AHA/Skin care question
For the past few years I have been following this skin care regeim
for my combination (oily in t-zone and cheek area):
AM
Cetaphil Cleanser rinsed with Water
Neutrogena On the Spot 2.5% benzoil peroxide cream
Oil of Olay Complete moisturizerOrtho Tri Cyclen, one tab daily for
cystic acne
I do wear cosmetics, but avoid foundation and spot treat areas as
needed with concealer. I clean my makeup brushes weekly
PM
Basis Comfortably Clean face wash to remove face and eye-makup
Alpha Hydroxy 10% Oil Free gel to T-Zone and cheek area.
The problem is, that I believe that the Alpha Hydroxy is irratating my
skin causing tiny supraficial white heads on my cheek. This problem
started a few months ago. What I was doing was giving my sking a break
by not using it, but then black heads would form (this is the original
reason why I was using an AHA to begin with). I was wondering
if anyone had any recommendations for an Alpha Hydroxy that is not as
strong, and at the same time oil free.
-You can try Neutrogena's Healthy Skin Face Lotion w/SPF 15. It contains
Vitamins A, B, and C, Pro-Vitamin B5, and Alpha Hydroxy Acid. (I have been
using this for a year and not only are my cheeks as smooth as a baby's
bottom!) HTH!
-I use Murad's acne prone skin care for my blackheads and occassional breakouts.
I just started 2 weeks ago and I really see a difference in my skin. Murad
uses both AHA and Salicylic acid. The products are very gentle.
-I think that the Neutrogena BPO cream is causing your problems; I remember
using it and it felt and smelled very "waxy" on my skin. That won't help
blackheads.
If you can go mail order, I would recommend Paula Begoun's line "Paula's
Choice" available at www.cosmeticscop.com . I don't always agree with her,
but I can't complain about her products. They're excellent. She has a 2.5%
BPO gel that blows Neutrogena away. Her cleanser is very similar to
Cetaphil's. And she has an oil-free 8% AHA gel that could be the
alternative to the 10% gel you're using. And if you wanted to try BHA, her
1% gel is great. Her products have really cleared up my skin.