[Shelfie] An easy, affordable anti-aging solution that my dull skin has loved for a few years now!

I have suffered from hormonal acne since I was 14 years old. Spiro made a huge difference when I finally decided to try it about two years ago, but I credit this practice with keeping my barrier happy and protected from the sun. I used to do complicated multi-step procedures with timers, tried all kinds of expensive masks and lasers and actives, and finally learned that my skin likes BORING BASIC CONISTENCE. and my wallet, lol. None of these products cost more than $25.

Sharing this if it helps anyone! For reference, my skin is normal, sensitive, and prone to PIE, and my goals are simple, affordable anti-aging with sunscreen, hydration, and Tretinoin.

AM:

I stopped washing my face in the morning, using toner, etc, a few years ago, and my skin is thankful. I wake up and put on sunscreen when I brush my teeth and my lazy ass is done.

•La Roche Posay Uvmune 400 Hydrating Cream, SPF 50+ — I’ve been using this since it came out and it’s my hg sunscreen. It dries well on me and feels nice even when I apply it multiple times.

•MD Solar Sciences Lip Balm in Blush, SPF 30 — I’ve tried a TON of sunscreens and hateeeee how they all look, feel, taste, lol. I have been using this daily for several years and reapply several times a day. I don’t wear make up and this is like my lips but better.

PM:

•DHC Deep Cleansing Oil — probably the most expensive product I use now, lol. One that I have used for 3+ years and it removes many of my heavy layers of sunscreen like a dream.

•PanOxyl 10% Foaming Cleanser — I use it every night and feel like it keeps my skin clean and clear. If it ever stings, I know my barrier is broken, so I skip the Tret that night.

•Tretinoin 0.025% — I have used Tret on and off for a long time, but I feel comfortable with this strength for now. I use it at night. I dry my face with a very soft baby washcloth, apply the Tret, and let it absorb for 20 minutes before continuing.

•Cosrx Snail Mucin Moisturizer — I alternate between this and the HA depending on what’s available, but she thinks this one helps my skin heal from breakouts a little faster. My skin craves moisture and hydration, and I love the feel of a heavy cream, but it usually makes me break out. This moisturizer never has.

•Vaseline! “Slugging” or whatever you want to call it, I put a thick layer on top of my Cosrx moisturizer every night. I have been doing this for the past year and I really recommend it for making my PIE SO much better. I used to do the V-Beam a few times a year because the red spots from the breakouts would take 8+ months to fade (and the V-Beam worked!), but this eliminated my need to do so, and now my breakouts are completely healed within days. It’s crazy. I once read a study on the link between PIE and dehydration, so I found out that Vaseline prevents the TEWL factor.

•Laneige Lip Mask — another product I’ve used like that, for 5 years. I have been struggling with dry lips and this is my favorite lip balm. I use it every night and day when I’m at home.

Thanks for reading! I’m happy to answer any questions or share additional thoughts 🙂