Skin Deep

For as long as I can remember, I've always had an issue with acne. I've tried just about every product from every store. Many seemed to work for the moment. Then, after a month...POOF! Nothing. This exact situation has happened more than I can keep count. Due to my many acne scars and hyper-pigmentation,  I used to be so self-conscious of my skin. I never looked at people when I spoke to them. I never liked to wear harstyles that showed my face. I was in a constant battle with my acne, and it seemed as if I never won. I still struggle with it on a daily basis, but it's nothing like before. It has improved tremendously. I still have those stubborn blemishes that just do not seem to budge.  I still have breakouts, especially during my menstrual cycle. My skin is nowhere near flawless, but it's getting there. My journey to clear skin is not to seem beautiful to anyone else. I want to prove to myself that this long-term battle can be won. I want to settle the score, and prove that I can achieve clear,healthy skin. I grew up believing I and my skin were abnormal. When in fact, all I had to do was pay close attention to what my skin needed. I'm still figuring it out, but I've come a long way. I still have a ways to go.

My Current Regimen:

1. Clean & Clear Advantage Kit 
-Since, I began use of this product around three weeks ago my breakouts have occurred at a lower rate. If so, they are never as serious. I had a whitehead located on the skin between my eyes and it cleared within three days of  using this product. My blemishes have decreased in size, as well. I have not been applying it as corrrectly as I should timewise, so I'm going to keep it in use until I see other reactions that deter me from doing so.

Morning Routine:

• Breakout Erasing Cleanser
• Daily Protecting Moisturizer SPF 15
• Mark Treatment-Salicylic Acid Acne Medication

Night Routine:

• Breakout Erasing Cleanser
• Nightly Mark Clearing Lotion-Salicylic Acid Acne Medication
• Mark Treatment-Salicylic Acid Acne Medication

2. Queen Helene Mud Mask
-It works wonderfully at tightening my pores and making my skin soft. Once a week.

3. Homeade Honey & Ground Cinnamon Exfoliating Mask
-I use 1 1/2 spoonfuls of honey and as much ground cinnamon needed to make a dark pasty-like substance. I don't really go by precise measurements. It leaves my skin feeling really soft and with a smooth,clean texture. Once a week.

4. 100% Raw African Shea Butter
- Beware that this product can be a bit greasy, so you don't need to use much of it. It works well at moisturizing my skin and creating a more even skin tone. Daily.

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This product is one that I plan on ordering today off Amazon. It's Raw African Shea Butter Black Soap from Ghana.

I have had my experiences with faux African Black Soaps that really didn't do much for my skin. I found this particular product from a review given by Jazzi McG . It's not as pretty packaged as other Black Soaps, but it seems to do its job. I've also heard nothing but rave reviews from different friends who use the more authentic Black Soaps. I'm going to give it one more try, and hopefully it's another staple I can add to my regimen. I won't be able to always have the Clean & Clear Advantage Kit at hand in college. Money will be tight. So, I'm trying to make sure I find staple items at reasonable prices. Plus, I'd love to use more natural methods. Although, commercial products aren't terrible. C&C has been working quite well. I just want to explore my options to create the perfect regimen for my skin. I will definitely make sure I come back with a review on the soap.

Au Revoir!