Bad Skin?? [Archive] - ConstantChatter

babylove

06-27-2005, 05:31 PM

I have never had bad skin in my life until after I went off BCP. Then all hell broke loose. Now I have really oily skin and lots of acne (mostly on my forehead). It's miserable. I went to the dr and he suggested:

* Neutrogena Oil-Free Face Wash (w/ salicylic acid) - $5.99
http://a1468.g.akamai.net/f/1468/580/1d/pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/16558/200.jpg
* Clindomycin gel - this is a prescription gel that you apply 2X per day
* Eucerin Skin Renewal 15 SPF moisturizer - $8.49 the rx makes your skin a bit dry so this helps
http://a1468.g.akamai.net/f/1468/580/1d/pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/87267/200.jpg

I have found that this regimen, really really helps with the breakouts, although my skin is still really oily. For the oillies...I can't live without my...
http://a1468.g.akamai.net/f/1468/580/1d/pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/68807/200.jpg
I use one sheet two or three times a day and it's amazing how NOT OILY my skin is afterwards. I *luff* this product....

Rose

06-27-2005, 09:22 PM

I like Proactiv. I use it on and off. It's the only thing that keeps my skin really clear.

mrstim

06-27-2005, 11:07 PM

I'm so glad to see people joining me! :)

oh yeah - celicacutie - I really didn't mean freckles were bad, I guess I was just thinking the whole picture, ya know, I've got too much going on! heehee!

amy

Sposa06

06-28-2005, 12:44 AM

I used to break out in high school, but rarely do anymore. I attribute that to a few things:

Sleep 6-8 hours a night and drink 6-8 glasses of water a day! I consider my Nalgene two glasses, so I just drink it, fill it back up, and repeat that a few times. Add a slice of lemon or lime or a few raspberries for a little flavor. Also, change your pillowcases often - once a week or so.

Toner is great! I love Burt's Bees Garden Tomato toner. It makes your skin feel refreshed, smells great and it works!

When I do break out, I use two things. In the morning, after washing my face (I don't really care what face wash I use, as long as it's a foaming one - I hate the harsh little scrubbers) and using toner, I'll dab a TINY drop of tea tree oil on the offending spot. At night, I put Origins' Out of Trouble mask on broken out areas for 10 minutes. It works like a charm.

For moisturizer, I use Neutrogena Pore Refining Cream with SPF 15 (sunscreen will keep you from worrying about cancer and wrinkles later on!). During the winter, I use an Origins moisturizer, though I can't recall its name at the moment.

I also used to take (for a couple of years) minocycline. It was a prescription, and it killed bacteria. The effects seem to have lasted - my skin is clear 95% of the time now. I drink enough water, get enough sleep (most nights) and use a gentle cleanser followed by a toner and a moisturizer with SPF 15. I have a couple of acne remedies for the off-days when I need theem. And the minocycline sort of kickstarted my clear-skin phase, I believe.

Hope this helps!

miel

06-28-2005, 02:19 AM

I'm subscribing...I always had really bad skin but I do drink a lot of water. I'm not wrinkling up at all (yet!) so maybe that is my reward for the hideousness of oily skin...

Has anyone here tried microdermabrasion? I really love it--can't afford it now but when I was fiscally irresponsible I got a series and I looked so much better (for awhile). I think there was a small improvement that I still see a few years later. Mostly for acne scars and pores.

PookiePrincess

06-29-2005, 08:51 PM

I always had bad skin, as a teenager and later. I use Proactiv and like it. It has really helped with my breakouts. It's very pricey, but for me, it's worth it.

DiscoDiva

06-29-2005, 10:26 PM

I read that the best thing is baking soda. You put a bunch in your hand, add a few drops of water, and it makes a paste. You then scrub your face with it. It's cheap, natural, and has a loofah type feel to it. I've been doing it for a few weeks now and I like it!

tippy

06-30-2005, 06:49 AM

shopaholic

06-30-2005, 07:53 AM

For problem areas I also use this:
http://www2.burtsbees.com/wcsstore/BurtsBees/images/114.jpg

Golightly

06-30-2005, 08:43 AM

Ugh, I've been through skin hell... Serious acne issues when I was in middle and high school. My mom dragged me to a demotologist who put me on oral antibiotics for like, months at a time (which of course caused me all kinds of other problems) and had me using topical Retin-A, minocylin, or the like... Not that any of it put a dent in my skin problems.

I finally turned 20 and thought there was a light at the end of the tunnel only to find out that I had graduated to Adult Acne (drumroll please!) At that point I kinda gave up for a while except for switching my BCP to Ortho Tricyclene that's supposed to help your skin...

So I was swimming along, bad months to better months, but never ever blemish free. Then everyone starting commenting on how cute my rosy cheeks were... Huh? I was thinking...

I noticed that I started to flush at the drop of a hat and sure enough I developed Rosecea on top of it all. I felt like a circus freak! My skin was blotchy, red, and bumpy, and oily in some places, flaky in others, and all of this was on top of my ever present acne. What a mess. I absolutely didn't want to go the anti-biotics route again due to yeast infections and BCP interference.

I lived with it for a while and it just got worse and worse. Finally, my mom dragged me into another dermotologist and he got my attention by saying that he thinks the prescription drugs and stuff are hooey for people in my situation. Finally I was on board...

We did Intense Pulse Light laser treatments (which are not comfortable and leave some burn marks at first) and got me switched to the Skinsceuticals line of products. I use their gentle cream cleanser, hydrating gel, phyto corrective gel, and serum 15, in conjuction with their SPF 30 sunscreen and skin firming moisturizer. Low and behold I actually have clear skin right now!

This Skinscueticals stuff is really expensive, but I really don't care. Now my breakouts are only stress related and I still have the occasional Rosecea flare when I get too much sun, or cold, or caffeine, or whatever, but without the acne and blotchiness, it does look like I'm just especially rosy and flushed.

I used to never make it more than a few days without a major blemish and now I am working on weeks at a time of clear skin. I just feel more balanced. Of course I still have tiny little blackheads on my chin and around my nose crevice, but no one can see them...

My back and shoulders and chest? Now that's a whole other challenge! I use that Nutrogena Acne Body Wash with varied results.

Somehow, having a clear face, keeps me from worrying about all the other stuff quite as much. I used to obsess over my weight and hair and clothes because I felt as if I had to balance out my bad skin so I didn't look like I was a gross slob who didn't take care of herself.

At any rate, I wrote a novel and sound like one of those pathetic testimonials on Paid Programming television, but it was a rather incredible turnaround.

Cheers,

rene'

06-30-2005, 08:55 AM

I have always had bad skin. Acne, oily, and large pores, plus rosacea on top of it. My dermatologist put me on minocycline about a year or two ago and it really keeps my face clear. No cleansers or topical treatments ever helped me.

aligirl

06-30-2005, 09:07 AM

If you aren't sensitive to sulphur - I've found that sulphur based products work really well. I've had bad skin (varying degrees of acne) since I was 12 (I'm 25 now) and lately septra (Rx pill) worked awesome for me. Now that I'm pg, I can't take that med but it worked wonders. It's the only thing that killed the bacteria.

A topical that I like that's sulphur based is by Murad. Great great great! I need to find out if I can take it or not since it's just a topical.

I've been going to a dermatologist / dermoapathologist since I was 12. I've tried (drum roll please): Retin-A, Micro Retin-A, Differin, Accutane (topical & pill form), Tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, Erythromycin, Septra, Tazorac, Triaz (anything with benzoyl peroxide in it), etc. The list is endless.

I've never had more than acne vulgaris - I don't have adult-onset acne or rosacea.

I'm currently using Differin gel and Triaz cleanser and while they work well they tend to dry my skin out too much which then causes more breakouts because my skin becomes hyper-sensitive. I use the Differin & Triaz 2-3 times per week and wash with Cetaphil the rest of the week.

It's flared up recently because of not being on BCP and not taking septra. I have an appt with my dermapathologist to discuss next month. YAY!!!

I've used Cetaphil moisturizer for as long as I can remember - since 12 - and so has my brother. My mom uses it too. We all love it. My mom also likes the Cetaphil with SPF but I can't use it on my face - SPF combined with moisturizer = more acne. Yippee.

flygirl

06-30-2005, 09:18 AM

I have to thow in a good word for Paula Begouin, cosmeticscop.com (http://cosmeticscop.com/). She has rated just about every product on the market based on the science of the ingredients as well as how it works on testers. She also has good articles on skin care, what causes different problems and how to work on them. Her main purpose is to cut through marketing hype and tell you what really works & what doesn't, what is worth spending your money on and what is a waste. BUT, she makes it clear that if something works for you, great!

The best thing you can do to improve skin tone & texture on a regular basis is to exfoliate. Baking soda makes a good homemade physical exfoliator. For better results, you can use chemical exfoliators, AHA & BHA. Stronger versions include Retin-A and chemical peels. The important thing about chemcial exfoliators is a) they must be within the correct ph range in order to have an effect on the skin; b) there must be enough of the product to actually do something; and C) the shouldn't contain other irritating ingredients. Anything that irritates the skin causes inflamation & irreversible damage beneath the surface.

My biggest problem is combination skin with large, oily pores on my forehead, nose & chin, and I can't believe the change in my skin over the past year. I second (or third) drinking lots of water. I also take a large amount of Omega-3's, for another reason, but good skin has become a great side effect. I use a simple, gentle cleanser morning & night, a 2% BHA lotion and a light moisturizer (full-spectrum SPF during the day). I use a 10% benzoil peroxide on the now-rare breakouts before AF.

southerner

06-30-2005, 10:41 AM

I use the Oil wipes that babylove posted a picture of. I'm always so grossed out by how much oil they take off of my face.

Daniel's Kitty

06-30-2005, 03:59 PM

I have found the only thing that has helped at all for me. Pregnancy! I still have blackheads and breakouts, but it helps with the hormonal stuff.

Does the Burt's Bees Garden Tomato Toner have tea tree oil in it? Tea tree oil irritates my skin usually depending on how much is in it. I haven't been able to find a toner that I like since Bath and Body Works quit having what I like. I love having toner though, and I have been trying so long to find one I like again.

My husband did Accutane and his skin is so much better. I just hope our kids don't inherit our skin.

alliannie

06-30-2005, 10:02 PM

Question--I have very few breakouts, actual zits I used to but with better skincare(washing, using toner, etc) they have gone away. But nothing I do gets rid of my blackheads. Does anyone have advice for getting rid of those? I mean I would pay $$$ to get rid of these things. Nose strips and such dont work for me they laugh at me while they are on my face saying haha yeah right!! Does anyone have advice for blackheads?

Baby Lust

06-30-2005, 10:27 PM

I use the Oil wipes that babylove posted a picture of. I'm always so grossed out by how much oil they take off of my face.

Ditto!

StClaire

07-01-2005, 07:35 AM

Little Angel '77

07-01-2005, 07:39 AM

oh my gosh, I USE to have the WORST skin on my chin, and I a coworker must have felt so bad, so she gave me proactive.... I swear to you this is the ONLY stuff that works!!!! Well at least for me. I still get a pimple here or there, but NOTHING like I used to get!!! Proactive is the only stuff that works!!!

I love Proactive1

alliannie

07-01-2005, 12:58 PM

StClaire-so this works pretty well? I might get some it doesnt look to bad priced either :D . Do you just rub it on where you have blackheads?

lawyerlee

07-01-2005, 03:43 PM

I love Murad's Acne line of products. They've really helped my skin. :)

I also try to change my pillow case every night. This really seems to help.

JRose

07-01-2005, 04:20 PM

subscribing

I've had acne since I was a preteen and very little helps. Being on birth control pills helped for a few years and being pg made my skin amazing but now I'm back to having horrible breakouts.

Right now I'm trying an apricot scrub in the shower on my face and then a Retin-A lotion (neutrogena).

I don't know enough about makeup to try that and I worry that would only aggrevate it even more.

Sazoo

07-01-2005, 04:34 PM

Great suggestions, ladies! :)

Count me in on the bad skin thing. :( I get acne breakouts pretty frequently - mostly on my chin. I have oily skin in my "t-zone", but I also have really super dry flaky skin in some of those same areas, plus some rednesss. :mad: I went to a dermotologist finally a couple of years ago. She told me I've got sebhorric dermatitis (sp?) & gave me several different medications to try, but really none of them have helped. She also gave me some antibiotics for my acne, but I didn't take them long enough to see if they would help because of the interference with my BCP. Then she gave me a topical cream for the acne (can't remember what it was called), but I got pissed about how I ruined 3 brand new towels/wash cloths in a week because of the bleech in the cream, so eventually I gave up on that too! :(

Anyhow...I'm open to suggestions, so thanks for sharing your ideas, everyone! :)

StClaire

07-01-2005, 04:43 PM

StClaire-so this works pretty well? I might get some it doesnt look to bad priced either :D . Do you just rub it on where you have blackheads?

Like the name says, it is a powder. You take a cotton ball and get it kinda wet and dab it in the powder and then wherever you have blackheads. Leave it on about 10 or so minutes. I then moisten another cotton ball with toner and wipe it off. I think it says you can rinse off with water, i'm not sure, i just use toner to get it extra clean. I use it several times a week, whenever I notice i need it. it's not a long term cure, but it works for the time being. it's not horribly expensive, so it was worth it.

StClaire

07-01-2005, 04:48 PM

I went to Sephore the other day, I was going to buy Philosophy's Purity that someone recommended. The saleslady kinda deterred me from it because she said it has natural oils in it which you don't really need if you have oily skin anyway. She recommended this:
http://images.acnewizard.com/big/103.jpg
I've noticed it working in the several days I've been using it. DFF Blemish Foaming Cleanser. Lovin' it.

Esq.

07-01-2005, 09:39 PM

subscribing

keska

07-01-2005, 11:06 PM

I'm joining too. I have mild adult onset cystic acne that's somehow hormone related. Basically, I don't have acne when I stay on the pill, though I'll have occasional regular breakouts.

A few years ago, I went off the pill to see if I could permanently get rid of the problem. After trying all kinds of prescriptions, I finally found a derm who would prescribe me Accutane. Most derms refused to prescribe it for me because although I constantly had breakouts, I'd only have one or two cysts at a time. I found the Accutane really helped for regular oiliness breakouts but didn't really clear up the cystic stuff. So, I'm back on BCP, which is fine for now, but I absolute dread going off when DH and I decide to have kids.

One thing I did find that derms constantly told me was that using too many products to dry out the skin or scrub the skin can actually make breakouts worse. My derm recommended using just Neutrogena gentle foaming cleanser or Cetaphil. Although it was hard to stop with the scrubbing, toners and stuff, I found I do actually have fewer breakouts now.

adamseve

07-02-2005, 12:21 PM

I've been on this frustrating road since my early 20s too. My current routine works for breakouts but I feel like I need to explore other options as well, as I still have oily skin. Here it goes:

I use Neutrogena Oil-Free Face Wash (w/ salicylic acid) twice a day.

I apply Klaron (which is a sulfur based gel lotion) in the morning before my lotion. *This is a prescribed topical*

I use Peter Thomas Roth's Max Sheer All Day Moisture w/ SPF 30, which I love and highly recommend! *I buy mine at Sephora or at local beauty supply stores or can be found here link (http://www.peterthomasroth.com/peterthomasroth_products.asp?prod=moisture_hydrat) *

At night, I use Differin. *This is a prescribed topical*

Do any of you have recommendations for shampoo/conditioner products for oily hair (that is safe for colored hair too)?

stochasticgirl

07-02-2005, 12:42 PM

Aimee

07-02-2005, 12:51 PM

I've been using a knockoff of Proactiv called "Kleer Action" for almost 2 years and it does a good job for 90% of the breakouts. Most of the time, if I break out its because I'm not drinking enough water and not washing my face well enough, or at all.

I only use the cleanser portion of it, and I really only use it at night to take off my makeup. If I'm breaking out, I"ll use the toner and the lotion, but I found a lot of that stuff was overkill.

Did Cetaphil make anyone else break out? I tried it and it made my skin worse. DH tried it when I had it and it made *him* break out, too. So strange, considering that stuff is supposed to be super-gentle.

KKay

07-02-2005, 12:53 PM

I used to break out a lot, but my derm found the perfect regimen for me. I wash my face with Cetaphil (for oily skin), used clindamycin (sp) pads twice a day, and use glycolic acid at night. I also get a facial every other month (I switch between glycolic and beta facials).

UTChick

07-02-2005, 03:56 PM

Like babylove I never had a problem with breakouts until I went off BCP in December. I swear, I look like a 14 year old!! I never had issues with acne on my back and shoulders until now, so I am at a loss. I have been using Proactiv for a few months and am not all that impressed considering the price. I guess it works differently for different people. I have taken some of the suggestions from you all and will try them out. Thanks!

DiscoDiva

07-03-2005, 12:23 AM

I've been using baking soda on my face for about 2 weeks now, and I already see the difference. It is clearing up the small blackheads (which no other product did) and it is helping exfoliate away the sun spots on my forehead. Overall, my skin is clearer and smoother. For 50 cents a box, I'm in skin heaven!!

StClaire

07-03-2005, 07:46 AM

DiscoDiva do you just mix it with some water and rub it on? How long do you leave it on?

DiscoDiva

07-03-2005, 12:00 PM

DiscoDiva do you just mix it with some water and rub it on? How long do you leave it on?
I just put some in my hand (maybe about 1 tbsp or less), add a few drops of water, mix it into a paste, then scrub my face with it. I immediately rinse it off. It's that simple, and I love the way it leaves my skin feeling so clean.

Elizabeth

07-05-2005, 12:13 AM

I've tried everything. The only things that worked for me were Accutane and antibiotics. And you can't be on those forever. Proactiv works - everybody I know is on it and loves it - but you have to keep up w/ it, you can't slack or else you break out, and I've heard some people say that it can stop working after a while. You have to take a break from it.

Make sure you wash your face twice in a row, too.

And "high frequency" at an aesthetician's is amazing. It clears up your skin completely. It's freaky, though, it's like a bug zapper. But it's worth it.

Elizabeth

07-05-2005, 12:15 AM

"Do any of you have recommendations for shampoo/conditioner products for oily hair"

I like Charles Worthington shampoo & conditioner for "combination hair" - oily roots and dry ends. Good old Head & Shoulders is good for oily hair, too. Gives your hair body.

lawyerlee

07-05-2005, 05:51 PM

My skin isn't nearly as bad as it was when I was in high school, but I still have plenty of days where my acne is bad enough that it makes me mopey. (Things have been stressful at work, though, so I just don't know that there's anyway to 100% eliminate the acne problem.)

One regimen that I've settled on that seems to work really well for 90% of my acne problems is this:

1. Wash my face with Noxzema Triple Clean Antibacterial Lather:
http://a1468.g.akamai.net/f/1468/580/1d/pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/75481/200.jpg

2. Tone with Stridex Triple Action Ance Pads:
http://a1468.g.akamai.net/f/1468/580/1d/pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/16612/200.jpg

3. Follow up with Clean & Clear Persa-Gel 10 all over:
http://a1468.g.akamai.net/f/1468/580/1d/pics.drugstore.com/prodimg/16501/200.jpg

My back acne is HORRIBLE though. I might start taking Accutane just for that alone. *sigh*
You poor thing. My hubby has some problems with back acne, and it frustrates him to to end. :(

Do you have sensitive skin at all, Judy? I was just wondering because I definitely do, and I wonder if those products would be too harsh for me. It's terribly difficult to treat sensitive, acne-prone skin, in my experience. Murad is the only thing I've had any luck with, but I'm thinking that adding some acne pads might be helpful.

ag-girl

07-06-2005, 01:28 PM

I'm another one who has tried just about everything....drugstore stuff and dermatologist.

I don't have acne as bad as when I was younger, but it's still bothersome. My latest face routine was with Murad products. They were okay, but I've moved on now. I just started using the Arbonne RE9 skin care set. I know several people who rave about it and thought it couldn't hurt to give it a shot! Although, it is a little pricey. Anyone else use Arbonne?

Daniel's Kitty

07-06-2005, 01:46 PM

Head and Shoulders works and Fructis has a dandruff shampoo that works pretty well.

Aimee You aren't the only person who has problems with Cetaphil. I kept trying it since so many people talk about how great it is.

Asha

07-07-2005, 03:05 PM

i have large, clogged pores which the dermatologist said is due to some sort of face psoriasis. this also causes my skin to be red which a lot of people mistake for rosacea.

also, i get small zits on my forehead and breakouts on my chin. this have gotten much worse since i went off the pill :rolleyes:

anyways, the one thing that would work without fail to improve my skin was to get monthly facials. this lady was rated one of the best in nyc, and she truly is a miracle worker. i haven't gone for over a year bc it's hard for me to spend nearly 100 dollars doing it.

discodiva - i am going to try your baking soda thing. my dh is always saying i should use natural products. he said that tumeric mixed with plain yogurt would help. i tried it once, but i couldn't stand the smell, and i felt like it lingered on me all day.

KeliAnn

07-11-2005, 07:19 PM

I never had acne problems when I was a teen, but now I have adult acne. I tried ProActiv, but it didn't work for me. Surprisingly enough, the Biore line has worked very well for me. However, I still haven't found a daily moisturizer that doesn't clog my pores. You guys have given a lot of good recommendations, so I'll see what I can find. Thanks!

Marie

07-12-2005, 07:44 AM

Oh man do I have problem skin! :mad:

I still get breakouts (what the heck? I'm 31 for goodness sake!), skin tone is blotchy, I'm super sensitive which means horrible rashes if my skin even looks at a product it doesn't like and I've managed to inherit rosecea from my mother. UGH!

Anyways, a friend of mine clued me in on this skin care line:

http://www.zerozits.com/

Because you are buying it all at once it sounds kind of expensive but really the high end drug store brands are about the same price. My skin has never ever been clearer ~ just amazing. They have starter packs from about $50 and it lasts I would say almost 3 months. Plus, really excellent customer service so if a product doesn't work for you they'll help you figure out why and what you should substitute. Plus, before they even ship you fill out this detailed skin survey so they know what products you'll need. I really just cannot say enough about them.

DiscoDiva

07-12-2005, 09:07 AM

I've been using baking soda for about 3 weeks now, and my skin has never looked better. My pores are smaller, I have less blackheads, my problem area is clearning up, my age spots are fading, my skin is less oily, you name it. Plus, it's pretty darn cheap! I highly suggest plain old baking soda!

pride&prejudice

07-13-2005, 09:54 AM

I think I'm going to have to try the baking soda thing. :)

lawyerlee

07-13-2005, 09:59 AM

And "high frequency" at an aesthetician's is amazing. It clears up your skin completely. It's freaky, though, it's like a bug zapper. But it's worth it.
That does work really well. And it doesn't hurt very much at all.

tippy

07-15-2005, 07:17 AM

I just came across this website (www.acne.org) which was started by this guy who documented how he overcame his acne problem. His "Regimen" is really simple, and all of the products can be bought in a drugstore. I have been doing for a week, and can see a difference already. But we'll see if that lasts, I don't want to get my hopes up yet. I don't mean to sound like a shameless plug for this guy's website, but I just wanted to make you girls aware of the site in case anyone wanted to check it out. :)

ALeonard

07-18-2005, 08:23 AM

I got my order of Proactive in the mail a few days ago, and I can already tell a difference! I'm so excited! I wasn't really sure how I felt about it, but it's great so far!

I was reading an information packet that Proactive sent and something dawned on me. I'm not using oil free makeup!! I'm using some products from MAC and I hadn't even thought about it. I just like the way the stuff looks on my face and I never thought that it might be effecting my skin. :rolleyes: I found a few recommendations online for makeup that is oil free and non-comedogenic, but i'm not sure which one to go with. I know that Proactive has a line of makeup too.

So, what kind of oil-free makeup do you use?

twinnyme

07-18-2005, 08:28 AM

I haven't read this whole thread, but I suffered TERRIBLY with bad skin all through adolescence, college, after college.... A year or so before my wedding I decided to finally try something new - and I now SWEAR by Proactiv. Love, love, love it! It really works for me (I also think that b.c. pills helped).

tippy

09-25-2005, 01:17 PM

So, what kind of oil-free makeup do you use?

I just started using Bare Escentuals bare minerals. I am in love! It is great. It gives me really good coverage (I have some acne scars) and doesn't feel heavy or clog my pores at all. I have actually had some comments on the fact that it looks so natural, and this guy I work with (and you know guys don't really notice much ;) ) commented on how I look brighter.

Before I switched, I was using MAC, and I read somewhere that it causes break-outs, which I definitely noticed. I also used Laura Mercier's tinted moisturizer for a brief time before I switched. I really liked it and would still be using it had I not found bare minerals.

Katy

09-25-2005, 01:58 PM

...The saleslady kinda deterred me from it because she said it has natural oils in it which you don't really need if you have oily skin anyway.
That's interesting since as long as I can remember, I've always heard that oil cleans oil - yes, I know it sounds strange. I also know that when I use a good greasy product (like Ultra Bland from Lush) or when my esthetician uses oil to cleanse my face, that my face always feels SO much better afterwards.

There's even a whole philosphy about it with the oil cleansing method (http://www.constantchatter.com/showpost.php?p=106273&postcount=5). I've heard great things about it (same with the baking soda - which I've added to my Cetaphil from time to time and have been known to add to my shampoo every once and a while to do a deep clean).

Luckily, my skin has been looking pretty good lately (managed to only get one small blemish this last time of the month). I'm in the process of finishing up some product, but once I finish this, I'll be starting with the oil cleansing (with some baking soda every other day or so to exfoliate). Think of all the money I'll save!!!! :D

FWIW, I also notice a HUGE difference in my complexion and acne flare-ups when I drink a goodly amount of water. Conversely, when I drink too much soda I start to break out like CRAZY!

HeatherFL

09-25-2005, 04:30 PM

I've never had bad skin, but once in awhile I get a breakout around the mouth area. I also tend to have combination skin. I haven't read everyones' replies, but DiscoDiva posted about using baking soda (drop a little water in it to create a paste-like consistency) in another thread. I started using it and I notice that my skin looks better! A few others have had good results too. :) Just wanted to share that here.

~H.

ManteoChik

09-25-2005, 04:48 PM

I've never had bad skin - just the occasional breakout during my period and every now and then.

I had a facial (my first) on August 3rd as a birthday present. I was super excited because I usually only shell out the money for a massage - however I was also worried because I heard that you have to keep up with it. My skin looked great for about 3 weeks and then BAM....my chin looks like a huge red volcano and has been ever since.

I normally just use Neutrogena Blackhead Eliminating Scrub
http://www.neutrogena.com/images/Pd/Pd_00178_00_lg.jpg
and it's always worked great. But since my facial NOTHING is working and I don't know what to do.

I had a friend reccomend a Clean and Clear product to me - this:
http://www.cleanandclear.com/images/products/facial_clean/deep_action_cream/product.gif

as well as this on the spot treatment:
http://www.cleanandclear.com/images/products/acne_treat/persa_gel/product.gif

I've been using it for about a week and I haven't been seeing a difference except that its really drying my face out in the broken out area. Any suggestions?

Ribbit

09-25-2005, 05:10 PM

I will totally second DiscoDiva's baking soda praises! It totally clears up blackheads and makes my skin softer and brighter. I mix in a little Cetaphil to make the paste smoother, and do a plain Cetaphil rinse/wash after (or my skin feels a little dry). Now, if only I could find an effective way to scrub my back with it, without using one of those abrasive back scrubbers (too much abrasiveness in combination)...

stella24

09-25-2005, 05:58 PM

It's taken me a long time, but I've finally found a good skincare routine. My face is usually dry and sensitive but also prone to the occasional breakout on my forehead and chin. I've been using the baking soda method for a few years now, ever since I was lucky enough to discover my skin is too sensitive for most cleansers and scrubs. Sometimes I'll add it to Cetaphil to give it a boost. After cleansing I always follow up with a moisturizer, and that's pretty much all my skincare routine consists of. It's great to only use 2-3 products now. I'm glad to so many others have found success with it as well!

ManteoChick it sounds like you're skin might be sensitive to one (or possible more) of the ingredients in one of the products you're using. I'd try scaling it back a bit, only using one product at a time, and maybe gradually adding them back into your routine to see which one is causing it. For what it's worth, I know for me that any/all of those would be too much for my sensitive skin to handle, so maybe you could look into some gentler products. Cetaphil is a great gentle cleanser, or you could try the baking soda method.

Sposa06

09-25-2005, 06:00 PM

I third DiscoDiva's baking soda method! My skin was fine before, but now it is fantastic! It's soft, it glows and the pesky little blackheads at the corners of my nose were gone after the first use! I always use moisturizer after washing my face, so I haven't noticed any dryness.

The way I use it on my chest and back is that I keep a big plastic clip in the shower. I put conditioner in my hair, then twist it all up and clip it, then scrub my chest and back (my arms are long and can reach - maybe use a washcloth or regular sponge or something in case you can't quite reach?), then take my hair down and rinse it out. Works great!

tippy

09-25-2005, 06:10 PM

PrincessDivine

09-26-2005, 12:55 PM

I'm glad to see a thread like this since I've had problems with acne as well. I've tried ProActiv and it worked for awhile but then stopped.....I will try the baking soda method mentioned here ....I'm hoping it works since I've tried just about everything else! Thanks for the suggestions ladies!

redmits54

09-26-2005, 01:34 PM

I second the baking soda routine, it really does work.

Sazoo

09-26-2005, 01:58 PM

HeatherFL

09-26-2005, 03:40 PM

Oooh I will try it with Cetaphil too. I use Cetaphil moisturizer already!
~H.

DiscoDiva

09-26-2005, 04:19 PM

I think I'm going to try the idea of mixing some baking soda with my Cetaphil cleanser. I just started using Cetaphil a couple of months ago at the recommendation of my dermatologist & it seems to have helped my skin problems a bit. :)
Be careful mixing those. You know how baking soda foams up when mixed with certain chemicals? I'd hate to see you burn your hand or your face!!

Ribbit

09-26-2005, 05:02 PM

Nah...no reaction with baking soda and Cetaphil...it's even reccomended by Laura Begoin (sp?) the "Don't go to the cosmetics counter without me" author. I've been mixing them for several months now and have not had any problems, and I have sensitive skin.

Daniel's Kitty

09-27-2005, 10:49 AM

Ever since my little boy was born I look 15 again. It is so depressing! I wish it would have stayed away. I am now back to the struggle of finding stuff that works.

lildan

09-29-2005, 07:07 PM

Throughout my teens and 20s I had very minor issues with acne......my face and/or back every once in a while, especially right before my period. While I was pregnant, especially in the first trimester, I had a horrible time with my skin. Then it cleared up for the second and third trimester, so I attributed the first trimester issues to hormones. A few weeks after having my son, my acne really flared up again and I've been fighting it for the past 15 or so months. I never imagined that at 30, this would be as big of a problem as it is.

I was first prescribed doxycycline, but that made me horribly sick. About an hour after taking it I would vomit. Not fun. Then I used minocycline for a month, which made me nauseous, but no vomiting. At the same time, I used Differin on my face and Persa-Gel on my back. I've always used Purpose soap on my face and back.

Now, I've stopped the minocycline and I am just using the Differin, Persa-Gel, and Purpose. I'd love to go back to the minocycline (or any anti-acne antibiotic for that matter) but I don't know if my stomach can handle them. Did anyone else have this type of reaction? Is there a better time to take the medicine? Before bed? Before or after meals?

Sazoo

09-29-2005, 08:55 PM

I was first prescribed doxycycline, but that made me horribly sick. About an hour after taking it I would vomit. Not fun. Then I used minocycline for a month, which made me nauseous, but no vomiting. At the same time, I used Differin on my face and Persa-Gel on my back. I've always used Purpose soap on my face and back.

Now, I've stopped the minocycline and I am just using the Differin, Persa-Gel, and Purpose. I'd love to go back to the minocycline (or any anti-acne antibiotic for that matter) but I don't know if my stomach can handle them. Did anyone else have this type of reaction? Is there a better time to take the medicine? Before bed? Before or after meals?
I tried doxycycline at first too & stopped taking it quickly because it upset my stomach. That was about 2 years ago. A few months ago I finally went back to my dermatologist to get something different, & this time she prescribed minocycline. I've been taking it for a few months now...& you know what? Until I read your post above, I didn't even think about the fact that I've been feeling sort of crummy for awhile now (recurring mildly upset stomach) & that maybe it's because of the antibiotic I'm taking! :eek: She gave me a prescription for a 2-month supply, but I've made it last much longer because I often forget to take the 2nd pill at night. I'm about to run out though...so now I'm curious to see if I start feeling better once it gets out of my system. I haven't noticed it significantly improving my acne, but again, I don't take the 2 doses/day every day like I'm supposed to, so that might be contributing to the results I am/am not seeing. ;)

As for when I take the minocycline, I usually take it right before eating breakfast, & sometime after dinner (usually not right after, though) but at least 30 minutes before going to bed because my doctor told me not to lay down for 30 minutes after taking it for some reason. :confused:

Katy

09-29-2005, 11:31 PM

I use Benzaclyn (http://www.benzaclin.com/Index.jsp). Its a topical that combos benzoil peroxide and the tetracylins (such as minocyn and what not). I don't use it daily, mostly just as a need it (it's cleared me up *that* much). It's not cheap - $30 a month on our med plan. But I think it's worth it. It might work for those that can't stomach the tetracynlins that are typically prescribed.

Mandos*Bella

09-29-2005, 11:31 PM

I tried Cetaphil because I thought it catered to oily skin, but it didn't really help and I never felt like my face was clean after washing with it. I came to find out it is aimed more towards sensitive skin, which I also have, but thats about it. I finished it up and switched to Johnson and Johnson's Purpose (I'll post the results later as I have just started it.)

I always wash off my makeup, try to drink lots of water and stay away from high sugar items (ya right!), I also change my pillowcase frequently. Not touching my face is also something I try to stick to.

BC has never really helped; Proactiv stopped working after some time passed, and I have tried everything from a Dove bar to derm-prescribed Neutrogena wash with no results. But hey, that's just me.

I can say that Oxy 10 wash in the shower daily rid me of my severe chest and back acne 100%...but it was too harsh for my face.

Good luck, ladies! Keep us posted!

swampy

09-30-2005, 10:57 AM

I get breakouts once in a while, and usually use topical benzoyl peroxide on them (low percentage - 2.5%). I was at the drugstore yesterday getting a new tube, and noticed that some of them, e.g. the Neutrogena brand, say "pharmeceutical grade benzoyl peroxide" or "prescription grade b.p." Does anyone know if the effectiveness is altered by what "grade" the b.p is?

kcjaime

10-03-2005, 08:36 AM

Based on recs from this thread, I started the baking soda method yesterday. I have used Proactiv for a couple of years since my skin went crazy when I got off birth control. Proactiv worked great for a long time, but I feel like it has stopped working b/c I am breaking out more often.

So I'm giving the baking soda method a go to see how it works. I've stopped the whole Proactiv regime for now, and if things go well with this new method I plan to cancel Proactiv next month. I have a whole set of the stuff still, so if I do decide to go back I'll be good for a bit. However, baking soda is certainly cheaper and I'd be quite happy if it works!

I will need to either mix some Cetaphil in with it or just use the Cetaphil moisturizer after b/c i definitely feel that my face is a little dry. I'm mainly worried b/c in the colder months I get really bad dry skin and I don't think I want to add to that problem. However, I'll see if things improve after the addition of Cetaphil somewhere in the mix.

I'll try to post again in a week or two to update on how the baking soda method is working. :)

honeygirl

10-03-2005, 10:08 AM

I am so glad I found this thread! I just went off BCP in August and am seeing all kinds of break-outs since. I saw a derm a few years ago after starting adult-acne. He put me on all kinds of things including anitbiotics, creams (differen is one I remember) and chemical peels (used dry ice among things). I really didn't see a difference until I went on BCP's again and ate VERY healthy.

In the past I tried ProActive, it DID NOT work for me and ruined a favorite towel. Right now I'm using Loreal's face wash, Pure Zone for "young skin". It has salicylic acid. Until I went off BCP it worked pretty well, now it doesn't seem to be helping.

Anyway, today I tried baking soda and am crossing my fingers that it helps.

Thanks!

Asha

10-07-2005, 06:29 AM

i have seen an improvement to my skin using the following changes to my skin care regimen.

-taking a daily mulitvitamin and one baby aspirin. asprin is an anti-inflammatory. (i'm not advocating the use of aspirin for anyone here, bc i am not a dr. it just works for me. of course, like the old saying goes - consult with your dr. before...)

-applying olive oil to my face each night

i think i might try baking soda. i still have a problem with flaky skin which only gets worse as the weather gets colder. my dermatologist says i have something called sebo-psoriasis which means the oil in my face doesn't excrete properly causing scaliness on my face plus large and clogged pores. the clogged pores aren't from the pollutants outside, but is caused from oil building up inside my skin. also, it makes me face reddish which often gets confused for rosacea. she gave me a topical cream but i was hesitant bc it contains a small amount of steroids, and i am wary about taking anything so unnatural for long.

it's frustrating bc my skin is just ultra sensitive. my skin feels so dry and itchy even after just rinsing with water. i have lived in many different places so i know its not the water in my house that's causing this bc i have been this way for a long time. i have yet to find a cleanser that doesn't irritate my skin. even cetaphil dries me out.

i didn't realize that i had posted in this thread and said almost everything before. doh!!

Mrs. M.

10-07-2005, 07:03 AM

I have been using the baking soda now for about 3 weeks and it really helped. Even in the second half of my cycle when my skin usually gets bad, I broke out much less!

greenbunny

10-07-2005, 07:28 AM

Joining!

I have seen my skin go downhill in the past year or so. Unfortunately, even with a perfectly clear complexion, I will never have nice skin. I have tons of moles and freckles--the disgusting lumpy ones that stick up and grow together until your skin is a different color. I so envy people with only pimples because those at least go away eventually! Plus, every now and then, the doctor wants to cut off ones that look suspicious, so I end up scarring horribly. My skin is so sensitive--I scar at every little thing, even a mosquito bite, and I take forever to heal.

My complexion problem isn't pimples but just bumps. I get these flesh-colored lumps on my chin and nose. They look like when you have a pimple just about ready to come up to the skin surface--but they never actually become a pimple. Exfoliating helps for a bit, but irritates the dry patches and also makes the veins on my nose more obvious, so I have to stop.

I also have random dry spots, and I've stopped wearing foundation all together, because it looks greasy in some places and in others it highlights the scaly, flaky patches. It was too much work and it always looked awful.

Asha

10-07-2005, 10:28 AM

greenbunny - have you tried using olive oil. i have huge problem with flakiness. my skin will start flaking seconds after washing it, and it's really bad in the winter. the olive oil is making the flakiness go away a bit.

honeygirl

10-19-2005, 11:28 PM

Wanted to update that I've been using the baking soda for a little over 2 weeks now and my skin is MUCH clearer. Almost totally clear. I'm suprised and very happy. DH noticed and said my skin looks "very clean". Boys.

Thanks again for the suggestion DD!

DarkHorse

10-20-2005, 01:41 AM

I have to join this thread because I was looking for help. I have always had acne problems since middle school but it was never anything horrible. I was actually getting better and was really happy with the way my skin was looking...and then I got engaged... Two weeks after FH proposed I broke out like I never had before. I looked like the geekiest 14 year old that was beaten with the puberty stick. Since then I have been fighting this acne with everything out there with little to no results.

I have literally tried every over the counter product out there. I won't try harsh dermatologist/prescription grade stuff because I have a phobia against medicine in general (I don't even like to take pain medication). Proactive, Murad Acne Complex, Clearasil Ultra, Cetaphil you name it I have probably tried it.

Right now I am using a modified version of the Acne.org regimine. I found that website a few months ago, but then couldn't remember the name/adress and couldn't find it again so I am following a online dermatologist recommended regimine that is similar.

I use:
-St. Ives Apricot Scrub (once daily)
-Neutrogena Oil Free Acne wash Cream Cleanser (twice daily)
-Neutrogena On the Spot treatment all over my face (twice daily)
-Cetaphil moisturizer (twice daily)
-Queen Helen Mint Julip Mask (several times a week at night)

This combination has worked the best so far, but it has still been pretty limited. I am willing to try almost anything (but not anything you have to injest) and the baking soda thing sounds pretty promising.

Keep the comments and ideas coming.

Sposa06

10-20-2005, 01:52 AM

DarkHorse, it sounds like you're being pretty harsh to your skin! I hope the baking soda method works for you - it'd be much cheaper and faster than what it sounds like you're doing now! It seems to have worked for everyone who has tried it so far. I know I love it!

kcjaime

10-20-2005, 07:21 AM

I have been using the baking soda now for about 3 weeks and it really helped. Even in the second half of my cycle when my skin usually gets bad, I broke out much less!

This is me exactly! I am using the baking soda method twice a day and following up with a Cetaphil wash once a day. My face feels softer, and cleaner and I've definitely broken out less and my face has cleared up quicker as well. Not to mention its so cheap! :D

I'm calling to cancel my Proactiv b/c while it worked for a couple of years, it pretty much stopped working this year, and baking soda is just a better method for me! :)

jasonsgal

10-20-2005, 08:05 AM

This is me exactly! I am using the baking soda method twice a day and following up with a Cetaphil wash once a day. My face feels softer, and cleaner and I've definitely broken out less and my face has cleared up quicker as well. Not to mention its so cheap! :D

I'm calling to cancel my Proactiv b/c while it worked for a couple of years, it pretty much stopped working this year, and baking soda is just a better method for me! :)

me too!!!!! So excited about the baking soda/cetaphil combination --- loving it! Thank you Disco Diva! If you hadn't kept coming back here to rave about it, I don't think I ever would of tried it. My skin was really breaking out from the pregancy and almost all of it has disappeared!!! YAY!!!!!!

DiscoDiva

10-20-2005, 08:41 AM

Thanks again for the suggestion DD!
Thank you Disco Diva! If you hadn't kept coming back here to rave about it, I don't think I ever would of tried it.
You're welcome! While gifts are appreciated, cash is preferred. hee hee

I've been using baking soda (only once a day) for about 3 months now, and my skin looks so much better!

kugrrly

10-20-2005, 08:42 AM

I may be trying this baking soda thing!! :)

kcjaime

10-20-2005, 08:42 AM

Yes, definitely thanks to you DiscoDiva!

I am using it twice a day for now, but may re-evaluate depending on how much I dry out this winter. It may be a once a day thing for the cold months! :)

DarkHorse

10-20-2005, 01:41 PM

Sposa06 That system is actually not that harsh and I am seeing a lot of improvement in my skin with it. I was using much harsher things before this system and the irritation was making me break out more.

But everyone has really convinced me with this baking soda thing so I started it this morning. Crossing my fingers that something will actually, really work so I don't have to worry about pimples in my wedding pictures....

Thanks everyone!

jasonsgal

10-20-2005, 02:00 PM

You're welcome! While gifts are appreciated, cash is preferred. hee hee

DD - you are too funny!!!

Just wanted to let everyone know that I tried just plain baking soda at first and it was too rough on my skin. My skin turned bright red! Mixing it with cetaphil is the ticket for me. I also broke out at first using it -- I think it brought a lot of the bad pores out -- but it has settled down completely now. Dh even tried it -- :rolleyes: he doesn't have bad skin at all.

when using this i put the cetaphil in my hand and then sprinkle baking soda over top of it. I scrub my face using my fingers - I found using a washcloth absorbed the cetaphil too much and I was wasting a lot.

Kanga

10-20-2005, 03:34 PM

I worked for a company that sold proactiv, but it is expensive so I'll be trying the baking soda thing once the last of my proactiv is used up. Thanks DD! I think we need to start a thread on the multiple uses of baking soda...vacuuming, air freshener, kitty litter deodorizer, etc etc It's starting to get right up there with duct tape, lol

I also broke out at first using it

This can happen with any new product you use on your face, makeup, cleanser, even wax for your eyebrows. It should clear up in about 2-4 weeks.

jasonsgal

10-20-2005, 03:42 PM

This can happen with any new product you use on your face, makeup, cleanser, even wax for your eyebrows. It should clear up in about 2-4 weeks.

Yup - that is why I wasn't too concerned. It took less than a week to clear!!!

Asha

10-20-2005, 04:31 PM

ok, the baking soda thing did not work for me. damn my sensitive skin!! my skin just peeled away using that stuff. this is so frustrating bc i can hardly apply even water to my skin without it becoming irritated. oh well!

Amuse Bouche

10-20-2005, 04:42 PM

jeggink

10-21-2005, 07:43 AM

I have been using the baking soda method now for a few weeks after seeing this thread. It has been wonderful. Ijust recently went off the mini pill and the last time I did that I really broke out. This time it was minimal, my skin is much smoother and looks more even (less blotchy). I still do breakout a little, but like I said, it's minimal.

Thanks for the recomendations on this, it's so cheap!

Kinetic

10-21-2005, 11:16 AM

WisWis

10-21-2005, 11:40 AM

I had tried the baking soda last night, and have high hopes for it. I didn't notice too much of a difference after using it the first time, but I like the texture of it. I think that it will do a good job of cleaning pores out, as it is gritty, yet soft. I love the idea of using something natural.

I tried it last night too and plan to stick with it. I thought my skin felt really smooth after using it, and it's definately the right price!

tippy

10-21-2005, 04:06 PM

Has anyone tried the method described at acne.org? I tried it for about a week and my skin got clear but super dry, and then I got an allergic reaction to something (have no clue what) so I stopped. And of course, now I'm all broken out again. :rolleyes:
I have been using it for months (since the first post I made about it a couple of pgs ago), and I can honestly say that my skin has never been clearer. And when I do get a couple of blemishes, they go away quicker. I am thrilled with the results. My face at first got super dry, but I switched to a different moisturizer and really haven't had that problem anymore. I am using the Eucerin moisturizer recommended by the site. I am sorry about your allergic reaction :(

babylove

10-23-2005, 08:23 AM

I posted on the first page, and that regimen really stopped helping. But I
recently discovered Clean & Clear Astringent for Oily Skin w/ salycylic acid. It works like a dream. I also bought a powder that absorbs oil and even though it is expensive ($40), it's worth every penny. I think it's called Mineral Pure or something like that.

Ribbit

10-23-2005, 05:55 PM

Oooohh...I just remembered another really cheap, sort of wierd, but totally awesome skincare trick. Plain old Phillips Milk of Magnesia - for oily skin, blackheads, enlarged pores, etc. Get a bottle, leave it open overnight so it thickens up a bit, then spread it on any oily parts (I use it on my nose) and let it dry. Rinse with warm water and you won't believe it! The magnesium is more oil absorbent than any clay mask, it works a lot better than biore pore strips, and one little cheap bottle will last for many "masks."

honeygirl

01-21-2006, 05:52 PM

**bump**

So is everyone still using the baking soda? I've been using it for a few months now and overall I think I break out less, but I still break out. Also, I've noticed a difference using different brands. Some seem to work better. Has anyone else noticed this? If so, which brand is your favorite?

GeekGirl

01-21-2006, 10:53 PM

I'm still using the baking soda - Arm and Hammer. It's kind of weird, though, I've broken out really badly in the last week...of course, I started AF today, so that might be why, but still...I haven't broken out since I started the whole baking soda thing. I hope this doesn't become a common thing. :(

miel

01-22-2006, 03:03 AM

ooohh...I just remembered another really cheap, sort of wierd, but totally awesome skincare trick. Plain old Phillips Milk of Magnesia

There's this stuff they sell at Mario Badescu called 'silver powder' that does something like this. It's not amazing but it does work a bit. It's not expensive--about 8.00.

The acne.org site--I wish I'd known about that when I was young so I wouldn't have all these scars! But at least if my kids get acne I can try something for them.

Does anyone who has scars ever plan on getting rid of them--like with lasers. I really want to do that someday but it seems too self-indulgent...if I win the lottery maybe.

Katy

01-22-2006, 12:17 PM

I always thought that the scars fade eventually. If regularly use an exfoliant (baking soda is actually an exfoliant) and some AHAs, your acne scars should turn around relatively quickly. Mine don't last nearly as long as they used to when I was younger (and picked!) since I've started using AHAs and exfoliating on a more regular basis.

suzubeane

01-22-2006, 01:25 PM

I didn't see this thread when I started a thread yesterday (Drug Store Acne Products? (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=14577)) for advice for my son. (I searched, Katy - promise!)

I just wanted to post the link to a site I found with a Clear Skin Regimen (www.acne.org). The maintainer is not selling anything; he's just sharing his own method, which seems of have a lot of devotees who post in his forum and gallery.

My son's skin is not too bad - he just started to get little break-outs under his mouth - but I want to help him nip it in the bud now. We're going to try the Clear Skin Regimen.

DiscoDiva

01-22-2006, 06:25 PM

I'm still using baking soda (5-6 months now or longer?) and I'm very happy with my skin. It looks better and is clearer than it has been in a long time, but, keep in mind that I generally have 'good' skin. The baking soda really helps with the monthly breakouts!

paiger

02-09-2006, 07:55 AM

I went to my Dermatologist this week, but I had to see a different doc b/c mine was on Maternity Leave.

I was going for a yearly check up and to get on something besides Duac (combo benzoyl peroxide and antibiotic) b/c it was just too expensive on my insurance that considers acne treatment to be a luxury. I'm on RetinA Micro at night, and I have no issues w/ it and really think it's great. Actually, I think my skin has been doing REALLY well for quite a while. I mean I can't compare myself to a clear skin model, but for me, I think it's great.

Anyway, I'm not sure I'm happy w/ his idea for my regimine, and I was wondering if anyone else does this. He wants me to do a 3 step thing where I'm using RetinA, Persagel (over the counter benzoyl peroxide) and Clindamycin (antibiotic). He said that b/c the Persagel can bleach out clothes, etc. that I should use it at night. I've used Persagel before, and it doesn't bleach stuff out any worse than the Duac or Benzaclin that I've also used.

So I'd be using:
1. Use Persagel at night.
2. Retin A in the morning.
3. Putting on the Clindamycin after I got home from work.

I have several issues w/ this. #1. I've been on Retin A now Retin A micro since like 1994, and I've never heard of anyone using this in the morning and putting make up on over it. #2. I don't want my face to rule me and can't imagine that I'd have to wash my face to put more medicine on in the evening. #3. I also have qualms about using a strictly antibiotic cream as there is no way that it won't stop working for me since that's what happens when you abuse antibiotics. Knowing this I looked up reviews for it, and 9 out of 10 of them said that after a few months they didn't think the Clindamycin was working for them anymore.

paiger

02-09-2006, 08:01 AM

So, my other issue is that the Duac expires in 2 months, so last week I could tell that it was not helping me at all and causing a few spots. Therefore, I just stopped using it, and I've just been using the RetinA and washing my face in the morning.

My skin looks fine, and I've noticed that I think I'm less oily at the end of the day. Do you think I could be over medicating my face so that it's over compensating? That happened to me when I tried to use 'Oil Free' products and found that I do better on Combo-skin skin care.

I'm thinking of seeing what happens around my period, which is when I typically break out. Then, I might just use the persagel some, but not do it everyday and not use the Clindamycin at all.

The Derm that I saw said that you have to have at least 2 meds to fight acne, and that it was bad that I still got pimples around my period. However, don't even great skin women get pimples due to their cycle? I just don't think I have the acne problems that I used to and don't want to over medicate causing more issues w/ my skin than I already have.

Asha

02-09-2006, 08:10 AM

in regards, to the baking soda question, i am not using it anymore. my extremely sensitive skin couldn't take it. i have been using the eucerin prods.

Nakakna

02-09-2006, 10:37 AM

ardathpaige, I'm by no means a dermatologist, but I used to work for a derm company, so I'll try my best to help you!

It's true that a lot of derms tell their patients to use a combination of products. This is because different meds work for different types of acne. There are 4 types of acne. So, there's nothing wrong with asking you to use even three types of medications if he thinks it'll help your skin.

The benzoyl peroxide is what bleaches fabrics, so anything with BP will bleach - which means persagel, duac, and benzaclin will bleach things.

I have an issue with the derm telling you to use RetinA during the day. RetinA makes you sensitive to light, and usually derms would only tell you to use it during the night. I can't imagine why he'd tell you to use it during the day - I wouldn't.

If Duac doesn't expire for another 2 months, then I wouldn't see why it'd stop working. Of course, people respond to different meds in different ways.

I'd check with another dermatologist about the regimen your derm prescribed (maybe you can just call?) The thing that sticks out to me the most is using RetinA during the day - that seems really wrong to me because of the light sensitivity. But also, you should try to NOT change your regimen on your own. Derms have a hard time with people not being compliant to their advice and a lot of people then say their meds aren't working because they're not using it the way the derms told them to. You shouldn't need to change your usage based on your cycle. Often, the reason why meds work is continual use. If you periodically stop, then the med will not be effective.

My non-dermatolgist advice would be to alternate nightly usage of the RetinA and the clindamycin and use the persagel during the day as it doesn't make you light sensitive.

HTH!

CityGirl

02-09-2006, 03:54 PM

O.K. Apologies in advance for the infomercial.

I swear by Sage Skincare. I had pretty oily skin and acne that I was completely able to control with their line of products. Now that I am getting more concerned with aging, they have a full line of products for that too. What I like best about their stuff is that it is customized for your skin. It's only available from their website, and when you place your order you send in a whole "skin analysis" thing so they can customize your products. The stuff is a little expensive, but if nothing else is working for you, it is so worth it. Also, once you're using the products there is a support messege board where you can ask questions and get help if things aren't working for you.

Regardless of whether or not you're interested in their products, you might want to check out the articles on their website. I learned from Sage that my make up and hair products were causing a lot of my skin issues. Since switching to mineral foundation my skin is so much happier.

http://www.zerozits.com/SagePages/Articles.html

Heidi9771

02-09-2006, 07:52 PM

Im joining. I have bad skin. Mostly bad blackheads that every time I get even close to getting rid of them come back. And I think I am doomed they run in my family so its genetics not bad skincare.

This is me. It is definitely genetics in my family too. I used to have pretty bad acne when I was a teenager. I have very very very oily skin to this day. So oily that it is impossible to wear foundation...just powder and a shine controller because it will just turn into an oily mess in an hour.

I have no acne but larger poors and terrible blackheads. Bah! I don't think the pore strips really work but the metal extractor thingy does (with the little loop at the end.) It is just so much time keeping up with it (not to mention painful.)

DiscoDiva

02-09-2006, 09:00 PM

What's the extractor thing with the loop at the end?

miel

02-09-2006, 09:18 PM

Heidi9771

02-10-2006, 06:18 AM

What's the extractor thing with the loop at the end?

Here is a pic:
http://www.h2oplus.com/retail2002/images/catalog/productimages/200-03648-000_lrg.gif

DESCRIPTION Used by professional spas for facials, this dual-purpose skin care tool by Tweezerman is a must for clean, clear pores.

BENEFITS This stainless steel tool has a flat side to press out blackheads and an angled loop to roll out mature whiteheads. Squeezing blackheads and whiteheads with fingers aggravates skin and makes it susceptible to infection while possibly damaging or scarring skin. Put an end to that with Tweezerman’s Skin Care Tool.

USAGE Disinfect tool with cotton and alcohol before each use. Blackheads: Evenly press flat side down directly over blackhead to gently force sebum out of the pore. Whiteheads: Wait until whitehead breaks open the skin. Then gently roll wire (from angled loop) over whitehead.

Be careful not to apply too much pressure as this could cause infection and scarring. Disinfect area when finished. For best results use after opening pores and softening comedones with a steamy shower, facial steam bath or hot towel.

PRICE $9.50
http://www.h2oplus.com/retail2002/productdetails.aspx?ProductID=200-03648-000&ROI_MrcID=306179&ROI_SrvPgTyp=ROICHKO

Nakakna

02-10-2006, 11:06 AM

Retin-A changes your skin and makes it sensitive to the sun whether you have it on or not. If you have very severe acne they sometimes have you use it twice a day. Even when you are not wearing it, your skin will be sensitive to sun.

I've had terrible sun sensitivity and just found out that a medication I'm on makes me highly sun sensitive. I'm someone who tans and I was burning even when wearing sunblock in the winter! So watch those rays!

It's totally true - Retin-A does make you light sensitive regardless - you need to watch the rays during the day even if you apply the med at night! And derms like to play with regimens, so they might tell you to put it on twice a day - morning and night. However, I was referring to this which is on Retin-A's website and in every packet of Retin-A:

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Retin-A Micro (tretinoin gel) microsphere, 0.1% and 0.04%, should be applied once a day, in the evening, to the skin where acne lesions appear, using enough to cover the entire affected area lightly. Application of excessive amounts of gel may result in “caking” of the gel, and will not provide incremental efficacy.

http://www.retinamicro.com/RetinAMicro.pdf#zoom=200

Retin-A and Retin-A Micro both instruct you to use it at night. So while the derm might tell you to use it differently, the instructions from Retin-A itself says to only use it in the evenings.

paiger

02-15-2006, 10:47 AM

Nakakna Thank you for your suggestions. I definitely agree about the night time RetinA. That really didn't sit well w/ me. I've been doing the alternating like you suggested except w/ the Persagel and Clindamycin in the mornings. So far so good and this is usually my bad week. If I do notice that it's just not working for me anymore, then I'll go back to the Derm and see a different doc. My regular Derm is getting back from Maternity leave, then moving, so I have a find a new one anyway.

BlackMagicRose

02-15-2006, 07:17 PM

ok, I am soooo very tired of my skin being oily!! It is driving me nuts. I have very oily skin on my forehead, cheeks, and chin. I have occasional breakouts, large pores and redness from acne scars :( I need a recommendation on a cheap but effective cleanser. I also have very dry skin on my nose (it is flaky and gross). Should I be using an exfoliant for this?? Also, I would like someone to reccomend a product for dark under eye circles and those brown spots I have been getting from using BCP :( does anyone else have that problem?? It is making my skin look much older than it is.

citylove

02-18-2006, 06:05 PM

I am no dermatologist but I just want to mention a few key things I've learned about skin care recently, mostly from cosmeticscop.com. I haven't had to deal with difficult acne since high school, but these top tips improved my skin so much in very short time, I can't help but share them. I hope they help someone!

* No matter how oily your skin, always moisturize! A light, oil-free, non-irritating moisturizer where needed really does make a big difference. I've always had oily skin, and it still is oily, but it is smoother and more consistent w/o the dry areas from over-medicating

* Physical exfoliants are very often one of the worst things you can do to your skin! Besides that fact, they aren't nearly as effective as chemical exfoliants (BHA products for oily skin) since they just scrape off the top layer.

* Handle your skin gently. This means use your hands to wash and rinse, blot dry, and avoid excessive physical exfoliation. The most gentle form of physical exfoliation is the baking soda, which is recommended for occasional use by Paula Begoun (cosmeticscop.com)

* Lots of products contain absurd irritants in the form of "natural" products, such as "cooling peppermint" or something like that. Be aware that some reactions to products are to the irritating additives that companies use to lure us in.

cosmeticscop.com is home to a TON of what seems like genuine, honest, and intelligent information on skin care. I swear I don't work for her, but I have never been so happy with my skin since following her advice.

BlackMagicRose

02-18-2006, 06:17 PM

Thanks citycop. Can I ask what kind of moisturisure you use? And I actuall do everthing else you posted ;) Do you have any skin products to reccomend??

citylove

02-18-2006, 08:27 PM

Thanks citycop.
*giggle*

I currently use Paula's Choice moisturizer at night (usually just on my cheeks and around eyes, but I spread what is left on my hands all over my face) and currently I use Olay's complete moisture w/ SPF 15 during the day. It is good, perhaps a teeny bit oily. I think I might try the Purpose version next. Paula's Choice moisturizer w/ SPF is a little too "thick" for me. I'm still working to find my ideal moisturizer. I know it will be a seasonal thing - my skin is very different in summer.

This is my current favorite facial product is this:
1% BHA exfoliant (http://www.cosmeticscop.com/shop/product.asp?CODE=PC202&PAGETYPE=S)
It has really evened out my skin tone and stabalized my oily areas. It works by getting into the pores and getting rid of the dead skin cells inside there, rather than just on the surface.

miel

02-18-2006, 09:50 PM

Physical exfoliants are very often one of the worst things you can do to your skin!

I've heard this before but I find it strange. I've had microdermabrasion and I think that improved my skin a lot. I also use the microderm scrubs and this has also improved my skin.

I've read dermotologists say physical exfoliation is extremely beneficial, and it builds up collagen and strengthening your skin and others say it is terrible for your skin. How do you know what's right?

I've heard this theory that it leaves microtears which 'breaks down collagen.' That does not make sense to me since a scrub affects only the very top layer of skin. However, I'm certainly not a doctor so I can't make an informed decision!

In any case, it seems like the physical exfoliation I've done in the past has made my skin look better. Does anyone know why it is bad? I don't want to do it if it is bad for your skin.

Sposa06

02-18-2006, 10:15 PM

I can't answer that, but I bet Dollface can!

Lisamaca11

02-22-2006, 08:45 AM

[COLOR="DarkRed"]Hi All - I just came across this thread and had to post. I have been battling bad skin for years. I used every product from cheap to expensive and although they helped it never cured the root of the problem. I recently came across a book by Dr. Perricone called {The Clear Skin Prescription} It talks about all the diffrent types of Pimples and why they happen. It gives you a diet to follow, what types of foods are anti-inflammitory, along with supplements you should take such as Zinc & Alpha Lipoic acid to name a few. In just 2 week my skin as never looked so good and with a glow. I didn't even follow it to a T, just made some changes in my diet and already made a diffrence. If you had tried everything and have had no results this is definitly worth looking into. Food is our medicine and it comes through in your skin. I'm not a specialist but I am here to answer any questions. http://a1204.g.akamai.net/7/1204/1401/04091312011/images.barnesandnoble.com/images/8240000/8243844.jpg

lilo

02-28-2006, 09:56 AM

I also have terrible, terrible skin and have tried everything under the sun to get rid of my pimples. I just ordered Acne/Sensitive Try Me Pack from Sage. Right now I use Cetaphil cleanser in the morning (occasionally I do the baking soda trick which does help a bit) and differin gel. I rarely use moisturizer since I sit in a dry, warm office enivornment so it just breaks me out more. I do use Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer on occasion but I'm not sure if it's a culprit to my acne yet. *sigh* it never ends. At night I use Neutrogena Acne cream cleanser and benzacylin (sp?) to help keep pimples at bay. I used to take menocycilne, which also helped my face but since we are TTC now, my dermatologist took me off of it.

I also try to get monthly chemical peels through my dermatologist. However, I am usually at the derm. office once a week getting cortisone injections (am going tomorrow again!) for my cystic acne or other large ones since I just don't want to deal with them for a week or more. It's utterly depressing. I've been on Accutane and that helped but obviously the acne came back.

I am now thinking about switching my makeup to use the bare minerals line. For anyone here that has oily and sensitive that is acne prone, have you tried the bare minerals line? If so, have you seen a difference in your skin? At this point, I'm willing to try anythiing to once and for all just keep things at bay.

I will say that if I am 100% strict with my diet in terms of limiting sugar, caffeine, bad carbs and salt, I do see a difference but I can't be 100% strict all the time. Ugh. Thanks for letting me vent :) and thanks for all the GREAT recommendations!

DiscoDiva

02-28-2006, 10:12 AM

I just want to say this, and I mean it genuinely, that I really feel for those of you who have bad skin. I can't imagine what you must go through with all of the products, dermatologist visits, etc. This thread and others have opened my eyes and helped me to truly appreciate the skin I have. For those who are struggling with your skin, I wish you the best and hope that you find the help you need!

For those who get cortisone injections for a cystic acne zit, how much do the injections cost?

Lisamaca11

02-28-2006, 02:02 PM

Lilo - I feel your pain believe me. I have used the exact products from the derm and like you never solved the root of the problem. A bit of advice, the antibiotics don't work and in fact makes it worse. I know it is hard to do but following a anti-flammitory diet is the way to go. That is the only result I have seen. When I cheat a little I break out. I get microdermabrasions which help a lot and are better than the chemical peel, also you don't get the peeling skin from it. I do also use the Bare Minerals and love it. It gives a great natural full coverage. I have some dark spots and it hides it beautifully. Hang in there it will get better. It is frustrating but you can't let it get the best of you. Take a look at the book I suggested it helped me alot. Taking some vitamin supplements help tremendously. Alpha Lipoic Acid and Zinc are great for your skin and drink plenty of water. I hope I helped a little. I am here if you want to vent. It has always been a sore subject for me too.

bellaprincess

02-28-2006, 02:14 PM

DDF's 5% glycolic acid pads are awesome. I have sunpots on my cheeks that have been fading dramatically since using this product at night. SO has acne and has been using these also after washing his face with a gentle cleanser and all his acne cleared up. He and I both apply Olay's Regenerist Serum after we use the pads and neither of us has broken out from the product.

You have to use a photostable suncreen after using glycolic acid on your face. I am using L'oreal's UV Expert tinted formula in porcelain ( only available in Asia because it has meroxyl in it) that I bought off ebay. He is wearing Sofina's Extra Cut Milk SPF 50 +++ ( also from Asia and bought off ebay) and has not broken out from it and we both have oily faces.

Tanya

02-28-2006, 03:27 PM

For those who get cortisone injections for a cystic acne zit, how much do the injections cost?
I've gotten one a couple times from my derm before big events, and insurance covered it, so it was a $10 copay. Otherwise, I'm thinking $50-$75? Plus, appts at my derm even for this are not easy to come by so I can't count on it. I had to call multiple times for them to fit me in. It's not like the zit goes away immediately, it still takes a few days. But my derm said to me the first time I came in for it that I was the first person to call up and specifically ask for one. I thought it was fairly normal. She said she gives herself them every once in a while.

sea74

03-01-2006, 01:53 PM

am now thinking about switching my makeup to use the bare minerals line. For anyone here that has oily and sensitive that is acne prone, have you tried the bare minerals line? If so, have you seen a difference in your skin? At this point, I'm willing to try anythiing to once and for all just keep things at bay.

I have been using BE since before Thanksgiving and I love it. Will NEVER use foundation again. Ever. And my skin usually sucks. Oily, breaks out All. The. Time. And this has helped it a great deal.

The one thing that worked the BEST for me was getting a series of microdermobrasion and this laser thing called Pure light laser. I'm sure it's marked under different names. I did this the year before my wedding and although it was $$$ and slightly painful, I don't regret it at all and I wish I had the money to do it again. The results lasted more than a year. The combo of the two treatments not only caused me to virtually stop breaking out, but got rid of any scars or discolorations I had. I didn't tell anyone except my DH that I was doing it because I wanted to see if people noticed. And they did. My cousin flew in for my shower, about 4 months in to treatments and the very first thing she said to me was, “wow, your skin looks amazing, what are you doing?” I cried. I never heard someone say that about my skin. And my cousin does micro-peels on people so it made me feel even better.

Sposa06

03-01-2006, 01:57 PM

Sea74, I have faint acne scarring on my jawline. It's probably only really noticeable to me, but I've wanted it completely gone since high school. Could you tell me more about the Pure light laser? Thanks!

tippy

03-01-2006, 04:30 PM

I am now thinking about switching my makeup to use the bare minerals line. For anyone here that has oily and sensitive that is acne prone, have you tried the bare minerals line? If so, have you seen a difference in your skin? At this point, I'm willing to try anythiing to once and for all just keep things at bay.

lilo, I was originally using the MAC line, and switched several months ago to the BE bare minerals line. I have seen a drastic improvement in my skin. I also have oily/acne prone skin, and I can't believe how well my skin has done with BE. I have gotten several compliments about how great my makeup looks. I would definitely recommend BE. I had also changed my skin care routine shortly prior to changing makeup to the regimen on www.acne.org, and I think that that also had something to do with how much my skin has improved. I used to get really bad cystic pimples, and since I have been doing the regimen, I have not had a one. I have been doing the regimen since the end of July.

Mrs.Chappy

03-12-2006, 05:55 PM

has anyone used the microdermabrasion kits that they sell in drugstores..i believe neutrogena makes one..

lilo

03-16-2006, 12:15 PM

Lisamacall: thank you so much for the recommendations. I bought Dr. Perricone's book the other day and have been trying to really eat 'clean' lately. I'm a pretty healthy person (food and exercise wise) but, like you, whenever I 'cheat' (which for me means too much sugar!), I break out too. I think I'm going to start doing a series of microdermobrasion soon too. How many treatments did you get? From what I understand from my derm., each treatment is about $150, right?

sea74 and tippy: thanks for the bare minerals recommendation! I finally ordered the starter kit from Ulta so hopefully it'll come soon. The starter kit comes with the face application brush, warmth all over face color, mineral veil and foundation. What else should I buy? Do you use their blush? Is there a separate concealer that you use or is the foundation enough to cover any blemishs?

tippy: can you share with me your general skin care routine? which products do you love?

I'm just sooo sick and tired of breaking out that I will try anything at this point. It sucks to have to give up things like chocolate, coffee and 'bad' carbs (for the most part) but I definitely see a difference when I don't have them.

miel

03-17-2006, 02:43 PM

Mrs. Chappy

Yes, I've used the neutragena one and I think it's very nice. It leaves your face soft and although your skin will be red for a short time that goes away (I don't think it has harsh chemicals that irritate your skin.)

I think a lot of exfoliation has really helped my skin. However, my issues is more blackheads than pimples so it might depend on your skin issues.

tippy

03-17-2006, 06:31 PM

sea74 and tippy: thanks for the bare minerals recommendation! I finally ordered the starter kit from Ulta so hopefully it'll come soon. The starter kit comes with the face application brush, warmth all over face color, mineral veil and foundation. What else should I buy? Do you use their blush? Is there a separate concealer that you use or is the foundation enough to cover any blemishs?

tippy: can you share with me your general skin care routine? which products do you love?

I'm just sooo sick and tired of breaking out that I will try anything at this point. It sucks to have to give up things like chocolate, coffee and 'bad' carbs (for the most part) but I definitely see a difference when I don't have them.
lilo, the starter kit, imo, has pretty much everything you need to start off with. i did buy "glee" which is an all over face color, which i use as a blush, but i bought that much later after i acquainted with be, and doing my makeup. no, i don't use a separate concealer. the foundations is good enough to cover my imperfections, and i have quite a few acne scars :(. does your starter kit come with the concealer brush? if not, i would recommend that.

as far as my skin care routine. i wash my face with cetaphil anti-bacterial face soap, pat dry, wait 5-15 mins, apply dan's (the founder of the website) 2.5% benzoyl peroxide gel (you can also use Neutrogena's version, which I was using at the beginning but switched b/c this one doesn't leave white streaks on my face), wait 5 mins for it to dry, and apply my moisturizer (eucerin's skin renewal moisturizer - i think you can only get it from drugstore.com). that's all. i really love all the products together. i have to admit though, the cetaphil soap is a bit drying if used alone, but as long as i moisturize i am fine. i love that the products i use now are so cheap. that is a complete 180 degrees from what i used to do. i thought that the more expensive the product, the better the results, and i am seeing now that that is not the case. i know everyone's skin is different, but my face has *drastically* improved since being on this regimen. yes, i still get a couple of blemishes here and there, but the are small, and go away quickly. before i used to get many cystic blemishes. the day i started the regimen i counted 7 just on my right side (*gasp* :( ), and i have not gotten a cystic blemish since starting. :)

ok, i have written a book! anyway, i hope this helped!! :)

Foley42

07-30-2006, 09:24 PM

I've had bad acne since middle/high school. I started BCP (orthotricycline) when I was 19 and did NOT notice a difference (even though it's suppose to help with your skin). I started using Proactiv a year and a half ago. I didn't notice a real difference for a few months. I've always used drug store makeup like CoverGirl, so a friend suggested I change to Clinique. I've noticed that's helped a lot. So between the Proactiv and Clinique my skin is managable, but I have breakouts around AF time of course.

DD: I'm interested in using the baking soda (btw you crack me up with all its uses). Since I'm using Proactiv, I was wondering when you think I should use the baking soda? Proactiv has a (1) wash (2) toner (3) ance lotion and I use it twice/day (morning and night).