Beauty starts from within,
literally.
I know many of you heard that statement before. But for the 2023 me, that took a while to implement in my situation:
In 2023, I went through the worst skin breakout ever.
Not only was it affecting me physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.
It was frustrating to go day by day and not see any improvement.
Then in June 2023, I went to the dermatologist. The MILLISECOND I heard the word “Accutane”, that changed everything.
One thing that made this issue last was listening to recommendations based ONLY on skin type concerns. That was it.
You have to research.
Everyone’s skin is different, and going by just what was the concern on the skin alone (oily, dry, combo, etc.) was not the only factor that played out.
What improved my skin tremendously was doing ingredient checks.
Nothing without straight-up alcohol and fragrance was cutting it anymore.
I had to simply.
Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, oil-free, and every acne-causing-free ingredient out there.
And that was the best decision that lessened by acne quicker.
Now here’s the within part.
WATCH WHAT YOU EAT.
While researching what ingredients were in the products, I had to check the ingredients I was consuming.
I lessened my sugar intake more than usual by treating myself to something sweet once a week.
I consumed fruits every morning and vegetables for every meal.
I indulged in more herbs that targeted detox and anti-inflammatory properties (cinnamon, ginger, cayenne pepper, turmeric, etc.).
All that changed the way I ate for the better.
Importantly, CHANGE YOUR MINDSET.
I went through days of not wanting to look at the acne anymore and literally self-pouring love into myself.
I went from not looking in the mirror to saying WHILE looking in the mirror “I love myself for who I am no matter what. I love myself, period. I love my skin.”
Starting slowly and staying positive is the best way I can motivate myself further to accept myself.
I truly do love myself and that skincare journey helped me learn my lesson of self-love in a deeper, meaningful way.
Sincerely,
Maya S.
(lifestyle post)