51 replies to this topic

[LoserXP]

Hello rockmeamadeus,

please continue to keep us updated!

[rockmeamadeus]

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates.


My derm forgot to prescribe me Retin-A when I was there, and I planned to go in ASAP to get that plus a spot treatment (she offers them free to deter people from picking their skin!) but A LOT of things came up in my life that just made me put all of this to the side.
Also I cannot afford the Retin-A for a few weeks now, because of some issues.

So, I haven't really started anything yet. Within the next month I plan to start the Retin-A, and then I can update after I have been using it for a month or so. The big thing is the VI Peel my derm plans to give me after being on Retin-A for 2 months, which she says will create an amazing difference.

Meanwhile, I have been following her advice as close as I can. I cut out all caffiene (coffee, diet soda, etc). I drink only water and have gotten to be addicted to green tea, so I drink 1-2 cups a day. I cut down a lot on the amount of empty calories and processed junk I eat. I try to eat basic, at least for a while to kind of clean up my skin as much as I can without topicals.

The texture of my skin seems to be smoother on it's own, I just use Physician's Formula Wrinkle Formula & Deep Moisture Repair. Staying out the sun, and also collagen forming from so many past self-administered peels are all reasons why it seems to be smoother even without treatment, I believe.

I think after Retin-A and the VI peel, my skin will be improved enough for me to regain confidence, and ditch the makeup. I really, really can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

Here is a picture of my skin. Still bad, had a bad menstrual breakout I am trying to clear up. But, honestly everyone---diet matters! Sleep matters! Water matters! I know it's repeated over and over, but it MATTERS. REALLY.

Attached Thumbnails

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[Coppedsynergy999]

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates.


My derm forgot to prescribe me Retin-A when I was there, and I planned to go in ASAP to get that plus a spot treatment (she offers them free to deter people from picking their skin!) but A LOT of things came up in my life that just made me put all of this to the side.
Also I cannot afford the Retin-A for a few weeks now, because of some issues.

So, I haven't really started anything yet. Within the next month I plan to start the Retin-A, and then I can update after I have been using it for a month or so. The big thing is the VI Peel my derm plans to give me after being on Retin-A for 2 months, which she says will create an amazing difference.

Meanwhile, I have been following her advice as close as I can. I cut out all caffiene (coffee, diet soda, etc). I drink only water and have gotten to be addicted to green tea, so I drink 1-2 cups a day. I cut down a lot on the amount of empty calories and processed junk I eat. I try to eat basic, at least for a while to kind of clean up my skin as much as I can without topicals.

The texture of my skin seems to be smoother on it's own, I just use Physician's Formula Wrinkle Formula & Deep Moisture Repair. Staying out the sun, and also collagen forming from so many past self-administered peels are all reasons why it seems to be smoother even without treatment, I believe.

I think after Retin-A and the VI peel, my skin will be improved enough for me to regain confidence, and ditch the makeup. I really, really can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

Here is a picture of my skin. Still bad, had a bad menstrual breakout I am trying to clear up. But, honestly everyone---diet matters! Sleep matters! Water matters! I know it's repeated over and over, but it MATTERS. REALLY.

I totally managed to clear my skin 100% by using only water to wash my face with a microfiber cloth for absorbing oil and exfoliation. Non-dairy diet. No junk food. Drink lots of water and green tea. Take zinc every other day or so. Washing my face with water only was an important step.

[CherrySoda08]

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates.


My derm forgot to prescribe me Retin-A when I was there, and I planned to go in ASAP to get that plus a spot treatment (she offers them free to deter people from picking their skin!) but A LOT of things came up in my life that just made me put all of this to the side.
Also I cannot afford the Retin-A for a few weeks now, because of some issues.

So, I haven't really started anything yet. Within the next month I plan to start the Retin-A, and then I can update after I have been using it for a month or so. The big thing is the VI Peel my derm plans to give me after being on Retin-A for 2 months, which she says will create an amazing difference.

Meanwhile, I have been following her advice as close as I can. I cut out all caffiene (coffee, diet soda, etc). I drink only water and have gotten to be addicted to green tea, so I drink 1-2 cups a day. I cut down a lot on the amount of empty calories and processed junk I eat. I try to eat basic, at least for a while to kind of clean up my skin as much as I can without topicals.

The texture of my skin seems to be smoother on it's own, I just use Physician's Formula Wrinkle Formula & Deep Moisture Repair. Staying out the sun, and also collagen forming from so many past self-administered peels are all reasons why it seems to be smoother even without treatment, I believe.

I think after Retin-A and the VI peel, my skin will be improved enough for me to regain confidence, and ditch the makeup. I really, really can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

Here is a picture of my skin. Still bad, had a bad menstrual breakout I am trying to clear up. But, honestly everyone---diet matters! Sleep matters! Water matters! I know it's repeated over and over, but it MATTERS. REALLY.

Thanks so much for updating your thread. Looking forward to hearing about your results with Retin A. Best of luck!

[rockmeamadeus]

Can I just say something that anyone who posts pictures here completely barefaced will understand....it is damn freeing to post pictures of yourself looking (what you think) is your most disgusting and have no one react like, 'OH MY GOD, EW YOU LOOK SO UGLY, EW, EW EW'


I just want to say, I didn't even realize it until I looked back through this thread and all the pictures I took that I would cry if anyone I knew saw them, and I didn't even think too much on it. That's awesome.

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates.


My derm forgot to prescribe me Retin-A when I was there, and I planned to go in ASAP to get that plus a spot treatment (she offers them free to deter people from picking their skin!) but A LOT of things came up in my life that just made me put all of this to the side.
Also I cannot afford the Retin-A for a few weeks now, because of some issues.

So, I haven't really started anything yet. Within the next month I plan to start the Retin-A, and then I can update after I have been using it for a month or so. The big thing is the VI Peel my derm plans to give me after being on Retin-A for 2 months, which she says will create an amazing difference.

Meanwhile, I have been following her advice as close as I can. I cut out all caffiene (coffee, diet soda, etc). I drink only water and have gotten to be addicted to green tea, so I drink 1-2 cups a day. I cut down a lot on the amount of empty calories and processed junk I eat. I try to eat basic, at least for a while to kind of clean up my skin as much as I can without topicals.

The texture of my skin seems to be smoother on it's own, I just use Physician's Formula Wrinkle Formula & Deep Moisture Repair. Staying out the sun, and also collagen forming from so many past self-administered peels are all reasons why it seems to be smoother even without treatment, I believe.

I think after Retin-A and the VI peel, my skin will be improved enough for me to regain confidence, and ditch the makeup. I really, really can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

Here is a picture of my skin. Still bad, had a bad menstrual breakout I am trying to clear up. But, honestly everyone---diet matters! Sleep matters! Water matters! I know it's repeated over and over, but it MATTERS. REALLY.

I totally managed to clear my skin 100% by using only water to wash my face with a microfiber cloth for absorbing oil and exfoliation. Non-dairy diet. No junk food. Drink lots of water and green tea. Take zinc every other day or so. Washing my face with water only was an important step.

It's true, seriously....I think my acne can be attributed to digestive issues and a childhood of Hamburger Helper for dinner. I only wish my mom was a crazy health nut, I probably could have avoided all serious breakouts and scarring altogether. Ah well....

[luvskincare13]

Glad to hear you are feeling better! Going to the derms is scary for sure.
I must say though that the peel is pretty weak and in all honesty will not do much at all for your scarring. I have had several and trust me it will be a waste if this is what you are trying to treat. You will have to have more aggressive treatments to correct your scarring. I still think subcision or fillers or laser are going to be your best bet for the rolling scars and maybe cross for your boxcars on the apples of your cheeks. The peel will make your skin lookm better for a few days because of the swelling but thats about it.

[dgan]

Can I just say something that anyone who posts pictures here completely barefaced will understand....it is damn freeing to post pictures of yourself looking (what you think) is your most disgusting and have no one react like, 'OH MY GOD, EW YOU LOOK SO UGLY, EW, EW EW'

how somebody can tell OH MY GOD, EW YOU LOOK SO UGLY,when in reallity you are very pretty ,you need more self confidence girl

[CherrySoda08]

Can I just say something that anyone who posts pictures here completely barefaced will understand....it is damn freeing to post pictures of yourself looking (what you think) is your most disgusting and have no one react like, 'OH MY GOD, EW YOU LOOK SO UGLY, EW, EW EW'


I just want to say, I didn't even realize it until I looked back through this thread and all the pictures I took that I would cry if anyone I knew saw them, and I didn't even think too much on it. That's awesome.

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates.


My derm forgot to prescribe me Retin-A when I was there, and I planned to go in ASAP to get that plus a spot treatment (she offers them free to deter people from picking their skin!) but A LOT of things came up in my life that just made me put all of this to the side.
Also I cannot afford the Retin-A for a few weeks now, because of some issues.

So, I haven't really started anything yet. Within the next month I plan to start the Retin-A, and then I can update after I have been using it for a month or so. The big thing is the VI Peel my derm plans to give me after being on Retin-A for 2 months, which she says will create an amazing difference.

Meanwhile, I have been following her advice as close as I can. I cut out all caffiene (coffee, diet soda, etc). I drink only water and have gotten to be addicted to green tea, so I drink 1-2 cups a day. I cut down a lot on the amount of empty calories and processed junk I eat. I try to eat basic, at least for a while to kind of clean up my skin as much as I can without topicals.

The texture of my skin seems to be smoother on it's own, I just use Physician's Formula Wrinkle Formula & Deep Moisture Repair. Staying out the sun, and also collagen forming from so many past self-administered peels are all reasons why it seems to be smoother even without treatment, I believe.

I think after Retin-A and the VI peel, my skin will be improved enough for me to regain confidence, and ditch the makeup. I really, really can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

Here is a picture of my skin. Still bad, had a bad menstrual breakout I am trying to clear up. But, honestly everyone---diet matters! Sleep matters! Water matters! I know it's repeated over and over, but it MATTERS. REALLY.

I totally managed to clear my skin 100% by using only water to wash my face with a microfiber cloth for absorbing oil and exfoliation. Non-dairy diet. No junk food. Drink lots of water and green tea. Take zinc every other day or so. Washing my face with water only was an important step.

It's true, seriously....I think my acne can be attributed to digestive issues and a childhood of Hamburger Helper for dinner. I only wish my mom was a crazy health nut, I probably could have avoided all serious breakouts and scarring altogether. Ah well....

I totally relate to the feeling of being apprehensive about putting photos of yourself, and wondering if those viewing your thread would think that your scarring looks heinous or not. However, after I posted my first series of photos on my own thread, I quickly got over that feeling. Like you, I also consider it pretty awesome that people are so supportive and helpful here on Acne.org.

Also, I wanted to say that even if you were brought up with "health nut" parents, your predisposition for acne and scarring might still have always been there. My mom tried to cook decent meals for my siblings and I while we grew up, but she believed that giving cow's milk to us was "healthy". It was probably okay for my brother and sister, since they don't have the skin issues that I do, but since my mom wasn't educated about the potential dangers of dairy for those with hormonal issues, she had no way of knowing that I shouldn't have had it as a younger girl.

At least you are learning this stuff now, and you're still so young!

[rockmeamadeus]

Glad to hear you are feeling better! Going to the derms is scary for sure.
I must say though that the peel is pretty weak and in all honesty will not do much at all for your scarring. I have had several and trust me it will be a waste if this is what you are trying to treat. You will have to have more aggressive treatments to correct your scarring. I still think subcision or fillers or laser are going to be your best bet for the rolling scars and maybe cross for your boxcars on the apples of your cheeks. The peel will make your skin lookm better for a few days because of the swelling but thats about it.

I don't assume this will be the end of my treatment, but for a first step I think it will help a lot. I have done mild peels at home and have a lot smoother appearance than I did even 2 years ago because of them, and I know the VI peel is not the strongest out there, but I think as far as making my skin appear more even and healthy, it will do wonders. As far as the deep scars on my temples and cheeks, I'll probably learn to live with them or in the future go for more agressive treatments. I think after using Retin-A Micro and THEN having this peel will just overall make my skin a lot more clear looking than it is now.

My derm even told me that a scar is a scar, but getting rid of blemishes, discoloration, redness, all of those kinds of things can really make for a nice result even if the scars still remain. I am not seeking or expecting 100% smooth skin where I look great in every lighting, but I am completel content with that.

Right now I know that if I get my skin looking more healthy, the scarring wont bother me as much. Also, I won't have to wear so much foundation, which only makes my scarring look worse.

Can I just say something that anyone who posts pictures here completely barefaced will understand....it is damn freeing to post pictures of yourself looking (what you think) is your most disgusting and have no one react like, 'OH MY GOD, EW YOU LOOK SO UGLY, EW, EW EW'


I just want to say, I didn't even realize it until I looked back through this thread and all the pictures I took that I would cry if anyone I knew saw them, and I didn't even think too much on it. That's awesome.

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates.


My derm forgot to prescribe me Retin-A when I was there, and I planned to go in ASAP to get that plus a spot treatment (she offers them free to deter people from picking their skin!) but A LOT of things came up in my life that just made me put all of this to the side.
Also I cannot afford the Retin-A for a few weeks now, because of some issues.

So, I haven't really started anything yet. Within the next month I plan to start the Retin-A, and then I can update after I have been using it for a month or so. The big thing is the VI Peel my derm plans to give me after being on Retin-A for 2 months, which she says will create an amazing difference.

Meanwhile, I have been following her advice as close as I can. I cut out all caffiene (coffee, diet soda, etc). I drink only water and have gotten to be addicted to green tea, so I drink 1-2 cups a day. I cut down a lot on the amount of empty calories and processed junk I eat. I try to eat basic, at least for a while to kind of clean up my skin as much as I can without topicals.

The texture of my skin seems to be smoother on it's own, I just use Physician's Formula Wrinkle Formula & Deep Moisture Repair. Staying out the sun, and also collagen forming from so many past self-administered peels are all reasons why it seems to be smoother even without treatment, I believe.

I think after Retin-A and the VI peel, my skin will be improved enough for me to regain confidence, and ditch the makeup. I really, really can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

Here is a picture of my skin. Still bad, had a bad menstrual breakout I am trying to clear up. But, honestly everyone---diet matters! Sleep matters! Water matters! I know it's repeated over and over, but it MATTERS. REALLY.

I totally managed to clear my skin 100% by using only water to wash my face with a microfiber cloth for absorbing oil and exfoliation. Non-dairy diet. No junk food. Drink lots of water and green tea. Take zinc every other day or so. Washing my face with water only was an important step.

It's true, seriously....I think my acne can be attributed to digestive issues and a childhood of Hamburger Helper for dinner. I only wish my mom was a crazy health nut, I probably could have avoided all serious breakouts and scarring altogether. Ah well....

I totally relate to the feeling of being apprehensive about putting photos of yourself, and wondering if those viewing your thread would think that your scarring looks heinous or not. However, after I posted my first series of photos on my own thread, I quickly got over that feeling. Like you, I also consider it pretty awesome that people are so supportive and helpful here on Acne.org.

Also, I wanted to say that even if you were brought up with "health nut" parents, your predisposition for acne and scarring might still have always been there. My mom tried to cook decent meals for my siblings and I while we grew up, but she believed that giving cow's milk to us was "healthy". It was probably okay for my brother and sister, since they don't have the skin issues that I do, but since my mom wasn't educated about the potential dangers of dairy for those with hormonal issues, she had no way of knowing that I shouldn't have had it as a younger girl.

At least you are learning this stuff now, and you're still so young!

I know, I mean't to say that it's obviously in my genetics to be acne-prone and have skin inflammation to things other people don't, and I feel if I had been aware of this when I was young, I could have avoided eating high-sodium, high-dairy, highly processed foods that, for me, caused really bad breakouts that led to scarring.
I never really understood the fact that some people just have a higher tendency to get acne, like how pale people have a higher tendency to get sunburned. It's like a pale person hanging out with their really tan friends, wondering why they don't get blistering sunburns, and sitting in the sun anyway, thinking it can't be the problem because their FRIENDS don't get affected in the same way.

I don't know, it's just all really complicated, isn't it? That's the frustrating part. You spend so much of your time and energy chasing after causes so you can maybe find a solution, but there are so many. I am glad I am learning a lot about my skin now and how to treat it better, but I think the best option is to be at peace with yourself and don't fall into dramatics because of a flaw.

[Coppedsynergy999]

Glad to hear you are feeling better! Going to the derms is scary for sure.
I must say though that the peel is pretty weak and in all honesty will not do much at all for your scarring. I have had several and trust me it will be a waste if this is what you are trying to treat. You will have to have more aggressive treatments to correct your scarring. I still think subcision or fillers or laser are going to be your best bet for the rolling scars and maybe cross for your boxcars on the apples of your cheeks. The peel will make your skin lookm better for a few days because of the swelling but thats about it.

I don't assume this will be the end of my treatment, but for a first step I think it will help a lot. I have done mild peels at home and have a lot smoother appearance than I did even 2 years ago because of them, and I know the VI peel is not the strongest out there, but I think as far as making my skin appear more even and healthy, it will do wonders. As far as the deep scars on my temples and cheeks, I'll probably learn to live with them or in the future go for more agressive treatments. I think after using Retin-A Micro and THEN having this peel will just overall make my skin a lot more clear looking than it is now.

My derm even told me that a scar is a scar, but getting rid of blemishes, discoloration, redness, all of those kinds of things can really make for a nice result even if the scars still remain. I am not seeking or expecting 100% smooth skin where I look great in every lighting, but I am completel content with that.

Right now I know that if I get my skin looking more healthy, the scarring wont bother me as much. Also, I won't have to wear so much foundation, which only makes my scarring look worse.

Can I just say something that anyone who posts pictures here completely barefaced will understand....it is damn freeing to post pictures of yourself looking (what you think) is your most disgusting and have no one react like, 'OH MY GOD, EW YOU LOOK SO UGLY, EW, EW EW'


I just want to say, I didn't even realize it until I looked back through this thread and all the pictures I took that I would cry if anyone I knew saw them, and I didn't even think too much on it. That's awesome.

Hey guys, sorry for the lack of updates.


My derm forgot to prescribe me Retin-A when I was there, and I planned to go in ASAP to get that plus a spot treatment (she offers them free to deter people from picking their skin!) but A LOT of things came up in my life that just made me put all of this to the side.
Also I cannot afford the Retin-A for a few weeks now, because of some issues.

So, I haven't really started anything yet. Within the next month I plan to start the Retin-A, and then I can update after I have been using it for a month or so. The big thing is the VI Peel my derm plans to give me after being on Retin-A for 2 months, which she says will create an amazing difference.

Meanwhile, I have been following her advice as close as I can. I cut out all caffiene (coffee, diet soda, etc). I drink only water and have gotten to be addicted to green tea, so I drink 1-2 cups a day. I cut down a lot on the amount of empty calories and processed junk I eat. I try to eat basic, at least for a while to kind of clean up my skin as much as I can without topicals.

The texture of my skin seems to be smoother on it's own, I just use Physician's Formula Wrinkle Formula & Deep Moisture Repair. Staying out the sun, and also collagen forming from so many past self-administered peels are all reasons why it seems to be smoother even without treatment, I believe.

I think after Retin-A and the VI peel, my skin will be improved enough for me to regain confidence, and ditch the makeup. I really, really can see the light at the end of this tunnel.

Here is a picture of my skin. Still bad, had a bad menstrual breakout I am trying to clear up. But, honestly everyone---diet matters! Sleep matters! Water matters! I know it's repeated over and over, but it MATTERS. REALLY.

I totally managed to clear my skin 100% by using only water to wash my face with a microfiber cloth for absorbing oil and exfoliation. Non-dairy diet. No junk food. Drink lots of water and green tea. Take zinc every other day or so. Washing my face with water only was an important step.

It's true, seriously....I think my acne can be attributed to digestive issues and a childhood of Hamburger Helper for dinner. I only wish my mom was a crazy health nut, I probably could have avoided all serious breakouts and scarring altogether. Ah well....

I totally relate to the feeling of being apprehensive about putting photos of yourself, and wondering if those viewing your thread would think that your scarring looks heinous or not. However, after I posted my first series of photos on my own thread, I quickly got over that feeling. Like you, I also consider it pretty awesome that people are so supportive and helpful here on Acne.org.

Also, I wanted to say that even if you were brought up with "health nut" parents, your predisposition for acne and scarring might still have always been there. My mom tried to cook decent meals for my siblings and I while we grew up, but she believed that giving cow's milk to us was "healthy". It was probably okay for my brother and sister, since they don't have the skin issues that I do, but since my mom wasn't educated about the potential dangers of dairy for those with hormonal issues, she had no way of knowing that I shouldn't have had it as a younger girl.

At least you are learning this stuff now, and you're still so young!

I know, I mean't to say that it's obviously in my genetics to be acne-prone and have skin inflammation to things other people don't, and I feel if I had been aware of this when I was young, I could have avoided eating high-sodium, high-dairy, highly processed foods that, for me, caused really bad breakouts that led to scarring.
I never really understood the fact that some people just have a higher tendency to get acne, like how pale people have a higher tendency to get sunburned. It's like a pale person hanging out with their really tan friends, wondering why they don't get blistering sunburns, and sitting in the sun anyway, thinking it can't be the problem because their FRIENDS don't get affected in the same way.

I don't know, it's just all really complicated, isn't it? That's the frustrating part. You spend so much of your time and energy chasing after causes so you can maybe find a solution, but there are so many. I am glad I am learning a lot about my skin now and how to treat it better, but I think the best option is to be at peace with yourself and don't fall into dramatics because of a flaw.

Do you mind listing what you are cleansing your face with? I swear by the water only method. I think everyone should give it a try. I mean I hardly ever break out. at all. I used to be prone exactly like you are. I only break out now when I eat poorly. And its only a spot or two.

[Rob_X_22]

i been using dermarollers for a few months now and am seeing some better results ...but i tell ya what i got some pro x age repair cream the other day by olay and i couldn't believe how much it evened out my skin and the tone of it ...i'm wantin to try some firming cream ....do yourself a favor and try these new creams for your skin there great !

[CherrySoda08]

Any updates, rockmeamadeus?