Something finally worked, and guess what? It didn’t include Accutane. Today, I want to share with you the mistakes I made that set me back ages in my acne journey. Stick with me till the end, and I’ll also share the products that helped me clear my skin. And don’t worry, this is a non-sponsored skincare routine, so hopefully, you can trust me. The best part? A lot of these products are affordable and available at the drugstore or on Amazon. So, let’s get started!
I’ve received COUNTLESS comments from all of you asking to see my skincare secrets, so here we are. I’m sharing what worked for me. I honestly haven’t seen many people talk about these products, and it surprises me! After my LONG and painful acne journey, I’m super excited to finally share this with you. Here’s my skin right now – it’s not perfect, but it’s so much better, and I’m proud. Thank you, God.
So let’s rewind a bit. My self-esteem was at an all-time low when I decided to try this really stupid skin hack. I was desperate for a quick fix, but it didn’t turn out how I expected. Here’s what happened.
The Beauty Hack Disaster
As a hairy Latina, I got curious and thought, why not shave my face? I saw a TikTok where people were having amazing experiences, so I figured, why not? Big mistake.
The first time was okay. Some people in the comments said they had great results, and I did too. But the second time? Oh, that’s when all hell broke loose. My skin felt so hot, and not in a good way. My boyfriend Dennis touched my skin and said, “Oh my God, you’re burning.” That was mistake number one: following beauty hacks online that professionals should be doing, not me.
Then there was mistake number two: taking skincare advice from people who weren’t professionals. I tried a turmeric mask (don’t do it, okay?) and ended up looking like an Oompa Loompa. Ennis was not happy, by the way, because now all my towels were orange.
Mistake number three: Overcomplicating my skincare routine. I was trying every product I saw influencers pitch to me, without thinking about how they might react on my skin. Everyone’s skin is different, and it doesn’t help to combine products just because someone on Instagram told you to.
What Finally Worked? Simplifying My Routine
After all the mess, I realized my skin needed something simple, gentle, and effective. So, let me share with you my new, streamlined skincare routine that’s been working wonders.
Morning Routine:
- Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
I swear by this! It’s free from dyes, fragrances, and parabens. When my skin was burning, this was like a soothing, milky bath for my face. I just lather it up with warm water and gently clean my face. - Moisturizer:
Next up, I use a good moisturizer. I go for something hydrating since I have dry skin. I’ve been loving this one, and it’s fragrance-free, which is perfect for sensitive skin. If you want another option, CeraVe is a great choice too, but this one feels like it absorbs better for me. - Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Now, let’s talk sunscreen. I’ve tried a lot of sunscreens, but this one has a nice tint and doesn’t leave that gross white cast or greasy film. It’s been a game-changer, and it’s perfect for my skin tone.
Night Routine:
- Vanicream Gentle Cleanser (Again)
At night, I cleanse my face again with the Vanicream cleanser. I always use a clean towel to pat my face dry—hygiene is everything, people! - Makeup Removal:
Okay, I admit it – I’m a lazy girl. I still use makeup removing wipes (I know, I know, not the best). But my dermatologist said as long as they’re fragrance-free, they’re fine. He also recommended Garnier’s Micellar Water, but wipes are just quicker for me. - Tretinoin:
My dermatologist introduced me to tretinoin, which has been a total lifesaver for managing breakouts. I apply a pea-sized amount all over my face. It’s a little drying, so that’s why moisturizing is so important. - The Bomb:
Now, after tretinoin, I go in with a thick layer of this super hydrating bomb that I love. It’s perfect for dry skin and even helps with eczema flare-ups. It makes my face feel like a glazed donut, and the next morning, I wake up feeling like a princess.
Extra Tips and Products:
- If you’re dealing with breakouts in the morning, I highly recommend asking your dermatologist about Glendamycin and Benzoyl Peroxide Gel (1%). It’s a miracle worker.
- For dry lips, I love CeraVe’s lip balm. It’s nothing fancy, but it works.
Dealing With Acne Scars:
As for acne scars, I’ve tried a few things. One thing I don’t recommend is a chemical peel – I shed skin for weeks and couldn’t handle it. But my dermatologist suggested a vampire facial, and I might try it soon. If I do, I’ll share it with you all!
Also, I had a bad experience with dermaplaning at home, so I highly suggest you go to a professional if you want to try it. Now, I’ve gone to a professional office twice, and I’m loving the results. My skin is glowing (even with some pimples), and I couldn’t be happier.
Finaly
So, that’s it, folks! I’m so relieved to finally have a routine that works. My skin is far from perfect, but it’s so much better than it was before. I’m proud of my progress and wanted to share it with you all.
Now, I’m curious: What’s your favorite skincare product? Any recommendations for makeup removers? I’m always looking for something new and better.
Also, what are your thoughts on influencers and content creators promoting skincare? Do you trust them? What makes you gravitate toward their opinions, and what turns you off?
Thanks for hanging out with me today. If you liked this, hit the like button and don’t forget to subscribe. If you want to learn about period products that changed my life, check out my recent video!
See you in the next one. Bye!
