If you’re interested, I’ve found that this product has helped my pores shrink post-accutane: Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Exfoliant. You literally just put a bit on a cotton ball and rub it on your face twice a day.
I was really skeptical of paula's choice bha until I tried it! I bought this off of Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_QYvhxb8PJ6SN1
It works so well on my scarring and redness, and seems to help prevent future breakouts :) If you do get it, since you are taking Accutane, patch test it first! Accutane made my skin more prone to irritation when I was taking it.
Cerave moisturizer and cleanser are gentle but effective. For exfoliation, I recommend Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. That product alone changed my husband’s outlook on skincare. He went from no routine to a routine that puts mine to shame. There’s a 4oz mini size if you want to try it out:
Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_YFNBFYBDRC0654EMYA8J
Just going to echo everyone else and say that a skincare routine should have, at minimum:
• Cleanser • Exfoliation (Paula’s choice says this could be applied daily, but 3x a week is fine. It’s gentle so I have never experienced sensitivity.) • Eye cream (Cerave is an effective yet affordable option) • Moisturizer • Sunscreen
Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2%... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Trust me you’ll thank me. This is by far the only thing that’s kept my skin under control. I had severe cystic acne most of my teenage years and went through Accutane 4 times. This on top of benzoyl peroxide, a really good moisturizer, and using Differen for years finally kept my skin maintainable and looking good too. Of course I still get the occasional cyst but no where near as bad. But that toner was the biggest difference I’ve seen in all my years of finding something that worked.
They aren’t cheap but like they say, beauty is expensive. Just think of it as an investment to your self esteem, not so much other peoples opinion. It’s natural to have acne, and a blessing for those who don’t. I’m not a salesmen, and I usually don’t over hype things unless they really shocked me, also is the only toner that doesn’t over dry my skin and makes it look dehydrated.
Use that and Rovectin Clean Water Moisturizer. Water moisturizers really help replenish the skins barrier after using harsh chemicals and with these two combinations with whatever wash works for you, it’s awesome. First time since I first started having acne I’ve been told my skin looks good!
Paula’s Choice- Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_1ABCBVNVBAWZJW41FGJY?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
To deal with bloating, reduce salt intake and put a soft ice pack on your face the morning of. And prioritize getting good quality sleep!! Sleep early and wear an eye mask to block out light.
I did a Korean scrub a few months before my wedding which was good for getting rid of dead skin on my body. For my face, I did a chemical skin scrub a couple times a week at the recommendation of my HMUA. Make sure you're moisturizing and using sunscreen daily!!
Use moisturizer on your hands every night too. I bought one of those blue light teeth whiteners too for the last 3 weeks before my wedding which I loved.
Alright so the rash finally went away, is this the exfoliator you're talking about? https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-SKIN-PERFECTING-Exfoliant-Facial-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=sr\_1\_5?keywords=paula%27s+choice+bha+chemical+exfoliant&qid=1639010458&sr=8-5
You can buy here , NDSL is authorised seller of Paula’s choice on Amazon https://www.amazon.in/Paula-Choice-BHA-Liquid-Perfecting/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_15_sspa?crid=1GUES2FV879RD&dchild=1&keywords=paulas+choice&qid=1631886601&sprefix=paulas&sr=8-15-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlma...
I like this one for a leave-on product.
2 days in and this stuff has done more good than tret did in months! I’m quiting tret again😩. I hope this stuff keeps up its magic because ughhhhh the purge and dark spots I get from tret kinda outweighs the good for me.
https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-SKIN-PERFECTING-Exfoliant-Facial-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ
Your acne is very mild & unnoticeable tbh. It seems to be small whiteheads or clogged pores. I know BHA’s are good exfoliants for oily, congested skin so I would definitely try one if you haven’t already. Paula’s Choice makes a nice BHA liquid that’s really popular with good reviews.
[Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TJF25VM8DDA1AAXNZC9F?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1]()
Amazon sells what?! So I've been experiencing some blackhead problems for my skin. I've tried a lot of AHA/BHA products but they didnt work out. Defeated, I asked my friend for skincare recommendations and this Paula's Choice Skin Pefecting 2% BHA can work wonders.
Cheers. I've looked at a couple exfoliants and I found this one on amazon. Any thoughts?
If you don't mind spending some money, this exfoliant combined with non comedogenic moisturizer and a serious commitment to drinking more water made a HUGE difference in my skin.
I went from crunch bar status to "maybe a break out here or there" to "almost entirely clear with the occasional small pimple" in a few months.
I see, that makes sense. I'm still trying to learn about proper skincare so this really helps. Regarding the Paula's Choice BHA, the links in the "Acne" tab for those products are all broken, is this the one the correct one if I were to buy it? I notice that there's a lot of different versions on the paulaschoice website.
Regarding a new moisturizer, what are your thoughts on CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM, I saw that it had Niacinamide and wasn't sure what most people thought about Niacinamide in moisturizers. I originally read that it would be beneficial but then I came across a thread here that talked about how it made a lot of people break out. I was thinking I could use that for both the morning and nights, but if you had any recommendations for different moisturizers I'd be glad to hear them.
Lastly, if you don't mind, would this routine be alright?
AM:
Water / (Cleanse ?)
Moisturize
PM:
Cleanser
BHA (twice a week)
Moisturize
I know it's very basic but I've never had a proper routine so I just want to make sure before I follow with it on a daily basis.
I use Differin everyday once a day. This is the PC BHA that I use...
Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_dGdpBb3NQ86FH
i've been using this stuff for the last month and my skin has never looked clearer. given i did not have cystic acne or really bad skin to start with, but it's been amazing results https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-PERFECTING-Salicylic-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ
I'm not an expert by any means but I figured I could give you a little advice based on what I've read/learned from this sub reddit.
My one advice is to start using the foaming cleanser in the morning as well. Just washing your face with water won't help.
Also, find a moisturizer for the morning with SPF. This will help protect your skin from sun damage. You still need to use a moisturizer with SPF even if it's not sunny outside.
For night time, you got the cleanser thing right, then I would use this - http://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-Perfecting-Salicylic-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1455406187&sr=1-1&keywords=paulas+choice
It's got tons of praise on this site, but I haven't personally used it because I'm using a cream prescribed to me by a Dermatologist so I guess you could give the Paula's Choice exfoliate a try.
Then you're going to want to moisturize your face to end it all off. Use a moisturizer that DOES NOT have SPF, because obviously you're not going to have to worry about the sun at night time.
Last and final step is patience. If you expect your acne to go away after a week of doing this, then you're gonna have a bad time.
Paula's choice BHA is close price-wise also-- $29/120 ml ($25.65 w/ amazon subscribe and save) + it has aloe and green tea extract
It’s just some dandruff, nothing to be worried about. It could be the needling or the minox, or both. Needling will encourage growth factors in the skin, so you may experience flaking of dead skin as a result. Some minoxidil formulations, particularly liquid ones, contain alcohol which can dry out the skin.
Proactively, make sure you get plenty of water during the days after needling to keep the skin hydrated and less flakey. Also consider switching to foam minoxidil if you’re currently using liquid as it is often less irritating to the skin.
Reactively, you’ll want to find a routine that helps you keep the dandruff at bay. Consider using chemical exfoliants such as 2% BHA or salicylic acid, or physical exfoliants such as gently massaging the affected areas with a plastic hair brush. You may also want to alter your shampooing habits and possibly consider using an anti-dandruff shampoo on some days.
a exfoliate ! don't use harsh products like nose/pore strips, they usually just have glue in them and are incredibly damaging to the skin. i recommend paula's choice skin perfecting 2% BHA liquid salicylic acid exfoliant. for something more gentle, the aveeno nourishing PHA facial exfoliator. :-)
Heres what I use followed up with this toner
something that has helped reduce the size/visibility of my pores is this product! i use it twice a day Paula's Choice Exfoliator
Put this on after you shave and it should fix you problems chemical exfoliate
Put this on after you shave and it should fix you problems chemical exfoliate
I’ve attached pictures of the products I use. Not pictured is what I use to wash my face which is
Shea Moisture Black Soap. https://www.target.com/p/sheamoisture-african-black-soap-face-and-body-bar-soap-3-5oz/-/A-13689989.
After, I use Paulas Choice Exfoliator, every other day.
Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_TAJ5012SAV72QJEWKSXS?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
After that, I use my first serum artnaturals Retinol.
artnaturals Retinol Serum for Face (1 Fl Oz / 30ml) - with Vitamin C, 2.5% Retinol Oil & Hyaluronic-Acid - Skin Clearing - Anti-Aging, Anti-Wrinkle Eye Serum - Skin Repair,Night Therapy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01412ZUD4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4FA7JQ2C7BRNSW0TXTZM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The I use my second, and last serum daylogic beauty drops brightening facial serum with pink pomelo extract and Vitamin B3. Can’t find a link to add.
After my serums, I start to moisture with Neutrogena Hydro Host water gel (hydraulic acid)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Water Gel Daily Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin, Oil-Free, Non-Comedogenic Face Lotion, 1.7 fl. oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NR1YQHM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_QACEGH7S0RZG7V7AASTV
Then I use my eye cream, Burts Bees Eye cream for sensitive skin
Burt's Bees Eye Cream for Sensitive Skin (Package May Vary), 0.5 Oz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07K4CQDKC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_X42FDM7X6C0XTFVCBN2Z
Finally, I use my ceraphil Daily Facial moisturizer with SPF 15
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 15, Fragrance Free Unscented 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001ET73D8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_69CQ3XRFNRAXDKWSJQJZ
My chin gets these huge red bumps that HURT. there’s no heads to them like regular zits, and I can also feel them from them inside of my mouth, since their all over my chin. It feels like a bruise. I also sometimes get them (can’t see them but can feel them) on my forehead.
My forehead gets these bumps that feel like braille, and my skin texture there is just horrible. A bunch of acne but no major zits. In the perfect lighting you can see them, but they’re always there occasionally clearing up. I also get zits over my forehead.
My biggest problem is my chin!! The red bumps hurts so so much, and I don’t have any dermatologist money right now, and even then I doubt they’d give me anything to help it.
I literally get 3 massive red bumps and it makes my whole chin sore, and nothing seems to make them go away.
I use paulas choice bha. It’s lasted me a long time too
I live where we can't get it from amazon but an authorized store, so sadly I don't know. But from my own experience with buying from amazon, as long as you find their store (should state something like "Paula's Choice Store" or "Paula's Choice") then it should be good.
i also have this problem about two weeks ago i googled a bit and purchased this paulas choice stuff and hot damn i am very happy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_4W92382P7X6P1XXGDMKB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I don't have an anecdote to share but I'd recommend checking out Scott Nali on YouTube so you can see his two year journey of using [mostly] just a dermaroller on his scalp.
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I have a Dr Pen A6 and can recommend it. I don't think you can really go wrong with any of their products. The only feature you might want to look for is a battery-powered model if you think you might get annoyed dealing with a cable. Also, the lower-count needle cartridges are generally better for hair loss as they're less likely to pull out your hairs. Stick with 12 or 16, ideally nothing higher than 24.
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Also, I'm not an expert but I've perused my fair share of hair loss forums and your derm's advice seems somewhat... questionable. Firstly, 2.5mm is way too high to be using for an at-home treatment. You greatly increase your chance of infection or injury. If they want to bring you in to do 2.5mm at their clinic then that's fine, but definitely don't do that at home. The most commonly recommended length is 1.5mm. You can use 2.0 if you really feel convinced that longer is better but I'd advise against going any higher. Also, whatever jamaican sea moss is, I can almost guarantee you it's snake oil.
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My current routine is to use my dermapen once a week at 1.5mm depth. I use it just on my hairline and look to get redness and some pinpoint bleeding. I personally use multiple short passes and slowly drag the pen across my hairline until I cover all of the area. Some people believe that dragging the pen can cause tearing, so they recommend holding it in one spot, but I'm not convinced that any tearing will occur given how quickly the pen punches up and down (I use it at max speed). I'd be more concerned with any damage caused by punching a needle into the same hole repeatedly by holding the pen in one spot.
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I'm careful to disinfect my needle cartridge before and after each use with 70% isopropyl alcohol. I also make sure to shampoo and exfoliate my hairline with a 2% BHA liquid (this is what I use) before I needle, as well as disinfecting the area with isopropyl before and after. When it comes to treatment post-needling, there seems to be little agreement on what the *best* method is, if any is needed at all. At the moment, I am personally applying this serum immediately after needling as recommended by Scott Nali. I let it sit for a few hours and make sure I rinse it out before bed. I'm not convinced that it's the best thing to use but I'm going to get through the bottle before trying anything else. The general consensus amongst people who microneedle the skin on their face is to use a hyaluronic acid serum immediately post-needling and then following up with a hydrocortisone cream in the couple days after in order to keep down redness. You'll likely experience some dandruff a few days post-needling as a result of the dead skin flaking off so you'll want to find what works for you to keep it under control. Personally I get away with my BHA exfoliant, basic shampoo, and a plastic shower brush to mechanically remove some of the flakes.
I learned that recently! I am still waiting to get mine delivered but was told these are good https://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-SKIN-PERFECTING-Exfoliant-Facial-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ
https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/the-ordinary-deciem-lactic-acid-10-ha-2-P427413
Acid. Use bha. Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_x06xDbYGYVDJ2
The general consensus on /r/SkincareAddiction as far as BHA's go are these two.
This one is definitely more gentle because it's better formulated but more expensive. Very popular: one
Then there's this one which is a cheaper option: two
Personally, I hated the second one but a lot of people on /r/SkincareAddiction like it because it's widely accessible and cheap. It was super drying for me and has fragrance and menthol which are terrible. A product can be effective but if it's too harsh or irritating for your skin, you're always going to be playing catch-up and won't see as much improvement as you would with something less irritating. First one is great and lasts forever so I'd choose that one personally.
Also, if you order the first one, you can go to their site to get it for $19 with coupon code "GLOWING".
Hmm... I use this. It just has a whole on top to pour it out.
Are these the products that you are talking about: * Paulas Choice--SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Salicylic Acid Exfoliant--Facial Exfoliant for Blackheads, Enlarged Pores, Wrinkles & Fine Lines, 4 oz Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00949CTQQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_f1E9AbYXFVA6F
*CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser 3 oz Travel Size Face Wash, Normal to Oily Skin https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IINMRWU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_q2E9Ab3RHX7AH
For the salicylic acid should I invest in the liquid or gel kind?
all the top reviews for paulas choice 2% bha liquid on amazon are really bad... this worries me if i were to try it
Link to Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid for those unfamiliar with the product:
http://www.amazon.com/Paulas-Choice-Perfecting-Salicylic-Blackheads/dp/B00949CTQQ
I see your point, thank you, so do you recommend me this product ??
Oh and I also started trying out http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00949CTQQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 with the vitamin c cream...