u/Dear_Try_5471

Hello! I’m 25, and I just wanted to share my acne journey in case it helps someone or makes anyone feel less alone. When I was younger, my diet was really bad, I have very oily skin, and I used to pick at my face a lot… which made everything worse. I know a lot of you understand how mentally draining it can feel when you’re constantly thinking about your skin and how it looks. My skin isn’t perfect now, but it’s so much better than it used to be. Over the years I’ve focused on:

- drinking more water

- working out regularly

- using an antibacterial silk pillowcase, it helps reduce redness and friction on my skin. Try to find one that’s antibacterial and hypoallergenic. I use one from Luff Sleep. It also helped reduce my hair fall.

- and most importantly, patience

It honestly took a lot of trial and error to figure out what my skin responds to. I’m sharing my routine below, not because you have to follow it exactly, but in case it gives someone ideas. I also try to keep things relatively budget-friendly and easy to repurchase.

I’m also very open to feedback if anyone has suggestions.

Morning

Cleanser: CeraVe SA Cleanser / Starface Star Wash (alternate)

Toner: Thayers BHA or Thayers Unscented (alternate)

Niacinamide toner (Good Molecules)

Salicylic acid (Artnaturals)

Hyaluronic acid (Neutrogena Hydro Boost)

Vitamin C (Pacifica)

Discoloration serum (Good Molecules)

Moisturizer (Neutrogena Ultra Gentle)

Jojoba oil (sometimes)

Sunscreen SPF 50 (very important)

NIGHT

Cleanser

Hyaluronic acid

Retinol (Neutrogena)

Moisturizer

Jojoba oil

EXTRA

I dermaplane every 2–3 weeks.

When I do:

I stop retinol a few days before, avoid actives after (no BHA, retinol, vitamin C for 3–5 days), keep it simple: cleanser, HA, moisturizer, jojoba oil, sunscreen. I also use a silk pillowcase with antibacterial and breathable material, mine is from Luff Sleep.

If you’re struggling with your skin right now, I just want to say, I’ve been there. That embarrassed, avoidant feeling is real. But it can get better with time and consistency. You’re not alone