Skincare Chats

Shower and scrub to remove blackheads, simple wash and don’t touch the face thereafter to reduce blemishes-go outside but not in full sun and don’t wear makeup.

When I was younger I had terrible skin. I constantly had breakouts which left me with post acne marks and hyperpigmentation. I thought my skin would settle down as I got older, putting thr breakouts down to my age and hormones. However, as I have become older I've learnt that I have oily combination and a consistent routine along with being patient have helped me to manage the breakouts and hyperpigmentation. I have used the CeraVe blemish control gel and it works wonders for my skin. It's my go to when I have breakouts. I would love to try the rest of the blemish range as even though I don't have younger skin I still have breakouts.

I started using cleaner that contains or infused with salicylic acid as it helps dry out my acne whilst it helps with the inflamed ones as well. I then use treatment gel on my acne spots to help reduce further acne production. Both the cleanser and treatment spot gel I use in AM and PM routine, retinol at nighttime and SPF throughout the day. Lastly, I take into consideration managing my stress and sleep especially the food I eat. Trust the process, retinol causes skin purging which is normal as it slowly works and your skin adjusts to the treatment. If irritation persists then stop using it and I always recommend checking it with experts before anything else.

It’s best to ask your dermatologist and have your skin evaluated especially for severe acne, if it’s something hormonal to have your bloods checked etc. I have got sensitive skin and I find certain ingredients too harsh on my skin like tretinoin. Although I started using retinol with the lowest concentration as an addition to my nighttime skincare routine which helps with my skin texture, pigmentation and targets my acne production as well. It’s important that you patch test any products first before applying it all over the face to avoid skin damage and irritation. Apply SPF daily, re-apply throughout the day even indoors/outdoors especially when using retinol.

As a blemish-prone type of girl, I have learned a thing or two about managing my skin problems. Since it’s due to my hormones, I first take into consideration my diet & lifestyle, meaning lesser fried foods and dairy/gluten. Next is by skincare routine, it’s important to double-cleanse all the time especially when wearing makeup. I usually opt for a cleanser that contains salicylic acid, niacinamide serum, a moisturizer followed by my retinol and acne spot treatment gel. Since I’m using retinol at night it makes it more sensitive to UV, so I use SPF daily and re-apply it. I also use silk pillow cases and headcap to avoid my hairs getting on my face and lesser friction or irritation. Lastly, I stay hydrated all the time☝🏽

My tips for managing blemishes and black heads are .... 1. Wash face with a gentle cleanser twice a day, I like to double cleanse. 2. Use a toner that is gentle to the skin and for your skin type as you don't want to irritate the skin anymore than it is.3. Use a moisturiser thats meant for your skin type don't mix different skin types especially as your skin is already in flare up.4. Use a spf thats for sensitive skin as it will moisture and nourish the skin while protecting.And 5. keep with the same routine consistently as changing skin products will irritate the skin more and drink plenty of fluids to hydrate.

Consistency is key when it comes to managing blemishes and blackheads, so stick to your skincare routine and be patient for results. If you have persistent or severe acne, consider consulting a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment options.

My top tips for managing blemishes and blackheads are simple but they need to be consistent. First of all cleans regularly with gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil and impurities that can clog pores and lead to blemishes. Exfoliate 2-3 times a week to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. To treat spots use products containing products like salicylic acid or tee tree oil to target individual blemishes and reduce inflammation. Moisturize your skin with with lightweight, oil free moisturiser to keep skin hydrated without clogging pores. Protect your skin with SPF from harmful UV rays, which can worsen blemishes and cause dark spots. Also avoid touching your face, clean makup tools regularly, stay hydrated and manage stress