My Skin Freaked Out After Going Off BC—This Is the Skincare Regimen That Helped
Photo:
@shawnasimonee
I recently went to Biologique Recherche Ambassade, the brand's new flagship store in L.A., and it was a game-changer for my skin. I received a skin analysis that told me all about my skin's current makeup and what needs improvement. It was extremely helpful and my facialist suggested I start with this milky botanical cleanser because it's great for sensitive, reactive skin. It's quite literally the best face wash I've used for my skin type. Most other face washes have caused my skin to be dry or would irritate breakouts even more and I didn't even realize it. But this beauty of a cleanser does none of that and leaves my skin so soft and hydrated.
Before you start thinking that Biologique gave me all these products for free and that's why I'm saying this, think again. I purchased these products with my own money because I was that impressed after getting a custom facial at the Ambassade. P50W is the brand's most gentle exfoliating lotion for sensitive skin and the glow I've seen after using it is incredible. Yes, Biologique products are also definitely higher-end price-wise, but I wouldn't be recommending them if I wasn't super impressed with the results. They're well worth it and P50W keeps my pores clear without overdrying my skin.
Dermpore works over time with a high concentration of active ingredients to tighten dilated pores which can cause acne. It also helps purify the epidermis and keeps it matte and looking fresh. This has been a key serum for me along with the brand's corresponding creme.
Creme Dermopurifiante was the most recommended product for my skin by the facialist at Biologique. It has a high concentration of antibacterial ingredients that work together with Dermopore to cleanse the epidermis of acne-causing bacteria. I've been using it for a little over a month now and have noticed a massive improvement in the acne along my jawline. It has fast become my new favorite cream. It also leaves my skin feeling really fresh and hydrated despite being a strong acne fighter.
I do at-home microcurrent treatments two or three times a week and that has also really improved the texture and tone of my skin. This ATP Booster Gel Mask is great to layer under conductivity gel when doing a microcurrent treatment because it helps stimulate cell renewal and boosts ATP production, resulting in less redness, reduced acne, and scarring on my face.
I'm a big fan of face oils and Byrdoum's organic 100% pure desert date oil is packed with antioxidants and restorative fatty acids that leave my skin glowing and hydrated. I mix a drop with my face cream in the morning and it helps improve hydration levels and reduces any inflamed acne.
As I mentioned above, I love using herbal supplements and tinctures like Cycle Balance from Elix to help correct any hormonal imbalances. Elix is great for anyone who's just going off birth control because each blend is custom-designed for your needs. You take a 10-minute health assessment beforehand and using well-loved herbs in traditional Chinese medicine, they'll create a blend for you and your specific cycle. I honestly credit this product the most for helping improve period symptoms and breakouts. Any cramps during my period have begun to be less and less of an issue every month I take it as well as any new breakouts.
This is another antioxidant-rich face mask that I'm obsessed with. It's designed to help with hormonal breakouts and leaves my skin super radiant after using it.
"This cleanser is hydrating, dissolves makeup, dirt, and sunscreen without over-stripping the skin."—Shirazi
"This is a gentle toner with succinic acid, hydrating vitamin B5 panthenol, and licorice-root extract which is clarifying yet gentle enough to be used daily."—Shirazi
Shirazi recommends this rich moisturizer from Biossance because it's packed with essential lipids that mimic and support the skin's natural moisture barrier. It also contains squalane, omega fatty acids, ceramides, and plant sterols to nourish and plump the skin.
"These are clinical grade with salicylic acid and glycolic acid. You can use them once or twice a week to help clear up skin."—Shirazi
Board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, recommends this AHA and BHA toner to help exfoliate dead skin cells and deep clean the pores. It'll leave your skin refreshed with a smoother texture.
"Vitamin C serums help neutralize free oxygen radicals that develop throughout the day as a result of UV radiation, cellular metabolism, and exposure to pollutants. This 15% vitamin C serum helps increase the skin's radiance and evens skin tone."—Camp