Time for some truth. I've struggled with cystic, hormonal acne since I was a teenager. I did my first round of Isotretinoin when I was in my teens and my skin was clear for a solid decade. As I started approaching my thirties, my skin started to flare back up again and I couldn't help but think to myself "Aren't I too old for this shit?". I decided I needed to see my dermatologist after a long break from one another.
After a discussion with my dermatologist, we both decided that Isotretinoin was my best bet for treatment. As a makeup artist, I know that my skin is one of the first impressions I make on potential and current clients so it's not a big surprise that I want to put my best face forward. I do admit that I'm glad I've gone through this struggle so my clients know that they're not alone. So many people suffer from skin issues like acne and it's nothing to be ashamed of but you also don't have to live with it if you have the means to work with a dermatologist to address your concerns.
Disclaimer: Accutane/Isotretinoin is only available by RX from your dermatologist. There's a lot of monitoring of your physical and mental health. If you have any questions about the drug, contact your dermatologist.
Isotretinoin essentially shuts down all of your oil glands to stop the body from producing any oil. No oil = DRY AF! When I tell you I don't have to wash my hair for weeks, that's how dry we're talkin'!
So, how do I keep my skin dewy, fresh and glowing when it's drier than the Sahara? Keep on reading for steps and snapshots of the products I use!
Skincare Regimen:
Lubricate your skin with a high quality facial oil. On Accutane, your skin is thirsty. To lubricate your skin from it's deepest layers, put on a facial oil. I like to do this straight out of the shower when my skin is warm and pores are opened up. My pick: Sonia Roselli Water Oil
MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE MOISTURIZE! I can't say this enough for everyone - whether you have dry, oily, combo or mature skin, you need to MOISTURIZE! A good rule of thumb is to moisturize 2x per day. I like to apply my moisturizer after my facial oils to lock in the extra hydration. My pick: Murad Nutrient-Charged Water Gel
Sun Protection - Accutane makes your skin extremely sensitive to the sun. Whether or not you're on Accutane, you should be using a daily SPF to protect your face from damaging UV rays. My pick: Supergoop Mineral Sunscreen SPF 40
Double Cleansing - At night, I like to use a cleansing oil to get all of the makeup off of my face. I do this as part of a double cleanse ritual that ensures I get all makeup and dirt off before putting on heavy night creams and going to bed. After the oil, I use a hydrating, simple face wash that my dermatologist recommended. I like to massage the cleanser into my skin for 60 seconds. Give it a try and see how amazing your skin feels!! My picks: Neutrogena Ultra Light Cleansing Oil + Cerave Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Facial Oil - After I rinse and pat dry, I apply 100% Organic Rosehip Oil on my face and massage it into my skin until the oily residue is absorbed into my skin. This oil has been shown to reduce signs of aging and supposedly works wonders on scarring. I'm putting this baby to the test when it comes to scars. My pick: The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil
Night Cream - Last but not least, I like to seal in the moisture of the oil with a thick night cream. I'm pretty generous when I use these as I like to give my skin the chance to drink it all up overnight. My pick: Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream
Aquaphor - I don't need to say much about this. This product is a MUST HAVE for anyone on Accutane to combat dry lips. You can get it in convenient travel sized tubes or the big mama tube that'll last you 6+ months. My pick: Aquaphor Healing Ointment