I went through a lot of trial and error when it came to figuring out what worked for my skin. I spent hundreds of dollars until I found a routine that worked for me. One thing that would have helped me on my skin care journey was knowing the ingredients and kinds of products I should stay away from.
During a visit with my dermatologist she advised me on the types of products she avoids using on her skin, and what she recommends for her patients avoid.
Harsh Exfoliants
Many drug store products are often harsh exfoliators. The abrasive scrubs strip the skin of moisture and cause dryness, irritation, and sometimes even leave scars. Avoiding harsh exfoliants is key for skin conditions like eczema and acne.
What I Used Before: St. Ives Apricot Scrub, I used to love this stuff! My father swore by it and used it ever since I can remember. However, the scrub contains crushed walnut shell which is too harsh to use on my skin.
What I Use Now: I like to use gentle scrubs made with sugar that melt once they get to a certain point. I love this Brown Sugar & Honey Scrub from The Butter Bar.
Added Fragrance
Products that are heavily scented can cause irritation to the skin. When I was suffering from cystic acne back in 2014 I had a lot of open sores on my skin and I was using a serum that tore my skin up and made it worse! My skin was inflamed and extremely tender for a few weeks. Many fragrances that are used in products are also not regulated by the FDA and can be filled with synthetic chemicals.
What I Used Before: Yes to Tomatoes Cleanser I thought it looked fancy so I bought it. However, it caused my skin to be tender and inflamed.
What I Use Now: Black Honey Skin Balancing Cleanser from The Butter Bar – It’s extremely gentle and it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals that dry and irritate the skin.
Alcohol
Alcohol is extremely drying for skin and can cause acne and other skin conditions to worsen. Alcohol is found in many skin care products including toner which is supposed to balance the skin’s pH.
What I Used Before: Mario Badescu Cucumber Lotion – Its not really a lotion, its used as a toner. Initially I thought it was soothing and gentle, but as time went on my skin had an adverse reaction to it and became extremely dry.
What I Use Now: For my toner I like to use the Anti-Acne Vitamin Mist from Shea Shea Bakery. Its really light and gentle for my skin and leaves it feeling refreshed.
Ditch those bad products ladies and start using the products that promote healthy and clear skin.
Until next time…
@myproductaddiction
