Building an Affordable Acne Routine: Bumper Guide (Teens and not-Teens)

[@dihydrogenmonoxide6231]

as an acne-prone teenager who's also a science nerd, this is basically my dream video. it's finals week rn, so this will be a great break from studying! :)

[@maenad1231]

Good Luck on your finals!

[@DavidDerekh]

How's your acne now bro

[@pinkairez]

I like your username - breathing in dihydrogen monoxide kills the most people per year

[@amarillot.t4376]

I feel so jealous when I was your age all I had was Bethany mota and diy skincare videos telling me to put lemon and apple cider vinegar on my face 😭

[@lindas.1751]

A suggestion: regift that magnifying mirror to a grandmother, or a midlife or older aunt or female friend/relative. We NEED that magnification for good makeup application!

[@maenad1231]

*Bonus for American Teens:* Adapalene Gel is over the counter now. It’s a great retinoid treatment that makes your skin less prone to getting acne breakouts & dramatically reduces the amount of acne you get when you do break out; I wish it was OTC when I was a teen. It takes like 12-16 weeks to start seeing results but it’s so worth it. “Differin” is the original brand but both Walgreens & CVS have generics that work just as well but are more affordable If you want a Azelaic Acid product try ordering the Cos De BaHa serum. It’s one of the only affordable ones that actually have a pleasant texture & viscosity

[@anaghaanilkumar971]

Is tretinoin safe ..my parents say it might cause birth defects in the future if I use it now although I completely disagree

[@maenad1231]

@@anaghaanilkumar971 Oral Isotretinoin is the acne medication that comes with the risk of causing birth defects if you become pregnant while on it. Topical Tretinoin is a completely different acne medication. People get them confused because the names are so similar. Either way, no acne medication increases the risk birth defects “in the future.” You’d have to be pregnant while your on the medication for that to be a possibility.

[@oliviaverus7135]

The Inkey List recently launched an Azelaic Acid serum not long ago, so there's that too :)

[@HereDiianas]

I only see great review from the Geek and Goegeou Azelaic acid.

[@KHtrinity1]

Adapelene was approved for OTC in Australia last year too! But none of our chemists have stock still....

[@HolldollMcG]

I was lucky enough to skip the acne stage of puberty, but now in my late 20s it has come full force. Thanks for this video!

[@jasminateodorovic1248]

The exact same thing happened to me. My skin 'decided' to skip the teenage period and 'decided' to flare up after college, my early 20s. Can't believe my skin is healthier at 48 than in my 20s or 30s. Be patient and consistent! In my case, I had a lot of help from my dermatologist. Wish you all the best.

[@halfmoon3017]

I feel you. I don't remember having acne before 18. I used to get small pimples before my period,they were so small , they didn't hurt plus I found them really adorable idk why but I thought they're cute. When I became 18 my skin became weird right away , I tried to not pay attention and convinced myself people didn't notice but EVERYONE around me reacted, they were simply shocked, I never imagined I'd ever break out. It's so messed up. No I don't find them adorable anymore, there's nothing cute about them. I can't recognise myself. It's so draining

[@RhondaMcgillivray-l8m]

Lately you're the only KZbinr I've been trusting and using your advise on skincare decisions. Please keep up the wonderful job you're doing.

[@jane-dy1wh]

My tips for pimple patches: 1) lancing the pimple beforehand will help A LOT. These patches are made out of the same stuff as common wound dressings, a substance that absorbs liquid like a sponge. So it needs access to the liquid to actually help. 2) Buy a roll of cheap medical tape (the papery one with a sticky side). You can cut small pieces of tape (enough to cover the edges of the patch or just a thin strip to hold it down on two edges) and put it over the patch while you sleep to help keep it on your face. I hated trying to deal with moisturizer and pimple patches--they kept sliding off my face no matter what I tried, so the medical tape helps to keep them on even over thick moisturizers like the Cerave healing cream. Just remember to take the patches off when you wake up and clean the area right afterwards, otherwise the oozy clear stuff (oedema) leftover will dry and turn crusty quickly.

[@SebastianSeanCrow]

I out my patches on BEFORE moisturizer tbh lol

[@LilyShimizu]

I do think there’s something behind your point about Hydrocolloid patches working better on open pimples. I started using these patches in order to heal open wounds from acne picking and they have been an absolute godsend for healing my scabs, inflamed and infected spots. But, when I’ve tried using them for controlling new pimples that are beginning to surface, I don’t find them doing much of anything for those spots. If I pop it first and let it seep for a bit, and then put a patch over it, I get much better results. I think they do need an “opening” to work effectively.

[@Alex-dj9qj]

They do work better on open pimples, yes! I sometimes apply them on pimples in early stage only so they don't get irritated further, but it doesn't help them heal or anything. BHA on the early stage pimples helps a lot because it brings them on the surface faster, then a hydrocolloid patch does the job.

[@SarahColledge]

Some recommendations for UK viewers: * Creightons Salicylic Acid Tonic (1% SA & 1% niacinamide) £1.99 from Home Bargains or B&M * DermaV10 Spot Zapper Patches (just Hydrocolloid but I add a drop of Creightons SA Tonic) 99p/£1 for 24 from B&M or Savers * Asda Kind & Gentle Light Moisturiser (great for oily skin or in summer) £1 from, yes, Asda

[@rubysresource]

Omg the Creighton's 1% salicylic acid is only £1.99 there?!? For the 200mL? It's like $6 at Kmart in Australia! Reminds me of Paula's Choice BHA and The Ordinary Anhydrous Salicylic Acid. I like using it on my back.

[@richcreamerybutter6640]

Such a great discovery the Creightons tonic! I like the fact it's only 1% SA which makes it mild enough for daily use and doesn't dry me out afterwards. May I add that there are some great beauty dupes from Aldi that's worth mentioning- the lacura range hot cloth cleanser (Liz Earle dupe), overnight facial oil (khiels midnight recovery dupe) and the miracle balm (Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream dupe) are some of my favorites

[@SarahColledge]

@@rubysresource Yes the 200ml. It’s more expensive in other shops and online though, Creightons themselves sell it for £4.99 on their website.

[@SarahColledge]

@@richcreamerybutter6640 Yes I like that it’s only 1% too. Have you tried the Lacura jelly cleanser? I like the look of it but haven’t found it in store yet.

[@makaniistorm8664]

Boi yo on a budget

[@sabbathunlimited]

I, too, wish my teenage self had this guide to manage her acne. In fact, at thirty-something I count myself lucky to have stumbled upon your guide because I only really started managing my acne this year through the help of dermatologists and science-y nerds like you making all this informative content available online. Thank you so much for all the content you share! 🥺

[@SXJAYSX]

Agreed! Also a 30 something and went thru it! Glad kids have access for very affordable effective products and information online! I gave up on my face in my early 20s soon thereafter my hormones must have even out couse I went from heavily pimpled to early any. But I got so many battle scars from all those years and I'm just now I'm starting to take care of it with all this amazing info.

[@stevens716]

(18m) Oily - Acne prone teen here, I’ve learned less is more the hard way! Morning is wash face with water and spf 50. My evening routine is Make prem mild acid cleansing foam and make prem soothing gel cream. I’m tempted to get into exfoliation but I overdone a few months ago. I’ve realised my skin is less oily the less I exfoliate. I focus on balancing my skin now rather than attacking it. Watch Director Pi !! She’s class

[@colinf2316]

I'm that one rando that can't use micellar. Even after rinsing it, my skin gets soooooo so so red and dry. 😩 The convenience is so appealing. I find that CeraVe healing ointment is a good "in between" for Vaseline and LRP CicaPlast. It's about half petrolatum, the rest are ceramides and goodies, etc.

[@rachelelwin450]

I can’t use it either. I used to be able to but now?

[@BabyGirl-cw6uj]

Same 😟, I feel like my skin is on fire, even with the hypoallergenic formula

[@Alice_Walker]

The Paula's Choice 2% BHA is such a great product. It does wonders keeping the blackheads around my nose much less noticeable. I also use it on my butt where it is awesome for controlling those pimply bumps and I put some in a spray bottle and use it on my back when I get some cloggy gross stuff going on from running/sweating/sunscreen/fake tan. I've tried LOTS of other BHA products and I think that the Paula's Choice is the best and is good value as I can use a small amount and it's good to the last drop where other products seem to go off before I've used it all 👍🏻

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I forgot to mention that it comes in a spray bottle version too! The spray works upside down but apparently some people's sprays have broken - hasn't happened with mine though, luckily! 🤞

[@Alice_Walker]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience 🐐

[@dave9401]

I've followed your blog religiously for years! I'm so grateful for you and that you share your wealth of knowledge with us. You are amazing and a God send of a woman

[@thereadingsylph]

Just wanted to say that azelaic acid cleared up my acne, yeah the texture is kind of trickier to work with but it is by far the best thing that has tackled my acne.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

That's great to hear! 😊

[@mjt8440]

Thank you for sharing about your skin picking. I’ve also struggled with that for over a decade, it can become really problematic at times. Pimples patches have reduced that struggle so significantly, miracle product!

[@erinwashere3757]

Acne prone teenage me - at Ives apricot scrub, epiduo (adapaleen and benzoyl peroxide topical) for spit treatment and contraceptive pill. My pore teenage skin. Me now as an acne prone adult- iunik bubble cleanser, iunik calming gel, iunik cleansing oil, Paula’s choice salicylic acid liquid, rovectin LHA ampoule, purito barrier repair cream, haru haru rice toner, Klairs vitamin c, purito I scented serum, iunik snail mucin serum, Paula’s choice retinol, purito hydrocolloid patches, som by mi spot treatment and biore spf! I’m a little poorer but my skin is so much happier (ps these products are all used at different times of day and week)

[@ancac4362]

not a teen, but a skin care nerd- and still loved the video for refreshing my knowledge. :)

[@missanamarie]

PanOxyl is my favorite benzoyl peroxide cleanser. It works so well!

[@devoncolwell5070]

I’d HIGHLY recommend the Aveeno Baby Sunscreen stick with titanium and zinc dioxide. I know many people prefer chemical sunscreen texture, but the ones I’ve tried always feel too greasy for me. Neutrogena had a great one too but it’s not as good now that it’s zinc only. These are pretty affordable and always wear really nicely on top of serums and underneath makeup.

[@devoncolwell5070]

On further investigation, I’ve found that the Aveeno sunscreen stick also ditched titanium dioxide. I’d definitely be interested in a video explaining why this ingredient is becoming less common. It’s one of my fav sunscreen actives

[@syahirah3245]

I’ve use the Simple oil cleanser and while it didn’t cause any irritation I find that it doesn’t remove waterproof makeup very well, especially mascara . It’s good for those who wear light makeup or just sunscreen. (I know it’s discontinued but these are just my thoughts from my experience). I highly recommend the Biore cleansing oil because of its high cleansing power and affordability. Plus it can be used while your hand/face is wet, it is fragranced though.

[@kalyanishah17]

Hello! I have dehydrated, oily, acne prone skin as well. Have been watching your videos and finally found a skincare regime which is easy on the pocket and great on my skin. The diy vit c serum specially! Life saver!!! I'm 30 and still dealing with acne. Started alternating between tretinoin, salicylic acid, and vit c each night and phew what a difference it has made! Thanks for being amazing!

[@skyy3123]

Do you mind sharing what moisturizer you use at night time?

[@nemexisto]

the clean & clear kit at the start gave me war flashbacks 😭 Sadly I did that same wrong routine when I was a teen and irritated my skin to no end

[@slippery7391]

i literally love seeing a new lab muffin video in my subscription box 😩😩💗💗

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you! 🥰🥰🥰

[@maithilideochake8587]

Please make a video for skincare routine for middle aged mature skin!

[@arianasuschrist]

great video!! would you be able to do a video on the QV skincare line as a whole, there isn’t a lot of exposure on new zealand/australian brands and i really like your videos and trust you and think it would be really nice to hear your view point on it

[@ZijnShayatanica]

My favourite drugstore moisturizer for my combo, blackhead prone skin is the Clean & Clear Dual Action Moisturizer. It's very lightweight & sinks into the skin & the 0.5% Salicylic Acid isn't drying. For my dryness, however, I don't find it substantial enough, so I usually mix in a few drops of facial oil [currently trying out cold pressed hemp seed oil]. If I'm wearing SPF or tinted moisturizer, the oil isn't necessary.

[@rouaneb6664]

I appreciate you mentioning what's fragranced so much. I have asthma that is severely reactive to fragrances so I cannot use any fragranced products. I struggle to find things I don't react to and have avoided skincare with the fear of having to trawl through aisle after aisle in shop after shop looking for safe products - it's even worse with haircare.

[@keiradevantier7499]

This is such great info. It’s so cool to find an Aus based perspective for once too.

[@tarabumface]

The neutrogena hydro boost does come in a fragrance free version. I have acne prone, oily skin and use La Roche Posay Toleriane light moisturiser, it's not exactly budget friendly though.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I love the LRP moisturisers! But yeah I had to leave them out with the budget constraint...

[@suchs4979]

it's funny you say that benzoyl peroxide is the most well known one because it took me so long to finally start using it because no one on the skincare side of the internet really talked about it and said it was really harsh- my skin tends to sting with AHAs, even mandelic acid, so i decided i would only use it as a last resort but when it did it worked really well! and i really don't feel like i _need_ anything else in my skincare routine because i dont get a ton of hyperpigmentation from acne either anymore also the simple kind to skin cleansing oil is still available in the uk in boots what a win heehee

[@EmmaVB82]

Just found your channel and I love this video in particular (and have already watched a bunch)! I’m a 41 year old Brit in the UK, and yes, I still have horrendously oily acne-prone skin - there is no justice in this world. My skin struggles have definitely changed over time, as well as a variety of totally different methods and treatments depending on what was going on and what research I was doing into skincare, plus of course what kinds of products have been available! Like probably every person with oily acne-prone skin, I started off with all the harsh Clearasil/Clean & Clear stuff like you, and tea tree everything (I don’t know if this was a global phenomena, but it seemed like a particular trend for this in the UK in the 90s/early 00s)! I think one of the biggest challenges for me was a) accepting that oily skin also needs moisturising, and b) finding a moisturiser that actually suited my skin and didn’t make it more oily and greasy! Big win for me here was the French pharmacy line of La Roche-Posay Effaclar products - specifically Effaclar Mat for moisturising, but Effaclar Duo Plus was another good combined treatment/moisturising product I used for a while too (when not also using direct acids or other actives etc). I’ve currently got an Aveeno oat gel moisturiser in a pot that I like (though I much prefer tubes/pumps to pots/tubs in general!), plus The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors was a great gift they added to my last purchase that I’m enjoying. Hands down most effective treatment for me was also the combined oral contraceptive pill (though the first one I was taking catapulted me into a deep depression… the next one was almost like a “miracle drug” for me on so many levels). I was happy with that for about 15 years, though after switching to the Mirena IUS about 7 years ago, one of the downsides has definitely been my skin getting oiler and more acne-prone again! 😖 Before I get too carried away giving you my life story… I wanted to put in a shout out for The Ordinary azelaic acid suspension! It feels kind of like a creamy gel consistency - definitely not grainy or difficult to work into my skin, and absorbs quickly. I also have rosacea, and I’ve found this to be a really easy product to add in to my routine that helps to reduce redness from that, improves acne-related scarring and hyperpigmentation, and also helps to reduce oiliness and general acne flareups, plus just brightening my skin and making it feel softer and look better! So impressed with it as an all-rounder for me in those areas, and I love that they’ve come out with a 100ml version now instead of having to keep rebuying the 30ml 😊 My bathroom shelves do also look a bit like a chemistry lab with the various other bits and pieces from The Ordinary (big fan of the 10% lactic acid and their salicylic acid serums in particular) 😃 Very happy to have come across this brand some years ago thanks to beauty KZbin! I also love the effect they seem to have had on the wider industry with other brands now also making products more specifically ingredient-based and straightforward, in contrast to all the “miracle formula” smoke and mirrors marketing material that seemed to be the accepted standard for skincare products before!

[@nicolekalstein2321]

I don't know if it's scientifically sound (although I'd love to know), but I've had really good success with Vaseline's Advanced Repair lotion for a moisturizer. It's in the body lotion section of my store, but I don't seem to have any issues using it on my face. It's the only thing that moisturizes my skin enough to keep it healthy while I'm using acne fighting ingredients but doesn't clog my pores or break me out. It's also really cheap compared to pretty much any face moisturizers in the US (it's fragrance free too). It might be worth a try if something heavy like CeraVe breaks you out but lighter moisturizers don't do enough. I bought a small version from the travel section of my store to try it and then sprung for a big bottle when it was on sale (but the big bottles are still really inexpensive regularly). I'd love to know what ingredients in this work so well for me, but I just know it seems to really keep my barrier intact while I'm using harsh acne ingredients

[@Alex.i]

Great video! I have my skincare already in check thanks to your videos. However I would love to see videos on haircare. I have such a hard time with hair care from dandruff to etchy scalp and painful scalp more recently :(

[@tashaology8376]

oh my god me too! my hair is a nightmare and nothing seems to work! I have heard that glycolic acid is really good for dandruff/flaky scalp and also body acne/ketosis pillaris?

[@stephaniegrehan9084]

OMG Michelle where was this a fortnight ago when a friend asked me what to get her teenage daughter!? :P lol It's okay, I got some of these items (and a bunch of others!) and I'll share this with her Mum so when they need to restock they'll have a well priced list.

[@SebastianSeanCrow]

12:40 something before I found out about pimples patches that I still use and is my savior: DRAWING SALVE! Super cheap, put it on, slap on a bandaid, go to bed. Wake up, take bandaid off, wash. Just do this a few days in a row it really works. It’s in the first aid section cuz it’s to treat splinters or something.

[@sulakaricats]

I use the QV Bath Oil to remove full face of make up when I wear it after I saw Dr Dray recommend this on her QV routine review….she really liked the brand btw…the QV Face Gentle Cleanser is my holy grail daily cleanser, my dermatologist recommended it I love it, simple gentle and sooooo affordable, my daughter loves the QV Face Gentle Foaming Cleanser.

[@isabellamorris7902]

My confused, confusing postgrad adult-acne depression skin thanks you

[@tamarareid6170]

Not sure if this will work for everyone with Cystic acne but here it goes: After years I've finally figured out how to use The Ordinary's EUK 134 and it's literally changed my entire routine! I have been getting cystic acnes for the past 5 months every single day the types that hurt for days and is itchy too and takes so long to pop and then after that days to heal too - I would have at least 4 or 5 cystic acnes at a time so never a single day without it at 35 years of age! Nothing ever worked and I've been wearing Niacinamide, Tretinoin, retinol(low dose), AHA+BHA, hylarounic acid, cerave and everything else in between and none of those ever EVER helped! But since I started wearing EUK 134, my cystic acne literally went down in 1 SINGLE NIGHT! Like literally! It also helped me realise that the sunscreen I was wearing was what was actually causing those cystic acnes so I've stopped using that sunscreen now and am only using EVY sunscreen everyday. I'm wearing the EUK 134 every single night and not just my cystic acnes but also their scars have disappeared in a matter of days! I am literally NEVER EVER going to stop wearing EUK 134 even after my skin is fully recovered from acnes from now! I have also been wearing pure vitamin e supplements on my skin at the end of every routine at night which makes my skin SUPER DUPER SOFT in the morning even when my skin is peeling from tretinoin it still feels and looks plum and supple since using vitamin e! I apply hylauronic acid and another hydrating serum first and after that dries I mix 3-4 drops of EUK 134 with Cerave moisturising cream all over my face at night and just before I go to sleep I also add vitamin e capsules to my face, which I do by breaking the capsules and using the liquid from it. I have only been doing this for two weeks and my skin looks better than it ever had in the last decade!

[@ginaale8021]

So happy you posted this!!

[@ChibiChidorii]

those big tub budget friendly moisturizers are good for extra dry, scaly, sensitive and eczema prone skin because they are so thick they form really good barriers

[@americantoadsarecool]

Switching from a tub of CeraVe moisturizer to a smaller pump bottle reduced a lot of my breakouts. I think I was reinfecting my skin with a dirty old tub of moisturizer especially if I ever double dipped my fingers after touching my face. The pump keeps more germs in the air out of the bottle and the smaller size means I use it up in a month or two instead of using the same tub for a year.

[@emilybaxter]

thank you very much for this video Michelle. I feel I have a good understanding of sunscreens now and what is best for my family. I have purchased your ebook in readiness for my oldest daughter transitioning into puberty and caring for her skin. I am also much more aware of Australian products and have a better appreciation of companies who invest in research and use quality ingredients. You certainly explain things beautifully and have busted many myths for me.

[@mariannewm26]

I would love to know your take on hormonal acne treatment! I use tret and BHA, and have definitely seen progress, but I'm still breaking out on my jawline. Are birth control or spironolactone really my only options? I've even been drinking peppermint tea for the apparent androgen blocking benefits for acne with no progress after months 😑

[@thornprick2645]

I'm hearing the same thing ughhh. What's tret?

[@mariannewm26]

@@thornprick2645 tretinoin! It's a prescription retinoid

[@freethetomatoes]

💯% agree to regifting that magnifying mirror. Also, DO NOT buy an extractor tool unless you love chaos!

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Maybe it's me but I find the extractor isn't even as good as my fingernails? I always dig at a pimple with the extractor and then go in with my nails anyway, all it does is cause more imprints in my skin haha

[@Siberius-]

I haven't tried "La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+", but for another WAY CHEAPER and easily available option that will save some hyper-dry skin, there's the "Ego QV Dermcare Stingfree Ointment". Might not be as cosmetically elegant, I don't know, for my use it doesn't matter. (Edit: Actually now that I google it some more, this is not a replacement at all as far as the texture goes, and also as far as the soothing ingredients go and that whole use-case, it's just a nicer version of straight Vaseline lol, but I'll leave the rest of my comment for anyone curious anyway) It's petrolatum-based, but not just a shitty pure petrolatum film that never goes away. It's hydrating at the same time, and given enough time, it does eventually fully sink in (though probably not where your skin is a bit oily). It's definitely not something I would wear through the day, but it's just awesome for when you have those spots that are dry as hell and need emergency attention. I also like to put it on pimples after they have been extracted, to help it heal extra well with that occlusive barrier that will last a good while. I think it's our (Australia) equivalent of like, Aquaphor in America, maybe. I was looking for such a product and couldn't find one here, oddly. Like a hole in the market. Which leads to the other thing; I don't know if anyone really knows of it's existence, because it hardly even has a name, and the name doesn't communicate what it's good for. "Stingfree ointment".... seemingly really poor marketing there.

[@xiaoandyoimiyasimp3193]

7:04 I second this! I would’ve had no idea I had PCOS if my dermatologist didn’t suggest seeing a gynaecologist

[@Galemor1]

Adult acne, and possibly allergy acne here. It's such a struggle, the allergy acne is really painful, like it's always on a nerve or something. So impossible to not feel, and therefore squeeze.

[@lamemechose7072]

I like your “on a nerve” description. It’s a much more succinct - and less gross - description for one of my types of acne pain. I describe my baseline pain (no current breakouts in the affected area) as being like when you know you’re about to get a monster zit, but you can’t see it yet. Except it’s constant. The bad pain from when there’s actually a zit forming is very sharp, almost like needles that go on top of the existing pain.

[@siginotmylastname3969]

This is what my dermatitis is like. Really hard to stop it coming back without spending an absolute fortune replacing all soaps and shower stuff with hypoallergenic stuff which I just don't think I have the money for.

[@rachelelwin450]

Dermaveen bath and shower oil is great! I use it as a makeup remover everyday in the shower.

[@fenrirlunaris2454]

Hope you create a lot more content in the future! Your contents are awesome! ❤🎉

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you! 😊

[@SebastianSeanCrow]

17:46 something I found the most helpful was when I found a tiny size sunscreen at the dollar tree the day I forgot my sunscreen. I just keep it in my bag and it’s so helpful cuz I can just apply throughout the day and it’s small enough to fit into a purse as well

[@joyj6702]

Love you girl. Lots of respect

[@stephcastersugar]

I use the QV Bath Oil as an oil cleanser. It works so well, especially for waterproof mascara. I just find it stings my eyes though

[@sosilos]

Bath oil cleabsers from french derma brands (bioderma, la roshe, uriage...) are quite good makeup removers. Are in big packaging, cheap and it doesn't sting my eyes.

[@MSUSPARTANS1973]

I don’t use this for my whole face, but the best product to remove heavy or bright eyeshadows, waterproof mascara, etc. is ESTÉE LAUDER TAKE IT AWAY. You get 6.7 ounces for $31 USD. It’s in a blue bottle with a pump. It has a light lotion consistency. I’ve used all the big names in cleansing balms and oils, and this product blows them all out of the water.

[@meremeth]

Wish I had these as a teen!! Thankfully I didn't go all in on the scrubs and acne treatments back then, just suffered with my phisohex lol

[@prapanthebachelorette6803]

Omfg you’re a lifesaver! What I thought was melasma when I was 17 is more probable to be PIH. I have sensory issues when it comes to putting something on my body and I am also a tomboy outdoors on trial type aka. nonexistent skincare plus maximum exposure 😂. Starting skincare because I thought my face would turn 40 if I didn’t get in the game asap was a scary experience for sure. I went by having only one item, obviously sunscreen, for years before exploring more stuff. Buying based on ingredients list and how it feels on my skin seems to work well for me. I’m in my mid twenties stumble around makeup items like a kindergarten kid messing around with mommy’s collection 😂. I’m chill with that though, for me nourishment comes before cover up.

[@idaliagonzalez7945]

Thanks for this. Curology has a free mini kit, only pay for shipping. I’m trying it, and my skin is doing well on it. You can discuss your treatment with a dermatologist and they will change the skincare and ingredients if needed. I increased my tretinoin and did not have to pay for the dermatologist.

[@banicata]

I just extra virgin olive oil for makeup removal/cleansing. Then benzoyl peroxide 2.5%. I used to have bad acne, now my skin I perfect

[@marisaklassen3601]

Is there any evidence to the pore clogging ingredients list? Like the ingredient checker on acne clinic website. A lot of acne safe products do not pass according to the checker and it's frustrating not being able to find a acne safe products. Do corn starch, bees wax or sls etc. really clog pores? Also acne/oily skin friendly shampoos/conditiner/haircare care recommendations would be awesome. Does pyrithione zinc shampoo help with acne/oiliness?

[@ainakunigelyte]

Hey love your videos, would love to hear your opinion about peptides and copper peptides (from Niod and The Ordinary). I've done some research and they seem to be great for firming skin, anti-aging but there was also some anecdotal evidance that using too much of them can cause saggy skin ( dr Anne video). What is too much? Overall, if I used peptides every other day, would that be enough for it to make a positive effect? General video about peptides would be so appreciated;) thank youuuu!

[@lavayuki]

When I was a teen 15 years ago, I remember Dermalogica was big back then, I remembered using that Medibac range. Now you never really hear of that brand now, but back then there was not much else other than the rubbish clean and clear and clearisil stuff

[@erinderooy3472]

The Paula's Choice 2% Salicylic Acid is really good, it's the only SA product I have ever been able to leave on my face without it irritating. Paula's Choice often have sales, especially around Black Friday in November. I have 2 bottles left still of the Simple Cleansing Oil, I am not looking forward to finding something else when I run out, but because of mask mandates I haven't been wearing much makeup lately.

[@jonasdivalt]

I LOVE Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra. The best for my combination acne prone skin🥰

[@tamarareid6170]

nip and fab salicylic face wash is the cheapest and is always on sale actually compared to the entire list of that you've mentioned in this video. I find that to be most effective in regards of getting rid of the peeling that I experience from Tretinoin!

[@brirose230]

We are a simple people here 🤣 I like to think of us as logical 😂 I’ve started my tween on a simple skincare routine recently to help with some congestion/breakouts she’s been getting on her nose. Pleased to see you featured the cleanser I chose (Bondi sands freshen up). I’ve also got her using the ordinary’s nicinamide as I’ve heard that’s good for sebum regulation etc. Can you please tell me if I can use a BHA or similar acid product in conjunction with the nicinamide? Would it be cleanse > BHA > nicinamide > moisturiser? Thanks! 🙏🏼

[@mealsome4450]

As someone who uses Benzoylperoxid, yeah it stains... always leave it to dry before laying down somewhere!

[@SebastianSeanCrow]

12:40 there’s actually a company that sells pimple patches with a lance for them lol Lancing honestly helps cuz when it’s open if it’s bad it already wants to come out

[@christinehottinger5791]

a magnifying mirror IS A CURSE, thank you for this confirmation

[@laur83]

i really needed this video like 10 years ago 😂

[@timsmith9567]

I was looking into this for my daughter, and it's not clear to me when you should use a benzoyl peroxide cleanser versus a salicytic acid cleanser versus a normal cleanser. Many of these products recommend daily use, so it seems like you can't use all three every day, and I can't figure out how to know which to use when. Do you just pick one and only switch to another if it isn't working for you?

[@veelee2630]

Love your content and reviews backed by science and research! Can you please do a video on the connection between fungal acne and fermented products? I am so torn on whether or not I should try products like SK-2 and others with galactomyces/fermented ingredients.

[@ariannepine3157]

Nivea do a great mini-range of cleansing oils, including a fragrance-free one and they're very cheap ^^

[@jasminateodorovic1248]

Love cleansing oils. Managed to find the ones that hydrate the skin, are gentle and do not sting my so sensitive eyes. And they are not stripping, leaving the skin soft. Never tried Nivea ones. Would like to. Any recommendations for Nivea?

[@ariannepine3157]

@@jasminateodorovic1248 You should try the unscented one, with grape-seed oil. I had the one with coconut oil but found the fragrance too off-putting. They're otherwise identical. Great cleansing properties and make the skin sooo soft

[@jasminateodorovic1248]

@@ariannepine3157 Thank you

[@160p2GHz]

10% benzol peroxide each night basically was the only thing that worked on my cystic acne and it was like from a constant painful problem to nothing, maybe if I'm not mindful and touch my face I'll get one or two around my period. But yea I didn't get how seriously it works as a bleach. My favourite tees are ruined. Main help is to always change into jammies and wash them separate from tees and other things that lose color easy.

[@pichousakirito168]

11:37 this is so true. I have experimented with countless skincare to compact whiteheads and closed comedones. Nth works better than a AHA cleanser OR toner. It’s gentle and reduce over-exfoliation than cream and serums.

[@SuperNathalies]

I don´t have acne and I never had, but I´m watching you video because I like your nerdy video´s 🙂 you deserve more subscribers in my opinion.

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Thank you so much!! 🥰

[@ThisPaola]

Thank you! I’m actually not a teenager anymore, but my skin forgot to grow up 😂

[@elingrrr]

A good alternative for the Cicaplast Baume is the Cicabio creme by Bioderma, great alternative. Also, crying about Simple discontinuing their cleansing oil it was dirty cheap and good af. My favorite gel moisturizer is the Bioderma Atoderme Gel and for drier climate the Baume or Cream from the same line 10/10 super simple and soothing textures

[@miri2810]

I've found that the really cheap neutrogena moisturizing cream (it is marketed as a body cream) works really well for my oily skin.

[@tomfondly5266]

I used to pick dry flakes with tweezers too. Oh the things we did to our skin.🤦

[@Kate-uj9rx]

Thank you so much! I'm Afab but planning to go on T once I'm an adult! Thing is my skin is so oily and acne prone! I've heard T might bring that out more so I'm really trying to educate myself on how to do this thing! :]

[@ZijnShayatanica]

I'm excited for your future! I'm also planning to go on T at some point in the future [already an adult but I have health issues to sort out first] & am watching for the same reason, lol.

[@siginotmylastname3969]

Third person in the queue, we're 7 months on T and getting the acne lol.

[@TheNoodChannel]

It’s nice to know I’m not the only one with acne and flaky, dry skin at the exact same time…

[@AJ-ny1ox]

I used Finacea when I was a kid on my cheeks for rosacea...I hated it because it burned about a minute before dying down, but it faded the redness some. Glad I quit it after awhile haha.

[@ItsErin-R]

Yes, I lance pimples when they're ready because it creates less trauma. I know I'm going to squeeze it anyway.

[@ladygagarocks21]

Not a teen but I have a sunscreen to add to this list Cancer Council Face Day Wear Fluid Matte it’s definitely my new go to! It has bemotrizinol and bisoctrizole I don’t notice any white cast despite the bisoctrizole and have no eye sting!

[@raygin6581]

I have dry acne prone skin. Its so hard to find good products because most acne products are aimed at oily skin

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Argh that's true! Although a lot of acne care is less about stripping skin now, so if you go for some of the gentler, more hydrating options and follow with a moisturiser that can work well.

[@94blahblah]

Michelle!!! Could you please shed some light on whether it’s ok to store skincare/beauty products in the bathroom or not? I heard it’s bad because the moisture makes the active ingredients break down, but how valid really is this concern if products are all in tightly sealed packaging? Would love it if you could delve deeper into this topic for a future video. Love your channel thank you so much :)

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

I talked about it a little here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4Kve6mqnbeImKs Only really an issue if moisture gets into them!

[@nymeroe]

As always your guides are amazing and I have already made a list for some products to try as I'm currently battling a fresh outbreak of mask related skin irritation lol

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

That's great to hear! I've personally found that a mix of salicylic acid and niacinamide (to build the barrier back up) has been helpful, I know a lot of people like benzoyl peroxide washes for that too...

[@nymeroe]

@@LabMuffinBeautyScience I've been using niacinamide from the Ordinary, but I'm also going to try a face wash with salicylic acid. I love your vids and find them super helpful, so thank you ❤

[@meremeth]

Im in the same boat, benzoyl peroxide was a game changer!!

[@AkshayDhargave]

@ 16:55 the K-Mart OXX Skincare SPF 50+ Face Moisturiser and Sunscreen. It's an absolute best for my oily skin.

[@SebastianSeanCrow]

12:55 honestly that’s why I use pimple patches and drawing salve

[@TheArcSet]

Thanks for this video. Could I ask how you think active ingredient products might react to skin post dermablading, or for those of us who generally remove excess hair and epidermis every 2-3 days ; ) . Would some products work better on exposed skin, or would it generally be better to cover with an emollient and save active ingredient products for few hours?

[@ClockitENT]

I wish Vanicream products got more love. I love them it’s great for sensitive skin

[@ellodeya]

It would be actually good to focus on ingredients rather than on specific products. I live in a country where everything that you’ve listed either not available or super overpriced because of transportation costs.

[@fishscales28]

I have oily skin, used to have more acne but after salicylic acid and retinol use for a few weeks its mostly gone I only got a few new breakouts after that, but I use the neutrogena hydro gel moisturizer

[@electrolier]

Neutrogena Hydro Boost *Gel Cream* is NOT fragranced. The Hydro Boost *Water Gel* formula has fragrance. The Gel Cream is my ride or die moisturizer, I've used it exclusively since 2017 on my acne- and dermatitis-prone skin!

[@rambutketiak]

J-beauty have a good variety of cleansing oil. The one that I like is biore (under $10). I find using cleansing oil is practical because the products come in a pump bottle and you just use your hands to massage and then rinse. I want to try the muji one but they’re not available here.

[@joyuna]

18:50 About the Neutrogena Hydro Boost, the Gel Cream is fragrance free, but the Water Gel isn't. They both come in the same shaped tub so it can be confusing to get the right one. The Iunik gel on the other hand has a very noticeable citrus scent to me

[@wanjina618]

I reckon the Hydro Boost gel cream is amazing. I bought it for my husband and now my daughter uses it too. You often see it half price at Woolies and Coles and Chemist Warehouse sells it cheaper than it's RRP of about $28. Update: like most things, it's gone up recently, now $30. Woolies has it at $21 and CW $19 right now.

[@zoejackson3464]

Love your videos! I have a question about cleansing! I use Epiduo 0.1/2.5% every other night, and I'm wondering if it's important to wash off in the morning? I think my skin is happier with less cleansing, but I also don't want to leave BP on my face all day.

[@debedwards1717]

I use baby oil to remove my makeup and follow with CeraVe moisturising cream cleanser.

[@syidahossain2162]

Can I use bha products. I am 15 years old.I have acne and blackheads.

[@moev29]

Ah sweet, brilliant, informative Dr. Michelle. Where were you were I was a teenager? (Rhetorical since I know you were also a teenager destroying your skin around the same time lol)

[@LabMuffinBeautyScience]

Hahahaha yes 😩 If only I could go back in time and shake some sense into Teenage Michelle (and gift her some products)