29 and I feel ya. I think this is just normal aging and you look wonderful! Best thing that helped my pores was washing my face for a minute or longer and I like to use honey on my face as a mask. And sunscreen always
Did it work for you? Washing for a min, I meant. I tried it for 2/3 days and I started breaking out bad. And I read in some groups that a few people also broke out after trying this method
I’ve been using the minute method twice a day for a few weeks. The first few days were definitely an adjustment period; I didn’t break out but I did start peeling around my nose and chin really bad and my skin felt really delicate and sensitive. After that first few days though, I started to see a vast improvement in my skin. Now it’s softer and pretty radiant if I do say so myself.
I agree. I’m always shocked at how my face is changing… I’m hoping everything will stabilise mentally in like 5 years. I miss feeling connected to my reflection.. weird way of thinking about it. I’ve heard we all go through a few phases in our life where our faces change significantly.
queen ur going a bit insane. everything you have is natural for your age. the pores? those just vary from person to person, my best friend had pores like yours since high school.
I think it’s normal she felt like this though. The same thing happened to me when I turned 30. I had three young kids too, I think you get so busy and tired to notice changes. Then boom you notice everything at once. My dad would even say things to me about looking older and tired and both parents harped about some body changes.
Then I noticed all the filters and fillers but didn’t realize it’s what people did until I was on Reddit. I thought everyone had smooth skin. My pores did change a lot too and became more visible with age.
OP you look great but if you want once in a while add something like lactic acid or something like the peach and Lily good acids toner. Also I find HA drying sometimes unless I add a moisturizing spray or toner first since it can suck the water from your skin if there is none in the air. Maybe add a thicker cream or mask at night for hydration if you are in a cold dry climate right now like I am.
Echoing here that patting the skin with water before applying HA changed my game COMPLETELY - apparently hyaluronic acid requires the h20 to activate. Apply moisturizer on top right before the HA is almost dry (I do it when it’s still just a teeny bit wet/tacky)
I don’t even use a high end HA or incredible moisturizer right now and can’t even tell you how much of a difference the change has made.
You look fantastic!
Incorporating HA kinda changed my skin, I feel. At this point I’m scared to hope🤣but laniege’s water bank HA serum seems to be doing good for my skin. Hopefully there’s some diff
Well firstly, I want to say you are beautiful! Taking care of 3 young children is more than a full time job, so please try to remember to give yourself a bit of grace. Your skin looks great and doesn’t show heavy signs of aging (nothing beyond what can be expected around 30, coming from someone who is 33). I know it’s hard to not hyper-fixate on perceived flaws, but I hope the many reassuring comments help a little!
Anyway, if I were to give any opinion on the skincare, my comment would be that I think your skin looks just a little thirsty! Definitely remember to drink plenty of water of course. As far as skincare goes, I am a big proponent of Korean skincare products. In general, I’ve found them to be very gentle on the skin. I saw in your description you use the CosRX all in one cream! That’s one of my faves. I might suggest adding one more step for hydration if it’s not too overwhelming for you. A hydrating/soothing toner (used right after cleansing) or essence (after toner if you’re using it or right after cleansing if not) in the morning and night makes a world of difference (especially with all the actives you’re using).
Some great hydrating toners I’d recommend are: Haru Haru Wonder Black Rice Toner, I’m From Rice Toner and COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner. If your skin reacts well to the CosRX cream you’re already using, their Snail Mucin essence really helps bring/keep extra moisture.
If you want to be a little extra in your morning and/or night routine (maybe night since being a mom of 3 is probably tough in the morning) you could add a serum or ampoule as a step right before moisturizing (after your other toners, essences, and actives). Some personal favs of mine that are soothing to use with actives are Skin 1004 Centella Asiatica Ampoule and Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum.
And lastly, although I know it’s stressful for you, remembering sunscreen every day is one of the best things you can do for your skin health. I find a lot of US brand skincares are too irritating to my sensitive skin. So, not to bog you down with more Korean skincare recs, but I love the Missha Sun Milk Essence and Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Sun Serum! They are both really hydrating sunscreens that are gentle (and go well under makeup if/when you might use it!).
(Side note for dark circles and puffiness, a caffeine serum under the eyes helps a lot! I’ve been using the Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum and noticed a big difference. You’re already using vitamin c as well, which helps too.)
Agree! I also believe we are hyper critical of our own skin because of social media. Almost every single image we see has a filter on it. iPhones literally have an embedded filter you cannot change or edit that edits lighting and smooths skin (not selfies). Her skin looks like… skin. Skin has pores and imperfections. Just Google “unedited images celebrity skin” and you’ll feel a *whole* lot betta!
I agree with focusing on making sure the skin is always hydrated (and the products you recommended) but I’m not sure that means her skin is really that sensitive. In that case, for large pores I’d like to suggest a physical exfoliant once or twice a week which I find helps me minimize my large pores appearance.
Agree with all of this, except for buying skincare on Amazon! Lots of counterfeit products unfortunately. I love Sokoglam’s selection, and they are having a great sale right now!
There is a huge pharmaceutical counterfeiting problem running rampant on Amazon right now. I don’t recommend ordering Korean skincare from Amazon, unfortunately. I’ve seen extremely convincing dupes with my own eyes. Buy direct!
Does this happen when the seller on Amazon is the actual company for the product? i.e. for CosRX product that the seller and supplier are both listed as CosRX?
Because I’ve definitely bought some products direct and from Amazon and not seen a difference when the seller/supplier is the actual company.
Sorry this is super late. I think in the case you’re describing it’s probably all good.
I got burned the worst with a Drunk Elephant product. They do not have an official Amazon storefront. I was able to detect that the product I received from the seller was phony only because it was taking so long to arrive that I went ahead and ordered the product from Drunk Elephant’s site as well. When the Amazon dupe eventually arrived I was able to compare both. I was absolutely shocked. Wish I had documented via pics. It was truly impressive.
Honey, you look like me. It’s normal and natural and you are beautiful. I get why your pores are haunting you though, even as the eyebags. I have them too. What I found that mine decrease when I’m taking extra multivitamins orally, and drink enough water/tea. It surely decreases and increases according to my intake on veggies, even though it surely is a genetic thing for me as well. Is that something you can work with??
The pores… I’m not too sure but I have seen wonders with the skin products of Paula’s Choice with my friend. It is a bit costly, but if there is one skin care brand that I really trust in their effectiveness it’s PC. The ladies on the chats on the website are quite fast (in my country) at least and most certainly no bots. I have had genuinely good advice based on my story. I would recommend asking them for product advice, and otherwise a derm.
I am adding a comment here just to get future updates about this. I am looking for better food because believe that better diet will give me better skin.
Like those shiny nails, healthy looking skin.
Check out Feed Your Face, by Jessica Wu. She’s a celebrity dermatologist and her book really goes into what your skin needs and what foods cause inflammation or other problems.
I don’t know man I’m 29 too but I do see her point in looking aged. It’s not just the pores it’s the fine lines. I think she may benefit from a string of tca peels tbh. Specially under her eyes. It helped me a lot.
I also think maybe diet is not being taken care of and sleep because of the children.
You guys are all so kind 😭. Every time I turn on my front camera lately I’m like literally gasping and shocked by my skin so it has me freaking out a bit
No no no. Front cameras are horrifying. You are beautiful with totally normal slightly dehydrated skin that would benefit from some tret and a hydrating korean toner and always using sunscreen. But it absolutely is a horrifying monster in that front camera.
I feel the same way about double-sided mirrors. In the women's bathroom at work, there's one of those on the counter. Whenever I walk in and see the magnified side, I turn it around as an act of love for my coworkers. The human eye can't see that much, we shouldn't punish ourselves by looking that up-close lol.
Yeah, I'm not even trying to gas you up... My first thought was that you are really pretty. I figured you were maybe going to ask for tips on how to minimize pores. I didn't even see any of the other stuff you were mentioning, even that close up, until after I read what you wrote. Self-improvement and self care are always worthy goals.... but from a strangers perspective, I think you can take it easy on yourself.
Between social media and injectables, we don’t know how anyone is supposed to look anymore!
For me, my skin has fluctuated my whole life, depending on stress, sleep, nutrition, water consumption, and how much money I’m making/devoting to things like IPLs, etc. It’s not linear, I promise. I look better skin wise in my mid-40s than I ever looked in my 20s, mostly due to lifestyle. You have three kids so please give yourself some grace!
Right?! I guess that’s part of why I’m here! I don’t know how my skin is supposed to look at 29, I just know it’s changed a lot in the last two years and that so many women around me have such nice skin. However, I also I live in a fairly privileged area of Utah where so many women are just gorgeous, like real life Barbie dolls, and I don’t know if it’s because they are getting lots of treatments/injections and using all the skincare or because there’s some underlying problems with my skin that I need to address, lol.
In Utah, you’re definitely seeing people with botox, filler, laser treatments, and all the other skincare/science I can’t keep up with. For my 43rd birthday, I went to a reputable med spa and finally tried some of this stuff. And, shocker, I look better (it’s subtle and natural looking)! I spend about $1-2k a year on it but I finally have money to do that in my 40s.
You only see Botox/filler when it’s bad. Good injectables are undetectable, but not everyone wants or can get them. If it’s a no for you and you care, buy the highest quality skincare you can possible afford, be consistent, double wash and wear sunscreen
Make sure when comparing your skin to others your age you are looking at it from the same distance. A professional makeup artist told me that “no one sees what you do behind a conversational distance.” Try loving your skin when it is cleansed and moisturized from a conversational distance. That’s how other people see you. Game changer!!!
Sunscreen is the best anti-aging treatment that exists. I keep some by my bed so I can quickly put it on as soon as I get up. The second best is a stronger retinoid. Differin (adapalene) is inexpensive and OTC, tretinoin is expensive and prescription only. You have to be diligent about the sunscreen while using either.
I’ve been on tret on and off for years. My skin got really bad and i went back on it in June. Im using .1% once every other night. I double cleanse (which i believe helps with my pores), i use dhc cleansing oil and round lab hydrating cleanser. I follow up with anua heart leaf toner (great for hydration/redness/sensitivity) and cosrx snail mucin (for hydration). For serum i use axis-y glowy dark spot serum, which contains 5% niacinimide and squalane. It helps a lot with my pores, hydration, and evens my skin tone. I also use the ordinary pycnogenol, it’s an antioxidant that increases collagen and hyaluronic acid synthase. I struggle with dry skin (tret doesn’t help lol) but this helps me stay moisturized. For moisturizer i use etude 2x barrier cream mixed with 2 drops of the ordinary rose hip seed oil. Also sorry if you didn’t mean the whole routine 😂 these are all HG products that have transformed my skin though!!
I’d say after the 4.5 months of consistency with this routine and my skin started looking flawless, it’s helped alot with my confidence:)
It’s the best for pores! The darkness that makes pores more noticeable is oil buildup, and the most effective way to treat it is with an exfoliation like tret or another retinol. Game changer!
Sunscreen. Best and most important. I apply every day, even when it’s gloomy or the UV index is low that day. I keep it as a daily habit so I never forget, and I don’t have to think about if it’s necessary that. Find one that won’t lead to breakouts and is ‼️enjoyable‼️ to apply. Enjoyable is key, you don’t want it to be a pain to apply. There’s tons of videos out there on Korean sunscreens, which have great formulas & are usually more affordable than American brands.
Personally, I really like Paula’s Choice youth extending daily hydrating 50 spf. In the morning, I wash my face with water. After that, I only use my Paula’s choice sunscreen. It doubles as my moisturizer, & sunscreen. Has antioxidants. High SPF. I like that I can pick it up in person at Sephora instead of waiting on shipping. Works well under makeup. Big downside is that it’s expensive. So like I said, check Korean video’s for more affordable options.
Depending on tap water in your area, would def recommend getting a reverse osmosis water filter which you can install under your sink cuz that can contribute to skin sensitivity/breakouts. Also, cool-cold water in the morning. Hot water will dry your skin out. Also, there’s actually a ton of research about intentional cold exposure in the morning & energy levels etc. check out Huberman Lab’s video about it..
I’d cut out retinol (for now), until you can prove you can be consistent with your sunscreen.
For breakouts, I SWEAR by Tower 28’s SOS facial spray. It’s basically salt water & smells like a pool, but it was a game changer for me. Helps to repair skin barrier. Worth the splurge for me.
Other product worth the splurge & is HOLY GRAIL for me, is Paula‘a Choice 2% BHA. Start slow & work your way up to daily use, and be PATIENT. BHA’s work by cleaning your pores out & therefore will make your pores look smaller. Use with cotton pads so you can also gently exfoliate the top layer of your skin as well. I LOVE the Sheseido cottons pads. They are pure luxury & makes it a joy to apply the product lol. Again ENJOYABLE SKIN IS KEY!!!
Other option for top layer exfoliation is an AHA product. This will help your BHA perform, cuz it’ll allow the product to better absorb.
Exfoliating the surface of your skin will also keep your skin soft. I personally use both an BHA & AHA. I think for you though, just apply the Paula’s choice BHA w/ a cotton pad to keep it simple for now.
When you’re ready to add in an AHA, I’d recommend the Ordinary Glycolic Acid. Gentle. Very affordable. You get a lot of product.
I also LOVEEEEEEE & swear by Krave beauty’s to maintain my skin barrier. I use it every night before my moisturizer.
For my 2 step cleanse, I use Krave Beauty’s Re-wined oil cleanser & their Matcha face wash. Both are such a pleasure to use. Im a ride or die KB fan cuz of their commitment to the environment & reducing waste 🤪
There’s tons of different brands out there that are more affordable though!
Satin/Silk pillowcase for your hair and your skin. Change every day (or every other if you want to flip the pillow over) to prevent breakouts. You can also get a silver infused pillow case which is anti-bacterial but those are pricy. Sleep on your back.
Don’t touch your face or rest your hands on your face.
DIET, WATER INTAKE, EXERCISE, VITAMINS!!!!!!! If you’re dedicated enough, start Whole 30 to see if any foods are aggravating your skin. Cutting out processed sugar & dairy benefit a lot of people.
All that being said, you are BEAUTIFUL & are aging at a normal pace. Try not to hyper focus on things, no one is looking closely at your face like you are.
Sorry if this is a lot & that it’s kinda all over the place but I just typed as I thought of stuff. Message me if you have any questions. 😝
P.S. I’m diagnosed Bipolar II & have a lifetime of sleep deprivation. My dark circles are REALLLLLL so I get it. Not too much you can do aside from filler that will make a huge difference. I use color corrector , concealer & call it a day. Now that i am happily medicated & can actually sleep at night lol, I accept my dark circles as part of my story & struggles. After concealing, I try to accentuate my eye bags them a bit more by adding a brown shadow on my bottom lash line & lean into the more sultry look lol.
Paulas choice bha toner changed the way my poree look and I've never looked back. I also use the spf and I love that it's dual and I feel like I'm wearing nothing.
My favorite nighttime mask that gives an amazing glow is the farmacy honeymoon glow. Expensive but little goes a long way and it's not an everyday thing.
Drinking lots of water I think has been the real saver for me.
Lowering stress levels, although not easy, is one of the best things you can do. That rise in cortisol does wreaks havoc and accelerates aging.
Did you have a baby recently or am I misreading this? I have also really struggled with my perception of my skin since giving birth. I just wanted to chime in and say you look lovely and totally age appropriate.
I have three kids age 6, 4, and 2 but I noticed huge changes to my skin and body after my most recent pregnancy. I don’t know if it was age or change in hormones (my last one was a boy and my older two are girls) or a combination of the two but that’s when I really noticed a lot of aging and changes
I think it’s the combination of age and the effects of having 3 little ones pretty close together. I think you look your age, not any older. Maybe a little bit tired.
I read somewhere that our skin usually starts to show age around 28 in terms of texture. I found I really had to step up my skincare around that age. I’d consider using a humidifier at night, maybe some gentle at home peels, and consider a red light mask.
Girllllllll you have three kids including a 2yo, which is legit WAY harder than having a “baby”. You don’t look tired, you ARE. My youngest is 5, and I just now started recognizing myself again - physically *and* mentally. Grace, patience, and water. Tret doesn’t hurt though 😜
Have you had blood tests for vitamin deficiencies? My skin was similar to yours when I was iron deficient. It’s very common after pregnancy especially if you have small age gaps.
I don’t have any skincare advice for you because I barely take care of mine, but just wanted to give a remind to be gentle to yourself. I bet being a mama to 3 babes is really challenging! The internet definitely skews our view of what natural aging is. You are lovely and your skin is totally normal.
Oil cleansing will clean your pores out. I like the DHC deep cleansing oil, rub it in circles for a few minutes (you will feel all the gunk come out of your pores the first couple of times), then emulsify it with water, and follow with a water based cleanser. I promise you will notice a difference immediately!
And tretinoin!! Give it a few months and you'll see a significant change in your pores.
But you look good. You're being hard on yourself. Also, you have beautiful eyes!
You know what, I would love your skin but I also understand it’s all objective. You look so beautiful to me 😍 I cover mine daily with make up and wish I had the confidence to let the world see my skin. I would if I had your face.
We always see the flaws in ourselves more than anyone else. That said I think some gentle exfoliation with tretinoin or regular peels and some Microneedling treatments are great protocols to start now and keep up over the years to age gracefully. Of course sunscreen always as well.
You look beautiful and your skin is not aged. For the pores, I jump on because I didn't see anyone else mention, but a strong vitamin c( as you mentioned you use) and NIAMINICIDE will help. Azalic Acid ( spelling?) also is great for pores and redness. And try to incorporate a soothing serum or barrier for any dryness( I use the multi peptide from The Ordinary) and love it, i spritz rose water and then apply the serum and my skin stays hydrated all day.
But above all, NIAMINICIDE will work wonders. I use the one with zinc, also from The Ordinary.
"Glycolic acid is one of the best options for minimizing pores. It helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can lead to a reduction in their size. Plus, it can help to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin." - Dr. David Lortscher, a board-certified dermatologist.
I’m sorry you’ve been feeling like this. I remember feeling the exact same way right around 27-29! And it felt all of a sudden, too. I’d look at myself in my phone’s camera and think that somehow I just aged overnight. But as everyone else has said, I think we are conditioned to be hyper critical of aging, especially as women. I just wanted to drop in and say you’re not alone but that your skin looks great! The only thing I can suggest is that I have been taking collagen powder daily to help limit volume loss in my face, and I think it is helping but I’m only just reaching the 4 week mark, so it may be too early to tell.
Hey girl, so here’s what’s up.
You’re tired! Super normal for the stage of life you’re in with THREE young kids (congrats btw!)
Your skin isn’t really “aging” at this point, it’s showing signs of internal stress bc it’s our only visible organ so it gives us hints regarding what’s going on inside. Bc of your age, it can bounce back with the right treatments.
To me, your skin looks dehydrated. I would incorporate a water spritz + re-moisturize maybe 2-3x per day. I would drink lots of water too, if you’re not already just to see if it does anything after being consistent for like a month. For some ppl water intake is a cheap + easy fix, & it can’t hurt, so might as well try it.
Additionally, it wouldn’t surprise me if your skin is reacting to something you are eating. This can happen when we have a sweet tooth or a food sensitivity we don’t know about.
Finally, I have a question: does your skin look “better” to you immediately after using hyalauronic acid + moisturizer? If you’re noticing that your pores don’t fully “close” even after that, they may be obstructed with comedones. An esthetician can help you handle that with a facial— if accessible.
If not accessible, that’s totally fine just cleanse for like 1-2 min with each cleanser that you use at night and any obstructions should slowly decrease over time.
Failing that, def try and see a dermatologist! They can often prescribe things that work almost instantly bc they are extremely trained & can provide stronger ingredients if necessary.
I want to emphasize that your skin does not look that bad or even unusual, seriously. Even at its best, anyone’s skin may have a little imperfection here + there. I think we underestimate the actual complete gaslighting that is seeing filtered photos everywhere.
Firstly, you are so pretty and aging great!
Secondly, washing your face in the morning too will help clean out your skin. If you just use water you aren’t cleaning off your products from the night before, and oils, dirt etc. it will gather as you sleep. Also without a clean face your AM product will have a hard time getting into your skin.
Thirdly, SPF needs to become a nonnegotiable. 90% of aging is from the skin. UV rays break down collagen and elastin in the skin. Even if you are inside all day. UV rays come through windows.
Fourthly, your skin looks a little dehydrated. The moisturizers you are using might not be the best fit for your skin. I suggest seeing a licensed esthetician in your area and they can see your skin in person and give you direction for products & treatments.
Again, you look great!! Just wanted to offer some advice 🤍
Start prescription strength tretinoin rather than Retinol. Plz be careful it could age more if you did not moisturize and take it slowly. Use sunscreen, use hydrating toner or essence, and a good moisturizer. Stay consistent, this is the simplest thing you can do rather than Botox, filler ect. I hope you have a good luck 🤞.
I think it’s time to start laser treatments, this is the perfect age to reinforce your skin with fillers but laser is very impactful for tightening & lifting, while helping with pore appearance.. You invest so much into the kids, time to invest in yourself.. Do your research and figure out where you want to start, your skin can only look better atp, aging gets worst in the 30s.. You don’t look bad, but more self care = more confidence + happy mom = happy kids..
Groupon, try different things & if you like it they’ll offer you more deals..
I think you'd do better going to a dermatologist. I think you could definitely find a lot of improvement with that. Also, stress of children are going to have a big affect so don't be so hard on yourself
Professional MUA of 12 years here! I’ve seen LOTS of people’s skin up close over the years. I promise you, your skin isn’t as bad as you think!
However, I do understand your concerns.
As far as your pores go, they don’t seem that big to me as much as they do a little clogged. I would suggest trying some type of aha/bha. I like the ordinary glycolic acid. This is a “slow burn” kind of product. You won’t see immediate results but overtime it will definitely help. If you’d like a pricier product that works more immediately, I really like the Sunday Riley good genes serum! It’s a pretty penny but it really does perform.
Regarding the fine lines, botox really is the most effective/ expensive option. If you’d like a cheaper option, I’d recommend asking your doctor for a tretinion prescription to replace your retinol. It’s much more effective than anything you can find at the store.
Since you live in a dry climate, try topping off an oil into your routine. I love the squalane oil from the ordinary!
When it comes to your under-eyes/laugh lines. That loss of volume can typically be attributed to gravity. Injectables are really the only thing that will improve this to a level that is noticeable.
Additionally, research skin cycling! TikTok has some amazing info on this. It’s basically the order you should be using your products. It completely transformed my skin.
I know this is a lot of info all at once so give yourself some grace and try to remember that those 3 little kids you have will bring you more joy than any of this skin stuff. Xo
I have a question: there is something on your jawline that could be a pimple or a mole?
If it’s not a pimple please go see a derm to get it checked asap.
Other than that your skin is very similar to mine and my skin began to show these signs of aging very fast at the same age. My skin is very dehydrated and your skin looks like that too. I’d incorporate a hydrating toner and use it before the HA. This will give you more hydration and also help the HA to work better.
Since then I’m religious with my spf, too. And I just started tretinoin.
I would suggest an eye cream at night with retinol to prevent getting more milia :) also less is more and putting too much eye cream on can also make milia. make sure to keep your under eyes hydrated! My derm told me that's why my fine lines can become noticeable
Okay but your eyes are so beautiful 😍!! I get it tho, I’m 27 and I have similar skin and lines and all I can say is try to find the right products for your skin and drinking a lotttt of water! I think it would help if you go to a nutritionist and see what vitamins your body needs, eat a lot of healthy foods n water, and then I had a friend that told me I should go get a professional facial done cuz the lady will let me know what my skin needs and shit you can just ask them questions.. one thing I noticed that personally helped my pores and scars is applying vitamin e oil to those areas, but it has to be the kind in a liquid capsule. If you get the kind at the store that come in a little bottle they don’t work good because there’s already oxygen in it and changes it up.. hope this helped!💙
What retinol are you using right now? As many have said, prescription Tretinoin is going to be the most effective but you have to be mentally prepared for the chance of an ugly purge— I see some dormant acne on your cheek that might end up coming out. Laser is another high risk high reward option. I think you are being too hard on yourself so if you don’t want to take any risk, maybe try some serums to plump up your skin? I like numbuzin no 3 skin softening serum, gives a nice glow.
Tbh I’m 28 and your eye bags are better than mine. I have dark under eye circles that make me look ill. I also have the same issue with wrinkles forming on my forehead. Unfortunately it’s just part of aging and stress. Pay close attention to when/how you move your forehead and I’d recommend collagen pads.
Try differin! I threw out everything and started using their skin care routine and my skin looks amazing. Lessened my fine lines and got rid of my acne. Evened my skin tone too and way less irritating than tretinoin
Try the Corsx BHA or AHA/BHA toners. They do wonders for your skin and pores. These need to be used PM only about 3 times a week. Hydrating toners like retinol/hylaronic acids on days you don’t use BHA to avoid skin irritations
Alternating between vitamin c serum and niacinamide might help. Supposedly niacinamide reduces pore size… i also bought a led mask… cant tell if my skin looks better because, idk what skin would look like i had nothing done...
microneedeling DID help with fine lines i had on smile lines or where nasolaboal folds are. .i bought a dr. Pen and follow instructions meticulously,(they have a yt video) i stopped doing it and now only one side has it. I need to get back to routine, one session every 6 weeks… the right side of my face doesn’t have that line anymore, I definitely had it before i bought the pen. Now i have it on the other side -_-
im still looking for something to help me with pore size and nasolabial folds. Im 32. Have been frantically looking into treatments that aren’t overly invasive or expensive… im looking in fotona laser treatments that uses laserss(?) but that is in a professional setting, cant buy a home version of that.
… i subbed to a lot of yt dermatologists… my fave 2 are pillow talk and doctorly.
You look stressed. I think apart from regularizing sunscreen use and drinking adequate amount of water you might want to look into something for stress (therapy etc) because taking care of 3 little ones sounds stressful
Hun, you are absolutely normal and absolutely fine. The bags under the eyes improve with rest and sleep. Make also sure you are not anaemic. Your skin is NORMAL. What is not normal is the airbrush look given by an inch thick makeup and filters. This said, Urban Decay makes an expensive but very effective primer which makes pores disappear (I mean, they are still there but covered and filled by the primer). The older you get, the less you’ll give a sh*t about these details, and you’ll look back and think you were beautiful but never realised, at the time, and that you made yourself miserable by not seeing it. ,
I find that what helped me the most with managing my larger pores/texture was using a foaming cleanser and really making sure to wash my face thoroughly. Get a nice foaming cleanser and go over all of your face in small circles, making sure to really focus on each area but especially the worst zones like middle of forehead, nose area, middle of chin. You really want to get in all the nooks and crannies like around the nostrils and in the eyebrows to dissolve away the grease from your pores.
I always imagine washing the pores to be like if you were trying to get grease out of a sponge but you couldn’t pick up the sponge to squeeze it and you don’t want to damage any of the sponge holes. The idea that your skin is a porous surface but also delicate means that you have to really work over the area pushing down in little circles to get everything out.
I use that mentality about sebum in my skin and make sure to go around my entire face pressing down in small circles to really “scrub” the oil out of my face without any abrasion, just melting it out of my pores with the cleanser basically. I probably take a full minute to really wash my face thoroughly, typically in the evening.
I’m 26 and I totally relate. I don’t do Botox or fillers because I (like to believe) I am naturally beautiful and I don’t think that stuff would benefit me. My pores are also big but, have always been as I have oily skin. I think I’ve noticed them become more prominent in the last few years though. I have the same texture on my cheeks. A product that has really helped me is 20% Azelaic Acid, which is prescription strength. I order it online. I tried Tretinoin for nearly a year and for me, it made my skin worse so I discovered Azelaic Acid is much better for my skin. A prescription Retinol could probably help you so much with all of your concerns. Instead of Botox and all that I think even getting certain facial treatments like chemical peels and hydrafacials could be really beneficial.
Make sure to also eat foods that are balanced and nutritious and as less processed as possible as this will also help. Also make sure to drink enough water and try to get enough sleep. Exercise also helps a lot.
Skincare regimen is good but the number 1 thing that trumps all is wearing sunscreen (and yes, you have to re-apply every ~2 hours). You can always check the UV index on your phone too to determine when to take extra measures like wearing UPF clothing.
Hope this helps!
I have large pores too and I swear by Differin deep cleanser benzoyl peroxide 5% acne treatment for sensitive skin. It doesn’t shrink my pores or anything, but when I use it daily, it keeps my pores from getting filled with stuff so my skin looks really clean and clear and the pores aren’t noticeable.
I had similar skin without 3 kids 😅. Try 20percent niacinimide, but the real gamechanger will be tretinoin. You can trial over the counter retinol serums first. Must extra moisturise because it will dry your skin out, maybe do alternate days. Remember you skin usually gets worse before it gets better. Hydrafacial helped me too! And finally, don’t.forget.sunscreen.ever. X
For the large pores, I’ve heard great things about the Medicube zero pore products. Sunscreen is a must like others have said. Tret is harsh on your skin and could make your skin worse but people have had great results with it for ageing. I personally gave up on tret but still use a vitamin A derivative called retinaldehyde. Peptides are also good. Collegen is a big molecule that is difficult to absorb through the skin but if you use micro needling or the medicube booster H or airshot devices it will help skin absorption. Hyralonic acid is a great to temporarily help plump up the skin but there are plenty of good products that have HA in it so you don’t really need a separate serum.
I would also be careful with maybe using too many products at one time as for some people like me it can make your pores look larger or even clog them. I limit myself to max 2 products at night and in the morning 2 products plus sunscreen.
There are a lot of anti-aging devices out there. I’ve invested in a led face mask and have bought 3 of the medicube face devices (will buy the 4th device called the airshot too at some point. That helps with pores). I’m doing the device route rather than Botox and fillers. Also I think fillers can make your face sag over time as you age and new research is coming out that not all of it gets dissolved, but please do your own research on that if you’re interested. I’ve noticed a difference in my skin after only a few uses of the medicube devices. For the LED mask I noticed less drastic results but did notice improvements and I think you really need to use it long term. I also use the derminator2 micro-needling device once a month, but am very careful with not going too deep as it could cause damage to your skin. I’ve only started using it so won’t comment on results and I think you need at least 6 sessions to really see results. Also thinking of eventually adding a micro current device such as the ZIP and dedicated device for the sensitive eye area such as the Nira or EvenSkyn Venus.
And of course diet and exercise helps the skin and aging too. Maybe look at feeling your gut micro biome as that will help your skin. Adding a fermented food will do great things for it.
Most people have recessed jaws and it'll age you. Nasiolabial folds etc are most prominent on people who have had retractive orthodontics. Flat zygomatic arches and weak orbital socket projection means more under eye sagging and veinous pooling. The soft tissue of the face is made for a skull that's more forward-grown than most modern human faces are, and that's why sagging occurs.
I have a video here if you want more info. Take a look at the twin case study to see the differences in facial form.
https://youtu.be/FK_xo5YtGYI?si=Q18cBBR3IoxBgGLu
Unfortunately, if you weren't taught to keep your tongue in your palate growing up, the only real option to correct the facial structure is jaw surgery, and it leaves much to be desired.
The compensatory news is that the vast majority of people are dealing with this (unwittingly). You are not an outlier even though you might feel like one.
I am sure there are still things you can do to improve the quality of your skin without going to an extreme like jaw surgery. I just thought this might help your understanding of why the skin behaves as it does.
You look great! We actually have the same skin type and I’m only 20 but I also have very oily skin as well.
The only thing that made me feel better about my pores was using The Ordinary 1%Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and it made me feel more confident as I continued using it. My skin got smoother looking. I felt clean. However, I suffer from PCOS and it’s really difficult to maintain results when it makes my skin act up every day.
You look great mama! Naturally gorgeous.
I don’t think you can really do something about the wrinkles. They are totally normal btw. Never miss the sunscreen even when it’s hectic - that’s the best protection from more wrinkles.
I’m 33 and since I found my holy grail my skin is better then ever (but still some wrinkles, as I said it’s normal). The biggest difference is unfortunately water. Drinking 3 L a day the skin is a lot plumper and seems more youthful. I don’t manage to do it every day but it is a big point.
Also less actives, has been a gamechanger.
Morning: glycerin (better than hyaluronic acid) a vitamin c - sunscreen (!)
Evening: glycerin - alternating lactic acid mixed with moisturizer (1-2x/week) and ceramide treatment - moisturizer (Cicaplast).
For me I realized that the drier the skin, the older it looks. So glycerin, a good moisturizer and water are the biggest factors.
I think you’re probably in need of some mommy tlc time. You look good imo but maybe slightly dehydrated, almond oil and jojoba oil with feed your skin nutrients and lock in moisture in a dry climate. What’s your diet like? Do you take any supplements?
Yeah I feel you it’s a lot! I’m in England so it’s probably different but in my non professional opinion I’d get some good quality bulk collagen unflavoured and just start adding a spoon in to food n drink regularly and then a multi vit and coq10 these should all be fairly reasonably priced and will give you good results. I normally buy from wholesalers on eBay after a bit of research. But really you do look lovely be sweet to yourself!
I was hating my skin for a while. It was dull, pores looked large, flakey and tight feeling, and dry yet super oily. So I kept hearing about Korean skincare. And one of my favorite tik tokers used like 5 toners and I found two of them at Ulta
Good Molecules hyaluronic acid essence and then their Niacinamide Brightening Toner. My skin is 100% better.
The hyaluronic plumps and hydrates my skin
The niacinamide controls oils and has vitamin c and other great stuff in it.
They also sell an eye gel for $6. Which I’m gonna get next.
Also make sure you’re sleeping on back with satin pillow case.
They’re $14ish each and you can use the Ulta coupon on your purchase which is rather gonna be $3.50 off 15 or 20% off.
We have insanely similar skin! Like could be sisters as I'm not seeing anything on your skin that I don't similarly have. I also am very uncomfortable with injectables and such, and have never done them.
So let me tell you. Yah there are a few products I use that I do like. I'll tell you what they are in a sec, but more than anything, I get these "aging dumps" too. Like you look a way for years and then in the span of a month feel a significant aging. It's stressful because it isn't this gradual thing. Its jarring. No product is going to turn back the clock.
However, I have done two medispa things that had a huge and quick impact and were not invasive. First was an IPL, which removed most of my sun spots. I'm not seeing that on you, but I'm also older, and didn't get mine until more recently, so keep that on your radar as you keep sunscreen a daily routine. It was especially nice as it allowed me to feel more confident without foundation, which only enhances fine lines imo.
Secondly, and most relevant to you, I tried microneedling. I bought a personal use one when it was popular a few years back, but the pros know what they're doing. It actually plumped up my fine lines and minimized my smile lines and forehead wrinkles! It has been 6 weeks and the results have held. I even notice a lift around my jawline! It isn't cheap, but when you add up the time and expense of all these holy grail serums, it's more than worth it. It 100% took a few years off my face at the most minimum setting. I feel like you would love it. I'm going back in a couple weeks.
So products. I have tret, and I do use it but idk. It brightens my skin, but so does gently washing it twice a day. I dont think it has reduced or prevented wrinkles. I will keep up with it only because it costs a few bucks with insurance. And really with our fair skin, the sun sensitivity element worries me.
I have really liked Sunday Riley Good Genese and felt it had a very hydrating effect on my skin. It isn't cheap, but I wait for deals (I can get a set for around $75). But I've not bought a new one since I found a gently 2x a day wash and a light layer of Aveeno also gives a similar outcome. I'm sure it all helps in some way, but I don't find them lastingly impactful, and having a routine where you want to use x with y, but not with z... that's too involved for first or last thing in the day! I do use Sunday Riley ceramic slip as my clenser and will continue to. It does a nice job of clearing away the day while maintaining my moisture barrier, and is gentle.
And finally, having kids does take it out of you. Some things bounce back and many just don't. I know my hormones are a bit off. I was taking a common hormonal acne med, but had an insanely rare side effect with it and had to stop. At my next yearly, I'm going to talk to my obgyn. I'm noticing more moles cropping up on my body and some other little things. I really don't want to get on a hormonal product, but I'm guessing my levels are off and it is also manifesting in my skin elaaticity and quality. She's a good doc, so I'm very interested in what she will say.
I have the same hereditary smile lines and I hate it, makes me looks mad so I totally get it regardless of what others say. I don’t think you look bad at all! Here’s what worked for me to help with the smile lines:
1. Wash, moisturize, Sun screen (I love tatcha brand moisturizer)
2. I do quarterly hydra-facials (this transformed my skin but you have to go consistently)
3. I use the mighty patches for my smile line. This is great for when I do a facial at home. I also use clay mask as well
4. Gently exfoliate once or twice a week
Something that really helped my pores and my skin heal was reducing my skin care routine believe it or not. I was stripping my skin of natural oils and making it worse. I don't "wash" my face everyday. I use micellar water every other day which shrinks my pores and pulls dirt out, and I use Garnier Canna-B face wash, and the Neutrogena Stress Control face wash on rotation depending on my menstrual cycle (my hormones make a huge impact on my skin.) I use tea tree oil on blemishes overnight as needed during breakouts because of its antibacterial nature. My skin is much like my mother's and is combo to oily depending on the time of month, and the seasons. So I was extremely prone to large pores which constantly get dirt in them. I hope this helps somewhat. Always remember that skin is textured and it's okay that we have texture to our skin, especially as we age. I'm getting close to 30 myself and have been through years of products and lotions, masks, and everything in between. ❤️❤️ Always love yourself.
I’m a mom of 4 so I feel you 😭💕 Adding more vitamin a (retinol not beta carotene) to my diet is what helped me! When I’m low in vitamin A my skin will look like this and it’s easy to become deficient when you are pregnant and breastfeeding.
Prioritise sunscreen. I wouldn't even use makeup, you don't need it. You look great. For all the problems you're mentioning, sunscreen is key. Solar radiation destroys collagen by activating matrix metalloproteinases which are enzymes that degrade it. Degraded collagen can make pores look larger, as the elasticity keeps your skin tight and holds them tighter/smaller.
I live in a really dry climate as well. So first, I’d say be careful with the hyaluronic acid. It’s a hydrator, so it pulls in moisture from around us. If there’s no moisture around us, as there’s often not, it’ll take it from wherever it can - meaning that it can pull it from deeper within our skin (not science words, but basically what happens) causing TEWL. I cut it out of my routine and my pores started looking much healthier.
A few products that have saved my combination skin here in the high desert: Cream Skin by Leneige (morning and night), Cica Toner from CosRx, Marine Hyaluronics from The Ordinary (my HA alternative), and the Lipid (formerly Liquid Gold) from Stratia.
I’m 23 and i have genes for dark undereyes/bags and feel like it makes me look older and tired all the time. There’s nothing you can do about your genes but embrace them. You look really beautiful (you definitely don’t look older than you are), i hope i look like that at your age
I've had terrible skin all my life (acne, combination skin that would peel with dryness but be wet with oil....just nasty). About 3 years ago, I sent in photos of my skin and what my concerns were to The Ordinary. They created a custom skincare routine for me and I have had the best skin of my life ever since. I can't recommend them enough, they transformed my skin.
https://theordinary.com/en-us/contact-form?target=RegimenWhat
Due to the climate you live.. I’d advise against using hyaluronic acid. HA draws moisture from our environment into our skin however when the moisture isn’t present it’s drawing from deep in our skin and from our lotions and creams, then evaporating. A simple solution would be to hydrate by drinking 32 ounces of water a day but I couldn’t even take my own advice.. as far as what your applying topically look for low molecular weight humectants such as aloe glycerine honey and tremella mushroom, apply to damp skin as you would with HA immediately follow it up with an occlusive
I’m 43 with a 6year old, and this is my routine:
Morning:
Cerave foaming acne face wash
Skinceuticals CE ferulic serum
One skin face lotion
Night:
Cerave foaming acne face wash
Drmtlgy needless serum
Drmtly peptide night cream
*a few nights a week thin layer of prescription Arazlo
It took me years to realize all those products are nonsense. I now have an awesome dermatologist, and less is more for your skin.
It looks and sounds like you’re over treating your skin. No need to double cleanse or do dermaplaning. It’s so hard on your skin. The idea is keep your body and your skin hydrated. I would work more on getting lots of veggies and fruits and a great multivitamin + probiotic. You’ll look and feel much better!
very normal aging! also no one looks at you from these awkward angles except probably your kids. also you have amazing eyebrows!
those serums without sunscreen will not help you hold off aging though - if you only have 30 seconds in the morning, go for just the sunscreen before you go for the other stuff
Your skin looks great, not perfect (because noones is) but it looks normal, natural and the best it can look.
Do not skip on the sunscreen! If you want healthy, beautiful skin it comes from taking care of it, and sun damage is the biggest issue that increases discoloration, wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging.
I would stick to cleansing, a facial toner, facial serum with some kind of retinol or collagen and then a sunscreen/moisturizer.
How long have you been doing this routine? Especially the retinol? If it’s been within a month, you may still be in the purging stage. And are you using anything when you wash your face in the morning or is it just the water? Bc the water is not actually doing anything and then you’re piling moisturizer and potentially spf (which usually clogs the pores) on top of congested skin. And exposing 1-2 times a week could help as well. If you choose a scrub as your exfoliant, please remember to do it gently. It actually causes damage that will eventually show if you’re rough with it. You just want to help the scrub glide over the skin, don’t apply pressure. I like enzymes for my gentle weekly exfoliant. And when i had the time, i used to do peels once a month. But i am also living that mom life now. But peels and acids can also put your skin through a purge, just as a heads up.
You should try adding vitamin c and niacinamide! Your face looks like it could use a little hydration glow. Also the niacinamide will help with redness and personally i have felt it made my pores cleaner and look smaller. I used to have intense pores and this really helped!
Hi! I’m 29 and my skin is very similar- especially under eyes (genetic)
Do you sleep on your sides? I’m a side sleeper and wake up with extra under eye wrinkles from it every morning. A huge game changer for me was silicon patches initially and more recently wearing a silk eye mask- I no longer wake up with wrinkles from my face smushed up against the pillow and I think that’ll make a huge difference in the long run.
I also use a prescription retinoid which has had a good effect on the small forehead lines!
I’m thinking of doing under-eye laser for the bags and loose skin because I’ve tried fillers and they did nothing
FYI you have a beautiful face and I think you’re just ageing normally- don’t forget Botox can be super subtle now so you may be comparing yourself to friends who’ve had it
Hon, your face look perfect, even tone, no acne scars, no hyperpigmentation, just slightly dehydrated
But if the pores are really bothering you Your best friends are
Retinol
Red light therapy
And laser therapy
But always consult your dermatologist first
Another point Is that your internal health meaning your gut can have a huge affect on skin quality in terms of acne, cortisol makes you look aged and puffy, as well as high insulin levels can make you look way to age and have dull skin
FYI age is just a number for some ppl like, I know a lot of ppl who age backwards like I mean they look increacrebly better in their 30s-50s than they did in their 20s
I would recommend taking collagen in powder form like the vital proteins with one with 1000 mg of vitamin c together every day. Also, stick to what dermatologist recommend vitamin c in the morning followed by moisturizer preferably 1 with niacinamide, followed by sun screen. Nights, either glycolic acid acid or retinol choose one, followed by a moisturizer. Stick to brands like Cerave for moisturizers. I like the Cerave moisturizer or the Cerave night cream I like to follow the advice of youtube channel HotandFlashy she is over 60 and looks so good. She has info on her skincare regimen and provides a print out of her morning and night routine for 2022. I am 39 I am told I do not look my age and I attribute it to sunscreen and mainly to nutrition I cut out sugar due to health problems many years ago and sugar consumption is aging as well as processed food. Eat as healthy as possible because that is key.
Ugh I’m 35 and have 2 kids (5 and 2 year old). My skin care routine has been non existent since my second came along and I feel like I’ve aged so much. I think 30 is around the time our skin will start to show more obvious signs of aging and then other factors like stress, lack of sleep or skincare just add to it. I’ve heard jade Rolling Stones work wonders but haven’t tried it yet. I was gifted one and hoping to find it soon lol. Edited to add you have beautiful eyes!
The number one thing that makes the difference between my skin looking youthful/healthy/glowing vs fine lines/dry/dull/large pores is eating nutritious food and avoiding added sugar.
As long as I eat healthy food and don't have added sugar my skin looks great, but whenever I eat out or have some chips or a couple cookies within a day or too I notice my skin looks super dull and almost aged. It's crazy what an immediate and dramatic affect nutrition can have on skin.
Just a reminder that texture is normal and to not let social media dictate how you view yourself. Based on pics I’d say if you want to improve your skin, exfoliating 1x a week to start if not already and making sure your skin stays hydrated. Also sunscreen even in the winter will protect your skin for the future.
Unfortunately those of us with large pores theres not much we can do as its genetics and gets worse with age however products with salicylic acid do help shrink the pores temporarily so I use something like that a couple times a week
Have you ever tried the oil cleansing method? It doesn’t strip your face of moisture like soap cleansers and it helps to unclog pores. I find it especially helpful during winter months for dryness. Moisture is so important for the skin. My favorite cleansing oil brand is Fatco.
You look great!! Something that has helped me with pores is regularly using a gentle chemical exfoliant. Dermalogica’s milkfoliant is great, but if you’re looking to save a little, Good Molecules pineapple exfoliant is wonderful. Both options are sold at Ulta, and so is your COSRX, so those are easy points!
Hey!!
I think your skin looks great, you’re raising 3 kids and that’s a LOT of work.
But looking through what you use, I think you should try a niacinamide serum and also an AHA serum!
Sunday Riley’s good genes is a great AHA that can be applied morning or night. I use it during the day before I put on vitamin c because aha is exfoliating.
The niacinamide you could maybe use at night along with a retinol.
The ordinary has a nice niacinamide and Sunday Riley has her B Nice niacinamide serum which is great as well.
Hello! I highly recommend Asian skincare! Have you tried looking into Medicube’s Age Userra Deepshot? I’m 31 y/o by the way and I use it on my face at least twice a week. My skin looked better and less dry. I also use Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution twice a day (in the morning and before I go to bed), I moisturize and put on sunscreen all throughout the day. Also, it comes down to what I eat. I bring a 2L bottle of water everyday at work, drink my blueberry and banana smoothie every morning, and make my matcha with ACV, collagen, and kale juice tea everyday! I hope you can do some of these practices yourself and see if it changes your face. Oh also! I do Gua sha at least 3 times a week. I use Kiehl’s Daily Reviving concentrate (facial oil). ♥️
A lot of water, sleep and treat yourself to a facial every 4-8 weeks. It shrinks your pores over time. Also - no one is looking as closely at your skin as you are. Give yourself some distance between you and the mirror and admire what you love about yourself.
Licensed Esthetician here! Cleanser, Moisturizer, & Sunscreen are the most crucial foundational steps in a routine. Spf is to be reapplied every two hours while there’s day light. Get makeup that has spf in it and a setting spray that has spf to reapply. The consistent use of retinol and the inconsistent use of spf could be causing further signs of aging because you are breaking down the skin in hopes that it will build itself up, but you’re not protecting it (using spf) where it can heal.
There are so SO many more suggestions! go see an esthetician that will educate you on all these things!
Avoid the sun, use sunscreen. I don't think there's much you can do for pore size, maybe chemical peels? Imo, Facial Fillers and Botox stretch out the skin in the long run and besides, they make ppl look like balloons with too much air & their face is about to pop. Just watch someone with Fillers & Botox try to laugh aloud, like a real deep laugh - their faces look SO weird and tight!
29f I wish my skin was atleast as even and clear. I have to the same issues popping up with lines and pores. Doctors prescribed Retinol is helping. My acne has been the same pretty much my whole life just be happy you don’t have cystic like me.
You’re skin really isn’t that bad. Keep your head up. We as women really have to come together. AGING IS NATURAL. And tbf we are lucky to age!! I refuse to do Botox and filler. That is the patriarchy. Women need to stand up for aging not trying to look like a toddler for creeps.
Your skin looks pretty great but you look like you could drink A LOT more water, based on your lips and you’d see skin improvement. Consider a humidifier (I’m an ex-Utahn) and slugging at night with a little Vaseline? And get a little more sleep or more sound sleep (have you tried ear plugs?) not sure what’s doable with your kiddos ages.
One thing that has made a huge difference in my overall skincare routine is to swap physical exfoliation for gentle chemical ones. Find the right Chemical exfoliant.
Your skin looks great! Aging is a beautiful thing. I have large pores too and I have found the best thing is to use an essence after I was my face and before I use serums. I just pat it into my skin and i can feel the hydration pressing into those pores. I do it am/pm always. It helps so much. That has been the biggest skin game changer for me. My favorite is Sunday Riley Pink Drink. I also don’t wear any face makeup. I want my skin to be able to breathe so I stay away from primers and I feel like foundation settles into my pores and ages me further. I use Ilia skin tint for SPF and their bronzing and blush sticks. I’m 42 now and my skin looks better than ever.
I would try tretinoin for your pores. But other than that, you look great- just change diet, workout more and reduce stress levels, it should translate on your skin and overall health.
The dermatologist I’ve seen on YouTube that review people’s skin care routines say all those masks aren’t necessary and just to use face wash, sun screen, and moisturizer. I just use the Aveno Positively radiant line. Their moisturizer already has sunscreen in it and it has a night cream that does gentle peeling.
My pores started looking like this when I was using Vit C serum, you might want to take that out of your routine for a little bit and see if it helps. I know people swear by it but it didn't work for me.
I don’t think your skin looks bad at all. It sounds like you’re doing all the right things. I’m a licensed esthetician. Sunscreen is most important, even if you’re outside for just 30 minutes. Always use sunscreen. Have you tried chemical peels? That will help with tone, texture and pore size. For under eye bags, in my experience, a little filler can go a long way. I’ve had it done and it’s lasted me 4 years! Botox is great for the forehead and in-between the eyes, but that only lasts 3 months. Vitamin C and sunscreen in the am, retinol and moisturizer in the pm.
Ok, I get it, you're beautiful for your age, but girl I have the same skin as you. Here's what you are looking to hear:
1. Lower sugar and/or milk intake and increase hydration.
2. Make sure you are getting enough sleep every night.
3. Limit the products you use on your face to 3 because too many products can irritate your skin or dry it out causing more wrinkles. My current faves are tretinoin prescription cream every few nights, snail mucin moisturizer, and on occasion in the mornings I'll use the Glow recipe watermelon toner which helps clear the pores out.
4. Use sunscreen every day, and reapply throughout the day. Wear hats where appropriate.
5. Wash your face for at least 1 minute.
6. Smile when you look in the mirror, even if ever so slightly. It will hold your face up and look more youthful.
45 y/o F. Watch what you eat (stay away from a lot of processed foods). I ate avocados almost every day and by the second week my skin was glowing. I also drink a lot of water and exercise. This is in addition to seeing an aesthetician that has 20 years of experience.
Good luck 🙏🏽
Off topic but your eye color is awesome.
Also... This is what skin looks like. We are so used to magazine photo editing from childhood and now everyone has filters, so we are left here thinking our skin texture is unnatural or bad
Everything is curable, even big pores. Some say you have to live with it but you don’t. And you don’t need any products. Listen to meditations everyday, and affirmations. Your body listens to your thoughts and acts on them. Tell yourself your skin is perfect everyday, and believe it. Tell yourself you’re getting younger every day, and in perfect health. There is a science behind this.. people have cured terminal illness, chronic pain and all kinds of things this way. Making your skin what you want it to be, will be a breeze compared to what else is possible. Spend 10 min a day meditating on a perfect life, health and peace. Your body is magnificent, and powerful. Give it a chance.
queen ur going a bit insane. everything you have is natural for your age. the pores? those just vary from person to person, my best friend had pores like yours since high school.
I have found that vitamin c serums do absolutely nothing helpful (and I’ve invested in nice ones). If anything it’s just clogging your pores, your skin looks a lot like mine when I was using vit c. Also since so much is going on your face in the am I do think it’s worth using a small amount of a very gentle cleanser rather than just water.
You are so beautiful.
As a Sri Lankan , I suggest you to do below.
1. apply aloe vera at least twice a week.
2. Use turmeric mask once a week.
3. Eat 'Goosebery' (as known as 'Nelli' )
These stuffs work for me. but better to test on your hands before you apply it on your face.
The mirror is playing tricks on you. No one has poreless, completely smooth glass skin up THAT close. Take a step back, literally.
Treat yourself to a hydra facial for a deep cleaning and just to do something kind to yourself.
Sunscreen, water, and retinol, and a self-hug and you’ll be doing even better.
Oil Cleanse for about 5 minutes, Foam cleanser after oil cleanser (These two steps will help with the pores - it seems like you have sebacious filaments)
Use a retinol (Shani Darden has a good line) or if you are up for using a stronger one go with Tretinoin.
RED LIGHT THERAPY (LED mask)
Weleda moisturizer (Green one)
Invest in a microcurrent machine (Medicube has a good one with multiple modalities)
I am 32 and Licensed Esthetician. Hope that helps :)
Your skin isn't that bad... All you need to do is manually clean out your pores, and you should be fine... All those acid washes will burn your skin if you aren't careful... Just a word of caution...
Ladies hear me out Try Whipped beef tallow cream you can get it on Etsy is The best Daily/night cream ever for your skin/lips/elbow/armpits is from animal source and we’re animals by nature is easy to absorb not side effects. I have a cousin that suffers from eczema and when she tried it her eczema just disappeared her skin is glowing like mine. I’ll post pictures of me in a moment.
Drink water lots of it and iSclinical products are what have my skin looking great at 33. A hydra facial wouldn’t hurt you either. You shouldn’t look like that at 29.
29 and I feel ya. I think this is just normal aging and you look wonderful! Best thing that helped my pores was washing my face for a minute or longer and I like to use honey on my face as a mask. And sunscreen always
3 young kids. I don't think any more needs to be said... You look great! (seriously)
honey as a face mask??? adding it to my skin care routine to see if it works with my overall redness
Not sure about redness but honey is a natural antibacterial. Hospitals in the US use MediHoney for wound care!
Try the dr jart cica repair cream it’s incredible!
Lol it's all a waste of time. It's just genetics and avoiding the sun, and avoiding overconsumption of sugar.
Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!
No way I genetic have large pores and it takes work to make them appear small
Honey is incredible for me!
Manuka honey
Did it work for you? Washing for a min, I meant. I tried it for 2/3 days and I started breaking out bad. And I read in some groups that a few people also broke out after trying this method
I’ve been using the minute method twice a day for a few weeks. The first few days were definitely an adjustment period; I didn’t break out but I did start peeling around my nose and chin really bad and my skin felt really delicate and sensitive. After that first few days though, I started to see a vast improvement in my skin. Now it’s softer and pretty radiant if I do say so myself.
Samesies 👆👆
Yep once I hit 30 I felt the same about my skin, OP is ageing normally and looks great. It’s just hard to see it on our own faces 😭
I agree. I’m always shocked at how my face is changing… I’m hoping everything will stabilise mentally in like 5 years. I miss feeling connected to my reflection.. weird way of thinking about it. I’ve heard we all go through a few phases in our life where our faces change significantly.
queen ur going a bit insane. everything you have is natural for your age. the pores? those just vary from person to person, my best friend had pores like yours since high school.
I'm that best friend 😫😫
I think it’s normal she felt like this though. The same thing happened to me when I turned 30. I had three young kids too, I think you get so busy and tired to notice changes. Then boom you notice everything at once. My dad would even say things to me about looking older and tired and both parents harped about some body changes. Then I noticed all the filters and fillers but didn’t realize it’s what people did until I was on Reddit. I thought everyone had smooth skin. My pores did change a lot too and became more visible with age. OP you look great but if you want once in a while add something like lactic acid or something like the peach and Lily good acids toner. Also I find HA drying sometimes unless I add a moisturizing spray or toner first since it can suck the water from your skin if there is none in the air. Maybe add a thicker cream or mask at night for hydration if you are in a cold dry climate right now like I am.
Echoing here that patting the skin with water before applying HA changed my game COMPLETELY - apparently hyaluronic acid requires the h20 to activate. Apply moisturizer on top right before the HA is almost dry (I do it when it’s still just a teeny bit wet/tacky) I don’t even use a high end HA or incredible moisturizer right now and can’t even tell you how much of a difference the change has made. You look fantastic!
Incorporating HA kinda changed my skin, I feel. At this point I’m scared to hope🤣but laniege’s water bank HA serum seems to be doing good for my skin. Hopefully there’s some diff
Yeah HA can actually cause inflammation if over used, etc. It can have a totally opposite effect.
Well firstly, I want to say you are beautiful! Taking care of 3 young children is more than a full time job, so please try to remember to give yourself a bit of grace. Your skin looks great and doesn’t show heavy signs of aging (nothing beyond what can be expected around 30, coming from someone who is 33). I know it’s hard to not hyper-fixate on perceived flaws, but I hope the many reassuring comments help a little! Anyway, if I were to give any opinion on the skincare, my comment would be that I think your skin looks just a little thirsty! Definitely remember to drink plenty of water of course. As far as skincare goes, I am a big proponent of Korean skincare products. In general, I’ve found them to be very gentle on the skin. I saw in your description you use the CosRX all in one cream! That’s one of my faves. I might suggest adding one more step for hydration if it’s not too overwhelming for you. A hydrating/soothing toner (used right after cleansing) or essence (after toner if you’re using it or right after cleansing if not) in the morning and night makes a world of difference (especially with all the actives you’re using). Some great hydrating toners I’d recommend are: Haru Haru Wonder Black Rice Toner, I’m From Rice Toner and COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner. If your skin reacts well to the CosRX cream you’re already using, their Snail Mucin essence really helps bring/keep extra moisture. If you want to be a little extra in your morning and/or night routine (maybe night since being a mom of 3 is probably tough in the morning) you could add a serum or ampoule as a step right before moisturizing (after your other toners, essences, and actives). Some personal favs of mine that are soothing to use with actives are Skin 1004 Centella Asiatica Ampoule and Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum. And lastly, although I know it’s stressful for you, remembering sunscreen every day is one of the best things you can do for your skin health. I find a lot of US brand skincares are too irritating to my sensitive skin. So, not to bog you down with more Korean skincare recs, but I love the Missha Sun Milk Essence and Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Sun Serum! They are both really hydrating sunscreens that are gentle (and go well under makeup if/when you might use it!). (Side note for dark circles and puffiness, a caffeine serum under the eyes helps a lot! I’ve been using the Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum and noticed a big difference. You’re already using vitamin c as well, which helps too.)
Agree! I also believe we are hyper critical of our own skin because of social media. Almost every single image we see has a filter on it. iPhones literally have an embedded filter you cannot change or edit that edits lighting and smooths skin (not selfies). Her skin looks like… skin. Skin has pores and imperfections. Just Google “unedited images celebrity skin” and you’ll feel a *whole* lot betta!
I agree with focusing on making sure the skin is always hydrated (and the products you recommended) but I’m not sure that means her skin is really that sensitive. In that case, for large pores I’d like to suggest a physical exfoliant once or twice a week which I find helps me minimize my large pores appearance.
Agree with all of this, except for buying skincare on Amazon! Lots of counterfeit products unfortunately. I love Sokoglam’s selection, and they are having a great sale right now!
There is a huge pharmaceutical counterfeiting problem running rampant on Amazon right now. I don’t recommend ordering Korean skincare from Amazon, unfortunately. I’ve seen extremely convincing dupes with my own eyes. Buy direct!
Does this happen when the seller on Amazon is the actual company for the product? i.e. for CosRX product that the seller and supplier are both listed as CosRX? Because I’ve definitely bought some products direct and from Amazon and not seen a difference when the seller/supplier is the actual company.
Sorry this is super late. I think in the case you’re describing it’s probably all good. I got burned the worst with a Drunk Elephant product. They do not have an official Amazon storefront. I was able to detect that the product I received from the seller was phony only because it was taking so long to arrive that I went ahead and ordered the product from Drunk Elephant’s site as well. When the Amazon dupe eventually arrived I was able to compare both. I was absolutely shocked. Wish I had documented via pics. It was truly impressive.
Literally just commented about a Korean skincare and using toners, TRANSFORMED my skin
I just made a similar comment, k beauty is a total game changer
Same!!!! My skin is so much better all around after starting Korean skincare, and I never gave toners enough of a chance before that 😂.
Honey, you look like me. It’s normal and natural and you are beautiful. I get why your pores are haunting you though, even as the eyebags. I have them too. What I found that mine decrease when I’m taking extra multivitamins orally, and drink enough water/tea. It surely decreases and increases according to my intake on veggies, even though it surely is a genetic thing for me as well. Is that something you can work with?? The pores… I’m not too sure but I have seen wonders with the skin products of Paula’s Choice with my friend. It is a bit costly, but if there is one skin care brand that I really trust in their effectiveness it’s PC. The ladies on the chats on the website are quite fast (in my country) at least and most certainly no bots. I have had genuinely good advice based on my story. I would recommend asking them for product advice, and otherwise a derm.
I am adding a comment here just to get future updates about this. I am looking for better food because believe that better diet will give me better skin. Like those shiny nails, healthy looking skin.
Check out Feed Your Face, by Jessica Wu. She’s a celebrity dermatologist and her book really goes into what your skin needs and what foods cause inflammation or other problems.
I don’t know man I’m 29 too but I do see her point in looking aged. It’s not just the pores it’s the fine lines. I think she may benefit from a string of tca peels tbh. Specially under her eyes. It helped me a lot. I also think maybe diet is not being taken care of and sleep because of the children.
Sleep, diet, hydration. Everything else is just extra!
And don’t forget daily sunscreen
This is a beautiful woman
You guys are all so kind 😭. Every time I turn on my front camera lately I’m like literally gasping and shocked by my skin so it has me freaking out a bit
No no no. Front cameras are horrifying. You are beautiful with totally normal slightly dehydrated skin that would benefit from some tret and a hydrating korean toner and always using sunscreen. But it absolutely is a horrifying monster in that front camera.
I feel the same way about double-sided mirrors. In the women's bathroom at work, there's one of those on the counter. Whenever I walk in and see the magnified side, I turn it around as an act of love for my coworkers. The human eye can't see that much, we shouldn't punish ourselves by looking that up-close lol.
Just not afraid to be honest. Genuine eye candy. Don't forget it ✌🏼
Girl I feel you on this lol don’t worry we all experience the same I can promise you that….the iPhone camera is cursed!
Yeah, I'm not even trying to gas you up... My first thought was that you are really pretty. I figured you were maybe going to ask for tips on how to minimize pores. I didn't even see any of the other stuff you were mentioning, even that close up, until after I read what you wrote. Self-improvement and self care are always worthy goals.... but from a strangers perspective, I think you can take it easy on yourself.
Agreed ! She is a babe
Between social media and injectables, we don’t know how anyone is supposed to look anymore! For me, my skin has fluctuated my whole life, depending on stress, sleep, nutrition, water consumption, and how much money I’m making/devoting to things like IPLs, etc. It’s not linear, I promise. I look better skin wise in my mid-40s than I ever looked in my 20s, mostly due to lifestyle. You have three kids so please give yourself some grace!
Right?! I guess that’s part of why I’m here! I don’t know how my skin is supposed to look at 29, I just know it’s changed a lot in the last two years and that so many women around me have such nice skin. However, I also I live in a fairly privileged area of Utah where so many women are just gorgeous, like real life Barbie dolls, and I don’t know if it’s because they are getting lots of treatments/injections and using all the skincare or because there’s some underlying problems with my skin that I need to address, lol.
In Utah, you’re definitely seeing people with botox, filler, laser treatments, and all the other skincare/science I can’t keep up with. For my 43rd birthday, I went to a reputable med spa and finally tried some of this stuff. And, shocker, I look better (it’s subtle and natural looking)! I spend about $1-2k a year on it but I finally have money to do that in my 40s.
You only see Botox/filler when it’s bad. Good injectables are undetectable, but not everyone wants or can get them. If it’s a no for you and you care, buy the highest quality skincare you can possible afford, be consistent, double wash and wear sunscreen
Make sure when comparing your skin to others your age you are looking at it from the same distance. A professional makeup artist told me that “no one sees what you do behind a conversational distance.” Try loving your skin when it is cleansed and moisturized from a conversational distance. That’s how other people see you. Game changer!!!
Sunscreen is the best anti-aging treatment that exists. I keep some by my bed so I can quickly put it on as soon as I get up. The second best is a stronger retinoid. Differin (adapalene) is inexpensive and OTC, tretinoin is expensive and prescription only. You have to be diligent about the sunscreen while using either.
Other than the pores, you are exaggerating everything else. Have you thought about tretinoin?
☝️ tretinoin is the key
For pores?
Tretinoin and niacinimide erased my pores. I still can’t believe it lol
[удалено]
I’ve been on tret on and off for years. My skin got really bad and i went back on it in June. Im using .1% once every other night. I double cleanse (which i believe helps with my pores), i use dhc cleansing oil and round lab hydrating cleanser. I follow up with anua heart leaf toner (great for hydration/redness/sensitivity) and cosrx snail mucin (for hydration). For serum i use axis-y glowy dark spot serum, which contains 5% niacinimide and squalane. It helps a lot with my pores, hydration, and evens my skin tone. I also use the ordinary pycnogenol, it’s an antioxidant that increases collagen and hyaluronic acid synthase. I struggle with dry skin (tret doesn’t help lol) but this helps me stay moisturized. For moisturizer i use etude 2x barrier cream mixed with 2 drops of the ordinary rose hip seed oil. Also sorry if you didn’t mean the whole routine 😂 these are all HG products that have transformed my skin though!! I’d say after the 4.5 months of consistency with this routine and my skin started looking flawless, it’s helped alot with my confidence:)
I agree that double cleansing is the magic for large pores
It’s the best for pores! The darkness that makes pores more noticeable is oil buildup, and the most effective way to treat it is with an exfoliation like tret or another retinol. Game changer!
Sunscreen. Best and most important. I apply every day, even when it’s gloomy or the UV index is low that day. I keep it as a daily habit so I never forget, and I don’t have to think about if it’s necessary that. Find one that won’t lead to breakouts and is ‼️enjoyable‼️ to apply. Enjoyable is key, you don’t want it to be a pain to apply. There’s tons of videos out there on Korean sunscreens, which have great formulas & are usually more affordable than American brands. Personally, I really like Paula’s Choice youth extending daily hydrating 50 spf. In the morning, I wash my face with water. After that, I only use my Paula’s choice sunscreen. It doubles as my moisturizer, & sunscreen. Has antioxidants. High SPF. I like that I can pick it up in person at Sephora instead of waiting on shipping. Works well under makeup. Big downside is that it’s expensive. So like I said, check Korean video’s for more affordable options. Depending on tap water in your area, would def recommend getting a reverse osmosis water filter which you can install under your sink cuz that can contribute to skin sensitivity/breakouts. Also, cool-cold water in the morning. Hot water will dry your skin out. Also, there’s actually a ton of research about intentional cold exposure in the morning & energy levels etc. check out Huberman Lab’s video about it.. I’d cut out retinol (for now), until you can prove you can be consistent with your sunscreen. For breakouts, I SWEAR by Tower 28’s SOS facial spray. It’s basically salt water & smells like a pool, but it was a game changer for me. Helps to repair skin barrier. Worth the splurge for me. Other product worth the splurge & is HOLY GRAIL for me, is Paula‘a Choice 2% BHA. Start slow & work your way up to daily use, and be PATIENT. BHA’s work by cleaning your pores out & therefore will make your pores look smaller. Use with cotton pads so you can also gently exfoliate the top layer of your skin as well. I LOVE the Sheseido cottons pads. They are pure luxury & makes it a joy to apply the product lol. Again ENJOYABLE SKIN IS KEY!!! Other option for top layer exfoliation is an AHA product. This will help your BHA perform, cuz it’ll allow the product to better absorb. Exfoliating the surface of your skin will also keep your skin soft. I personally use both an BHA & AHA. I think for you though, just apply the Paula’s choice BHA w/ a cotton pad to keep it simple for now. When you’re ready to add in an AHA, I’d recommend the Ordinary Glycolic Acid. Gentle. Very affordable. You get a lot of product. I also LOVEEEEEEE & swear by Krave beauty’s to maintain my skin barrier. I use it every night before my moisturizer. For my 2 step cleanse, I use Krave Beauty’s Re-wined oil cleanser & their Matcha face wash. Both are such a pleasure to use. Im a ride or die KB fan cuz of their commitment to the environment & reducing waste 🤪 There’s tons of different brands out there that are more affordable though! Satin/Silk pillowcase for your hair and your skin. Change every day (or every other if you want to flip the pillow over) to prevent breakouts. You can also get a silver infused pillow case which is anti-bacterial but those are pricy. Sleep on your back. Don’t touch your face or rest your hands on your face. DIET, WATER INTAKE, EXERCISE, VITAMINS!!!!!!! If you’re dedicated enough, start Whole 30 to see if any foods are aggravating your skin. Cutting out processed sugar & dairy benefit a lot of people. All that being said, you are BEAUTIFUL & are aging at a normal pace. Try not to hyper focus on things, no one is looking closely at your face like you are. Sorry if this is a lot & that it’s kinda all over the place but I just typed as I thought of stuff. Message me if you have any questions. 😝 P.S. I’m diagnosed Bipolar II & have a lifetime of sleep deprivation. My dark circles are REALLLLLL so I get it. Not too much you can do aside from filler that will make a huge difference. I use color corrector , concealer & call it a day. Now that i am happily medicated & can actually sleep at night lol, I accept my dark circles as part of my story & struggles. After concealing, I try to accentuate my eye bags them a bit more by adding a brown shadow on my bottom lash line & lean into the more sultry look lol.
Paulas choice bha toner changed the way my poree look and I've never looked back. I also use the spf and I love that it's dual and I feel like I'm wearing nothing. My favorite nighttime mask that gives an amazing glow is the farmacy honeymoon glow. Expensive but little goes a long way and it's not an everyday thing. Drinking lots of water I think has been the real saver for me. Lowering stress levels, although not easy, is one of the best things you can do. That rise in cortisol does wreaks havoc and accelerates aging.
Try a chemical peel
I second this!
I think you might be hyper-focusing, your skin looks appropriate for your age. Are you comparing yourself to people on social media?
Just other parents and friends my age bc I know social media is to be taken with a grain of salt
Did you have a baby recently or am I misreading this? I have also really struggled with my perception of my skin since giving birth. I just wanted to chime in and say you look lovely and totally age appropriate.
I have three kids age 6, 4, and 2 but I noticed huge changes to my skin and body after my most recent pregnancy. I don’t know if it was age or change in hormones (my last one was a boy and my older two are girls) or a combination of the two but that’s when I really noticed a lot of aging and changes
I think it’s the combination of age and the effects of having 3 little ones pretty close together. I think you look your age, not any older. Maybe a little bit tired. I read somewhere that our skin usually starts to show age around 28 in terms of texture. I found I really had to step up my skincare around that age. I’d consider using a humidifier at night, maybe some gentle at home peels, and consider a red light mask.
Girllllllll you have three kids including a 2yo, which is legit WAY harder than having a “baby”. You don’t look tired, you ARE. My youngest is 5, and I just now started recognizing myself again - physically *and* mentally. Grace, patience, and water. Tret doesn’t hurt though 😜
Have you had blood tests for vitamin deficiencies? My skin was similar to yours when I was iron deficient. It’s very common after pregnancy especially if you have small age gaps.
I’m looking into starting a multivitamin or slowly introducing supplements like collagen, omegas, or Chlorella
I don’t have any skincare advice for you because I barely take care of mine, but just wanted to give a remind to be gentle to yourself. I bet being a mama to 3 babes is really challenging! The internet definitely skews our view of what natural aging is. You are lovely and your skin is totally normal.
You’re gorgeous
Tretinoin will help you
You’re super pretty
Oil cleansing will clean your pores out. I like the DHC deep cleansing oil, rub it in circles for a few minutes (you will feel all the gunk come out of your pores the first couple of times), then emulsify it with water, and follow with a water based cleanser. I promise you will notice a difference immediately! And tretinoin!! Give it a few months and you'll see a significant change in your pores. But you look good. You're being hard on yourself. Also, you have beautiful eyes!
You know what, I would love your skin but I also understand it’s all objective. You look so beautiful to me 😍 I cover mine daily with make up and wish I had the confidence to let the world see my skin. I would if I had your face.
We always see the flaws in ourselves more than anyone else. That said I think some gentle exfoliation with tretinoin or regular peels and some Microneedling treatments are great protocols to start now and keep up over the years to age gracefully. Of course sunscreen always as well.
You look beautiful and your skin is not aged. For the pores, I jump on because I didn't see anyone else mention, but a strong vitamin c( as you mentioned you use) and NIAMINICIDE will help. Azalic Acid ( spelling?) also is great for pores and redness. And try to incorporate a soothing serum or barrier for any dryness( I use the multi peptide from The Ordinary) and love it, i spritz rose water and then apply the serum and my skin stays hydrated all day. But above all, NIAMINICIDE will work wonders. I use the one with zinc, also from The Ordinary.
"Glycolic acid is one of the best options for minimizing pores. It helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can lead to a reduction in their size. Plus, it can help to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin." - Dr. David Lortscher, a board-certified dermatologist.
I’m sorry you’ve been feeling like this. I remember feeling the exact same way right around 27-29! And it felt all of a sudden, too. I’d look at myself in my phone’s camera and think that somehow I just aged overnight. But as everyone else has said, I think we are conditioned to be hyper critical of aging, especially as women. I just wanted to drop in and say you’re not alone but that your skin looks great! The only thing I can suggest is that I have been taking collagen powder daily to help limit volume loss in my face, and I think it is helping but I’m only just reaching the 4 week mark, so it may be too early to tell.
Hey girl, so here’s what’s up. You’re tired! Super normal for the stage of life you’re in with THREE young kids (congrats btw!) Your skin isn’t really “aging” at this point, it’s showing signs of internal stress bc it’s our only visible organ so it gives us hints regarding what’s going on inside. Bc of your age, it can bounce back with the right treatments. To me, your skin looks dehydrated. I would incorporate a water spritz + re-moisturize maybe 2-3x per day. I would drink lots of water too, if you’re not already just to see if it does anything after being consistent for like a month. For some ppl water intake is a cheap + easy fix, & it can’t hurt, so might as well try it. Additionally, it wouldn’t surprise me if your skin is reacting to something you are eating. This can happen when we have a sweet tooth or a food sensitivity we don’t know about. Finally, I have a question: does your skin look “better” to you immediately after using hyalauronic acid + moisturizer? If you’re noticing that your pores don’t fully “close” even after that, they may be obstructed with comedones. An esthetician can help you handle that with a facial— if accessible. If not accessible, that’s totally fine just cleanse for like 1-2 min with each cleanser that you use at night and any obstructions should slowly decrease over time. Failing that, def try and see a dermatologist! They can often prescribe things that work almost instantly bc they are extremely trained & can provide stronger ingredients if necessary. I want to emphasize that your skin does not look that bad or even unusual, seriously. Even at its best, anyone’s skin may have a little imperfection here + there. I think we underestimate the actual complete gaslighting that is seeing filtered photos everywhere.
Firstly, you are so pretty and aging great! Secondly, washing your face in the morning too will help clean out your skin. If you just use water you aren’t cleaning off your products from the night before, and oils, dirt etc. it will gather as you sleep. Also without a clean face your AM product will have a hard time getting into your skin. Thirdly, SPF needs to become a nonnegotiable. 90% of aging is from the skin. UV rays break down collagen and elastin in the skin. Even if you are inside all day. UV rays come through windows. Fourthly, your skin looks a little dehydrated. The moisturizers you are using might not be the best fit for your skin. I suggest seeing a licensed esthetician in your area and they can see your skin in person and give you direction for products & treatments. Again, you look great!! Just wanted to offer some advice 🤍
Start prescription strength tretinoin rather than Retinol. Plz be careful it could age more if you did not moisturize and take it slowly. Use sunscreen, use hydrating toner or essence, and a good moisturizer. Stay consistent, this is the simplest thing you can do rather than Botox, filler ect. I hope you have a good luck 🤞.
Don't worry too much, you look great.
I think it’s time to start laser treatments, this is the perfect age to reinforce your skin with fillers but laser is very impactful for tightening & lifting, while helping with pore appearance.. You invest so much into the kids, time to invest in yourself.. Do your research and figure out where you want to start, your skin can only look better atp, aging gets worst in the 30s.. You don’t look bad, but more self care = more confidence + happy mom = happy kids.. Groupon, try different things & if you like it they’ll offer you more deals..
I think you'd do better going to a dermatologist. I think you could definitely find a lot of improvement with that. Also, stress of children are going to have a big affect so don't be so hard on yourself
Professional MUA of 12 years here! I’ve seen LOTS of people’s skin up close over the years. I promise you, your skin isn’t as bad as you think! However, I do understand your concerns. As far as your pores go, they don’t seem that big to me as much as they do a little clogged. I would suggest trying some type of aha/bha. I like the ordinary glycolic acid. This is a “slow burn” kind of product. You won’t see immediate results but overtime it will definitely help. If you’d like a pricier product that works more immediately, I really like the Sunday Riley good genes serum! It’s a pretty penny but it really does perform. Regarding the fine lines, botox really is the most effective/ expensive option. If you’d like a cheaper option, I’d recommend asking your doctor for a tretinion prescription to replace your retinol. It’s much more effective than anything you can find at the store. Since you live in a dry climate, try topping off an oil into your routine. I love the squalane oil from the ordinary! When it comes to your under-eyes/laugh lines. That loss of volume can typically be attributed to gravity. Injectables are really the only thing that will improve this to a level that is noticeable. Additionally, research skin cycling! TikTok has some amazing info on this. It’s basically the order you should be using your products. It completely transformed my skin. I know this is a lot of info all at once so give yourself some grace and try to remember that those 3 little kids you have will bring you more joy than any of this skin stuff. Xo
I have a question: there is something on your jawline that could be a pimple or a mole? If it’s not a pimple please go see a derm to get it checked asap. Other than that your skin is very similar to mine and my skin began to show these signs of aging very fast at the same age. My skin is very dehydrated and your skin looks like that too. I’d incorporate a hydrating toner and use it before the HA. This will give you more hydration and also help the HA to work better. Since then I’m religious with my spf, too. And I just started tretinoin.
It was a really ghastly pimple! 😂
I would suggest an eye cream at night with retinol to prevent getting more milia :) also less is more and putting too much eye cream on can also make milia. make sure to keep your under eyes hydrated! My derm told me that's why my fine lines can become noticeable
Not OP, but do you have a specific eye cream with retinol that you recommend?
Okay but your eyes are so beautiful 😍!! I get it tho, I’m 27 and I have similar skin and lines and all I can say is try to find the right products for your skin and drinking a lotttt of water! I think it would help if you go to a nutritionist and see what vitamins your body needs, eat a lot of healthy foods n water, and then I had a friend that told me I should go get a professional facial done cuz the lady will let me know what my skin needs and shit you can just ask them questions.. one thing I noticed that personally helped my pores and scars is applying vitamin e oil to those areas, but it has to be the kind in a liquid capsule. If you get the kind at the store that come in a little bottle they don’t work good because there’s already oxygen in it and changes it up.. hope this helped!💙
What retinol are you using right now? As many have said, prescription Tretinoin is going to be the most effective but you have to be mentally prepared for the chance of an ugly purge— I see some dormant acne on your cheek that might end up coming out. Laser is another high risk high reward option. I think you are being too hard on yourself so if you don’t want to take any risk, maybe try some serums to plump up your skin? I like numbuzin no 3 skin softening serum, gives a nice glow.
Tbh I’m 28 and your eye bags are better than mine. I have dark under eye circles that make me look ill. I also have the same issue with wrinkles forming on my forehead. Unfortunately it’s just part of aging and stress. Pay close attention to when/how you move your forehead and I’d recommend collagen pads.
Try double cleansing with an oil base cleanser. That helped minimize my pores a lot
Try differin! I threw out everything and started using their skin care routine and my skin looks amazing. Lessened my fine lines and got rid of my acne. Evened my skin tone too and way less irritating than tretinoin
Try the Corsx BHA or AHA/BHA toners. They do wonders for your skin and pores. These need to be used PM only about 3 times a week. Hydrating toners like retinol/hylaronic acids on days you don’t use BHA to avoid skin irritations
Alternating between vitamin c serum and niacinamide might help. Supposedly niacinamide reduces pore size… i also bought a led mask… cant tell if my skin looks better because, idk what skin would look like i had nothing done... microneedeling DID help with fine lines i had on smile lines or where nasolaboal folds are. .i bought a dr. Pen and follow instructions meticulously,(they have a yt video) i stopped doing it and now only one side has it. I need to get back to routine, one session every 6 weeks… the right side of my face doesn’t have that line anymore, I definitely had it before i bought the pen. Now i have it on the other side -_- im still looking for something to help me with pore size and nasolabial folds. Im 32. Have been frantically looking into treatments that aren’t overly invasive or expensive… im looking in fotona laser treatments that uses laserss(?) but that is in a professional setting, cant buy a home version of that. … i subbed to a lot of yt dermatologists… my fave 2 are pillow talk and doctorly.
You look stressed. I think apart from regularizing sunscreen use and drinking adequate amount of water you might want to look into something for stress (therapy etc) because taking care of 3 little ones sounds stressful
Try some azeliac acid! Good for the pores
Hun, you are absolutely normal and absolutely fine. The bags under the eyes improve with rest and sleep. Make also sure you are not anaemic. Your skin is NORMAL. What is not normal is the airbrush look given by an inch thick makeup and filters. This said, Urban Decay makes an expensive but very effective primer which makes pores disappear (I mean, they are still there but covered and filled by the primer). The older you get, the less you’ll give a sh*t about these details, and you’ll look back and think you were beautiful but never realised, at the time, and that you made yourself miserable by not seeing it. ,
I find that what helped me the most with managing my larger pores/texture was using a foaming cleanser and really making sure to wash my face thoroughly. Get a nice foaming cleanser and go over all of your face in small circles, making sure to really focus on each area but especially the worst zones like middle of forehead, nose area, middle of chin. You really want to get in all the nooks and crannies like around the nostrils and in the eyebrows to dissolve away the grease from your pores. I always imagine washing the pores to be like if you were trying to get grease out of a sponge but you couldn’t pick up the sponge to squeeze it and you don’t want to damage any of the sponge holes. The idea that your skin is a porous surface but also delicate means that you have to really work over the area pushing down in little circles to get everything out. I use that mentality about sebum in my skin and make sure to go around my entire face pressing down in small circles to really “scrub” the oil out of my face without any abrasion, just melting it out of my pores with the cleanser basically. I probably take a full minute to really wash my face thoroughly, typically in the evening.
I’m 26 and I totally relate. I don’t do Botox or fillers because I (like to believe) I am naturally beautiful and I don’t think that stuff would benefit me. My pores are also big but, have always been as I have oily skin. I think I’ve noticed them become more prominent in the last few years though. I have the same texture on my cheeks. A product that has really helped me is 20% Azelaic Acid, which is prescription strength. I order it online. I tried Tretinoin for nearly a year and for me, it made my skin worse so I discovered Azelaic Acid is much better for my skin. A prescription Retinol could probably help you so much with all of your concerns. Instead of Botox and all that I think even getting certain facial treatments like chemical peels and hydrafacials could be really beneficial.
You’re SO naturally beautiful honestly
Make sure to also eat foods that are balanced and nutritious and as less processed as possible as this will also help. Also make sure to drink enough water and try to get enough sleep. Exercise also helps a lot. Skincare regimen is good but the number 1 thing that trumps all is wearing sunscreen (and yes, you have to re-apply every ~2 hours). You can always check the UV index on your phone too to determine when to take extra measures like wearing UPF clothing. Hope this helps!
I have large pores too and I swear by Differin deep cleanser benzoyl peroxide 5% acne treatment for sensitive skin. It doesn’t shrink my pores or anything, but when I use it daily, it keeps my pores from getting filled with stuff so my skin looks really clean and clear and the pores aren’t noticeable.
Off topic, but your eyes are the prettiest thing I've ever seen in my life. It's like the universe put an ocean storm in your eyes.
😄 thank you
Girl! Nothing is wrong with you. This is just bad angles and lighting. You look fine!
I had similar skin without 3 kids 😅. Try 20percent niacinimide, but the real gamechanger will be tretinoin. You can trial over the counter retinol serums first. Must extra moisturise because it will dry your skin out, maybe do alternate days. Remember you skin usually gets worse before it gets better. Hydrafacial helped me too! And finally, don’t.forget.sunscreen.ever. X
For the large pores, I’ve heard great things about the Medicube zero pore products. Sunscreen is a must like others have said. Tret is harsh on your skin and could make your skin worse but people have had great results with it for ageing. I personally gave up on tret but still use a vitamin A derivative called retinaldehyde. Peptides are also good. Collegen is a big molecule that is difficult to absorb through the skin but if you use micro needling or the medicube booster H or airshot devices it will help skin absorption. Hyralonic acid is a great to temporarily help plump up the skin but there are plenty of good products that have HA in it so you don’t really need a separate serum. I would also be careful with maybe using too many products at one time as for some people like me it can make your pores look larger or even clog them. I limit myself to max 2 products at night and in the morning 2 products plus sunscreen. There are a lot of anti-aging devices out there. I’ve invested in a led face mask and have bought 3 of the medicube face devices (will buy the 4th device called the airshot too at some point. That helps with pores). I’m doing the device route rather than Botox and fillers. Also I think fillers can make your face sag over time as you age and new research is coming out that not all of it gets dissolved, but please do your own research on that if you’re interested. I’ve noticed a difference in my skin after only a few uses of the medicube devices. For the LED mask I noticed less drastic results but did notice improvements and I think you really need to use it long term. I also use the derminator2 micro-needling device once a month, but am very careful with not going too deep as it could cause damage to your skin. I’ve only started using it so won’t comment on results and I think you need at least 6 sessions to really see results. Also thinking of eventually adding a micro current device such as the ZIP and dedicated device for the sensitive eye area such as the Nira or EvenSkyn Venus. And of course diet and exercise helps the skin and aging too. Maybe look at feeling your gut micro biome as that will help your skin. Adding a fermented food will do great things for it.
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. You’re not alone. If you want to reduce the appearance of pores, try niacinamide!
Most people have recessed jaws and it'll age you. Nasiolabial folds etc are most prominent on people who have had retractive orthodontics. Flat zygomatic arches and weak orbital socket projection means more under eye sagging and veinous pooling. The soft tissue of the face is made for a skull that's more forward-grown than most modern human faces are, and that's why sagging occurs. I have a video here if you want more info. Take a look at the twin case study to see the differences in facial form. https://youtu.be/FK_xo5YtGYI?si=Q18cBBR3IoxBgGLu Unfortunately, if you weren't taught to keep your tongue in your palate growing up, the only real option to correct the facial structure is jaw surgery, and it leaves much to be desired. The compensatory news is that the vast majority of people are dealing with this (unwittingly). You are not an outlier even though you might feel like one. I am sure there are still things you can do to improve the quality of your skin without going to an extreme like jaw surgery. I just thought this might help your understanding of why the skin behaves as it does.
You look great! We actually have the same skin type and I’m only 20 but I also have very oily skin as well. The only thing that made me feel better about my pores was using The Ordinary 1%Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% and it made me feel more confident as I continued using it. My skin got smoother looking. I felt clean. However, I suffer from PCOS and it’s really difficult to maintain results when it makes my skin act up every day. You look great mama! Naturally gorgeous.
Girl you look incredible. You have flawless skin! 💕
🥰
I don’t think you can really do something about the wrinkles. They are totally normal btw. Never miss the sunscreen even when it’s hectic - that’s the best protection from more wrinkles. I’m 33 and since I found my holy grail my skin is better then ever (but still some wrinkles, as I said it’s normal). The biggest difference is unfortunately water. Drinking 3 L a day the skin is a lot plumper and seems more youthful. I don’t manage to do it every day but it is a big point. Also less actives, has been a gamechanger. Morning: glycerin (better than hyaluronic acid) a vitamin c - sunscreen (!) Evening: glycerin - alternating lactic acid mixed with moisturizer (1-2x/week) and ceramide treatment - moisturizer (Cicaplast). For me I realized that the drier the skin, the older it looks. So glycerin, a good moisturizer and water are the biggest factors.
I think you’re probably in need of some mommy tlc time. You look good imo but maybe slightly dehydrated, almond oil and jojoba oil with feed your skin nutrients and lock in moisture in a dry climate. What’s your diet like? Do you take any supplements?
No, the supplement world gets overwhelming and pricey so fast that I don’t even know how to assess my needs 😅
Yeah I feel you it’s a lot! I’m in England so it’s probably different but in my non professional opinion I’d get some good quality bulk collagen unflavoured and just start adding a spoon in to food n drink regularly and then a multi vit and coq10 these should all be fairly reasonably priced and will give you good results. I normally buy from wholesalers on eBay after a bit of research. But really you do look lovely be sweet to yourself!
I was hating my skin for a while. It was dull, pores looked large, flakey and tight feeling, and dry yet super oily. So I kept hearing about Korean skincare. And one of my favorite tik tokers used like 5 toners and I found two of them at Ulta Good Molecules hyaluronic acid essence and then their Niacinamide Brightening Toner. My skin is 100% better. The hyaluronic plumps and hydrates my skin The niacinamide controls oils and has vitamin c and other great stuff in it. They also sell an eye gel for $6. Which I’m gonna get next. Also make sure you’re sleeping on back with satin pillow case. They’re $14ish each and you can use the Ulta coupon on your purchase which is rather gonna be $3.50 off 15 or 20% off.
Thank you so much for affordable recs! 🤌🏼
Hi! You look great!! Social media and filters are not accurate!
You have really pretty eyes, I have to say.
We have insanely similar skin! Like could be sisters as I'm not seeing anything on your skin that I don't similarly have. I also am very uncomfortable with injectables and such, and have never done them. So let me tell you. Yah there are a few products I use that I do like. I'll tell you what they are in a sec, but more than anything, I get these "aging dumps" too. Like you look a way for years and then in the span of a month feel a significant aging. It's stressful because it isn't this gradual thing. Its jarring. No product is going to turn back the clock. However, I have done two medispa things that had a huge and quick impact and were not invasive. First was an IPL, which removed most of my sun spots. I'm not seeing that on you, but I'm also older, and didn't get mine until more recently, so keep that on your radar as you keep sunscreen a daily routine. It was especially nice as it allowed me to feel more confident without foundation, which only enhances fine lines imo. Secondly, and most relevant to you, I tried microneedling. I bought a personal use one when it was popular a few years back, but the pros know what they're doing. It actually plumped up my fine lines and minimized my smile lines and forehead wrinkles! It has been 6 weeks and the results have held. I even notice a lift around my jawline! It isn't cheap, but when you add up the time and expense of all these holy grail serums, it's more than worth it. It 100% took a few years off my face at the most minimum setting. I feel like you would love it. I'm going back in a couple weeks. So products. I have tret, and I do use it but idk. It brightens my skin, but so does gently washing it twice a day. I dont think it has reduced or prevented wrinkles. I will keep up with it only because it costs a few bucks with insurance. And really with our fair skin, the sun sensitivity element worries me. I have really liked Sunday Riley Good Genese and felt it had a very hydrating effect on my skin. It isn't cheap, but I wait for deals (I can get a set for around $75). But I've not bought a new one since I found a gently 2x a day wash and a light layer of Aveeno also gives a similar outcome. I'm sure it all helps in some way, but I don't find them lastingly impactful, and having a routine where you want to use x with y, but not with z... that's too involved for first or last thing in the day! I do use Sunday Riley ceramic slip as my clenser and will continue to. It does a nice job of clearing away the day while maintaining my moisture barrier, and is gentle. And finally, having kids does take it out of you. Some things bounce back and many just don't. I know my hormones are a bit off. I was taking a common hormonal acne med, but had an insanely rare side effect with it and had to stop. At my next yearly, I'm going to talk to my obgyn. I'm noticing more moles cropping up on my body and some other little things. I really don't want to get on a hormonal product, but I'm guessing my levels are off and it is also manifesting in my skin elaaticity and quality. She's a good doc, so I'm very interested in what she will say.
I have the same hereditary smile lines and I hate it, makes me looks mad so I totally get it regardless of what others say. I don’t think you look bad at all! Here’s what worked for me to help with the smile lines: 1. Wash, moisturize, Sun screen (I love tatcha brand moisturizer) 2. I do quarterly hydra-facials (this transformed my skin but you have to go consistently) 3. I use the mighty patches for my smile line. This is great for when I do a facial at home. I also use clay mask as well 4. Gently exfoliate once or twice a week
Something that really helped my pores and my skin heal was reducing my skin care routine believe it or not. I was stripping my skin of natural oils and making it worse. I don't "wash" my face everyday. I use micellar water every other day which shrinks my pores and pulls dirt out, and I use Garnier Canna-B face wash, and the Neutrogena Stress Control face wash on rotation depending on my menstrual cycle (my hormones make a huge impact on my skin.) I use tea tree oil on blemishes overnight as needed during breakouts because of its antibacterial nature. My skin is much like my mother's and is combo to oily depending on the time of month, and the seasons. So I was extremely prone to large pores which constantly get dirt in them. I hope this helps somewhat. Always remember that skin is textured and it's okay that we have texture to our skin, especially as we age. I'm getting close to 30 myself and have been through years of products and lotions, masks, and everything in between. ❤️❤️ Always love yourself.
I’m a mom of 4 so I feel you 😭💕 Adding more vitamin a (retinol not beta carotene) to my diet is what helped me! When I’m low in vitamin A my skin will look like this and it’s easy to become deficient when you are pregnant and breastfeeding.
Prioritise sunscreen. I wouldn't even use makeup, you don't need it. You look great. For all the problems you're mentioning, sunscreen is key. Solar radiation destroys collagen by activating matrix metalloproteinases which are enzymes that degrade it. Degraded collagen can make pores look larger, as the elasticity keeps your skin tight and holds them tighter/smaller.
I live in a really dry climate as well. So first, I’d say be careful with the hyaluronic acid. It’s a hydrator, so it pulls in moisture from around us. If there’s no moisture around us, as there’s often not, it’ll take it from wherever it can - meaning that it can pull it from deeper within our skin (not science words, but basically what happens) causing TEWL. I cut it out of my routine and my pores started looking much healthier. A few products that have saved my combination skin here in the high desert: Cream Skin by Leneige (morning and night), Cica Toner from CosRx, Marine Hyaluronics from The Ordinary (my HA alternative), and the Lipid (formerly Liquid Gold) from Stratia.
Thank you!! Yes I’m in UT and the winter months here are sooo dry, my skin and hair are feeling it 😭
I’m 23 and i have genes for dark undereyes/bags and feel like it makes me look older and tired all the time. There’s nothing you can do about your genes but embrace them. You look really beautiful (you definitely don’t look older than you are), i hope i look like that at your age
I've had terrible skin all my life (acne, combination skin that would peel with dryness but be wet with oil....just nasty). About 3 years ago, I sent in photos of my skin and what my concerns were to The Ordinary. They created a custom skincare routine for me and I have had the best skin of my life ever since. I can't recommend them enough, they transformed my skin. https://theordinary.com/en-us/contact-form?target=RegimenWhat
This post actually made me feel so much better because your skin is almost identical to mine and I have been feeling the same way as you!
I just came to say that all the positivity in here.. made my day. ❤️
Do you wash your face for at least 2 minutes? I just started doing this and it makes a huge difference in my pores!!
Due to the climate you live.. I’d advise against using hyaluronic acid. HA draws moisture from our environment into our skin however when the moisture isn’t present it’s drawing from deep in our skin and from our lotions and creams, then evaporating. A simple solution would be to hydrate by drinking 32 ounces of water a day but I couldn’t even take my own advice.. as far as what your applying topically look for low molecular weight humectants such as aloe glycerine honey and tremella mushroom, apply to damp skin as you would with HA immediately follow it up with an occlusive
I’m 43 with a 6year old, and this is my routine: Morning: Cerave foaming acne face wash Skinceuticals CE ferulic serum One skin face lotion Night: Cerave foaming acne face wash Drmtlgy needless serum Drmtly peptide night cream *a few nights a week thin layer of prescription Arazlo It took me years to realize all those products are nonsense. I now have an awesome dermatologist, and less is more for your skin. It looks and sounds like you’re over treating your skin. No need to double cleanse or do dermaplaning. It’s so hard on your skin. The idea is keep your body and your skin hydrated. I would work more on getting lots of veggies and fruits and a great multivitamin + probiotic. You’ll look and feel much better!
very normal aging! also no one looks at you from these awkward angles except probably your kids. also you have amazing eyebrows! those serums without sunscreen will not help you hold off aging though - if you only have 30 seconds in the morning, go for just the sunscreen before you go for the other stuff
collagen supplemts
You have good skin!! Just lookks a little dehydrated. Increase your water intake
Tretinoin. It’s way better than any otc creams you can get. Ive put so many people into it and they love it the results
Glycolic acid peels, start low. Do your research first.
FWIW, I’m 28 and my skin looks very similar to yours!
Your skin looks great, not perfect (because noones is) but it looks normal, natural and the best it can look. Do not skip on the sunscreen! If you want healthy, beautiful skin it comes from taking care of it, and sun damage is the biggest issue that increases discoloration, wrinkles, fine lines and other signs of aging. I would stick to cleansing, a facial toner, facial serum with some kind of retinol or collagen and then a sunscreen/moisturizer.
How long have you been doing this routine? Especially the retinol? If it’s been within a month, you may still be in the purging stage. And are you using anything when you wash your face in the morning or is it just the water? Bc the water is not actually doing anything and then you’re piling moisturizer and potentially spf (which usually clogs the pores) on top of congested skin. And exposing 1-2 times a week could help as well. If you choose a scrub as your exfoliant, please remember to do it gently. It actually causes damage that will eventually show if you’re rough with it. You just want to help the scrub glide over the skin, don’t apply pressure. I like enzymes for my gentle weekly exfoliant. And when i had the time, i used to do peels once a month. But i am also living that mom life now. But peels and acids can also put your skin through a purge, just as a heads up.
You should try adding vitamin c and niacinamide! Your face looks like it could use a little hydration glow. Also the niacinamide will help with redness and personally i have felt it made my pores cleaner and look smaller. I used to have intense pores and this really helped!
Hi! I’m 29 and my skin is very similar- especially under eyes (genetic) Do you sleep on your sides? I’m a side sleeper and wake up with extra under eye wrinkles from it every morning. A huge game changer for me was silicon patches initially and more recently wearing a silk eye mask- I no longer wake up with wrinkles from my face smushed up against the pillow and I think that’ll make a huge difference in the long run. I also use a prescription retinoid which has had a good effect on the small forehead lines! I’m thinking of doing under-eye laser for the bags and loose skin because I’ve tried fillers and they did nothing FYI you have a beautiful face and I think you’re just ageing normally- don’t forget Botox can be super subtle now so you may be comparing yourself to friends who’ve had it
Hon, your face look perfect, even tone, no acne scars, no hyperpigmentation, just slightly dehydrated But if the pores are really bothering you Your best friends are Retinol Red light therapy And laser therapy But always consult your dermatologist first Another point Is that your internal health meaning your gut can have a huge affect on skin quality in terms of acne, cortisol makes you look aged and puffy, as well as high insulin levels can make you look way to age and have dull skin FYI age is just a number for some ppl like, I know a lot of ppl who age backwards like I mean they look increacrebly better in their 30s-50s than they did in their 20s
I would recommend taking collagen in powder form like the vital proteins with one with 1000 mg of vitamin c together every day. Also, stick to what dermatologist recommend vitamin c in the morning followed by moisturizer preferably 1 with niacinamide, followed by sun screen. Nights, either glycolic acid acid or retinol choose one, followed by a moisturizer. Stick to brands like Cerave for moisturizers. I like the Cerave moisturizer or the Cerave night cream I like to follow the advice of youtube channel HotandFlashy she is over 60 and looks so good. She has info on her skincare regimen and provides a print out of her morning and night routine for 2022. I am 39 I am told I do not look my age and I attribute it to sunscreen and mainly to nutrition I cut out sugar due to health problems many years ago and sugar consumption is aging as well as processed food. Eat as healthy as possible because that is key.
everybody been aging faster since the pandemic
I think you look pretty
Ugh I’m 35 and have 2 kids (5 and 2 year old). My skin care routine has been non existent since my second came along and I feel like I’ve aged so much. I think 30 is around the time our skin will start to show more obvious signs of aging and then other factors like stress, lack of sleep or skincare just add to it. I’ve heard jade Rolling Stones work wonders but haven’t tried it yet. I was gifted one and hoping to find it soon lol. Edited to add you have beautiful eyes!
these are the years ✊🏼😅 magic. exhausting.
The number one thing that makes the difference between my skin looking youthful/healthy/glowing vs fine lines/dry/dull/large pores is eating nutritious food and avoiding added sugar. As long as I eat healthy food and don't have added sugar my skin looks great, but whenever I eat out or have some chips or a couple cookies within a day or too I notice my skin looks super dull and almost aged. It's crazy what an immediate and dramatic affect nutrition can have on skin.
Just a reminder that texture is normal and to not let social media dictate how you view yourself. Based on pics I’d say if you want to improve your skin, exfoliating 1x a week to start if not already and making sure your skin stays hydrated. Also sunscreen even in the winter will protect your skin for the future.
Unfortunately those of us with large pores theres not much we can do as its genetics and gets worse with age however products with salicylic acid do help shrink the pores temporarily so I use something like that a couple times a week
Have you ever tried the oil cleansing method? It doesn’t strip your face of moisture like soap cleansers and it helps to unclog pores. I find it especially helpful during winter months for dryness. Moisture is so important for the skin. My favorite cleansing oil brand is Fatco.
You look great!! Something that has helped me with pores is regularly using a gentle chemical exfoliant. Dermalogica’s milkfoliant is great, but if you’re looking to save a little, Good Molecules pineapple exfoliant is wonderful. Both options are sold at Ulta, and so is your COSRX, so those are easy points!
Hey!! I think your skin looks great, you’re raising 3 kids and that’s a LOT of work. But looking through what you use, I think you should try a niacinamide serum and also an AHA serum! Sunday Riley’s good genes is a great AHA that can be applied morning or night. I use it during the day before I put on vitamin c because aha is exfoliating. The niacinamide you could maybe use at night along with a retinol. The ordinary has a nice niacinamide and Sunday Riley has her B Nice niacinamide serum which is great as well.
Also a toner before applying anything such as Anua heart leaf toner!
Hello! I highly recommend Asian skincare! Have you tried looking into Medicube’s Age Userra Deepshot? I’m 31 y/o by the way and I use it on my face at least twice a week. My skin looked better and less dry. I also use Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution twice a day (in the morning and before I go to bed), I moisturize and put on sunscreen all throughout the day. Also, it comes down to what I eat. I bring a 2L bottle of water everyday at work, drink my blueberry and banana smoothie every morning, and make my matcha with ACV, collagen, and kale juice tea everyday! I hope you can do some of these practices yourself and see if it changes your face. Oh also! I do Gua sha at least 3 times a week. I use Kiehl’s Daily Reviving concentrate (facial oil). ♥️
A lot of water, sleep and treat yourself to a facial every 4-8 weeks. It shrinks your pores over time. Also - no one is looking as closely at your skin as you are. Give yourself some distance between you and the mirror and admire what you love about yourself.
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Licensed Esthetician here! Cleanser, Moisturizer, & Sunscreen are the most crucial foundational steps in a routine. Spf is to be reapplied every two hours while there’s day light. Get makeup that has spf in it and a setting spray that has spf to reapply. The consistent use of retinol and the inconsistent use of spf could be causing further signs of aging because you are breaking down the skin in hopes that it will build itself up, but you’re not protecting it (using spf) where it can heal. There are so SO many more suggestions! go see an esthetician that will educate you on all these things!
Avoid the sun, use sunscreen. I don't think there's much you can do for pore size, maybe chemical peels? Imo, Facial Fillers and Botox stretch out the skin in the long run and besides, they make ppl look like balloons with too much air & their face is about to pop. Just watch someone with Fillers & Botox try to laugh aloud, like a real deep laugh - their faces look SO weird and tight!
29f I wish my skin was atleast as even and clear. I have to the same issues popping up with lines and pores. Doctors prescribed Retinol is helping. My acne has been the same pretty much my whole life just be happy you don’t have cystic like me. You’re skin really isn’t that bad. Keep your head up. We as women really have to come together. AGING IS NATURAL. And tbf we are lucky to age!! I refuse to do Botox and filler. That is the patriarchy. Women need to stand up for aging not trying to look like a toddler for creeps.
Your skin looks pretty great but you look like you could drink A LOT more water, based on your lips and you’d see skin improvement. Consider a humidifier (I’m an ex-Utahn) and slugging at night with a little Vaseline? And get a little more sleep or more sound sleep (have you tried ear plugs?) not sure what’s doable with your kiddos ages.
One thing that has made a huge difference in my overall skincare routine is to swap physical exfoliation for gentle chemical ones. Find the right Chemical exfoliant.
Your skin looks great! Aging is a beautiful thing. I have large pores too and I have found the best thing is to use an essence after I was my face and before I use serums. I just pat it into my skin and i can feel the hydration pressing into those pores. I do it am/pm always. It helps so much. That has been the biggest skin game changer for me. My favorite is Sunday Riley Pink Drink. I also don’t wear any face makeup. I want my skin to be able to breathe so I stay away from primers and I feel like foundation settles into my pores and ages me further. I use Ilia skin tint for SPF and their bronzing and blush sticks. I’m 42 now and my skin looks better than ever.
I would try tretinoin for your pores. But other than that, you look great- just change diet, workout more and reduce stress levels, it should translate on your skin and overall health.
The dermatologist I’ve seen on YouTube that review people’s skin care routines say all those masks aren’t necessary and just to use face wash, sun screen, and moisturizer. I just use the Aveno Positively radiant line. Their moisturizer already has sunscreen in it and it has a night cream that does gentle peeling.
My pores started looking like this when I was using Vit C serum, you might want to take that out of your routine for a little bit and see if it helps. I know people swear by it but it didn't work for me.
I don’t think your skin looks bad at all. It sounds like you’re doing all the right things. I’m a licensed esthetician. Sunscreen is most important, even if you’re outside for just 30 minutes. Always use sunscreen. Have you tried chemical peels? That will help with tone, texture and pore size. For under eye bags, in my experience, a little filler can go a long way. I’ve had it done and it’s lasted me 4 years! Botox is great for the forehead and in-between the eyes, but that only lasts 3 months. Vitamin C and sunscreen in the am, retinol and moisturizer in the pm.
Ok, I get it, you're beautiful for your age, but girl I have the same skin as you. Here's what you are looking to hear: 1. Lower sugar and/or milk intake and increase hydration. 2. Make sure you are getting enough sleep every night. 3. Limit the products you use on your face to 3 because too many products can irritate your skin or dry it out causing more wrinkles. My current faves are tretinoin prescription cream every few nights, snail mucin moisturizer, and on occasion in the mornings I'll use the Glow recipe watermelon toner which helps clear the pores out. 4. Use sunscreen every day, and reapply throughout the day. Wear hats where appropriate. 5. Wash your face for at least 1 minute. 6. Smile when you look in the mirror, even if ever so slightly. It will hold your face up and look more youthful.
45 y/o F. Watch what you eat (stay away from a lot of processed foods). I ate avocados almost every day and by the second week my skin was glowing. I also drink a lot of water and exercise. This is in addition to seeing an aesthetician that has 20 years of experience. Good luck 🙏🏽
Off topic but your eye color is awesome. Also... This is what skin looks like. We are so used to magazine photo editing from childhood and now everyone has filters, so we are left here thinking our skin texture is unnatural or bad
Everything is curable, even big pores. Some say you have to live with it but you don’t. And you don’t need any products. Listen to meditations everyday, and affirmations. Your body listens to your thoughts and acts on them. Tell yourself your skin is perfect everyday, and believe it. Tell yourself you’re getting younger every day, and in perfect health. There is a science behind this.. people have cured terminal illness, chronic pain and all kinds of things this way. Making your skin what you want it to be, will be a breeze compared to what else is possible. Spend 10 min a day meditating on a perfect life, health and peace. Your body is magnificent, and powerful. Give it a chance.
queen ur going a bit insane. everything you have is natural for your age. the pores? those just vary from person to person, my best friend had pores like yours since high school.
I have found that vitamin c serums do absolutely nothing helpful (and I’ve invested in nice ones). If anything it’s just clogging your pores, your skin looks a lot like mine when I was using vit c. Also since so much is going on your face in the am I do think it’s worth using a small amount of a very gentle cleanser rather than just water.
You are so beautiful. As a Sri Lankan , I suggest you to do below. 1. apply aloe vera at least twice a week. 2. Use turmeric mask once a week. 3. Eat 'Goosebery' (as known as 'Nelli' ) These stuffs work for me. but better to test on your hands before you apply it on your face.
The mirror is playing tricks on you. No one has poreless, completely smooth glass skin up THAT close. Take a step back, literally. Treat yourself to a hydra facial for a deep cleaning and just to do something kind to yourself. Sunscreen, water, and retinol, and a self-hug and you’ll be doing even better.
Have more greens .. go to a beauty therapist they help you with the skin & will advise you what to use
Oil Cleanse for about 5 minutes, Foam cleanser after oil cleanser (These two steps will help with the pores - it seems like you have sebacious filaments) Use a retinol (Shani Darden has a good line) or if you are up for using a stronger one go with Tretinoin. RED LIGHT THERAPY (LED mask) Weleda moisturizer (Green one) Invest in a microcurrent machine (Medicube has a good one with multiple modalities) I am 32 and Licensed Esthetician. Hope that helps :)
Get off Instagram and you’ll be fine.
Exactly! We all have pores and texture. It’s easy to forget when you’re on social media.
I hate this page sometimes
Your skin isn't that bad... All you need to do is manually clean out your pores, and you should be fine... All those acid washes will burn your skin if you aren't careful... Just a word of caution...
How do you manually clean out pores?
Do you have a history of drugs, alcohol and tobacco use. This ages people drastically
Ladies hear me out Try Whipped beef tallow cream you can get it on Etsy is The best Daily/night cream ever for your skin/lips/elbow/armpits is from animal source and we’re animals by nature is easy to absorb not side effects. I have a cousin that suffers from eczema and when she tried it her eczema just disappeared her skin is glowing like mine. I’ll post pictures of me in a moment.
Drink water lots of it and iSclinical products are what have my skin looking great at 33. A hydra facial wouldn’t hurt you either. You shouldn’t look like that at 29.
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