The Skincare Routine That Completely Cleared My Acne
Clear Skin Starts Here
Let’s get straight to the point: acne is the worst. I personally struggled with deep cystic acne for years. During those years there was nothing and no one I envied more than someone with clear skin. I felt like I couldn’t leave the house without a full face of makeup and still felt insecure. I spent a fortune on high-end foundations and countless hours perfecting my look, only to still have low self esteem and feel uncomfortable at places like the gym because I was worried that sweating would ruin my makeup and reveal my acne. I didn’t want to resort to harsh treatments like Accutane, so I felt trapped, hiding behind layers of thick makeup.
If this resonates with you, keep reading—I’ve got some great news!
After I figured out a simple routine (and a couple of other tips) that cleared up my acne up, I realized how amazing it felt! I felt like I could leave the house without makeup and still feel good about myself. I could enjoy things like swimming and sweating at the gym. I could look in the mirror after a refreshing shower and feel relief and happiness at what I saw in the reflection. I spent less time getting ready each day, my confidence shot up, and overall, I was so much happier.
That’s why clear skin is a top priority for me. Clear skin is more than just a cosmetic ideal; it's a crucial aspect of overall well-being and self-confidence. Achieving a clear complexion can significantly boost self-esteem, allowing you to feel more comfortable and positive in your daily interactions. Prioritizing clear skin isn’t just about looking good—it's about feeling good, empowering yourself with confidence, and embracing your true beauty. Any product that helps achieve clear skin is at the top of my list for must-have beauty items.
Through trial and error, I’ve discovered a simple and inexpensive skincare routine that really works when it comes to fighting acne and attaining smooth skin! Even if you’re already familiar with some of these tips, I wanted to share how much of a difference they’ve made for me personally! It’s straightforward, healthy, and efficient! Let’s dive in!
Acne Fighting Skincare Routine
1. Wash Your Face Morning and Night
It might seem obvious, but consistency really makes a difference! While the nighttime wash is crucial for removing daily buildup and allowing your skin to repair and regenerate overnight, the morning wash is equally important. Cleansing in the morning helps regulate your skin’s natural oil production, which can accumulate while you sleep. Regularly washing your face keeps your skin vibrant and refreshed by eliminating dulling substances and promoting a brighter complexion.
The KEY to an effective wash is the cleanser you are using. The face wash I use that REALLY makes a difference for me is the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar. It is fragrance free, moisturizing, helps restore the skins protective barrier, and non-irritating. Years ago my dermatologist told me that 90% of the time, simple is always better when it comes to acne and skincare products. My skin feels great after using it morning and night.
I haven’t tried this product, but I have heard GREAT things about Dr. Barbara Sturm’s cleanser. She is a German Doctor and master Esthetician that specializes in anti-inflammation which is important for acne! Her cleanser is specifically formulated to clean, hydrate, and prepare your skin for moisturizing without disrupting your skins delicate pH balance. The Aloe Vera and Purslane it contains helps to repair, rejuvenate, and soothe your skin. A lot of people have loved it so it could be worth a try! You can get it here if you’re interested!
2. The Right Moisturizer
After your morning and night wash, your skin is ready to be moisturized.
I can’t say enough good things about this facial moisturizer. ACURE Incredibly Clear Azelaic Acid Facial Lotion. I have implemented this lotion into my routine more recently, in place of another lotion and the difference is HUGE. This lotion took my skin from clear, to velvety smooth. Because of the Azeliac Acid in it (which helps to reduce inflammation, prevents pores from getting clogged with dead skin cells, reduces bacterial growth, and helps with hyperpigmentation), it smooths out all those tiny bumps and imperfections, giving my skin a beautifully even texture. It is also free of Parabens, Sulfates, Petrolatum, and Formaldehyde. and is 100% Vegan and Cruelty Free! I apply this right after washing my face both morning and night!
This is a powder I grew up with, but didn’t realize how awesome it was until recently! Bentonite clay is a type of natural clay derived from volcanic ash. It is highly absorbent and helps draw out excess oil from the skin. Excess oil can contribute to clogged pores and acne, so reducing oiliness can help prevent breakouts. It also:
Detoxifies Pores: The clay has the ability to absorb impurities and toxins from the skin. By drawing out these contaminants, it helps to cleanse the pores and reduce the likelihood of acne.
Soothes Inflammation: Bentonite clay has mild anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm irritated skin and reduce redness associated with acne.
Exfoliates Gently: When used in a mask form, bentonite clay provides a gentle exfoliation, helping to remove dead skin cells and prevent pore blockages.
Balances pH Levels: The clay helps to balance the skin's pH levels, which can be beneficial in maintaining overall skin health and reducing acne.
I apply it to my face as a face mask by mixing it with water! As It dries, it pulls toxins, oil, and other impurities from your pores and then shrinks your pores! I usually do this face mask 1-2 times per week. I put it on after I wash my face, but before moisturizing. You can make it thicker by mixing it with less water or thinner by mixing it with more. The thicker it is, the more it pulls, but the longer it takes to dry. I will put it on and read, watch a movie, or do homework while it dries! After it dries, I wash it off and then apply my moisturizer.
*note: I find it easier to wash off in the shower if you put it on thicker.
*note: Due to its powerful drawing and cleansing effects, bentonite clay pulls impurities from your pores and brings them to the surface. As a result, you might notice more acne during the first few uses. This initial breakout is a sign that the clay is working to clear out the underlying buildup that was previously hidden. With consistent use, bentonite clay helps keep your pores clean and promotes a clearer, more radiant complexion.
4. Something For The Ones You Can’t Escape
Despite our best efforts, occasional breakouts are sometimes inevitable. Whether they're caused by unavoidable stress or simply for no apparent reason, spot treatments are a great hack for the ones that sneak up on you out of nowhere!
I will apply this as needed on spots that I can feel coming or just show up! When I follow the simple routine I have laid out above, I really don’t have to use this very often, but it’s a life saver for when a pimple pops up out of my control. Especially around an important time or event like an upcoming wedding, a work presentation, or a first date!
Dr. Sturm’s Acne Spot Treatment: The Ultimate Stinky Pimple Treatment
It’s ideal for those unexpected spots that appear out of nowhere or for persistent blemishes that just won’t budge. This product stands out due to its fantastic ingredients and proven effectiveness. It's the perfect finishing touch after addressing the larger areas, designed to refine what's left and leave your skin looking crystal clear. It’s so remarkable that I dedicated an entire post to it. For more details, check out the full review here!
Testimonials
Actually works!!
“I have acne prone skin so need to use a pimple cream at least once or a couple times a month. I’ve tried so many and some are better than others but none are even close to as good as this. This actually works to shrink pimples to almost nothing after 1 application. It doesn’t even smell bad to me but if it did I wouldn’t mind. That’s how good it is. It doesn’t burn your skin off either, so it not only gets rid of the bump and flattens it, it heals any scabs at the same time. The technology is crazy.”
-Jacqueline P..
Blown Away!
“I generally don't write reviews because for the most part the trial and error of skin care has usually left me less than impressed. I am in my 30s, woman of color with oily skin and have continued to struggle with adult acne. I started to feel a pimple forming last night and sure enough it was starting to rear its head in the morning. I put just a bit of this on as a spot treatment after washing my face and within 6 hours, when I went back to revisit my face the pimple was instead drying out and shrinking and not growing. And the spot on my face was reducing in potential swelling. I truly can't believe it. I am going to put it on again this evening and tomorrow morning but at this rate, I think that as a spot treatment this has single handedly stopped this pimple in its tracks! I am so grateful because if it can do that, then I can get ahead of new pimples forming and...I can say bye bye to the resulting hyperpigmentation!”
-Aida.
This is the best treatment I have ever used.
“My demographic: White, VERY sensitive skin and extremely acne prone, 30 y/o I have been STRUGGLING my entire life since puberty started with cystic and persistent acne and redness. I am now 30 and still have these problems... Recently, it's been getting worse and more difficult to treat, with nothing from any brands I have turned to working well or at all. I tried this as a light mask overnight, as suggested by Dr. Barbara Sturm. And it legitimately cleared or nearly cleared my face. Even a part of my chin just below my lip that has been red and bumpy/acned for years now. I didn’t take before and after photos on this first treatment because, frankly, I wasn’t expecting anything to happen this fast… which I regret because this WORKED. If you are young or older, give this a try on your acne. It’s a game changer and didn’t bother my extremely sensitive skin”
Other Clear Skin Tips
Tip #1: Drink A Glass Of Water The Minute You Wake Up
I’m sure you know how important it is to drink water, but having it be the FIRST thing I did after waking up made a big difference! After hours of sleep, your body is naturally dehydrated. Drinking water helps replenish fluids, kickstarting your metabolism and aiding in overall hydration. Drinking water first thing in the morning is extremely beneficial for several reasons, but here are the reasons pertaining to acne:
Flushes Out Toxins: Drinking water in the morning helps remove toxins and waste products that accumulate overnight, supporting detoxification.
Hydration and Skin Health: Proper hydration keeps the skin moist and supple, preventing dryness, flakiness, and excess oil production that can lead to acne.
Supports Cellular Repair and Blood Circulation: Adequate water intake is essential for skin cell repair and optimal blood circulation, promoting a vibrant complexion and healthy skin.
Reduces Puffiness and Enhances Elasticity: Water helps reduce puffiness, especially around the eyes, and maintains skin elasticity, which can minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
Staying hydrated throughout the day is crucial for maintaining skin health, but I definitely noticed a big difference when I made drinking it first thing in the morning a priority.
Minimize Your Stress
I know, I know—it's much easier said than done, and there were times when it felt utterly impossible for me too. However, let me explain why managing stress is so crucial when it comes to acne. Managing stress is crucial for controlling acne because stress triggers hormonal fluctuations that can increase oil production in the skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Additionally, stress boosts inflammation in the body, which can worsen existing acne and contribute to new outbreaks. It also weakens the immune system, reducing its ability to fight off acne-causing bacteria and infections. Chronic stress can impair the skin’s healing process, prolonging acne and hindering recovery. Furthermore, stress often leads to behaviors like picking at skin or neglecting a skincare routine, and can disrupt sleep, which is essential for skin repair. By managing stress through mindfulness, exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy coping strategies, you can help mitigate these effects and support clearer, healthier skin.
-brigadeleader
Conclusion
You Can Achieve Your Clear Skin Goals!
Remember, acne does not define who you are! Investing in self-love and confidence, regardless of your skin’s condition, is the most valuable thing you can do. I learned this lesson before I finally cleared my acne, but we all know the satisfaction of having clear, radiant skin. These products and this routine not only deliver effective results but also do so without causing harm, taking up too much time, and breaking the bank. I used to dread seeing progress while knowing that the product might be damaging my skin and body in other ways. With this SIMPLE routine and these products, you can avoid harsh treatments like Accutane and achieve the glowing skin you desire. Take the first step toward a clear complexion by following our routine and grabbing these products below—you’ll be glad you did!
ACURE Incredibly Clear Azelaic Acid Facial Lotion
Dr. Sturm’s Acne Spot Treatment: The Ultimate Stinky Pimple Treatment
More Helpful Products
If you like what you read and want to browse more of Dr. Sturm’s products (like Oprah’s favorite “Glow Drops”), you can do so here. She has so many great products with great ingredients that make a difference.
Another product I recommend for acne is her Balancing Toner or her Microbiotic line that aims to balance the skin's microbiome for young adults and teenagers.
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