I have a mix between oily and dry
1
Log in or sign up to leave a comment
Oh sorry, I just read your welcome message where you mention that your skin is itching and is sensitive. I think this is not at all a suitable routine for your skin now.
I'd say that the first priority is to heal sensitivity and itchiness. When the skin is irritated like this, it is very prone to inflammation, so it's not possible to treat acne in this state.
The first step would be to go back to a super gentle and basic routine and give your skin time to restore its barrier function. This is an example of how this basic routine could look like: https://whatsinmyjar.com/posts/942/routine-makeover-extra-gentle-routine-for-sensitive-skin. I know it takes patience and self-restrain, but ideally you'd need to follow this simple routine for 1-2 weeks. Then your skin should stop itching and feel better. This would be the time to introduce an anti-acne active like azelaic acid for example. You could also use a salicylic acid spot treatment on inflamed spots. In another 2 weeks, you could consider adding a retinoid a couple of times per week (but only if your skin is not feeling sensitive any more).
Thank you for the replay Maria, I was reading another posts and they concur with your advice, the neostrata one was too harsh for me. I ve also read about Acnavance from Inovance as a supplement to rebalance your skin, do you think this kind of things are worthy it?
There are very little evidence that supplements can help with acne, apart from cases when you are deficient. A possible exception is an Omega-3 supplement (because most of us don't get enough from diet) - e.g. fish oil.
I'd consider taking fish oil (or an equivalent), and also focus on eating good nutritious food daily - good protein, vegetables, healthy fats from nuts, avocado, fish.
Managing stress levels is also important. Daily movement is great for this, and sleep of course. It's all harder than getting a pill unfortunately 😭, but way more effective (and the benefits go beyond the skin).
I'd say your skin would say thank you for a moisturizer and a daily broad spectrum sunscreen. Literally everyone caring about their skin needs these 2 products, especially if you are using an exfoliant (the Neostrata gel)