Switching from a lab to natural skincare regimene

Jun 13, 2012

Shanelle B.

So I was using Proactiv diligently for a month and its had no real upside.
I am currently replacing all the items in my proactiv system for natural gentler substitutes and would like any feedback. I have oily/ combination skin with mild acne. Most proactiv products are loaded with benzoyl peroxide (which can bleach skin over time) and salycilic acid, (no con just would prefer an acid found in nature)
The Cleanser - I am replacing with LUSH's herbalism
The Toner - I currently have no replacement, and I doubt I will need toner with such a good cleanser.... but I am open to suggestions
The repair treatment - I have actually sworn off large area acne treatments, and am instead trying a diet change (no meats, only natural sugars, tons of water and exercise)
The moisturizer - Honestly the best lightweight moisturizer I have ever used is Proactiv's green tea moisturizer. but since I will no longer be ordering that system I will have to pay a ridiculous amount. So my bobby brown hydrating gel will do the trick
The spot treatment -LUSH grease lightning
The mask - tumeric powder + yogurt

Proactiv also has a body wash that contains salicylic acid. I saw little results. I am hoping to find a replacement for that as well.

Overall I think the steps are the best part about it because now I know how my skin works and how it needs to be treated. However the product itself is not productive and surprisingly not proactive at all.

Anyone who can help please do. I am so tired of bad product after bad. Thanks in advance ! 
Hotep

Jun 13, 2012

Catey P.

Good for you, trying to change your health holistically! It's a hard process. I use a little of everything right now with mild results. Best of luck!

As a nutrition nut- it's good to hear that you're cutting back on meat, just make sure you get the nutrients, amino acids, iron, etc. that you're missing out on. You probably know already, but I have friends who've gone vegan and have terrible health problems because they don't make up for the nutrients they miss... so I just have to say it!

Water is the BEST thing you can do for your skin.

Make sure you do some research about your "natural" products. Just about any company can use the word "natural" or "herbal" and there's really no industry standard of what that means. If you're serious about it, it's worth the time.

I love my DIY skincare goodies- just about all of which are food! Honey is a great moisturizer and can be mixed with just about anything. Oats are great anti-inflammatory (reduces redness). Sea salt kills bacteria and can be used as a manual exfoliant. Apple Cider Vinegar is apparently a great toner... but then you smell like vinegar. Seaweed has all kinds of helpful nutrients. Tea tree oil and witch hazel also kill bacteria, and lavender soothes.

You could also pick up an aloe plant for super cheap at just about any store that sells houseplants. It's just the best natural remedy for sunburn or other burns, and it's the easiest plant to take care of as long as you don't over water.

Best of luck!  :D

Jun 14, 2012

Shanelle B.

thanks so much. I will be purchasing an aloe plant soon and will def make some modifications to my system !!