Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Journey to Clear Skin: 1 Month Update

Hey loves! Unfortunately my new skincare regimen did not help as much as I had hoped. I decided to start using high end products in hopes that I will see better results. I like the African Black Soap and will continue to use it. Although my acne has not cleared, I have noticed the rest of my skin become brighter. Here are some updated pictures of my skin:

 

I am going to stop using benzoyl peroxide. Aside from being a carcinogen, I did not notice any reduction in new acne. It did a decent job at clearing away old acne quickly, but new blemishes continued to come up. There is some research suggesting Tea Tree Oil as a safe replacement for benzoyl peroxide. I love using natural products as often as possible so I will be using this from now on.

I have added a retinol to my skin care regimen. I do not want to deal with excessive pealing so I am using an over the counter product (Philosophy Help Me!). Retinols clear skin by causing the top layer of skin to be constantly renewing itself. I now have a bunch of acne scars, which will hopefully be cleared up over time with continued use. Retinols are also some of the few products that have been scientifically proven to have anti-aging agents. Remember, it is always best to start using anti-aging products sooner rather than later!

I have also started using Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging Serum. And have switched moisturizers to Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer SPF 30. Since I am using a retinol it is vital to use a moisturizer with a high SPF, this one is SPF 25. Using a higher SPF is also going to help prevent future acne scars.

Recap of Products I am Using:

1. Cleanser-Nubia African Black Soap

2. Retinol-Philosophy Help Me!

3. Acne Spot Treatment- 100% Pure Tea Tree Oil

4. Anti Aging Serum- Origins Plantscription Anti-Aging Serum

5. Moisturizer- Peter Thomas Roth Max Sheer SPF 30