MY HORMONAL ACNE JOURNEY
Hyperpigmentation,
Acne,
Dark spots from acne,
Uneven skin tone,
Pimples,
The list goes on and on. For as long as I can remember, yo girl had a contagious habit of breaking out from left to right: chin, jawline, nose area, and forehead in her early teens. Sadly, it continued into my 20's until NOW. My skincare journey has finally taken a slight shift in the last four-five months, and I can finally breathe and continue my new skincare regimen because it has been working very well for me.
Anyhow, I wanted to share a few pointers, trial and error, products that I'm currently using, and just my overall experience throughout the years. Most importantly, what I've learned about my skin this year during a pandemic, if you're interested in learning more, keep reading.
Why was I breaking out?
Sharing my Hormonal acne's ups and downs was always difficult and uncomfortable when having conversations with others about it. Almost every woman I know is either dealing with or has dealt with hormonal imbalance. What makes this even sadder is that there are so many women suffering in silence (that was me, sis!). Because if we're honest with ourselves, our skin can play a significant factor in our self-esteem and confidence - and mine took a hit.
I tried every product that I've googled (literally) and watched tons of vlogs from skincare experts (which has given me a ton of knowledge). Here's the truth, what may work for others, doesn't necessarily mean that it will work for you.
And I had a part to play that caused my acne to flare up.
Truth be told. I wasn't properly taking care of Widny (me). Don't get me wrong, I am a big advocate for self-care, BUT as you all know, there are many ways to implement good habits that help you take care of and nurture your health and well-being.
I remember speaking with my OBGYN doc over the phone, frantically explaining to her my issues. I'd pause to inhale and exhale throughout the conversation, and I remember uttering my last words, "I can't take this anymore," before she interjected. She'd ask me various questions that I'd like to propose to you who might be experiencing the same thing or similar.
How are you treating your body? Your body could be fighting off what you're feeding it.
How much water are you drinking?
Do you exercise regularly?
Are you taking any vitamins?
What products are you using on your face? And are you using them correctly, in the right order?
Dr. Lisa (OBGYN) wanted me to understand that to get to the root of the acne problem (or any problem in life), we must examine the steps taken while analyzing any poor habits that could've caused our acne to flare in this magnitude. There is a difference between treating the symptoms and curing the condition.
Yes. Acne is a common skin problem; however, everyone's skin type is different, so it is essential to learn about YOUR skin. Here are some of the changes I made that were for the better, and it required me to be consistent:
My diet
At a certain age, eating trash, overly processed food, carbs, and too much sugar needs to stop. Or at least have balance. I didn't cut off a lot of food that I enjoy; however, I eat smaller portions while eating more greens and protein. And I'm not a sweet tooth person, but it's very rare if I do indulge. And of course, staying hydrated!! I make sure to drink LOTS of water.
Working out more regularly
I have a love/hate relationship with the gym. Since I want to be healthier and look good, I've been pushing myself to be consistent in working out 3-4 times a week (I do a lot more cardio than anything else). Days I am not at the gym, I'll either workout at home or go on a walking trail. Anything to keep my body active.
Yes. Yes, and yes!! I detox almost every morning with my ISAO Tea. I love this tea because it promotes digestive wellness, supports the circulatory system, and encourages healthy intestines.
Listen. I'm trying to put everybody in their mama on Nutraburst because it works wonders! It provides 72 minerals, 10 vitamins, 22 phytonutrients, 19 amino acids, 13 whole vegetables, and 12 herbs. Overall, it promotes a healthy balance.
Facials
As a treat and bonus, I try to get facials as often as possible because it's needed. And let's be real, facials also help prevent future skin care concerns that may appear.
Using fewer products is always better; at least for me, it is.
Don't be too harsh on your skin with a lot of products. Remember, what might work for me may not be what works well with your skin. I'd consult with a dermatologist to figure out what would be best for your skin type.
Vitamin C Serum (morning)
Gleamin Mask I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this mask!! I've been using this Tumeric mask for three-four months, and it's been working wonders!! It always has my skin feeling amazing and refreshed. It helps clean my pores, allows my skin to glow, and most importantly, reduces acne and scarring.
Donata Scar Butter -moisturizer. These last three months, I've been using this as my moisturizer. It helps reduce the appearance of scars and evens skin tone. And all of Donata's products are handmade and natural.
Curology Night cream. When I found out two months ago that curology has a trial where they'd use your photos, history, and goals to customize ingredients just for you, I gave it a shot- and it hasn't disappointed me.
Sunscreen. Never skip sunscreen! The importance of wearing sunscreen daily to help protect skin from sun damages should not be underrated. You can be using all the right products for your skin, but it will worsen your dark marks if you're not using sunscreen. I made this error.
Also, share some of your tips and skincare routine that's working for you.
Thank you for stopping by.
