Vanity

Me and my boyfriend went to a local pharmacy about a week ago and consult a chemist to finally get a cure for my dry, itchy, red and inflammed skin (on my cheek) that I have been suffering for the past couple of months. Well, I thought it was just a normal drying of the skin because of the weather (I first got it winter time) so I just continue on using my facial wash (I'm using St. Yves) and oil of olay moisturizer hoping that the dryness will be gone in no time. My friends, Ruth and Mimin also recommended bio-oil which I think is really good but I thought I really have to treat the bacteria (or whatever you call it) first thats causing the irritation before using it. Even the facial wash and the moisturizer were not doing any good infact it got worst and even made the skin darker in affected areas. I looked and felt horrible!

Thats why I'm so happy that the products that has been recommended by the chemist actually works! It really made a big difference on my skin after using it for couple of days. If you are having the same problem you can check out these products but don't forget to consult your chemist or dermatologist see if you can use it with your skin type. Lucky me cause it saves us a lot of money and we didnt need to go to a derma clinic and pay huge amount for the consultation fee.

These are the recommendations :

1. E45 Cream*
   Light and pleasant to use, E45 Cream’s an effective, non-greasy emollient that’s been clinically proven to treat and soothe dry, itchy, flaky, rough or chapped skin. We also recommend it for more serious dry skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. It’s quickly and easily absorbed and works by replacing lost moisture and forming a protective barrier, leaving your skin feeling soft and comfortable again.
2. Dermovate Cream (this kills the bacteria!) and Dermovate ointment both contain the active ingredient clobetasol propionate, which is a type of medicine called a topical corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are medicines used for reducing inflammation. Inflammation of the skin happens due to irritation of the skin, and is caused by the release of various substances that are important in the immune system. These substances cause blood vessels to widen, resulting in the irritated area becoming red, swollen, itchy and painful. When clobetasol is applied to the skin it works by acting inside the skin cells to decrease the release of these inflammatory substances. This reduces swelling, redness and itch. Clobetasol is a very potent corticosteroid that is applied to the skin to treat severe inflammatory skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis, that have not responded to milder steroids.
3. Bioderma PHOTODERM MAX BIO SPF50+ cream : maximum sun protection with the factor SPF 50+ (UVA 35) and with the patent of cell BIOprotection. Besides the skin surface protection, it also protects the cell structures in deep skin. Thanks to rapid absorption in the skin, it is possible to use the emulsion as a base under make-up. Resistant to water, sweat and sun. Perfume free.
4. AVENE Cleanance Soapless Gel (I love this!) cleansing washing gel for oily and problematic skin : it cleanse oily and problematic skin very gently. It removes impurities and redundant skin sebum from the skin surface, it has an anti-inflammatory effect and soothes skin.
5. Permea Plus a daily health supplement, which Arden says, helps the body withstand the harsh Gulf climate more effectively than the various creams, lotions, shampoos, and conditioners on the market. A unique combination of 26 essential elements, including vitamins, antioxidants and minerals in a single tablet to promote thicker, stronger hair, more radiant looking skin and stronger nails. <--- I'm not sure if I really want to continue taking this for the whole month. I don't feel any side effects though.

Sometimes, vanity is good especially if its about taking good care of your body. Now, the skin on my face is back to normal and even better coz it really feels soft and smooth. Remember, drinking lots of water everyday also helps.