Asked & Answered: Reversing Acne-Prone Skin

I have struggled with acne for as long as I can remember. I felt uncomfortable taking photos because of how noticeable it was on my face, and I would never go in public without makeup.

Searching for solutions everywhere, I tried every skin care line from the common drugstore to high end department stores, saw dermatologist after dermatologist and attempted every possible skin care regimen to no avail.

Feeling completely hopeless, I was convinced my skin would never find a remedy.

I eventually tested out ZO by Dr. Obagi with zero initial expectations. With great patience, I gave my skin about four to six weeks to purge and become overall healthy again. To my astonishment, I began experiencing an immense positive change in my skin! Along with my individualized ZO regimen, I made sure to meet with my esthetician every month to help with extractions and deep cleaning my skin.

At the age of 25 and after roughly twelve years of my severe acne struggles, I am finally confident enough to walk around with no makeup and feel good about it! ZO has been the complete and transformative remedy that I have been searching for for years.

Every patient’s skin is different, but below is Andrea’s confident-boosting ZO skin care regimen outline. Call (615) 771-7718 to schedule an individualized consultation with our Licensed Esthetician and undercover what your skin desires to be brighter and healthier this summer!

Products used:

Get Skin Ready

Step 1: Cleanse

ZO Gentle Cleanser

Step 2: Exfoliate

VitaScrub – with Salicylic acid (used when breaking out)

Ossential Exfoliating Polish – one to two times a week for deep exfoliation (feels like an at-home microdermabrasion!)

Step 3: Tone

Calming Toner – pH balance

Oil Control Pads – 2% Salicylic Acid (I used these when my acne was more severe – I am now gentler on my skin by toning with the Calming Toner daily)

Treatment

Ossential Daily Power Defense – This product needs to be on everyone’s must-have list – I can’t live without mine! It’s a powerful antioxidant serum that prevents fine lines, wrinkles and counteracts further damage for your skin. It leaves my skin feeling so fresh and hydrated and it smells incredible!

Retamax – My retinol, the very last step in my routine before bed. I have seen a significant improvement in my skin’s overall texture, and it has helped clear up my acne.

Aknetrol – The best spot treatment. Ever. I spot treat any breakouts I do have, and they disappear almost instantly.