Moisturizer plus acne?
I have terrible acne, and even worse acne scarring. The kind that would probably qualify as a "before" photo in a ProActive commercial.
I've never used a moisturizer until two months ago, because I always thought it would clog my pores more.
My stepmother suggested that I probably try some, because of the 100 degree heat here.
So I did. I got Clean & Clear moisturizer and after about a week of using it (followed the directions exactly) I noticed it started making me break out even more.
Do I even need a moisturizer? I'm not sure if this stuff works by making you break out at first, and then it slowly starts working and the breakouts become less like a lot of products do.
Is there one under that you've tried that doesn't cause breakouts or clog pores (I'm on a really tight budget these days)?
As far as my acne goes, I've tried tons of products: literally every single thing on the grocery store's shelves, ProActive, Murad, prescribed creams from my doctor (four total), and other little "home remedy" tips and tricks from other people's suggestions.
Right now I'm following a remedy from Acne.org, using baking soda 2-3 times a week and rubbing Vitamin E on my face every night and every morning.
I'm washing my face with Neutrogena and I really like how soft it makes my face feel.
Is there anything else you could recommend for acne that doesn't cost a lot (under )?
Thanks!
I visited a dermatologist for three years, once every month or every other month, but I had to stop because it started to get a little pricey.
I've tried Accutane, that dried out my skin WAY too much, to where it was very painful and my skin would crack in a few areas.
I've decided that it might be best to tackle this on my own without a doctor or dermatologist, since they all seem to say the same things, and I know all of it already.
: )
November 9th, 2010 - 20:10
You need a quality moisturizer, something less gunky than the Clean and Clear product. I’d suggest going to Bath and Body Works and checking out their C.O. Bigelow product line. You should be able to turn the product around to the ingredients list and the first one listed should be water. Water based moisturizers should be thinner than other gel-based moisturizers, and they won’t clog your skin. C.O. Bigelow even has a few moisturizers with salicylic acid in them, a great pore unclogging ingredient. I’d suggest a shine-control formula, or something with white clay as an oil absorbing ingredient, to help you with the 100 degree heat even though you may or may not have oily skin.
Unfortunately, product line is too often overrated. Look at the ingredients. I’m sure your doctor prescribed you for something with salicylic acid and possibly benzol peroxide. These most often can be sold over the counter and are used for spot treatments mostly.
There are a few tricks you can do to make sure you’re getting the most effect facial washing each time. Before washing your face, I’d soak a washcloth in very hot water, wring it out, and let it sit on your face for two to three minutes, keeping it as warm as you can stand it. This will naturally allow your pores to relax and expand, making them easier to unclog. Make sure you use the warmest water possible to wash your face to keep them expanded.
When using your basic facial cleanser, apply your cleanser and wash as normal, but then spend 3 times as much time rubbing in the product slowly. Treat it like a massage. Remember that the skin is an organ. Pressing and stretching and massaging it causes it to fluctuate and breathe in different ways. This will allow the cleanser to soak into your pores, and also allow buildups of oil and other sediment to be released from your pores. Washing your face should take about 6 to 8 minutes.
Moisturizing is completely necessary. It replaces the oil, sweat, and sediment in your pores with vitamins and minerals, and gives your skin more natural flexibility and resilience to the elements. It would be a good idea to have moisturizer on hand throughout the day, and you could safely apply it maybe 4 times a day. With the right moisturizing product, it definitely helps the appearance of scarring, acne prevention, and evening skin tone.
November 9th, 2010 - 20:10
Well there is a pill called Accutane it’s very Strong acne medication that does work but the side affects are risky You should go to a dermo and check if your insurance covers it.If not I suggest getting the netrogena wave or the black head eraser
November 9th, 2010 - 20:10
Hi that’s really good that you clean your face but you might want to talk to a dermatologist to get to the root of the problem . sometimes its something we are doing that causes our problem . but the doctor will be able to help .
November 9th, 2010 - 20:10
Yes, you need to moisturize.The acne products strip your skin of moisture. Cetaphil is what my dermatologist recommend-no need to buy brand name,as it is pricey. The Wal Mart brand is under $10,and the bottle will last awhile. During the day make sure to use something with SPF 15. I use genreic Olay Complete,and it is less than $5.
Would you mind sharing some of the home remedies and tips with me?