How I Improved My Skin | Skincare Routine
I was a somewhat hesitant to make this post because your girl is looking a little rough in a few *cough cough* -most- of these pictures. Nonetheless, in hopes that these tips might help some of you, I decided to share what I have been doing to improve my skin. *Scroll to the bottom to see my skin progress over 6 months*
For reference, here is a brief description of my skin:
I have oily skin. Like Popeyes chicken oily. I breakout frequently. I have hyper pigmentation, so I tend to develop scars and dark spots pretty easily. I also have large pores around my t-zone.
Okay- let's get to the good stuff.
1. I drank more water & ate healthier.
Something tells me the high fructose corm syrup and french fries don't lead to better skin. Hydration is key to clearer skin and overall health, because water helps to flush out the toxins in your body. I also noticed that I broke out less when I stopped eating greasy food. I tried to eat my fruits and vegetables and cut down my consumption of oily foods.
2. Consistency!
I used to change products like crazy. I learned that a set routine is better, because my skin didn't have to constantly readjust to the new products I'd use. This is my routine in the order that I use these products:
Morning Routine:
Cetaphil Oil Control Foam Wash: Initially I didn't like this product because I felt it was too gentle. However, exfoliating with black soap twice a day is too abrasive for my skin, so this provides a good balance while controlling my oily skin.
Witch Hazel: A natural astringent; it removes excess oil from the skin and then nourishes the skin with healthy moisturizing properties.
Equate Oil-Free Sensitive Skin Moisturizer: serves as a light gentle moisturizer. I get oil-free to keep my skin matte.
Onexton (prescription acne cream): keeps my skin from getting oily throughout the day.
Night Routine:
Black Soap: helps to remove oily and dirt after a long day.
Witch Hazel: a natural astringent; it removes excess oil from the skin and then nourishes the skin with healthy moisturizing properties.
Vitamin C Serum: helps brighten up my skin and gives it a nice glow.
Equate Oil-Free Sensitive Skin Moisturizer: serves as a light gentle moisturizer. I get oil-free to keep my skin matte.
Veltin/Ziana (prescription acne cream): my prescription acne cream that helps kill bacteria.
Epiduo Forte (prescription acne cream): THIS IS MY HOLY GRAIL. ZAPS ZITS OVERNIGHT! (the picture below shows regular Epiduo b/c I ran out of my Epiduo Forte.
3. I saw a dermatologist.
I'm not going to sit here and pretend like I used some special home remedy or a DIY beauty product. I had tried many of those products with no success. My aunt is a PA and has been working in Dermatology for over 5 years. She prescribed me with some products, and, I kid you not, in less than a month my skin was no longer oily. Also, yes, all dermatologist go to school to study all skin types, but typically black dermatologist have a better understanding of black skin. Regardless, if you go to a dermatologist be sure to read reviews and ask about their experience with your skin type.
FYI: She practices at Kingwood Derm Spa located in the Houston area. If you set up an appointment ask for Terry Faleye.
DISCLAIMER: I am not a skin care specialist. Please be aware that what works for me might not work for you. This post is not telling you to change your skincare routine. I am simply sharing my skin care routine. Also, I didn't edit or retouch any of these pictures. I took them in front of my window with my iPhone.
Sources: http://www.naturallivingideas.com/witch-hazel-on-face/