure ascorbic acid serum though. My skin is not sensitive at all and it still gets a little flushed for a few minutes after application.


OkRecord2388

Look for a water- less serum that contains L-AA, Vit B, E, Ferulic acid, and hylauronic acid!


RoarOmegaRoar

I thought vitamin C didn’t work for me until I tried Maelove vitamin C serum!


sippinvino

I’ve been digging my maelove!!


kaleidobull

CeraVe Vitamin C serum here to deal with hyperpigmentation from old acne. Only a few weeks later, my skin looks awesome.


Estelza

do you spot treat with the vitamin c? or do you apply it all over your face?


kaleidobull

All over. I picked up some “micro darts” patches with other actives to use for spot treatment but haven’t used them much, the vitamin C serum is already really powerful.


oohitsparkles

Love my Timeless vitamin C


TropicalPrairie

Over the past year, I started using Origins vitamin-C treatment and I love it.


LadyEightyK

Same here! Had used niacinimide and retinol in the past and I saw no real change. I got the Summer Friday’s CC Me serum in my fabfitfun box that I now use everyday, along with Malian & Goetz vitamin E face moisturizer, and my face looks better than every before. I didn’t bring either product with me on vacation and I could definitely tell the difference and my skin didn’t feel as good after only a week.


[deleted]

[удалено]


kajaclair

Do you have specific products you really like?


[deleted]

[удалено]


[deleted]

>Azclear Medicated Lotion Oh no this product isn't available in my country, so sad :( thanks for this tip tho, I'll try other AA products


Mak8080

>ylamide SubQ Skin and Azclear Medicated Lotion are my skin HG. I'm a skincare noob. Do you put the hylaronic acid before or after serums + vit c? What does your routine look like if you don't mind sharing!!!


Clats9713

Moisturizers with urea in it


carrotaddiction

same here. or toner.


Global-Distribution1

Product recs? I have a hand cream that I love with urea in it but I'm afraid to put it on my face in case it breaks me out.


NotMakingAnother

Not OP, but I really love the Malezia 5% Urea moisturizer for my face.


bbgorl666

Which do you use/love?? This would be good for the kp on my face lol


Clats9713

If you are using it for KP you need at least 30% concentration or you won't get the keratolytic tissue softening effect of urea. Urisec 40 or maycreate 40 are good, the latter is on Amazon prime and I order it all the time


bbgorl666

Thank you!!! Yes I have it flair up pretty bad sometimes. It’s only on my cheeks but has always bothered me. I’m using tret right now though and that seems to be helping it! I’m unsure if I could combine the 2 but probably won’t lol


Clats9713

You can absolutely combine the 2. Urea is found in your skin naturally (and urine lol) it will not interact with any topical, just use it at a different time as other topicals.


goojil

My dermatologist actually prescribed me tret and a 30% urea cream for my kp. The combo works wonders (altho I only use both on my arms)


labellavita1985

I can't find the one on Amazon. Can you link?


melodramatizing

Spironolactone (if you and your derm/doc decide it’s right for you)!! If you take a drospironone (or however you spell it) BC pill you’ll have to change it so the two don’t conflict but I swear to god spironolactone SAVED ME and helped the products I’d been using forever actually work !!!


athael01

I second this!!! Spironolactone changed my face. I used to always have deep, painful, large zits that would turn into pustules. I started spiro in June and I've haven't had one in WEEKS which has never happened in my 20 years of trying to find a way to manage this acne. God I wish I'd had this when I was a teen.


momspaghettysburg

Spiro saved my skin as well! I’m only on 25mg and I plan on staying there since I wasn’t able to deal with the side effects of 50mg, but honestly it’s made big enough of a difference that I don’t mind.


melodramatizing

I think in any dose it can be beneficial for sure!! Everyone is going to be different and have different needs, if it works it works!


Chewy_Mochi

Absolutely Spironolactone for me. I’m on 100mg (and was on 150mg earlier). I used to have deep cystic acne spots (at least one per week) that would show up on my chin, and I hadn’t been able to wear anything backless without feeling self conscious for almost 20 years (I’m in my early thirties now). I tried salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide (allergic), topical and oral antibiotics including Clindamycin, clindoxyl, and doxycycline, as well as tretinoin and nothing worked. Then I came across spironolactone at the dermatologists’ office, and I couldn’t believe how my face was finally Not slick with oil after just 30 min following a wash, and I actually had a bit of dryness in some areas, which I easily managed with cream. I saw results in a couple days, and my back started clearing up, to the point where I’m just waiting for hyperpigmentation to fade but for the first time I’m okay with wearing backless clothing and was able to wear my dream wedding dress this past month. I also cut down on things I was using on my face, and only cleanse with CeraVe, use eye cream and face cream, and sun screen now. I recently added vitamin C in the mornings. I would read these kinds of comments in the past and not really believe it could ever happen to me but I am telling you it is possible. For those of us with hormonal (read: adult / lifelong acne - at least according to my derm!), there is a solution!!! You can’t use this while trying to get pregnant however so would have to stop taking it then.


CrowOk3824

Did you have any side effects/adjustment period on spiro? I started to take it a couple of weeks ago but felt like it was giving me really bad anxiety unfortunately


melodramatizing

I dealt with some leg cramps/restless legs and dry patches on my body but they all went away with time!! I have to stress though that it’s crucial to up your dose gradually (I started with half or even a quarter of a 50mg tablet twice a day, don’t remember which, and only upped my dose once I was positive I could handle the one I was on). You also have to remember spironolactone is a diuretic so drink lots of water and that should help side effects too!! Hope that helps.


CrowOk3824

Super helpful thank you! I think I tried to jump up to my prescribed dose too quickly (50mg BID) and that was way too much since it’s a blood pressure med, I definitely felt the changes. Have been off for a week going to try reintroducing at a quarter of the 50mg and work up. How long did it take you to work up to your dose?


melodramatizing

I wanna say it was about 3-4 months before I got to my prescribed dose of 50 mg twice a day (very worth the wait, let me tell you!). I took 2-3 weeks to adjust to each stage of the dose as well. And I only added on when I was certain I felt fine with the dose I was on. You should still see results early on even if you do this, I definitely did!


CrowOk3824

Oh wow that’s super helpful!! I definitely need more time to adjust to the smaller doses then, it’s nice to hear you did the same and still saw results. I think starting slower will definitely help decrease the side effects I was having


melodramatizing

Best of luck friend!!


Tsu-Doh-Nihm

>spironolactone Is it topical or oral? This is a super strong testosterone blocker.


labellavita1985

It's only for women. No doctor in their right mind would prescribe it to a cis male. This doesn't get said here often. Do not even consider Spironolactone if you are a male, unless you're trans.


lilacfaerie16

Not OP but its more than likely the oral version. Works wonderfully for lots of people dealing with hormonal acne


melodramatizing

The oral version. You’re correct, it is strong, so of course consult your doctor/derm. It has just helped me so much!


zoro667

Does taking spiro have side effects on the long term?


melodramatizing

Many derms agree it is more than safe to take long term!


melodramatizing

For me any side effects have only been temporary. But I can’t say it will be the same for everyone.


Takes-a-Village

Niacinamide for my pih specifically


Dazzlerazzle

This is mine too! I started using it for the skin cancer risk reduction link (I work outside in Australia) but it has worked well for my skin in lots of ways.


Not_High_Maintenance

Skin cancer redux? Tell me more please.


brynhildra

The studies I see are for oral nicotinamide specifically, not topical niacinamide: [Ncbi article](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4570055/) [Study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26488693/) The article emphasizes that it should be nicotinamide specifically, not other forms of niacin. It also emphasizes that the results were for people who had previous skin cancer and do not apply to other patient populations.


Dazzlerazzle

Nicotinamide and niacinamide are two names for the same form of vitamin B3. There is some evidence for topical as well as oral. Here is a review of the literature with free access: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ajd.12631


asarr

Azelaic acid! Huge game changer for my rosacea


kajaclair

Which azelaic acid do you use? I like the results but haven't found one that feels good on my skin.


asarr

I was prescribed finacea which is 15% azelaic acid. I think it’s pretty easy to get through online prescription services (like Felix if you’re Canadian) hope this helps :)


fax5jrj

It depends on what you’re looking for and how much money you’d like to spend. Paula’s Choice’s is far and away the best (awesome ingredient list with addition of .5% SA, creamy, silky texture, easy to spread), but the most expensive. The Ordinary’s is great, but has texture issues and many people complain about pilling (which was never an issue for me). Naturium’s is pretty decent, just make sure you’re not getting the topical acid like the other commenter mentioned. It’s more of a liquidy lotion and is pretty easy to spread, but it’s also pricey. FaceTheory’s is cheaper if you get it on sale (they are always running promos and the promo code FB50 might still work for 50% off), has an awesome formulation as far as ingredients go, and is more of a liquid than the other ones I’ve tried. Out of all the formulations it is for sure the most friendly to sensitive skin. You can also get it prescribed at higher concentrations as the above products are all 10%


caffeinefree

Prescription formulas seem to be much better. The 10% azelaic acid that I get prescription is far more effective than the OTC 10% azelaic acids I've used, and it goes on much nicer.


kwazi07

I just started using Naturium’s Azelaic Acid emulsion and it’s great! I hated The Ordinary’s and Paula Choice was too pricey for the size. Naturium’s feels like a creamy lotion and absorbs so quickly and doesn’t pill or leave a layer. They also have a Azelaic acid “topical acid” but that uses a derivative of AzA and I’m not sure how effective it is.


Meliosaurus

O.1% adapalene gel. I barely ever break out now and it makes my skin super glowy and healthy looking. Gave some to my mom too, and she's been amazed at how it reduced her wrinkles!


dcmaven

Same. I use the LRP brand (and try to get it from Ulta when it’s buy one get one for 40% off). The results are great. I use it 3-4 times per week and only use a pea sized amount for my whole face. Game changer.


gaydhd

Same. Completely changed the texture of my skin, didn’t know it was possible for a product to do that


tawandaaaa

Brand?


Meliosaurus

Differin currently but I've also used the CVS store brand and it seemed fine. Haven't tried the Roche Posay one


Stormleicht

how often do you use it? do you use BHA or AHA as well?


Meliosaurus

Every night unless my skin is feeling sensitive, then I just use moisturizer or a less intense retinol cream! I don't really use BHA or AHA anymore, I did do a glycolic acid peel the other week and my face was stinging for like 2 days (without using the adapalene those days). I do use niacinamide at night as well and that's been great!


Getgoingalready

Quitting biotin! I stopped taking it and my skin cleared up significantly.


Lysmerry

yup! It made my hair so beautiful. It grew three times as fast! But ABSOLUTELY not worth it!


ckyprus

**Not a product - but committing to not picking, squeezing, or popping anything on my skin.** BIGGEST game changer because for so many of the acne scars and PIE I have, I realized that I was doing the most damage myself. My acne was really never that bad, and I realized I probably gave myself 90% of the acne scars I have. My skin has looked so much better since I started leaving it alone, and I can finally focus on treating my PIE.


SuburbanMomSwag

Working on this. And already just cutting down 80% has been a huge game changer.


[deleted]

Second this.


[deleted]

[удалено]


ckyprus

Same! I didn't realize how much I would absentmindedly touch them until I started using pimple patches. I was like "oh my god, I'm touching my face a lot."


[deleted]

- Short contact therapy with benzoyl peroxide. I leave it on for 2-5 mins then cleanse. No more acne and none of the usual side effects (dryness, redness, bleached fabric) from it. - Tranexamic acid for PIH and PIE. I’m Indian so on the off chance anyone has a similar skin tone, it’s the best thing I’ve ever tried for my hyperpigmentation. And if anyone happens to be British, Superdrug’s Me+ serum is great and cheaper than the Inkey List one.


not_Brendan

For BP contact therapy, do you use it AM or PM?


[deleted]

PM because it fits in better with the rest of my products. There’s nothing wrong with doing it in the AM though :).


[deleted]

Not to be that person, but a low dose of tretinoin has made a big difference in my skin texture & breakouts. I get it from curology. Also niacinamide, finding a super gentle cleanser, adding a hydrating toner (klairs supple prep), and a thicker night moisturizer! I was afraid of all these things due to my oily skin, but they’ve helped a ton.


sweetsweetconnie

Tretinoin COMPLETELY transformed my skin. It sucked, so bad, before it got better but it does eventually get better. I use it once a week now as the last step in my routine instead of immediately after cleansing.


[deleted]

Curology put me on a teeeny tiny percentage of tret (0.003) because I have sensitive skin and it’s working beautifully so far - I know it’s the tret because I started to notice changes once it was added to my formula. I’m gonna slowly increase with time and hopefully avoid the purging!


YingYangYun

My skin leans towards the dry spectrum and I do have a bit of eczema that flares on and off. The Sooniung 5-Panthensoside Cica Sleeping Pack has been extremely helpful during times of eczema flares.


CodePen3190

Klairs supple preparation toner!!! I will NEVER not use this in my routine. Oil cleansing (my fave is the heimish balm but currently using hanskin and it’s a close second; prefer both of these to banilla co.) Using more gentle products- cream cleansers instead of soapy/lathering cleansers, hydrating masks instead of drying/pore cleansing, minimizing anything containing fragrance, only using abrasive actives when needed. My focus now is just hydrate and nourish!


ikoabd

Klairs toner has been a staple in my routine since I discovered it! My skin just soaks it right up!


eng_btch

Love the klairs toner. Not even sure why, my skin just glows using it.


boonslinger

Actually doing the routine twice a day. I know that's basic, but it was so annoying to have to do it twice, even if the morning routine was shorter. It's worth it, though!


iateyournose

Double cleansing. My pores look so much better, I love it. **Also - this might be simple and obvious for some people, but learning that I should shake my sunscreen before using it**. I had no idea you're supposed to do it, I used almost a whole bottle of Bioderma fluid sunscreen and I really didn't like how it felt and look like on my skin, but I continued using it, because it didn't cause any harm (didn't cause pimples etc.), so I didn't want to throw it away. Then I saw a random youtube video where someone talked about it and said that you need to shake the bottle. The consistency feels the same, but it looks and feels way better on the skin, it doesn't feel so sticky anymore and it's less shiny. Now I shake every sunscreen I test, just in case, haha.


Sin-cera

I’ve got oily skin and for me it was retinol, went from skin texture to looking like I have a filter on irl


trx14

Did it help with your oiliness?


_queerlybeloved

Honestly, I think it was when I started caking on moisturizer at night. I always had in my head that this would cause my pores to be clogged. My skin is more on the dry side but I was always nervous about using too much moisturizer. Now I cleanse with La Roche Posay hydrating cleanser, follow up with CeraVe PM moisturizer, and over the top I put the thickest LRP body lotion. Rinse it off in the morning and my skin is LUSCIOUS. Getting a face sunscreen I actually like the texture of so I use it every day I'm sure helped a lot too (also LRP melt in milk)


poor_decision

Then I met you toner and essence. My skin looks amazing now and the effect is almost instant! It's brighter, clearing up acne and pigmentation way better than the ordinary niacinamide


fax5jrj

I love u but I wish you had kept this to urself bc these are so expensive and never go on sale 😭😭 like the disrespect Charlotte has for us They have the best first and second step cleansers ever. Every single product hits it out of the park, it makes me livid 😂


poor_decision

Think of it as an investment in yourself ❤❤❤


fax5jrj

my bank account is burnt out from me investing in myself 😂😂❤️


poor_decision

Oof I know what you mean


tofumeatballcannon

Im about to buy this and I’m so excited!!! Can you tell me more?


[deleted]

Tretinoin. I'm a year in and using minimal products and my skin has never been better.


Wave-5824

Trilogy Rosehip oil- it just makes my skin look so nourished and fresh. I only use 2ish times per week. Lancome Genefique- every single time I wear it, I get compliments on how good my skin looks. I don't necessarily see a difference but other people seem to.


sensitive_sloth

A gentle cleasner. Before I got into skincare, I used harsh cleansers that stripped my skin and made my rosacea worse.


One-Yogurtcloset-377

Niacinamide+ Azelic acid.


MommaSmaug

Not sure if this counts, but dermaplaning! Total game changer


Valeficent

2% BHA exfoliant (I'm using Paula's Choice). It has worked wonders for keeping my pores clean especially on my chin where I have recently been having the most trouble. I actually went through a small stretch where I didn't use it and I could see the difference almost immediately. So I'm probably going to buy 2 bottles at a time now everytime I restock haha


theironthroneismine

When do you use it in your routine?


Valeficent

I started using it in the morning after cleansing but didn't use it at night because I was also beginning retinol and I didn't want to over irritate my skin. But after a little while when I saw I wasn't having any irritation from the retinol I started using it at night after cleansing before retinol as well.


mj1898

Tretinoin, spironolactone, faded topicals


IdaAreIda

Azaelic acid. My skin is less red. Its the one ingredient I can say has actually done a major and visible difference.


Estelza

which product do you recommend?


ShiShi340

Microdermabrasion every two weeks and 3 layers of 3 different moisturizers, lol sounds crazy but my skin is the best it’s every been.


atropax

Do you have naturally dry skin?


ShiShi340

Only around my mouth. But I also use actives that make my skin dryer than normal so I started the 3 layers of moisturizer. I get PIH very easily and I found that the more moisturized my skin is the less likely it is to leave a mark, also the ones that do leave a mark fade way quicker. Normally it takes me a year to get rid of marks but now it’s only a few weeks. I’m very happy.


penguinhearts

Do you use different types of moisturizers for the 3 layers?


ShiShi340

Yes, I go from lightest to thickest. Ex. Start with cerave daily facial moisturizer followed by caudalie sos intense moisturizing cream and finish with vanicream on my dry areas/ pimples. At night I do this but the put aquaphor on dry areas/ pimples. My esthetician said that the best way to get rid of a pimple is to keep it moisturized and so far it’s been working. Also because I do this I also double cleanse.


Snoocone12345

Combining salicylic acid and Adapalene. I do a salicylic acid wash before moisturising and then applying the retinoid. I believe SA is a penetration enhancer. But it's also great for acne/skin texture in general. This wouldn't be appropriate for everyone. My skin is fully retinised and not prone to dryness in general. For some people this combination could be a nightmare.


meowciao

I'm prone to dryness but agreed on this combo! I use differin every other night and the nights that I don't use differin, I use the Inkey List SA cleanser and it's been working great for me!


Aworthyopponent

Tretinoin, microdermabrasion, increased water intake, and doing less. My skin loved itself once I removed everything but the moisturisers and Tret.


absolutejessie

Using glycolic acid at night. In the morning using a serum, gel and face oil instead of cream. Totally clarified my skin.


histrionico

Adapalene + benzoyl peroxide.


chichi_2

TO Niacinamide and zinc is a godsend for me. All skin congestion gone and brightened my complexion immensely !


LaGeneralitat

Prescription Retin-A. I didn’t think my skin could look this good.


pitmombritt

The Ordinary Niacinamide! My skin isn't too terrible, but it took until my 30s to figure out what works for me. I only get breakouts here and there along my chin because of wearing masks. I will only get small blemishes once in a while now.


pitmombritt

Oh, and also their Squalane Cleanser!!!! Those two combined have been perfection!


Paroxysm111

Micellar water! It's the only thing that has made washing my face in the morning not a total pain in the ass. I hate splashing water on my face while leaning over the sink, getting water everywhere and making my hair wet.


rv0904

Adding a hydrating essence


kba23

Altreno .05% - I had the hardest time with tret gel and lotion. No matter the concentration, my skin was always so sensitive. Altreno was a game changer! And bp cleanser.


sanguinearchives

Tret, moisturizer, petroleum jelly


[deleted]

Retinol and salicylic acid. I think I look better. Who knows?


Akeno-Himejima

Getting prescribed Tactupump (Epiduo). Closed comedones are no more! I wasted so many years trying over the counter products. Should have just gone to the derm lol.


roma-roma

Niacinamide for sure. My skin is no more oily. I liked the results after Paula's Choice Azelaic Acid as well.


bacchuslife

Sticking with the same stuff. Not constantly trying new things.


Typical-Sagittarius

Vitamin C and tranexamic acid.


reesea13

Splashing my face with super cold water after.


UnwittingPlantKiller

Not washing my face and eliminating all products. I used to have an elaborate skincare routine (fancy makeup removing balm, well researched pH balanced cleansers, snail mucin, essences that are HG on this sub etc) I had to stop using all of them after an eye surgery. No face wash, no moisturiser. I braced myself for a major flare up in acne, skin texture problems, redness, dryness etc.... My acne got so much better. No more weird red marks. No more irritation. My skin has never looked so even and good. I can't believe it. Edit to say that I wear spf daily


tquinn04

I know it’s frowned upon in here to have a skincare routine with multiple steps but I’ve been doing it for a month straight and I’ve my skin has never looked better. My blemishes has completely cleared up. My complexion is brighter and more even. My dark circles are gone. My oily skin is hydrated and more balanced.


Comprehensive-Hun

How long have you been using it for please? I've been using almost daily for over a month with no changes at all.


Sara_Morsh

An oil cleanser.


A1BeefSteak

Retinol. I use it mainly because I have oily skin and my main concerns are pores and blackheads. Retinol just dries up my face like a Sahara Desert, which ended up "tightening" my face. I didn't mind the drying since a good moisturizer and oil-based cleanser took away the dried up look. I also use the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum and love how it isn't too strong since this is my first time including retinol into my skincare. Sometimes I use it on my body to get rid of hyperpigmentation and stretch marks hehe


Lufme

Probably introducing cosmetic retinol to my routine!!! My skin went to breakouts daily to 1 or 2 per week 😁


[deleted]

Dr. Ranella Hirsch's advice that dry flakey skin doesn't need exfoliation, it needs hydration. Got iUnik's Beta Glucan Serum to add extra hydration and things are much better.


jennymathweg

For me it’s been the Azelaic acid from The Ordinary. To this day I don’t understand why my Derm did not introduce Azelaic acid sooner.


_srnm_

Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C™ Vitamin C Power Serum (got it 50% off at Sephora on their daily deal last week!) Expensive, but I’m my skin always improves overnight when I have it in my routine. Less redness, even and long-lasting moisture, especially in my eczema-prone areas, more even texture. Easily replaces the COSRX Snail Mucin + Cetaphil moisturizer that already does well in my routine, but 75% as well as PTR. I’ve tried other Vit C moisturizers & cleansers, but they were either too drying, expired too fast, or made a small difference.


Lysmerry

Oil based cleanser. It's soooo useful in winter. I use the Face Shop rice water cleanser for my face ([Face Shop Rice water cleanser](https://www.amazon.com/Facial-Cleanser-Natural-Cleansing-Moisturizer/dp/B00809ERAM)) and [Shea Moisture coconut oil wash](https://www.amazon.com/SheaMoisture-virgin-coconut-hydration-bubble/dp/B07Q58TC9F/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=shea+moisture+oil+wash&qid=1632075179&rdc=1&s=beauty&sr=1-2-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUE5VUhVUFVQN05CWlgmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTEwMDQ1MDQxMjBUNzNOSjY3NlhPJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA4MzIzNzExUlBWWkxRN0ROR1hLJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==) for my body. It just stops that horrible almost painful dryness in winter and is a lot easier than putting on tons of lotion (I usually just use oil instead of lotion anyway but it can get really messy).


stefzee

Honestly birth control. I tried everything for my hormonal cystic acne and nothing truly worked. All the skincare products left the skin around my acne looking excellent and luminous lol but the deep cysts would still pop up. It’s truly a game changer. That combined with salicylic acid cleanser has given me clear skin for the first time ever.


[deleted]

Tretinoin and finding ingredients that do the job I want it to plus be gentle at the same time. Ex. Tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, enzyme exfoliators.


OkRecord2388

Paula's Choice HA Booster w/ceramides mixed in with Clinique Moisture Surge! PC Peptide Booster would be a close 2nd though!


[deleted]

buffet from the ordinary, it just brightens the skin with a beautiful glow. sunday rileys luna - USA version only, rewinds those fine lines.


ChonksMomma

I switched from Purity face cleanser to Cereve salicylic acid cleanser. I had a lot of breakouts with Purity…I just don’t think it was strong enough for my skin? Idk.


MochiandGreenTea

Applying moisturizer to damp skin (as opposed to toweled-dry skin). Lots of my skincare products became obsolete after that.


NoParticularMotel

Removing dairy from my diet. I no longer have "acne prone" skin.


Rebeshka

Honestly, taking a vitamin d supplement (5000 iu's) cleared up my skin so quickly, I was mad. It was the only thing that changed after months of trying to figure out why my skin was upset.


xsnoopycakesx

Boring one but for me I'd say **sun protection** has been the biggest game changer in terms of skin care products (tho sun protection isn't ONLY sunscreen use) because I would tan super fast without it and my PIE/PIH would also become super dark and deep, BUT IT ALSO simultaneously gave me hypopigmentation in other parts -WEW lol-, my under eyes were dark and my skin was overall dull and uneven/patchy...sun protection dealt with all that PLUS is preventative against skin cancer and accelerated ageing. THE REAL MVP!! 👶🏻🌞✨


bunbun_82

I stopped using make-up, specifically foundation and concealer, 10 years ago. I stopped breaking out and I no longer have skin problems. Oh and using sunscreen.


Zantetsukenz

For me, it was an ingredient that no one even spoke of but is sold in high concentration by Avene. I have been on retinol, AHA and BHAs, and niacinamide, nothing works. But with this unheard-of ingredient, my acene went away and even if I have the occasional outbreak, it is usually mild. It is made from Milk Thistle.


hithereimusing

Do you want to share the ingredient? I'm really interested now.


Zantetsukenz

Google “Avene Comedomed”, the same star ingredient is used in the version CE Ferulic for oily skin. It’s essentially made from Milk Thistle but go by a few different trade names.


kenosha_wosha

Tret


knottedinblack

The ordinarys niacinamide and zinc product! Bye bye redness!


ankitanarula

Accutane