Skin effects: the truth behind why we may be doing everything right, but our skin is still not healthy
In about two days, it will be a year since I first started acne medication. I was only on medication for about four months, and since I have seen such an incredible difference in my skin.
Before going to the dermatologist, I felt the need to think that I could fix my skin myself. Used everything in the book, I was even starting esthetician school. I felt ashamed and disappointed that I couldn’t solve my own problem with my skin. I was double cleansing, I was avoiding touching my face during the day, I exfoliated regularly, and make sure to wear sunscreen. But nothing was working.
I was often given unwanted advice from people around me. Some would tell me to use strong alcohol based skincare products to dry out the skin, and some would tell me to use oils on my face to get rid of the acne. I never felt that people saw that I didn’t want advice, I wanted people to just forget that I even had acne.
Over a few years I started to think that there was no use to my actions. It was a week before my twentieth birthday, and I felt miserable about myself, and wanted to something to change. I decided to schedule an appointment to see a dermatologist.
(I recognize that not everyone has the financial aides and abilities in this time to see a medical professional, but I wanted to share my experience.)
My conversation with my dermatologist was so helpful, and she agreed with me that my acne seemed to be a combination of hormonal and stress causes. I was very relieved that my dermatologist was able to help me, and give me solutions that are effective.
When I came back for my four month check up, the results from just that little time, were impressive. Not only did my skin look better- I felt better. Sometimes people think that those who get their acne or skin concerns taken care of, is just for vanity, but having cystic acne physically hurts. I was so happy, and proud of the progress that my skin has made since.
Sometimes we may be doing everything we think is right for our skin, but sometime our skin can be overly irritated, inflamed, allergic. Not to mention hormones, (puberty, change in medications as well) stress levels, diet, and daily habits/work life.
I hope this post helps you take a deep breath, and understand that sometimes- it’s not your fault.
