Pimples. Acne.
Well, these two very common skin problems have haunted me most of my teenage life. And as I slowly crawled into my twenties, hoping to get rid of the pain of trying to conceal these little menaces, day in and day out, it was indeed very disheartening when they did re-appear even in my twenties.
As I started this blog, most of the products catered to oily acne prone (read: ridden) skin.
After trying / experimenting with numerous over the counter products to even visiting a dermatologist, my skin problem could never strike the right chords with harmony, thus it never gave way to clear, even toned and glowing skin, which I always yearned for.
And then to further add to my misery of hiding acne with hair, roaming around like a monster with huge red globes on my face and gigantic open pores, the "let me take a selfie" season kicked in.
Taking a selfie is a very daunting experience for someone who is ridden with acne. I was not only self conscious but my self confidence felt defeated every time I saw the little red monsters in every picture. And for that matter, how many filters could I use?
I understood that acne was a battle and I needed a systematic plan to conquer it.
I had to make internal and external changes.
I started eating healthier and exercised regularly. I drank more water. I followed a healthy diet which had a detoxifying effect on my body. Including foods like lemon, papaya and garlic proved beneficial.
Externally, I followed some rules.
Using an anti fungal, anti-pimple, anti-marks formula face wash which is enriched with the power of Neem Leaf Extract and Tea Tree oil was one of the most important changes I made. Neem is enriched with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal qualities and is a savior when it comes to skin problems. Neem and Tea Tree Oil are best suited for pimple-free skin because of their 3 purifying actions – fighting germs, deep cleansing pores to remove impurities caused by pollution and washing away excess oil which can attract dirt, germs and bacteria. One of the best I can recommend isGarnier Neem Face Wash.
Secondly, I used makeup and skincare which was non-comedogenic and made it a point to remove my make up before sleep every night.
Thirdly, I used a neem based face mask every week. Home made face masks with honey, multani mitti and cinnamon are very beneficial as well. This mask is beneficial in curing acne and removing marks, no pimples - no marks.
Lastly, I used an anti acne cream at night and a sun block every time I left my house. Having an oily skin, I was always scared to use sun block or any sort of cream, fearing a breakout, but eventually I realized that oily skin needs to be moisturized as well.
Within a span of 6 months, I saw my acne related problems reducing in intensity and slowly disappearing.
Here are my pictures:
BEFORE - Without any face makeup
AFTER - Without any face makeup
Please note: Writing this post has been no less than catharsis for me. Putting words to the once horrifying problem in itself feels like an achievement.