Today I started a skincare routine, and this is my attempt to min-max it:
My setup only requires 4 items:
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Cleanser:
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Self explanatory. Removes dirt/debris/oil from your face and helps other active ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively.
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I use CeraVe’s ‘Hydrating Cleanser Face Wash’, it’s pretty cheap and effective.
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Moisturiser:
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Used as a barrier and to counteract the side-effects (dry skin, peeling, etc) of retinoids.
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I use Cetaphil’s Moisturising Lotion, I used to get eczema so sometimes use their ‘intensive’ version instead.
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Sunscreen:
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Protects against skin damage, extremely critical when using a retinoid (thins the top layer of skin leaving it vulnerable).
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I use Hamilton’s SPF 50+ Face Sunscreen. Any SPF 50+ sunscreen works!
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Retinoid:
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Active ingredient which causes rapid skin cell turnover which sheds old, dead cells and stimulates the production of new collagen.
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I use a prescription retinoid called Tazarotene. It’s a 3rd generation retinoid, similar to tretinoin (current gold standard for acne management) but more effective. The main side effects to watch out for are:
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Sun damage, retinoids thin the top layer of skin and leave you more prone to burns and skin cancers.
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Dryness, the rapid cell turnover can disrupt the moisture seal between skin cells.
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Here is my before pic:
#chopped
That’s about it, i’ll update you guys in a few months on the progress! Don’t forget to like and subscribe, thank you :)))