I've gotten several lovely compliments over the last month about my skin and questions wondering what I do to keep it in it's condition. I've put off for a long time talking about my skin regime because, well, I really don't have super good skin.
During high school I never had any acne problems, and perhaps it was my bodies way of getting back at me, but when I went to college my skin went crazy. I've struggled for the last four or so years with cystic acne, which are terrible cysts that hurt something awful. I don't usually get a normal break out just some of these cysts, and they can last for a month...gaaah. I go to a Dermatologist and get topical and oral medication to help with this, and therefore I feel like I kind of cheat myself into better skin to some degree.
However, I do have some things I swear by and some ways I keep my skin in tip top condition, even with it being problematic.
1. I only use CeraVe lotion and face wash. It's recommended by my dermatologist, and especially good for people with sensitive skin. The face wash comes in two kinds: one for normal to oily skin and one for normal to dry skin. You can get it at Target, Walgreens, and I think Walmart sometimes carries it as well. It's really amazing and I've tried other cleansers and lotions but they make me break out and irritate my skin.
2. I stick to the make up that works for me and don't try a whole lot else, at least when it comes to foundation. I use MAC foundation and powder, not only because it matches my skin tone, but also because it doesn't make me break out. I once tried to switch to a cheaper foundation and broke out for about two weeks. Never again will I try that. My skin can get quite ruddy when it's having problems and MAC always makes it look so lovely and even.
3. I stay away from the sun, and if I'm in the sun I'm sporting a good bit of sun screen. In our culture it seems being ubber ubber tan is the thing to be at the moment, but all those ladies going to the tanning beds and laying out for hours are gonna be sad old bitties one day with sun spots and damaged skin.
4. I always...ALWAYS... take off my make up before I sleep. It surprises me how many girls just fall asleep with it on, but it's just horrible for your skin. Do your skin a favor and give it a good washing and moisturizing in the evening and morning.
These are very basic things and probably nothing new to most of you, but these are the things I stick to, and what keeps my skin in good condition.
What are some of your skin care regimes?
xo,
Em