We’ve all been there. Our skin decides to hate us the day before a big event. Maybe a wedding, photoshoot, prom, first date… Enough to make us want to cancel and hide under the covers until it goes away. But, what if I told you there were certain products that could cut down the duration of your breakouts by days? Just call me your fairy godmother because I got the goods you’ll thank me for later.
There are certain problems that plague just about everyone in their life; dry skin, breakouts, and discoloration, to name a few. And, if you’re anything like me, you’ve experienced more than one on a very unfortunate timeline. However, there are products for common problems that will have you happy in your skin ASAP.
Dry Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – $14
This is a product I use daily right after I wash my face in the morning. It doesn’t cause breakouts, leaves your skin feeling light and bouncy, and smells fantastic. This moisturizer would still be worth it at three times the price, which shows that it’s more than worth the price point.
Maracuja Oil – $14
If you’re looking for a natural product that really works, maracuja oil is the best bet. However, this oil is more prone to breakouts if used too often which means it’s best used no more than twice a week (at least until you see how it affects your skin). To make sure that it doesn’t make your skin more oily, use a few drops at night so that it has time to soak in while you sleep.
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream – $14
Although this product comes in a small container, the effects make up for it. This product is specifically for the evening. Since it is a thicker formula, use a little for a week or so to see how your skin reacts.
Face Masks
Aztec – Indian Healing Clay – $9
At first, I was more than skeptical of this face mask because it came in a powder form. However, after hearing the celebrity endorsement by both Khloe Kardashian and Mindy Kaling, I decided to give it a whirl. Mixed with either water or apple cider vinegar, this face mask is life-changing and will have your skin cleared up in no time.
Mint Julep Masque – $8
Be warned: this face mask is not for the faint of heart (or skin). If you have sensitive skin, I would pass on this mask. But, if you’re only worried about breakouts, this is the product to use. When first applied it will go on like a thick mud. As it dries, it’ll harden and become a lighter color. Make sure to time how long this mask is on your skin or it could potentially cause irritation. But, if applied correctly, this product is a miracle.
Spot Treatments
Peter Thomas Roth Acne Spot and Area Treatment – $19
In all my years searching for acne spot treatments, this is by far the best product for sensitive skin that I’ve come across. A little pricier than drug store brands, Peter Thomas Roth created a treatment that has 5% Colloidal Sulfur, 4% Glycolic Acid Complex, Aloe Vera, and other good stuff. But $19 is still nothing compared to other spot treatments that do the opposite of what they advertise. Before you assume it’s harsh on the skin, it’s not! Add a dab to a pimple or blemish that you have and let it dry overnight. And the best part: it doesn’t dry out your skin.
CVS Health Acne Spot Treatment Maximum Strength – $8
If you’re looking for the cheapest product that will get rid of your acne, this is the one for you. However, this product will dry out your skin. In that case, make sure to wash it off instead of letting it dry overnight. But, for the price point, the product will have you pimple-free in no time.
De La Cruz Sulfur Acne Treatment – $7
This product, much like the mint julep mask, comes with a self-given skin sensitivity disclaimer. This is another product that you need to time when it’s on your face. Unlike the two treatments above, this product zaps pimples, specifically cystic and hormonal, right where it is. Although this product does dry out your skin if left on too long, that’s the point. So, after your treat your skin with this, use a moisturizer (like maracuja oil) to protect your skin from the dryness you might get. I would recommend using this product in the evening so that the product doesn’t interact with other cosmetics.
Pimples, breakouts, sensitive skin, oily skin, hyperpigmentation, dry patches, and more don’t have to be a part of your everyday. With these products (and, of course, recommendations from a dermatologist), you’ll be able to see that fix for the annoying problems that you face with your skin. As always, remember to patch test before full application. Happy skincare!
Header Image Source: Emmie Pombo
About the Author
Emmie Pombo is a latte and tattoo-loving Tennessean who specializes in mental health and beauty writing. She holds a degree in Journalism and a certification in Makeup Artistry and Airbrushing. Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.