Retin A help?

Nov 28, 2016

Robin M.

I have "chronically clogged pores" ( made that up myself) that when extracted contain solid white 'plugs'. It's really gross and I'm such of it. The pores on my forehead and my cheeks are huge and always clogged. I also have loads of dark marks from acne. Is Retin A a good option for me? If so what percentage? What should my skincare routine be like while I'm on it?

Nov 28, 2016

Nathalie C.

I think you need AHA and BHA, not retin A.

Nov 28, 2016

Roz X.

I agree with Nathalie. Retin A is fantastic and has many benefits; if you'd like to include it in your skincare, I'd add that later. For now, I'd begin with a BHA.

Paula's Choice makes an excellent gel that I find is more gentle than other BHA options. I use my AHA for surface issues or sun damage..flaking.

20% off today with her promo code and if you don't want to purchase a full size you can try it in a sample size for 80 cents. She also offers a trial kit for some of her items or travel sizes.
I'd begin every 3rd day and ease into it..bumping up or pulling back based on how skin reacts. Use sparingly avoiding lips and eyelids. I'd also bring in a gentle wash that is fragrance free that offers some hydration without irritation. I like CeraVe.

http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/skin-care-categories/aha-and-bha-exfoliants/_/Skin-Perfecting-Two-Percent-BHA-Gel-Exfoliant?ftlt=branded&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_type=branded&utm_campaign=BrandedProductExact&utm_adgroup=BHAGel&utm_term=paulas_choice_bha_gel&p=DAILYGIFT6

To reduce chances of pores clogging, I'd also eliminate all use of coconut and mineral oil, waxes, heavy, thick creams, oil-based foundation and incorporate a hydrating facial oil that is pore friendly such as Jojoba, Evening Primrose, Squalane, Rose Hip or Avocado Oil. Like anything, test patch both oil and gel prior to beginning full usage. I've personally never had an issue with any of these, but my favorite is Sweet Almond Oil, but not everyone shares that experience if prone to breakouts.

NOW brand is easily available and reliable. I'd also be sure to moisturize in light layers such as CeraVe PM (even in daytime) and please know, using any kind of chemical exfoliant requires sun protection, even on cloudy, winter days.

Alba Botanica has an emollient sun protection line that is excellent (not all of theirs fall under the same level of this protection), Paula's Choice has a fantastic tinted option in the Resist line, and Elta MD is another favorite..and all work beautifully under make-up.

I would only recommend the emollient if you run dry. The rest are fantastic regardless of skin type. There are also some powder SPF options if oils are of concern.

Best of luck.

Nov 28, 2016

Robin M.

Thank you guys so much!!

Nov 28, 2016

Robin M.

@Rozberry, what foundation would you reccomend? Right now I use Maybelline Tru Match Dewy..maybe this is clogging my pores?

Nov 28, 2016

Roz X.

Hmm...Maybe you mean the Maybelline Fit me Dewy? If so, that's oil and wax free so you're fine there. I run dry and very sensitive and use MUFE Water Blend. That's very sheer with buildable to medium, but I don't think if you are using the Fit me Dewy that your foundation is issue.

What you need is to just keep a good cleansing routine and bring that BHA in to penetrate and unclog pores. Her gel is much more gentle than other BHA's I've tried on the market. A little goes a very long way. I let it dry and about 30 minutes later, apply CeraVe PM atop, which is light and helps retain a healthy moisture barrier for me.

This isn't an issue where scrubs will be effective. If you have a Clairsonic or a Foreo Luna, those are great for getting pores and skin very clean. There are plenty of sales right now on both; no reason an older model wouldn't be a great choice.
You should see a huge difference with a BHA. If for some reason, you do not like the BHA, an AHA from Alpha Skincare at Ulta would my second choice, but for clogged pores, I would try the BHA first.

Hope that helps you out, Robin.

Nov 29, 2016

Robin M.

Uggh thank you sooo much lol!