Hi all!
I started Dermatica for my acne about a year ago and struggled to find UK based advice for tips.
Most of the Tretinoin craze still seems to be US-based, so I thought I would share what I have learnt in case it helps anyone.
I'll add, I have absolutely no affiliation with Dermatica.
So, I started on .025% tretinoin that was combined with 4% niacinamide and 4% azelaic acid.
And for the next 7 month,s I saw no progress, had skin so dry it led to cold sores and awful peeling. But finally, I have found my holy grail routine.
- Cleanser: Vanicream - I do a double cleanse, but just with this product. I use lukewarm water, to begin with, and then cold water for the final rinse. The cold calms my skin down.
- I wait about 10 mins until the skin is completely dry. If your skin is damp it will cause more irritation. I then apply my Dermatica prescription.
- Wait again until my skin is dry to the touch but no longer than necessary.
- I dampen my hands and lightly touch my face. You need to add moisture back to your skin.
- Put a thin layer of aloe vera gel.
- Immediately after the aloe I put a layer of COSRX snail mucin 96.
- Vanicream moisturiser.
- Aquaphor.
In the morning I rinse my face off with lukewarm water, no cleanser.
Your skin will be A LOT smoother and liquid foundation can sit a little funny. I highly recommend Lily Lolo. It also has the added benefit of lightly brushing away any slightly dry patches you may still have.
By doing this, I had no irritation, burning or tingling anymore and felt confident to go up to a higher strength prescription. I am now on .1% tretinoin, 15% azelaic acid, 4% niacinamide.
For the first time in my adult life I am acne free, my pores appear smaller and my scars have dramatically faded.
I have always had VERY red cheeks and this also has calmed right down.
I will continue now for the rest of my life. My acne is gone and now I am doing it for the anti-ageing benefits.
I hope this helps someone. If you're considering it, I would a million per cent recommend it. I have been going to make up free for the first time. It's changed my life.