Everything your mother didn't have time to tell you because she was too busy struggling!
June is National Acne Awareness Month. I remember when acne had such a hold on me that it affected my confidence. It even affected the types of men I chose in relationships. One particularly shitty guy told me that he “must love me, because how else could he put up with that,” as he pointed to my forehead full of blackheads, white heads and hyper pigmented acne scars. So anyone who thinks that I’ve always just naturally had the clear skin I have now would be wrong, wrong WRONG!
In the bad old days, I spent a fortune I didn’t have on Dermalogica, and then later ran my charge care up with expensive Estee Lauder. Nothing worked. Until I realized one thing–constant exfoliation, either through mechanical or chemical means, is the key to keeping blemishes at bay. But since my transition to mostly green cosmetics, I’ve focused on what can be done more naturally to keep my skin clear without loading my body with goop and toxins. And who would have guessed that I’d have the best skin of my life?!
It’s important to use non-irritating products and makeup so that you don’t contribute to breakouts. There’s a host of natural and effective skin products that fight acne, but I’m really loving these new finds.
CLARIMATTE T-ZONE CONTROL CLEANSING GEL, $28: I used this before I put makeup on for videos this weekend and I have to say, I needed to use the blotting tissues and powder much less. It gently cleanses and balances the skin without over drying–which causes the oil glands to go into overdrive. It also contains natural exfoliants like willow bark and lactic acid.
PROBIOTIC SKIN REFINER, $70: Uses the beneficial “pro” bacteria to fight the bad bacteria that causes breakouts. Think of it as yogurt for your outsides. It also contains key ingredients that help slough off dead skin that leads to acne. “Rich in probiotics and lactic acid – an efficacious Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), this self-preserving refiner breaks down dead skin cells, helping to improve cellular turnover as it refines the skin and reveals an improved texture. The lactic acid also helps improve the natural moisturising factors within the skin, while helping to stimulate collagen production and promote a more hydrated, moisturised and plump complexion.” I use it morning and night after I wash and before I put on my moisturizer.
May Lindstrom Skin – The Problem Solver Mask, $90: At first look, this seems like a steep price to pay, but the amount of product you get could last you for years, and since it’s a powder, you don’t have to worry about the product degrading. What’s more, this natural product is so powerful you need only use it once a week. It activates once you add water, and I like to put my powder in a bowl and gradually mixed in the water and apply it with a foundation brush. You’ll feel is working, thanks to the active ingredients like cayenne, clove and cinnamon. The clays, which include Fuller’s Earth Clay, Red Moroccan Rhassoul Clay draw out the toxins and oils. The Vitamin C is an antioxidant that speeds healing.
Eminence Blackberry Pore Refining Serum, $31.95: This serum is quickly becoming a part of my essentials. I apply a drop full after I apply my moisturizer and it instantly tightens the pores around my cheeks and leaves my skin looking smooth and refined. The blackberry acts as an antioxidant and astringent. It also contains vitamins B, C, K, and Omega-3.
For the look:
“Author of Swirling. Advocate for black women finding love across color lines. Creator of The Pink Pill.”
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