We all have insecurities and my biggest happens to be my skin. I’ve struggled with hormonal acne the majority of my adult life but last year it became severe. It was cystic, annoying, and painful. It’s not something I felt comfortable talking about with too many people because I don’t think it was seen as a big deal, but to me it was and it made me incredibly insecure and super self-conscious about being seen in public.

I tried so many products to no avail. Acne Free, Differin,  numerous drug store face washes, toners, and serums. I was super meticulous when it came to taking care of my skin and always have been, but nothing helped. I eventually went to the dermatologist and was prescribed Spironolactone.  Spironolactone is typically used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular issues but in low dosages can be used to treat hormonal acne in women. I did my research and this seemed to work for many women dealing with hormonal acne, but that wasn’t the case for me. My dosage could have been increased but it was causing my skin to peel and I’m already not big on meds so I decided against going that route.

After trying a billion things and changing my skincare regimen numerous times, I have finally started to see results  The below pictures are 6 months apart and although I was super hesitant sharing my before pictures, but that’s the only way to see the progress I've made.

I know so many other people battle with acne as well so I thought it would be helpful to share the products I use.

Morning Routine

1. Dr. Bronner's Castille Soap - I use this in the morning as well as night to wash my face using the 60-second method. Which is simply washing your face with just your fingertips for 60 seconds.

2. Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel- I use this as a toner. Aloe Vera helps with pigmentation and acne scars.

3. DRUNK ELEPHANT C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum-  Vitamin C helps brighten as well as firm the skin.

4. CeraVe AM Face Moisturizer with Sunscreen, SPF 30-  You should use a moisturizer with sunscreen in the morning to prevent hyper-pigmentation and acne scars from worsening.

Night Routine

1. Dr. Bronner's Castille Soap

2. Nature Republic Aloe Vera Gel

3.Ayele & Co Sunflower Sweet Serum- Helps reduce breakouts and brightens the skin.

4. DRUNK ELEPHANT Protini™ Polypeptide Moisturizer- Legitimately the best moisturizer I've ever used. It helps with texture, skin tone, and firmness.

5. DRUNK ELEPHANT T.L.C. Framboos™ Glycolic Night Serum- This is my favorite out of everything I use. If your biggest concern is discoloration and uneven skin tone. I totally recommend this. Since adding this to my routine my scars have faded a lot.

DRUNK ELEPHANT T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial™ Mask- I use this mask once a week. On nights that I use this, I do not use the Glycolic serum as this is basically an at-home chemical peel. Also, give big credit to this for helping even my skin tone.

All the products I used are listed in the order that I use them. I didn't want to make this too long so feel free to ask questions if you have any. Some of the products are a bit pricey so I recommend going to Sephora and getting a sample before investing in them. & if you’ve dealt with or are dealing with acne and have any products that worked for you that aren’t listed here feel free to put them in the comments. Again, I know it’s not that big of a deal to some but it was for me and still is so if you’re anything like me I hope this post is helpful.