Thank you for coming to me with your questions and concerns regarding your skin! Below I've listed some of the main points and tips we talked about and listed some product recommendations for you! I appreciate all of your kind words and your excitement to learn more about your skin. As always, please reach out if you have any more questions.
Glycolic Acid:
- Glycolic acid is your best friend when it comes to exfoliation, preventing breakouts and slowing down the aging process. It works on two levels which is why it is my favorite! First it breaks down the glue that holds the dead skin cells in place and allows for a gentle but effective exfoliation for all skin types. Deeper, it thickens the skin by stimulating collagen and it also helps draw water into the skin from the air which increases moisture. It's kind of your choice how you incorporate it into your skin care routine; you'll find it in all kinds of products from cleansers to moisturizers, but I would recommend a toner first because it's not something you wash off (like a cleanser) but it also is usually a pretty effective percentage. Remember it can tingle for the first few weeks that you use it, but that's normal! It will strengthen the acid barrier of your skin and you won't end up feeling it after a while.
- Remember to always wear your SPF when using any type of exfoliating products because it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun!
Here are some product recommendations that involve Glycolic Acid:
-Cleanser: This would be a great cleanser to use that is not relatively expensive.
-I personally use this cleanser and absolutely love it. It is organic which I love! It doesn't have Glycolic Acid in it, but does have Malic from the apples. I wouldn't introduce your toner with this one at the same time (Glycolic acid toner first) but I think this would be a great addition to help your skin feel balanced and clean while promoting clear skin.
-Toner: This is the toner that I used while curing my cystic acne and I've gotten so many people hooked on it. It also has Lactic Acid which is a great combination. This one is a little stronger than the one below but is great for clearing up that congestion that you are concerned with. Here is the other one from Exuviance that is great, just not as high of a percentage so might take a little longer to see results.
-Treatment Pads: If you would prefer a pre-soaked pad that is easier to travel with than toner and cotton pads, I like these from First Aid Beauty.
Hyaluronic Acid:
If you're looking to add moisture and make your skin feel more plump without the oil, serums with Hyaluronic Acid are great because it binds up to 1000 times its weight in water and can do a great job plumping.
I use this serum from Trader Joe's and love it! However they don't sell it on Amazon so here is a link to one by The Ordinary that isn't a high price point and will get the job done!
SPF:
-We talked about the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens which is crucial. Physical sunscreens are better for you because they sit on the surface and block the UV rays without absorbing into the skin.
- If a sunscreen doesn't say that it is mineral look for Titanium Dioxide and/or Zinc Oxide as the active ingredients.
- Look for words like 'Mineral' & 'Broad Spectrum' to be sure you're getting a good one!
- Applying a serum, oil, or moisturizer with Vitamin C in it before your SPF can boost the effects of your SPF and protect you even more.
- The key to using physical sunscreens to either warm them up in your hands first or massage them in well so that they melt into the skin better and you don't feel like you are left with a white cast.
Here are some recommendations that I like for the face:
Pacifica- Click here
Pacifica Face Stick - Click here I love the convenience of a face stick but they tend to feel a little greasier than lotions because of their thicker nature.
Badger- Click here
Water Consumption:
-Try to get away from drinking any cold water. Room temp and hot water are best for the body because we don't need to expend as much energy warming it up to use it! Plus you can use it much quicker.
- Consistently sipping your water throughout the day is much better for you and will help you avoid the water going straight to your bladder. So you won't be left feeling like you need to use the bathroom constantly.
Other Tips:
-Remember: Skincare can be divided into two categories. AM should be your defensive products that protect you from what you'll encounter during the day, such as the sun, pollution, free radicals, etc. PM is when you want your offensive products that are usually more expensive and repair/stimulate while you are sleeping!
- Here is the Retinol Treatment oil that I was talking about that I love. I should be used just at night and when you aren't feeling dry, can be used as your moisturizer as well.
- Find a time to incorporate your skincare routine as a form of self care and fun. It is so much more enjoyable this way.
-At the bear minimum, make sure you are wearing your SPF every day (even in the winter) and cleansing, toning and moisturizing at night. Using products that have the right ingredients will keep your routine short and effective.
- Tracking your food and mood can be very beneficial to finding patterns in what could be causing skin issues. I highly recommend even if just using an app on your phone if you're questioning how certain things could be affecting your skin!
Have a great day!
-Andrea
---
Disclosure: Amazon links are Amazon Affiliate links meaning that I make a commission off the purchase of the product through my link. I would never recommend a product that I didn't love and all opinions are my own. I am thankful for you choosing to purchase through my links, as it helps me create more content for Andrea Fontana Beauty.
