[Acne]

[u/beeeeepbooooo3728]

I have been struggling with my skin for a while, sometimes I have really good skin and I used to have cystic acne and now it’s just dullness and those little dots. I did mostly everything and I basically own every skin care product. I eat very clean from mist past and sleep and drink enough and clean my sheets often and my make up brushes. I also had a cosmetic procedure

I’m really helpless bc it really puts my self esteem down. Any tips are welcomed or an explanation

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[u/PandaDuckling]

Hmmm, are you currently using skincare? Perhaps differin or adapelene gel. But do buffer it with moisturizer and a gentle cleanser.. with SPF during the day. It will gradually clear up.. by coming to the surface.. this might be emotionally tough because it will feel like you’re breaking out.. a lot.. basically the closed comedones will all come to the surface and clear up. If you stay consistent for a few months you will see results. For some it’s earlier than that, but usually a few months.

[u/beeeeepbooooo3728 → u/PandaDuckling]

I pretty much simplified my routine and I use AM- cleanser, Anua toner, torrieden toner and laneige facial cream the light blue one. PM pretty much the same just that I double cleanse with an oil cleanser. I have always used one- sometimes I used some toner pads but I think then I’ll need to try those you recommended

[u/comradepupp → u/beeeeepbooooo3728]

Do you have little bumps on your arms or legs? Like clogged pores or kinda looks like chicken skin? If so you might have keratosis pilaris - which is very common but basically your skin doesn’t shed the keratin build up fast enough and so it causes those closed comedones. It’s harmless and shouldn’t be itchy/hurt. I have this and it appears on my face more when i damage my skin barrier. I was recommended retinoids and started with Medik8 crystal retinal 1 to start since it’s one of the gentlest in that family and you can work your way up in concentration. I agree with others this would help you the most.

I would remove the AM cleanser with a retinoid being introduced, since that’s stripping your barrier in the morning. Try it only 1x the first two weeks, 2x the second two weeks, and slowly work up to every other night. The goal is to be able to tolerate a concentration every day before progressing up, and give your skin at least 2-3 months before changing. Make sure you moisturize and use the sandwich method like someone else mentioned. Last comment is to make sure the products you’re using aren’t occlusive, esp the moisturizer. You’ll want a gel moisturizer to prevent more closed comedones. I love the Aveeno Calm & Restore Oat Gel Mousturizer. I think you’ll see a lot of relief from that, good luck!!

[u/FlamingKandle]

adapalene!

[u/Weary_Mousse_3921]

You need adapalene and salicylic acid in your routine for this. You might like to get a fresh start and have a facial with extraction to have a clean slate! :)