Those who have known me for a while know that I used to struggle with acne. I didn’t have those basic hormonal breakouts either. I had those full blown cystic it hurts to smile daily breakouts that would come and go in spurts. I tried every treatment short of Accutane. I remember feeling hopeless (something folks who haven’t experienced severe acne will never understand) and thinking I would be imprisoned in a face that physically hurt forever. Dramatic, I know.

I saw the light at the end of the tunnel when I visited a dermatologist who, essentially, told me that my acne should clear up by the time I turn 26. Lo and behold, here I am at 26 with acne in my rearview mirror.

Even though I don’t get those crazy breakouts anymore, I still have acne prone skin and scarring. Not to mention, I’ve definitely got some texture issues. This year, I’ve decided to tackle it as best I can to get my skin to the place I want it to be.

This is just a starting point for me. I’m excited to try new things this year to see what works best for me. So far, I’ve already been getting compliments about my glow. And I ain’t mad at all. Check out my skincare routine below!

Nighttime
Cleanse: Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castille Soap (I wash twice if I’m wearing makeup)
I use a paper towel or use a face towel once.
Toner: Apple Cider Vinegar
Moisturize: Sweet Almond Oil

Morning
Cleanse: Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castille Soap and massage my face with my Foreo Luna mini in the shower.
I don’t dry my face. I just let the water drip and evaporate off my skin naturally.
Toner/Moisturize: With my face still slightly damp I use equal parts almond oil and aloe vera and massage into my face in an upward motion.

Twice a week
I exfoliate with equal parts sugar and castor oil, rubbing in a circular motion all over my face. Then I do a mask with Aztec clay moistened with apple cider vinegar and put it all over my face. I let it sit until completely dry, then rinse with warm water and a towel. And, of course, moisturize!

It goes without saying that I try to drink plenty of water to make sure I’m moisturizing from the inside out as well 😉

What does your skincare routine look like? What other products/treatments should I try?

xoxo Kaisha