5 Ways to Change Up Your Beauty Routine When Using Acne Treatments

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #AfterDifferin #CollectiveBias

I’ve used Differin® Gel* for a few months now. My skin has definitely cleared up. I do, however, have to use caution in how I treat my skin, because acne treatments tend to make it very dry.  Here are five ways I change up my beauty routine when using an acne treatment.

1. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!

I can’t reiterate this enough! My skin can get so dry when I use Differin® Gel, so I like to use Differin® Balancing Moisturizer twice a day.  I use it 15 minutes after applying Differin® Gel at night, and I use it again in the morning after washing my face with Differin® Balancing Cleanser.  Let it soak in for at least five minutes before you do your makeup.

2. Next, use a hydrating primer, like a mist or gel.

Not all primers are created equal!  I like using a hydrating primer for an extra moisturizing boost after applying moisturizer, but before I put on my foundation.  Look for a primer that feels cushiony. I avoid lotion-like primers because they just don’t work as well for me during acne treatments, especially when my skin may be a little flaky.

3. Switch your matte and/or powder foundation for a dewy liquid foundation.

Once again, moisturizing is key.  Powder foundations are out the window for me when I’m using Differin® Gel, because they cake on my face. Matte formulas are also out, as they can be drying.  Instead, I reach for a dewy liquid foundation that adds moisture without making me shiny.  I like to wet a blender sponge and apply my foundation with that.  I pat the foundation into my skin instead of rubbing.

If you feel the need to use a finishing powder, then that’s fine, but go for a super lightweight translucent powder instead of something heavy.

4. Exfoliate twice a week.

Use a gentle exfoliator twice a week. Look for a product that does not contain acid or another acne treatment. Please use caution when using Differin® Gel with more than one acne treatment or glycolic acid product because this could lead to irritation. This will help get rid of any flaky skin you may be experiencing due to dryness.

5. Don’t forget sunscreen.

If you’re not already using sunscreen, then now is the time to start! Differin® Gel can make your skin sensitive to sunlight, so be sure to slather on sunscreen before going outside.

To show you my skin’s progress using Differin® Gel, here are my before and after pictures. My skin is much more clear.

I love that I’m seeing way fewer blackheads, which was my main problem. I’ve also seen a big reduction in the amount of blemishes that were popping up in my t-zone.  Now, I did see an increase in blemishes before they started getting better, but as I discussed in my previous post, that was to be expected. That’s because Differin® Gel clears breakouts deep in your pores where they start.  So once all of that is brought to the surface, Differin® Gel then prevents breakouts before they even have a chance to start, and as a result, restores skin’s texture and tone.

Differin® Gel is the first and only prescription-strength retinoid available over-the-counter, so you don’t have to get a prescription for it.  It’s the newest advancement and ingredient in over-the-counter acne treatments in over 30 years!

You can pick up Differin® products at your local Walmart in the skincare aisle or online. Go to Differin.com to get $2 off Differin® Gel and use it on your next shopping trip to Walmart!

*DISCLAIMER: This product is dermatologist developed and tested. Please call 1-866-735-4137 for any questions you may have concerning the product. However, should you experience any problems while using the product, please discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.