What is the matter with my face?
EDS Skin Care Forums Forum Index » Skin Care and Makeup Forum

Tue Jan 13, 2009 5:17 pm

My skin looks horrible. I'm 25 and look like I'm about 50. I have milia all over the place and fine lines from dehydration. I have very pale, sensitive skin. If I just scratch my chest if I have an itch, I have red marks for about an hour.

If I had to describe what my skin looks like, it would be this: Imagine a piece of wood with a varnish on it. Imagine that piece of wood if it's been walked on over and over and over until the gloss has worn away and what is left is a raw piece of wood. That is what my face looks like. Raw, dull and awful. My pores are enlarged (particularly under the eyes and next to my nose) and if I tug on it, it takes a long while for it to regain its form.

I have no idea what's going on. I'm worried that I'm permanently damaged. I used to be a really good looking guy and now I look like complete rubbish. It's so bad that people look at me funny. My self esteem has been shot to pieces.

My routine is the following:

Wash my face in the morning with Neutrogena Facial Cleansing Bar (fragrance free)
Shave using Aveeno shave cream (with grain only)
Moisturize with Neutrogena Healthy Defense Moisturizer with Spf 45
and at night, wash my face with the Cleansing Bar again

Here's the thing, though, I've used numerous products and my skin always looks awful, regardless of the product. I have no idea what to do. I can't see a dermatologist because I don't have health insurance.

Please help. Sad

free skin care · Tue Jan 13, 2009 5:31 pm

I had a spell where my face was really dull and dry also (hormones from the baby I think) so I started using the PSF pumpkin peel every 4 days for about a half hour, followed by the Juara Tumeric mask for at least a half hour. Afterwards my face just feels so smooth and looks alot brighter. I used to have some milia under my eyes and blackheads on my nose, but no more. I see you are already using a sunscreen, which is really important when using the pumpkin peel. And I don't think you have to worry about using this with sensitive skin (although be sure to do a skin test anyway) because I also have very sensitive skin to the point if I scratch it I get a small welt, not just a red mark. I also had good results using the Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel, but it turned my face beet red for hours. The pumpkin peel did not do that to me. I started with only 5 mins the first night then gradually added 5 mins each time I used it until I got to a half hour. I've left it on an hour before with no problem. The peel and the mask can be bought here on EDS. Another thing to try that I love and have been using for about 15 years is Oil of Olay regenerist serum. I use it every night on the areas that wrinkles are known to start, especially under my eye where dehydration seems to appear first on my face, and by morning all signs of lines are gone. I love the stuff and will never give it up.

Tue Jan 13, 2009 5:45 pm

Thank you for the response, but I don't think a peel is a good idea. I get the impression that my skin is damaged, not congested. A facial peel or exfoliant is probably going to make the problem worse...

free skin care · Tue Jan 13, 2009 5:51 pm

If you face is raw as you say, then you need to treat it with sensitive products to allow it to repair. Have you done anything that you think would damage your skin? I would start using Cetaphil cleanser as it is gentle. You need an anti aging product but a gentle one since you skin seems dry and sensitive. Olay 7 total effects with Niacinamide might be good for your skin, it also comes in a fragrance free version. You could use it at night.

It seems that the collagen and elastin in your skin isnt great right now, since it doesn't spring back like it should at your age. Retin A is what I would normally recommend, but if you have sensntive skin you should avoid it until your skin is in better condition. It will also help dramatically with pores.

Until then, consider a Vitamin C product. Vitamin C is actually an anti inflammatory (as is Niacinamide). The only problem is that it is hard to formulate and good formulations can be expensive. Maybe try CellularSkinRx. You can get it here, it is only 38 dollars, lasts a long time, and you only need 3 little drops for your whole face. It will increase collagen in your skin.

If you skin is very sensitive you may consider an electric shaver rather than using a razor.

Allow at least 3 months to see benefits.

free skin care · Tue Jan 13, 2009 5:52 pm

Salvador I think that you should look at Sothys Immuniscience Line. Before I started using it my skin was very very sensitive, it looked very dry but underneath was very oily. I could not use even sunscreen on it, God forbit makeup. But after going through one course of the line which lasts about 6 months my skin is so much better now. I can actually use the peels.

However, since you say that even when you scratch your chest the red mark stays for an hour, it might be something wrong with your skin from the inside. I would definitely go and see a dermatologist if I was you. They will be able to recognise the problem and then it will be up to you whether you will want to take the medication that they give you or try something a little more gentle.

I can only recommend Sothy's immuniscience from personal experience with my problem. It might not be the best thing for you but I know that it's great for sensitive skin.

Svetlana

Tue Jan 13, 2009 6:04 pm

I probably spoke rather liberally when I said the red marks last an hour. They probably last more like ten minutes. I just scratched my chest and they're there, so I'll time it and see!

I can't think of anything I've done lately that would damage my skin to such an extent. I did use an exfoliating facial scrub about a month ago, but that seems like a long time.

The thing is, my skin is actually normally oily. It's only been during this spell that it has become so dry and dehydrated. I used to look like a bathed in bacon fat by about noon. Now I'm lucky if I have any oil at all by the end of the day.

The other thing is, my skin seems to get worse as the day goes on. Albeit, it's never great, but it seems to get more dehydrated by evening. Maybe because the moisturizer is evaporating or something...?

free skin care · Tue Jan 13, 2009 6:07 pm

I honestly think that Sothys immuniscience line would help you. My skin was like that too.

I used only the Milk Cleanser, Toner and the fluid but if your skin is too dry then use the cream on top or instead of the fluid.

I can't be more greatful to my beautician for recommending it to me.

free skin care · Tue Jan 13, 2009 6:19 pm

at least,i think you should switch cleaner bar to cetaphill cleanser.

free skin care · Tue Jan 13, 2009 7:02 pm

Since your skin is really sensitive, I recommend switching to a physical sunscreen with zinc oxide. Besides being a great sunscreen, zinc oxide is also anti inflammatory. I like Devita (for the body, it's really not expensive for the amount you get at all) and it's 14% zinc oxide. There are also a lot of other options for physical sunscreen, but Devita is an excellent option for sensitive skin.

Also, try doing honey masks. Honey is also a great anti bacterial, anti inflammatory, and it'll also hydrate you skin and kind brighten it up. Honey is not expensive at all if you get the regular honey that's sold in the supermarket.

free skin care · Wed Jan 14, 2009 7:57 am

Do you think you might have rosacea? If so, a dermatologist might be a good investment.

Like someone suggested, a physical sunscreen would be good. I also suggest a really good Dove product-- Sensitive Skin . It comes in a lighter lotion and a cream in a little pot. You can get them at a drug sore for about $6. Use it liberally, twice a day. It's winter and our skin loses it's moisture and elasticity quickly.

I'd also stop with the Aveeno shave cream. I have sensitive skin also, and it still irritated my skin-- left my legs itchy and with red bumps. I would suggest Kiss My Face moisture shave. This is pretty widely available also, in different scents, even a non-scented. It's the only shave cream that doesn't make me itch and break out in bumps. (it's for girls and boys, btw!)

Wed Jan 14, 2009 8:41 am

Since you're only 25 and this seems to be recent, I'd strongly suggest you see an MD. Skin issues can be indicative of other health concerns, and you're too young to suddenly need an anti-aging regimen. Are you dehydrated? Late nights and not enough water can be a bad combo, or if you are taking other medications this could be a side effect. But only a doctor can tell you for sure, and if you're strapped for cash you might check for a local clinic with walk in hours. At any rate, it will probably cost less than a jar of expensive cream, and if there aren't other underlying issues the MD can probably help you with your skin concerns. Sorry to sound like a mom, and HTH.

free skin care · Wed Jan 14, 2009 9:03 am

Salvador do you live in a cold climate? Winter can be a killer on skin. If you house is dry your skin will reflect that.

Also have you changed your eating, sleeping, any daily routines lately? Are you hydrated properly.

The pumkin peel is not harsh at all - there is a very gentle reasonable priced one on Skinactives.com.

First however you might want to examine your environmental surroundings to see what if anything has changed.

free skin care · Wed Jan 14, 2009 10:41 am

I second the suggestion to switch to Kiss My Face shaving cream, just because it's so much gentler than that Aveeno stuff, and provides a closer, smoother shave. The bar soap is also probably a little too much for your skin now that it's winter. I'd switch to a gentle creamy or milky cleanser. Cetaphil might be worth a shot since it's cheap and readily available, though it's not my favorite cleanser.

I'm also wondering whether there has been a change in your diet or health or environment that may explain the changes in your skin. Have you been ill? Stressed? Are you on medication? Are you eating well, taking a multivitamin and drinking enough water?

free skin care · Wed Jan 14, 2009 2:08 pm

Hello, Salvatore, welcome to EDS!
Because your skin is so sensitive everywhere (not just your face) I believe you need to treat your skin systemically with nutrients taken internally. I found the following information onwww.naturalnews.com

"Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, and all skin conditions, from psoriasis to acne to aging, are the manifestations of your body's internal needs, including its nutritional needs," says Dr. Georgiana Donadio, founder of the National Institute of Whole Health.

Recent research has shown that the skin reacts particularly well to certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that nourish the skin, making it appear youthful and healthy. The following nutrients are among the very best to consume for healthy, young-looking skin:

Silica:Silica is a trace mineral that strengthens the body's connective tissues - muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments, nails, cartilage, and bone - and is vital for healthy skin. Silica deficiency can result in reduced skin elasticity and can hamper the body's ability to heal wounds. Food sources of silica include leeks, green beans, garbanzo beans, strawberries, cucumber, mango, celery, asparagus and rhubarb. In its natural form, silica is found in the horsetail herb. Silica is also available as a concentrated liquid supplement from Eidon Ionic Minerals (www.eidon.com)

Zinc: The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell. Zinc consumption is also strongly linked to a reduction of prostate cancer.

Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, Brazil nuts, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.

free skin care · Wed Jan 14, 2009 7:01 pm

I think other than topical products, diet and nutrition play a key role in your inner health and outer beauty. Maybe you should look at your diet a bit more closely see if you need to add Omega 3 oil supplement.
From what you described I dont think your skin is permanently damaged. Hydration is the probably #1 issue you should deal with. A well dydrated face will look supple again. If what you described happend just recently, I suspect it was an allergic reaction to something you used lately. I have experenced something like that before. With proper care you can get back to your nomal youthful look again.

free skin care · Thu Jan 15, 2009 12:43 am

Salvador, here is the thread you posted on December 30th in case you want to reread any of the prior recommendations people made for you.

http://www.essentialdayspa.com/forum/viewthread.php?tid=32068&highlight=

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