Today is the day that Maya at Charmingly Styled is launching her #RealBloggerBeauty project. And the first thing that came to mind for me is my skin. For me, my skin (and specifically my face) plays a large role on my self-confidence. Ever since adolescence, I have had horrible skin and still do to this day. I continue to get zits. Then I have this really great habit where I touch/pick at blemishes, and they either spread to other areas of my face or it scars. The sides of my face and chin area are the worst in terms of blemishes, red spots, scars, etc. Sometimes, I really wish for smooth, clear skin as opposed to the gravel-like complexion I thought I’d outgrow by now…
As a result, I wear makeup almost all the time. Even if it’s just concealer. I just feel self-conscious if I don’t. I was trying to find a photo where I have no makeup on at all…and there aren’t many. The photo on the left was last year at a race and the photo on the right was on my wedding day. (Although in full disclosure, I did have some concealer on a couple spots in the race photo…guilty!)
To combat my acne problems, I’ve spent a lot of money and time trying a wide range of skin care products and makeup. Early on, I used on prescription products from the dermatologist, but now I’ve decided that I want to try to use more natural methods, such as:
-consciously stop picking/touching my face
-limit the foods that trigger breakouts (for me–sweets, pop) and eat healthy foods that promote clear, glowing skin
-use sun protection
-drink lots of water
-remove makeup as soon as I get home from work
-use gentle products to cleanse my skin every day
-go makeup free as much as I can so everything can heal!
Just remember the moral of the story: we are all perfectly imperfect. Beauty is defined by each of us. We’ve got to love our bodies, even though it means loving our acne cars, our cellulite, our hair, our builds, etc. Every time we look in the mirror, we should smile at the perfection that is ourselves, because we are REAL women, and every body is beautiful!
Today’s post is sponsored by Mirvaso from Galderma Laboratories, L.P. Mirvaso is used for the treatment of persistent facial erythema of rosacea OR the treatment of persistent facial redness of rosacea. Although I don’t have these conditions, I wanted to join the #RealBloggerBeauty discussion and talk about my thoughts on beauty, skin care and self-confidence and my quest to break up with my makeup!
And as an added bonus, Mirvaso is offering one lucky winner a change to win a trip to the 2014 Emmy’ Awards! Enter here.
Important Safety Information-Indication: Mirvaso® (brimonidine) topical gel, 0.33% is an alpha adrenergic agonist indicated for the topical treatment of persistent (nontransient) facial erythema of rosacea in adults 18 years of age or older. Adverse Events: In clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions (≥1%) included erythema, flushing, skin burning sensation and contact dermatitis. Warnings/Precautions: Mirvaso Gel should be used with caution in patients with depression, cerebral or coronary insufficiency, Raynaud’s phenomenon, orthostatic hypotension, thromboangiitis obliterans, scleroderma, or Sjögren’s syndrome. Alpha-2 adrenergic agents can lower blood pressure. Mirvaso Gel should be used with caution in patients with severe or unstable or uncontrolled cardiovascular disease. Serious adverse reactions following accidental ingestion of Mirvaso Gel by children have been reported. Keep Mirvaso Gel out of reach of children. Not for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
I have problem skin, too. It’s so frustrating! I think we are too hard on ourselves though because you look great in both photos!
Ugh tell me about it! Darn skin. But I appreciate the kind words- and you look gorgeous in your photos too lady!!
I love your story! Thanks for sharing your spin on it. :)
Thanks Katie– I enjoyed reading yours too!
I definitely don’t see this horrible skin you speak of, but I guess we’re are on worst critics, right? You look beautiful sans makeup, and I am loving your tips for improving your skin. I need to be better about taking my makeup off immediately after work too!
I think we definitely are. But truthfully, the flash on my camera typically conceals blemishes…in “real life,” my skin is really crazy but I’m hoping I can stop touching it, eat right and it will get better!