A month ago I blogged about using Apple Cider Vinegar on my breakouts. So now I think it's time to reveal what I've noticed. Since ACV does not contain Salicylic Acid or even Benzyl Peroxide, it does not have the ability to kill zits. However, ACV does kill bacteria so it can play a part in preventing future breakouts and getting dirt off of your face. ACV is not the only resource I use on my face, but it is included in my daily face wash routine.
Here are some examples of products you should NOT use...
Yes, folks, even ProActiv does not work.
Anyways, here is my day-to-day skin treatment plan. I have a morning routine and a night routine.
Morning:
Step 1: Dial Soap
I like to use this basic, unscented bar of soap to cleanse my face right away. Usually I scrub the heck out of my face with it, even though I probably should be gentler. As long as your bar of soap in unscented and you avoid eye-contact, it should do its job.
STEP 2: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
Not only is this product Dermatologist-recommended because it says so on the container, but my boyfriend's mom, who is a nurse at a Dermatology clinic, and a family-friend/Pharmacist suggested it to me. The Pharmacist I know actually handed me a new bottle and said, "Take it- I have several upstairs."
Along with two professionals telling me to use Neutrogena, I have seen a difference in my face because of it. It also feels nice and tightens up pores.
Step 3: Hydrogen Peroxide
I have used Hydrogen Peroxide for years. If you have a huge, whoppin zit; simply take a Q-tip, dip it in the liquid, and then apply to blemish. I like to hold it on a zit until it turns white. For it to turn white, you usually have to pop it first. The Hydrogen Peroxide cleans and dries your zit out. It has always worked for me. Dermatologists DO NOT recommend this, however, I do. (:
Step 4: Moisturizer
I like to wait maybe 10-20 minutes after washing my face to put on lotion so it has time to air out. I love, love, love my Gold Bond lotion. I will never, ever change brands. I specifically like to use the kind with Aloe because Aloe is so good for your skin. I don't like to only use Aloe in the summer time. I figure that Aloe can help repair skin, so why not use it year round? I think that as long as your lotion is fragrance-free it will properly treat your face.
Step 5: Acne Vitamins
So since in the above steps I have cleansed my face, I also need to be clean internally. Immediately after eating a fulfilling meal, I take these pills. Absolutely DO NOT take these on an empty stomach or you will probably vomit. I made the mistake of taking these pills 3 hours after lunch. I had awful stomach pain and ate an entire pack of saltine crackers. My stomach calmed down, so luckily I did not get sick. It is suggested to take these with a meal so the pills digest with the food you consume. They require 2 tablets daily and these should last you 50 days if you take them religiously like I do. I would also suggest purchasing a multi-vitamin to take daily as well.
Night:
Step 1: Apple Cider Vinegar
I like to use ACV to take off foundation and cover up. I usually use one cotton ball to take it all off, and then another to go over my face again. I like to close my eyes and let it sit for a few minutes. Sometimes I will lay on my bed with my eyes closed with the fan on above me. This stuff will make your face tingle if you do not have sensitive skin. If you skin is sensitive then be careful how often you use it. There was a time when I used this stuff 3 times a day, and after a few days my face dried out. Be careful!
Step 2: Dial Soap.. Again
I use this soap to get all of the ACV off of my face. Not only because ACV stinks, but I do not want to risk it staying on my face and drying it out. Sometimes in the morning I use ACV then Dial, and then at night just Dial. I like to change it up. However, I always use ACV to take off make-up.
Step 3: OXY Acne Pads
This stuff is TOUGH. If you have sensitive skin, do not use these pads unless you're careless about having an aching face. I have read great-reviews on it, but it's also highly BFF-recommended. (;
I scrub my face and neck with this stuff until I dry out the pad. My face gets red after use because of how hard I scrub. I love this stuff and it works very well.
Step 4: Lotion... again
Always keep moisturized!
Guys, this has been my face plan for the past month, and it has been very successful. If you could see the difference in my face from the beginning of September until the end you would probably be more convinced to use this stuff. This method works so well for me. None of my products have Benzyl Peroxide in them, so if you're allergic like I am, these will be fine.
Please remember that on top of cleaning your face, maintaining good hygiene, and caring for your external health you have got to stay internally healthy too. That is exactly why I take my multi-vitamins. On top of the vitamins, one must eat balanced meals, drink lots of water, and exercise. I struggle with having a balanced diet, and eating junk will not clean up my face at all. I know that water is all I drink, so I knew my breakouts were probably happening from bad eating habits and lack of exercise. I decided to change my life-style and I am very thankful I did.
Lastly, please know that you will either have Toxic Acne or Hormonal Acne. Since I have Toxic Acne, which is easiest to treat, my plan will most likely work best for those who have Toxic Acne too. If you have Hormonal Acne or you are unsure, take a visit to your Dermatologist if nothing on the internet can help you.
