Posting here in hope Lady Allison may be able to throw a few ideas at me for my skin.

I am 20 years old, so my skin is still fairly young.

My problem is, it doesn't know what it's doing. My cheeks are slightly dry, but they have small bumps (which when squeezed have sebum in them). My forehead is oily, with blackheads. My nose is flakey with blackheads. My chin is sore and irritated with a bit of dryness and blackheads. My eye area is fairly normal with a tendency to be dry.

It's driving me bananas! I go from one skincare routine to another to try and keep it happy, but I am sick of doing this.

Currently I use:

Morning:
Cleanse: nothing (I find it dries me too much)
Tone: none
Moisturise: Trilogy Vital Moisturising Cream, sometimes Perfect Potion Sandalwood and Palmrosa Cream or PP Soothe Cream
And my foundation is Everyday Minerals.

Night:
Cleanse: Triology Cream Cleanser, or Perfect Potion Cream Cleanser or Moogoo Oil Cleansing Method
Tone: None
Moisturise: Triology Vital Moisturising Cream or Perfect Potion Shea Butter or PP Sandalwood and Palmrosa or PP Soothe Cream.

My exfoliator is usually Trilogy Gentle Facial Exfoliant or Perfect Potion Bare Faced Exfoliant

I never use an eye cream as I am too lazy :chuckle: and I usually skip serums because I am too lazy too.

I thought I would come here and ask as Adore has just about everything I've looked at using!! I almost brought a stack of L'Occitane but instead of spending a heap of money on something that may or may not work, I thought it would be safer to ask. Previously I've tried to stick with natural skincare because it doesn't dry my skin or irritate it but am happy to try other things.

Generally what I want is my skin to be well moisturised with no red bumps or irritation. I have a few freckles I'd love to lighten but for now they're not my concern. I should also mention that I've had problems using anything with high amounts of glycolic in them. MD formulations really irritated my skin. So did the Alpha H mask I've used. I've also tried the Ultraceuticals Even Skintone serum which made my face itch and burn (pretty much what glycolic does to me, kind of makes my face sweat and itch and burn). I also don't want to spend an absolute fortune, but in the same line am happy to pay for something of good quality and that will last and be very effective for my problems.

Thanks. ;)

Have you tried using Rosehip oil? Trilogy do one.
Your skin sounds very similar to my daughter's. She has very sensitive dry skin but has hormonal breakouts as well. I got her to apply Rosehip oil at nighttime & her skin love it straight away.
Another thing to consider is an internal remedy. I also got my girl taking Q-Silica & she has noticed a great improvement in skin tone from that also. Here is a link to my info on this in another thread.
http://forum.adorebeauty.com.au/showthread.php?t=247&page=8&highlight=vitamin
read back a few pages also for extra info.

Poo poo that you can't use AHA's, they indeed work miracles for most skins. I am a little wary of your moisturising products, may be too rich and blocking your pores (the Rosehip oil is a better option out of what you are currently using). Allison will have the answers!

Yeah it's frustrating. And when I've used products with small amounts of glycolic (like MD moisturiser) it makes my skin drier than it already is. It's very annoying.

I do have the Trilogy Rosehip but it does make my skin greasy when using it with a moisturiser. If I use it on it's own though, it's not enough (still dry).

I used the Philosophy Microdelivery Peel today (I have a sample) and I was surprised my skin didn't get all irritated. So Lactic acid and vit c are okay. It did make my skin very lovely too but that will probably last 24 hours and be gone.:rollthoseeyes:

I will go check out that thread Medusa while I await Lady Allison's advice.

My skin has used to be oily and bumpy/dry because I didn't realise how dehydrated it was. Now I use Jurlique makeup remover or cleansing lotion most nights (9/10) and wipe off with a warm wet face cloth. It doesn't dry out my skin, but leaves it nice and clean. Then I apply Herbal Recovery Gel before bed. This is a serum so it sinks in and doesn't 'cover' the skin while you're asleep. You could also try Aesop Hydrating Facial serum. I believe the night serum made the biggest difference in my skin in the long term. Wait for some Adorable Advice too, just in case I'm saying the wrong thing!

If you are OK with Lactic Acid you should look at Ultraceuticals Evenskintone serum. It will help keep your pores clean and the lactic acid is more hydrating than glycolic.

Do you use an SPF? If you use a zinc based one it can actually help heal the skin whilst protecting against the sun which can inflame the skin further. I highly recommend Invisible Zinc Daywear.

I have used that Trilogy cream before & while I found it great for my skin it might be a little heavy for yours. They do a lighter one called Energising I think?

Maybe you could focus on just rehydration. Like a pure hydration mask. Dermalogica make a great one. Skin Hydrating Mask. Its oil free and is a grea thirst quencher without irritating. I would use this twice a week if my skin was super dehydrated.

How often were you using you even skin tone serum?? Due to the exfoliating effect it has it is normal to experience a little flakiness as its speeding up your skin cell renewal process. But hydration is a big key to helping ease this and start off twice a week.

Also cleansing twice a day is really important to keep your oil flow under control. Something pH balanced that isnt going to strip your skin. Your current cleansers sound very gentle. Have you tried all of these as morning cleansers??

Allison will be a wealth of knowledge. Sounds like your a bit stripped :hugs::waving: best of luck with your skin. Let us know how you go and what you chose for your skin.:penguin:

I have tried the even skintone serum and had no luck. It really made my skin itch and burn, and sweat (hard to describe). I tried watering it down, only using it twice a week and everytime I would apply it my skin would do that. It was awful.

I just wanted to add, for when Lady A responds.
I have tried Alpha H. The liquid gold burnt my skin. I like the Alpha H scrub, it's brilliant. I didn't like the tinted moisturiser or the cleanser... it's the gel type one... can't remember the name but it's very watery and you need a fair bit to cleanse and remove make up.
I like a cleanser that does both too, removes makeup and cleanses.
I have tried Ultraceuticals which I wasn't overly impressed with. I tried a full routine pretty much (Lady A recommended it agggggggges ago to me) but I couldn't find anything that would keep my skin hydrated. Even the thicker cream in that range was no good. And I also found I was needing a lot of products... I like my routine simple.
I have tried Dermalogica in my younger days and liked it, but obviously my skin is different now. I have tried MD, the sensitive skin cleanser was nice but I hate the various moisturisers I tried as they balled up when I put make up on.
Basically I want the best possible products for my skin, without needing a zillion steps. ;)

Strange you liked the Alph H Microcleanse as it has 12% glycolic????
Evenskintone uses lactic acid not glycolic acid.

hi nymphae,

I have some things in mind but I don't want to re-recommend the same things... so what was it that you were using that I recommended before and how were you using it. What was it that you felt wasn't working for you and why- I just want to ensure we get it right this time and to make sure you were using things correctly last time.

I'll wait to hear back from you and then we can come up with something.

xx

I know Medusa, it's a bit strange. I am wondering whether it's things that I leave on the skin, rather than rinse off within a minute or so?
And the Even Skintone, I am not sure whether it's the lactic or I am allergic to something in it.

Thanks for response Lady A!

I just had a look at my order history. I have used (this was two years ago):
Alpha-H Protec Tint SPF 15
Alpha-H 10% Rejuvenating Cream with Vitamin C
Alpha-H Triple Action Cleanser - this is the cleanser I find that you have to use a lot to thoroughly cleanse
Alpha-H Micro Cleanse - I found this brilliant
Alpha-H Liquid Harmony - this itched and burnt
Alpha-H Luminescent Eye Cream
Ultraceuticals Even Skintone Serum Gentle Formula - this was the worst of all the things I brought, my skin itched and burnt when I used it. As I said I tried your suggestion of watering it down (wet cotton ball) and easing into it but I would react each time
Alpha-H Hydra-Nutrience for Eyes & Lips
Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrating Gel
Ultraceuticals Ultra Moisturiser Cream - this was recommended for being more hydrating, but I didn't feel it was
Ultraceuticals Ultra Green Tea Skin Spritzer
Alpha-H 15% Glycolic Hydrating Mask - this actually burnt my skin, it was very red raw after this. It felt like it burnt it, my skin was hard and scaley after using this for about a week and a half
Ultraceuticals UltraClear Exfoliating Gel
Ultraceuticals C-10 Vitamin C Serum
Ultraceuticals Protective Moisturiser SPF30+ Pump - this was recommended at first but I didn't find it hydrating enough. Then I was using this and the ultra moisturiser together and it still wasn't hydrating enough. I didn't like having to use so many products at once either.
Ultraceuticals Gentle Cleansing Gel
Ultraceuticals Ultra A Eye Treatment Serum
Ultraceuticals Ultra A Treatment Serum

The MD stuff I used I got from Essential Day Spa, if I remember correctly it was:

Moisture Defense Anti Oxidant Eye Cream
Moisture Defense Antioxidant Hydrating Cream
Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
MD Formulations Vit-A-Plus Night Recovery Complex

I didn't find the MD too bad on my skin but the moisturisers balled up when I applied make up and sometimes even after applying them.

My skin is obviously a bit different now to back then - my main concern back then was breakouts but now it's mainly the fact that it doesn't know what it is - oily, dry, blackheads, irritated.

I didn't like them because either they didn't feel that effective or they irritated my skin.

Hope that helps somewhat, I have a terrible memory!

Ok, great that gives me more of an idea and there is only one product in there that I would re-recommend for where your skin is at now and that is the Ultra A eye cream.

I think that if the microcleanse is working for you, then we should stick with that too.

So this is what I suggest to try to keep it simple yet effective with no AHA for now while still working on your skin.

AM

cleanse with the Ultra milk cleanser. This is a light creamy cleanser, not too rich, yet not a gel. A good middle ground for your skin: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=1826

Follow with the ultra c sheer moisturiser:http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=4734

apply an eye cream: the ultra a eye cream: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=1835

finish with the megan gale invisible zinc: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewItem.asp?idproduct=2491

PM

cleanse as above

then apply the ultra a treatment cream

follow this with the eye cream as above.

So how is that for simple huh?

and of course you use your microcleanse three times a week. Cleansing and exfoliating in the shower is fine if you like things to be simple and no fuss!

I think if we have the C and A in your routine with the microcleanse we should be able to combat the bumps while keeping your skin hydrated. Both the C and A will work on skin tone (keeping those freckles under control) but your sun screen is a MUST!

So how do you feel about this?

:glee:

excited?

sorry it's late afternoon and my sense of humor is getting the better of me

:chuckle:

hehehe thanks Lady Allison!!

So do you think that will keep my skin nice and hydrated as well? I find when using products to combat clearness and bumps, my skin becomes parched.

Then shall I continue with this until I am out of the products and then come back to you so we can reassess if necessary and work up to other things if needed?

Thanks again chicky... yes it does make me a bit excited LOL, always nice to get new things to play with and things to fix my skin probs!:glee:

Oh and should I still use sunscreen even though the most sunning I do is a walk down the street to do the mail run?:chuckle:

Sorry for all the questions, just one more...

Is there a reason why you prefer Ultraceuticals, why is it better than other products, why do you think it will work? I just get nervous buying new skincare as I have a lot of bad luck and $120 for a moisturiser is a lot to spend, without knowing much about it.

I am happy to pay for things that are worth it, but yeah - just wondering!!

Sorry for all the questions, just one more...

Is there a reason why you prefer Ultraceuticals, why is it better than other products, why do you think it will work? I just get nervous buying new skincare as I have a lot of bad luck and $120 for a moisturiser is a lot to spend, without knowing much about it.

I am happy to pay for things that are worth it, but yeah - just wondering!!


have a bit of a read through the ultraceuticals review thread as it may make u feel a bit better:waving:

why will it work? one word. Science. Have a read through my retinol article in the beauty blog section and you will understand why there are partular brands that I will favour purely because they use the real deal, same with vitamin C. The ultraceuticals C is CSIRO developed and patented- It's the real deal baby! ;)

The range is also non scented= less allergies to products and they are not pandering to the mass public by wanting to appeal to the nose with synthetic fragrance and frou-frou packaging (which adds to the cost).

Many of the products I favour are putting the dollar value into what's in the product so it actually works! :clapping:

And no supermodels and glam marketing... they don't need it because the product WORKS! :clapping:

YAY!

I spose it's a bit like plastic surgery- we know you'll end up tighter and firmer so you don't see billboards for it :chuckle:

Alright Lady A, I will trust you... you've got a hell of a lot more experience than me!!
Will order as soon as I get home tonight...... yay for a step in the right direction to good skin!!
So, would you like me to post when I get low on things so we can reassess if needed?
Thanks so much hun... I will go read that thread too.
I was mainly a bit concerned because the MUA reviews are pretty bad on UC, it made me a bit nervous.
Yeyyy!!:glee:

ignorance causes some silly things to be said about all kinds of things...

If someone has not had a program recommended then I can understand why they wouldn't like the product. You, my dear, are smarter than that which is why you are asking all the right questions so you are informed enough to make a decision on a purchase. :clapping:

Yes please let me know in this thread when you are low on things so we can track your skin's progress and give it a new 'diet' when it shows the results we want.

Be aware that results come over a period of months. Slow and steady wins the race here and we want to give your skin the right stuff to slowly do it's stuff :)

and yes you need your sunblock on daily. I never sun myself at all- no sir-ee! I am aiming at lily white skin - no sixty year old prune look for me! But I do sit by the window and so on and UV rays are not just up and down- they are nasty critters and go all over the place so they can get to ya even inside - eeeek go hide!

so sunscreen thyself- yes! driving in the car is when we get a decent dose too and those little hands!!! I keep some in the centre console of the car- unless you want to wait a half hour before going into the sun then have a zinc sunblock on hand like the invisible zinc! http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/brand.asp?id=60&on=suppliers

Have a read of this you naughty girl- no prunes for you! http://forum.adorebeauty.com.au/showthread.php?t=964

:chuckle:

I was mainly a bit concerned because the MUA reviews are pretty bad on UC, it made me a bit nervous.

I've read the MUA reviews too. My guess is that a lot of those girls were either
(a) not using the right products for their skin as recommended by a skin specialist,
(b) not using the products correctly (e.g. using the right amounts, with the right frequency),
or (c) not using the products for long enough.

Ultraceuticals products are very strong, so if you self-diagnose and get the wrong thing, or don't use it properly, the results are not going to be what you hoped for. Which is why we have the lovely Allison on staff here to make sure you all get the right products for your skin and concerns :worship:

Also, a lot of people expect to see miracle results after using a product for only a week or two. Unfortunately, even with high-strength active ingredients, this is just not realistic. For example, pigmentation can take months of intensive treatment to get a result, and even then you can undo it all by spending one unprotected day in the sun.

Okie doke, I have ordered.:clapping:
I will let you know how I go.
I understand all the points you have made and I trust your judgement!
I must scoot to bed now... we all know what lack of sleep does to our skin!!

Oh Allison, I am so impressed! :penguin:
I received the routine today, minus the eye cream as I ordered that separately as it wasn't in stock (that way I could have most of my products by the weekend!).
Well I am feeling happy and impressed. Yes I know, it will take time but the feel of the products first up is a really good sign.
I've only used the sheer cream, invisible zinc and cleanser but wow! I was a little uncertain as to what they would be like but I love them! The milk cleanser I only needed a small 5c piece size and it cleansed my face well. I felt a little bit dry afterwards but, that's what moisturiser is for! I then applied the C Sheer Cream. I was not really sure how this would go because I consider my skin dry, and this says it's sheer... but it's fabulous! What I like that I have to use less of this than the other stuff I've been using... I have to use a fair fingerful of the Trilogy or Perfect Potion stuff to moisturise my face and neck. But the sheer cream I only needed a teeny amount. It had a little bit of oil in it that must have separated but I just mixed that into the moisturiser and applied. It did sting the remnants of the pimple I had on my face and sort of tingle, but it was very bearable (unlike what Glycolic does to me). I applied the sunscreen next and with those two my skin was very well moisturised. It feels so incredibly soft right now. I keep touching it!!
I have learnt to avoid my lips as much as I can though as it doesn't taste that great!:chuckle:
Thanks Allison, I will keep you updated because only time will tell.:glee:

My make up stayed on very well today and didn't slide off like usual. Yay!

I used the cleanser tonight to remove make up and it didn't work too well. It did work but I still had some left on my face. Would it be okay to use my Nurture toner from Perfect Potion to remove the remnants or should I be doing something else Allison?

Anyway, I applied my Ultra A cream and it gave me a similar feeling to what that Even Skintone Serum does - that face sweating burn. However, unlike the serum the cream only lasts about a minute and it subsides. It's also made my skin feel nice and moisturised and definitely not greasy.

I am very happy. My skin is very smooth right now so things are lookin' good for the future of my skin.:glee:

Helloooo again!

so glad to hear its going well!! If it's feeling really tingly then stick to every second night. Try cleansing in the shower, I always find it easier to rinse. Alternatively a flannel or a small facial sponge works well. Facial sponges are great as you can throw them in the washing machine to keep them super clean (which you should do regularly so ensure that you have a couple to alternate.

:glee:

I've actually noticed over the last few days that the tingling hot sensation is lessening. It's definitely no where near as stingy as day one. So that's good news!

I do cleanse in the shower too as it does save time. I always use a clean flannel to wash. I am finding though the cleanser is stinging my eyes.:tears: I am not finding it the best cleanser but it does the job just the same. I have to be fairly rough though to try and remove my make up. I've never had a problem with removing make up before, as it's just mineral foundation. But I don't think it's the cleanser which is the whole issue - I think the sunscreen makes the make up hard to remove. It sounds silly, but on Sunday I didn't apply make up until late in the day. I knew I wasn't going out so I didn't apply sunscreen. My make up removed easily that day, it pretty much washed off with water like usual and I used the cleanser to get the remnants off. So it seems the cleanser just isn't tough enough because the make up has staying power with the sunscreen. Meh - who needs a primer - wear sunscreen!!!

That brings me to another thing... whether it's the C cream, the sunscreen or a combo - my make up lasts ALL DAY without wearing unevenly or melting off. It's unbelievable. The mineral make up has a tendency to slide and go patchy, but not since I changed my routine. I have noticed it goes a little cakey, settles in my skin slightly but you can't tell unless you're close up.

I am not sure if this is of any interest - I got the Skintype Solution book the other day before I contacted you and did my skin test last night. I am Dry-Resistant-Pigmented-Wrinkle. I am *just* verging on resistant though getting in the range for that by 1.5 points. So knowing my skin personally I should probably call it sensitive. Funnily enough the recommendations made and the things I should and shouldn't do are exactly what you have told me Allison - so you're right on the ball if the books answer is anything to go by what my skin needs. You have me worked out!!!

Another thing (ask too many questions don't I!!) is it normal for my skin to feel taut after cleansing? It feels so tight that my eyes don't feel like that can move. The moisturiser does fix that though.

Happy Nymphfae:glee:

Hey again,

glad there's a lot of positve stuff going on there! Hmm your skin shouldn't feel super tight after cleansing, but let's just see what happens. All this is new some allowing your skin some time to adjust may be a good idea.

I'm sorry that you are finding the cleanser is not budging things. : ( I don't usually have issues with it. Maybe try a pre cleanse: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewItem.asp?idproduct=9610

Great that your make up is holding well and your skin is protected to boot!

I am not familar with the book that you are taking about.. I rely on asking questions and my training..

well... all sounds good so until the next update!

xxx

Yeah I am hoping a lot of the little issues will sort themselves out over time. It's barely been a week so my skin is definitely still getting used to it.

I saw your reccy for the pre cleanse and had a look, noticed that the ingredients are basically oil. I have some Moogoo cleansing oil here so I decided to try that first. It worked brilliantly. My make up slid right off, I could see it on the dark face washer. Then I used the Ultraceuticals cleanser and didn't use the washer and my skin is lovely and clean. No make up left on me at all. My eyes didn't sting either so I think what was happening was the cleanser was getting in my eyes when I was using the face washer to remove my makeup with the UC cleanser. That problem is solved. My skin wasn't as taut afterwards.

It is still feeling a bit dry though. I was a bit embarassed when my sister told me that my skin is terribly dry. I hope it's not that noticeable. It does have some small flakes around my mouth and nose but I am hoping they clear up.

I have only exfoliated once. Tonight I have red rashy cheeks for some odd reason and so the moisturiser hurt a bit to apply. I didn't exfoliate for the dry skin because I didn't want to irritate my skin anymore.

*crosses fingers*

The book, well I brought it in sheer desperation. The woman who wrote it is a dermatologist and she teaches at some Uni. Her name is Leslie Baumann. Basically she believes there is 16 different skin types made up of Dry vs Oily, Sensitive Vs Resistant, Pigmented vs Non Pigmented and Wrinkled Vs Tight. You do the questionaire in the book and then go to your chapter and she tells you what you should and shouldn't do for your skin and recommends products from a wide range - from Aveeno right up to L'Occitane, Skinceuticals etc. Interesting but I take it with a grain of salt. My skin came up as Dry, Resistant, Pigmented and Wrinkled. The latter is weird as I don't have any wrinkles but I think it's getting at the tendency to wrinkle. And I think I should be called sensitive but the other two are right. Anyway, her recommendations are pretty much what you have told me anyway!!

I don't think you are supossed to use the UC cleanser on your eyes?

Having some issews again. :(

My skin has decided to turn evil on me. I feel like I have very bad sunburn. My neck is the worst. It's itchy, sore and rough. The flakes have gone but my skin is very very sore and red. I've stopped using all of the moisturisers for the moment as they sting and burn. Even my eye area is sore (am using the recommended eye cream too). I am trying to use Macro (Vitamin E cream) on my skin, but even that burns.

I hate my skin.

Oh Nymphae, I can relate to what you're going through. Read my ultraceauticals advice post and i was feeling just like you are only last week. I'm still not totally happy but things are improving. The alpha h balancing moisturiser was the culpirt for me I think, I haven't used it for a week and my skin feels much better. As soon as I try to add it back in I experience so much burning i have to cleanse again to wash it off. I was also using the Triple action cleanser but have recently gone back to uc gel cleanser and it is suiting me much better (must tell allison that actually).
For some reason UC is much kinder on my skin than alpha h, and I know alpha h has a huuugggeeee following on the forum, but I guess its whatever works for you.
I know you'll feel like punching me for saying this but.... give it time hun.
:waving:

i actually prefer UC to alpha h , though i still use the masks but this is just what i find works for me
actually i don't really use cleansers or moisturisers from either range :whistle:

You should definitely use what works for you...and it doesn't have to mean everything from the one line. I have a mix of products from UC and Alpha-H...did take me a bit of time to find the right combo though. That's the most frustrating bit!

what about a little Aloe vera to calm your skin down a bit ??

Aloe Vera works a treat!! I have some in the garden and its awesome fresh of the tree (?bush, lol, who cares), way better than from a tube despite the tubes claim to have about 97% aloe. I was using it last week with my dramas and it soothes, reduces redness and helps healing.

That's no good nymphfae :( maybe you've overdone it a bit on the actives? Sounds like retinol face to me ;)

Have you still got some Ultra Moisturiser Cream? I find it excellent for the times when I have overdone it and given myself retinol face. It might still sting a bit when you first apply it but this will just be because your skin is irritated and dry, not because the moisturiser itself is irritating. Stop using all your actives (Ultra C Sheer and Ultra A Facial Treatment Cream) and just use the ultra milk cleanser and the ultra moisturiser morning and night until things improve.

That's no good nymphfae :( maybe you've overdone it a bit on the actives? Sounds like retinol face to me ;)

Have you still got some Ultra Moisturiser Cream? I find it excellent for the times when I have overdone it and given myself retinol face. It might still sting a bit when you first apply it but this will just be because your skin is irritated and dry, not because the moisturiser itself is irritating. Stop using all your actives (Ultra C Sheer and Ultra A Facial Treatment Cream) and just use the ultra milk cleanser and the ultra moisturiser morning and night until things improve.

Kate did you happen to get a pic of yourself or anyone else with retinol Face? I would be very interested to see what it actually looks like. Wondering if I have done that to myself recently?

I didn't take a photo PCC :chuckle: I doubt it would show up that much. Basically the skin looks a bit pink in patches, with a dry surface and sometimes flakes. On me I know I've done it more by how it feels (tight, hot, stingy) than how it looks.

Now Miss Kate be honest, would you have really posted the pic if you had one?:chuckle: I have a new nickname for you Miss Retinol Face!:chuckle::chuckle:

Hahahaha yes I would have posted it, vanity goes out the window in the service of my Adorables :chuckle: just check out my hideous no-makeup "before" pics on Allison's beauty salon menu page!

Ok I am going to check that out now!

Hey nymph,

ok so this was our original program

" AM

cleanse with the Ultra milk cleanser. This is a light creamy cleanser, not too rich, yet not a gel. A good middle ground for your skin: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adoreb...idproduct=1826

Follow with the ultra c sheer moisturiser:http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adoreb...idproduct=4734

apply an eye cream: the ultra a eye cream: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adoreb...idproduct=1835

finish with the megan gale invisible zinc: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adoreb...idproduct=2491

PM

cleanse as above

then apply the ultra a treatment cream

follow this with the eye cream as above.

So how is that for simple huh?

and of course you use your microcleanse three times a week. Cleansing and exfoliating in the shower is fine if you like things to be simple and no fuss!

I think if we have the C and A in your routine with the microcleanse we should be able to combat the bumps while keeping your skin hydrated. Both the C and A will work on skin tone (keeping those freckles under control) but your sun screen is a MUST!"

so really your main actives in there are the ultra c and the ultra a. For now I suggest alternating them - so every second day with the 'off' days to be using the ultra moisturiser. yeah?

now with the microcleanse wait till your skin feels all big and bold again and start on it only once a week and when you use it follow it with the ultra moisturiser rather than one of the active creams- just on the times when you use the microcleanse ok. eventually you will find you can happily put an active one on top and increase the frequency of use of the microcleanse but GO SLOW!


this should do the trick!

xxx

lady allison

Gahhh, this is a nightmare.:shakehead:

My skin on my neck is still horrible. It's hard, dry, itchy and red. I stopped using the creams last week (still using the Zinc though) and it's not getting better. Still using the cleanser as well. Exfoliator is okay on my face but not my neck. It's horrid.

I first tried Macro Vitamin E cream on my face and neck and it burnt. I've tried it on just my face and it burns that too (as in, pain - not actually burn it). I looked at the ingredients though and it has retinyl palmitate in it. So I think that's what's doing it, as there's no fragrance like I thought.

So at the moment I am using Dermalogica Intensive Moisture balance until my skin is better... but it's taking it's time.

I don't want to give up on my creams that I purchased because I do like them, it's just that my skin doesn't!! What shall I do? I can't tolerate them on my face or neck at the moment. My neck is worst.

I was thinking also that it *may* be to do with an accident when I was younger. I was burnt with hot soup in Grade 3. My neck isn't as bad as my shoulder. My neck's scaring you can barely see. You can only see it in the summer when my skin goes slightly darker - so where the burn was, it's doesn't tan and you can see it. But the skin there feels and looks perfectly normal, however is it possible that's why it's reacted so much?

ok... hhmmmmm sounds unusual that you are still experiencing issues.

be aware that the neck can generally be more sensitive to product than the face so just use the megan gale there for now.

for now I want you to cleanse am follow with invisible zinc and eye cream if the eyes have not been an issue.

in the evening, cleanse then use the dermalogica moisturiser and eye cream.

Once your skin is calmer I want you to slowly and gently begin to introduce the ultra a cream but I want to try out a trick to do this. mix it in half/half portion with the dermalogica moisturiser that you have and gradually up the dosage of the ultra a cream. Once you are all good with this we can do something similar with the c but don't mix it- just apply the dermalogica mosturiser first in the day and then a little touch of c on top and gradually up the ammount to a normal application of c - but do this every second day....

this way it's a gradual re-introduction when your skin is stable again. sound ok?

we are weaning your skin onto the products this way nice and slow but upping the dosage.

xxx

I am not feeling very game to try the UC again - my skin is shocking. I am still experiencing dryness and flakes and my neck is still hard, itchy and scaley almost. The Dermalogica is good but still stings a bit, not as much as the others but it still does. It's the most hydrating of what I have here so I keep using it. I spoke to the girls and they've allowed me to return the UC (I love the zinc), so I hope to try something far less irritating.
I have been doing a bit of looking and reading and I was thinking of this for a routine, I am hoping you can offer some imput

AM
Cleanse Clarins Extra Comfort Cleansing Cream
Serum Skinceuticals C E Ferulic
Moisturise L'Occitane Shea Day Care (though I am concerned with some of the ingredients, they may cause pimples?)
Eye cream Dermalogica Intensive Eye Repair
Suncreen Megan Gale Invisible Zinc

PM
Precleanse (if needed) Moogoo Oil Cleansing Method (which is pretty much the same sorta thing as Dermalogica Precleanser)
Cleanse Clarins Extra Comfort Cleansing Cream
Serum Skinceuticals Phyto + - wanted to use this for freckles/sunspots but am not sure if it'll do the trick?
Moisturise L'Occitane Very Precious Cream
Eyecream Dermalogica Intensive Eye Repair


I am afraid of UC... they may be excellent in terms of active ingredients but my skin is obviously sensitive to those sorts of things. :S So I want to go for very gentle things (even though they're less active) but still focus on hydrating and sunspots which are my main concerns.

What do you think about that Allison?:redcheeks:

Oh gee, I didn't see the posts on the previous page - Kate no, don't have an ultra moisturiser left.
I tried using just the cleanser and another moisturiser for a few days but my skin felt like it was getting drier so I stopped and just have been using the moogoo, dermalogica and sunscreen... still isn't better but not getting worse.

Having those skinceuticals products in there is the bit that I aprove of particularly as they are still geared toward getting results while not being super strong.

xx

Hey hon,
So those particular products would be suitable (the skinceuticals) for the results I want to achieve?
And do you think I would encounter issues with the others? I know they're not active like the UC.
Thank you xx

no the other products are not cosmeceutical so won't confilict but their action is going to be primarily hydrating.

:penguin:

Oh good, well hydration is much needed on my skin right now and I hope the others will give me some good anti oxidants and the phyto will help with the dark spots - won't it?

With the L'Occitane, particularly the day care cream - would that have the potential to give my skin bumps and break it out?

I will keep up with the Alpha H exfoliator when my skin returns to normal so hopefully the bumps if they appear will be okay.

I generally don't recommend the L'Occitane Shea range for breakout-prone skins, it's a bit rich and creamy. The new Almond and Apple Velvet Concentrate is probably more suitable, or perhaps the Honey face cream.

It doesn't have to be L'Occitane Kate... I was just looking for something gentle and less active so I don't overload my skn seeing as though it's sensitive as I've found out LOL.
I thought the Shea would be gentle and while I don't get acne (now), if I use something a bit heavy it blocks my pores and causes nice big blackheads and whiteheads. I thought I may be okay with the very precious... not sure what to do with the day cream or for other night creams if it's not suitable. Open to suggestions.
:glee:

Alright I is confused and don't know what to go for.

Totally bamboozled.

I want:
Super hydration without breaking me out
Simplicity
A serum or gentle night cream to diminish sunspots and freckles
To be able to include my bottle of C E Ferulic in my routine
Gentle products that are not too active

I am currently using Moogoo Oil Cleansing Method, Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance and Megan Gale Invisible Zinc. This is not hydrating enough - BUT my skin is just beginning to get over the UC products

I have tried UC Ultra A Cream, Ultra C Sheer, Ultra Milk Cleanser, Ultra A Eye/Lip serum. These did not work for me and I do not want to go down that road. Actives hate my skin (or my skin hates them) and have really made me quite parched, red and irritated.

I was looking at

Cleanser: Clarins Comfort Cream for less drier times or as a second cleanser & Decleor Cleansing Oil (almost out of moogoo)

Moisturiser: Unsure of what to use during the day, something that will go nice under makeup but be really hydrating as my skin looks terrible at the end of the day after using the intensive moisture under my mineral make up. AND at night something really hydrating as I can get away with greasiness. Would be awesome if my night cream actually included skin lighteners (as I know they'd be less effective but freckles and sunspots aren't a HUGE concern)

Serum: I want to keep my C E Ferulic in the routine and if the moisturiser doesn't contain anything to remove pigmentation, I'd like another that does that

Eye cream: hopefully I can get away without it

Suncream: I will continue to use the Megan Gale as it's brilliant

Allison, sorry to ask you again but what would you recommend? Keeping in mind I want gentle products and would prefer my night cream or serums to do the main job for me. I don't want to risk reacting to anything again, I want to focus on rehydration.

Thanks hon.

Okay I am still a bit confused but I've spent all day surfing the Adore site and reading and I am thinking that perhaps I should play it safe and go with a combo of Dermalogica, Alpha H and Skinceuticals.
I have used Dermlogica in the past and had lots of luck with it, so perhaps I should continue.

I was thinking
AM
Dermalogica Essential Cleansing Solution - but I am not sure if this will remove make up too? I only want a 1 step cleanse
Skinceuticals C E Ferulic Serum - I am wondering if I use this, it will give my skin some extra hydration and therefore my make up won't go all horrid by the end of the day
Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance - while I am not impressed with this, it doesn't really irritate my skin, it just doesn't make my make up that nice

PM
As above, except instead of the C E Ferulic, use Phyto + for freckles.

And I can continue to use the Alpha H Exfoliant 3 times a week.

How does that sound?

I was tempted by brands like Cellex C but I am afraid my skin may react. Decleor sounds good too but it's too confusing. Open to suggestions!!

[QUOTE=nymphfae;42462Dermalogica Essential Cleansing Solution - but I am not sure if this will remove make up too? I only want a 1 step cleanse!![/QUOTE]

Hi there, Dermalogica, above most other brands are the ones who advocate double cleansing so whle it will remove impurities, it is unlikely to remove makuep efficiently. Clarins Cleanser with Gentian should be suitable for your skin type but remember to remove the residue. I recommended it to Sapphire and she is happy with it.

As far as intense hydration goes, the Dermalogica Skin Hydrating booster is a must. You can use it by itself under your day or night treatment or mix a few drops with your moisturiser. Also intensely moisturising (from the hyaluronic acid), it contains no oil. I learnt about this one at the Dermalogica evening I attended last week.

Good luck!:waving:

Oops, sorry! Just realised this was an "ask Allison" thread!

That's okay Luisa, I've decided to purchase a consult with the lovely Lady A and get this evil skin fixed once and for all!:glee:

For the benefit of the other girls...

nymph purchased a private consult online so we went through everything in detail including history and so on this is the end result which we are all happy with :glee:

" Good stuff! I think I have come up with some thing you’ll love!
I am going to focus on the skinceuticals range as they have some great non-scented hydrating products that are going to be great for your skin. They feel really lush and beautiful and the couple of seums you have there add some oomph to your routine while avoiding the AHA complexes and retinols. You have some great ferulic acid and vitamin C and E in there along with some mild kojic acid and botanicals in the phyto + serum and some beautiful nourishing moisturisers and cleansers there too!



AM

Cleanse with the skinceuticals Gentle Cleanser: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=9015

This is beautiful and creamy- perfect for a dry sensitized skin. It feels really soft and yummy on the skin! It won’t leave your skin with that ‘dry’ feeling after.

Follow with the CE Ferulic: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=5232


Follow with the phyto + serum: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=4353

Apply this to the areas when you feel you have pigmentation/freckling and sun damage. It is designed to lighten pigmented areas while soothing sensitized skin take a read of the info page via the link!

Then apply the Skinceuticals Emollience: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=9425


This is designed for a dry and sensitized skin. It will really nourish and protect

Then follow with your Invisible Zinc sunscreen. If you want a lighter texture in the summer you can try the junior formula: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=9741

PM

Cleanse as above

Then follow with the phyto +:as in AM section

Then apply the skinceuticals Face cream: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idProduct=9168

This is extremely replenishing for dry skin and also deals with protecting the skin from free radicals and the aging process.

That one is expensive but it’s the crème de la crème.
If you would prefer to try something more modest in price, yet still hydrating and soothing have a look at the Skin firming cream: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=9170


A perfect mask for you is the new one by skinceuticals which can also be used as often as you want in the evening. You can apply an even layer after cleansing and massage the rest into the skin to give it a big moisture blast: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewItem.asp?idproduct=10722

If you want a super mild exfoliant for your skin you can take a look at the Dermalogica microfoliant: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=9654
It is super gentle and really brightens the skin.

I want you using a nice nourishing eye cream both morning and night time so here is my picks: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=9169

I know you will love this program- very different to what we have tried in the past- now that we know your skin is quite reactive.

No more flakiness and dryness! Just focus the microfoliant in your nasal area to keep those blackheads under control and if you do find that your skin is going through a super dry phase have some of the hydra balm on hand as this can be used anywhere on the body for extra nourishment: http://www.adorebeauty.com.au/adorebeauty/viewitem.asp?idproduct=9432"

to fit the budget we discussed using the emollience both morning and night time for now which will work just fine!

xxx