Ok I have tried over the past few years but never really stuck with a skincare routine.
I used to have oily skin but now it's somewhere between dry and oily as the day progresses. Currently here is my routine:
AM:
cleanse
sunsdreen
PM:
cleanse
moisturize
retinol
I just got the retinol a couple of days back and the advice online was to use it every 2nd day at the start to avoid dermatitis? So I might do that. What else could I add to my routine or do I just stick with this for now?
My goals:
get rid of acne pigmentstion
get rid of acne scars
get nice n dewy skin
Oh I also have terrible whiteheads on my nose - what do?
I think that's great. Stick with it for the time being and if things haven't changed in 6 weeks then look at changing. For whiteheads just give them a very gentle scrub with a face washer once a week then moisturise.
You might want to look at face masks that draw out impurities. You use these once a month.
Yeah they do work but they're not gentle and not permanent. Ok to use once a month with a mask to get that really good clean feel but over use can make things worse.
I'm no expert, but you definitely should see what happens after you start using retinol.* Your skin will need several weeks to adjust. I don't think it's possible to fully avoid skin flaking and irritation when you first start with it, but applying it after moisturiser like you plan on will definitely slow the absorption.
I swear by this liquid exfoliant for nice dewy skin. I use it more sparingly than the instructions since my cleanser already contains BHA.
I feel very unqualified to give advice, but my routine is:
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser, daily, in shower
Paula's Choice 2% BHQ Liquid Exfoliant, up to twice a week or during breakouts, after shower
CeraVe Moisturising Cream, daily, after shower
I am still experimenting with sunscreen that I like. I have recently started with Cancer Council Face Day Wear Moisturiser Invisible SPF50+. I like the matte finish but hate the residual odour.
I have noticed that in general fragrance-free products are the best for my skin. I also like Ego QV Sensitive Shampoo (+Conditioner) for scalp health, and have had great results with E45 Itch Recovery Moisturising Wash for calming the rest of the skin, especially in the moist and sweaty parts of the body. If I wash my face a second time in a day I'll use the E45 wash.
wash your hands frequently, try not to touch your face at all
The nose strips are good , just make sure you wet them well with warm water before applying and let dry. Use an astringent afterwards to close the pores.
Young Miss Sagoon went on the pill and her acne cleared up really well