We sat down with some of our Caci lovers in their twenties, thirties, forties, fifties and sixties to chat about their journey to #skinconfidence with Caci. This blog episode, meet Isabella, a twenty-something Palmerston North woman who is on her way to overcoming her struggle with acne thanks to a bit of determination and support from us here at Caci. Plus check out her skin transformation below!
1. What does your current skincare regime include?
I try keep things relatively simple while improving the health of my skin. I’ve tried a lot of products, but when my acne was at its worst and I was in a lot of pain and discomfort, I found the Skinsmiths Cream Cleanser, Daily or Balancing Moisturiser and sunscreen have been great. However, another past favourite is the Murad Nutrient Charged Water Gel. I also currently use an antibiotic cream called ‘Rozex’ which has metronidazole in it; I only apply this to my chin area, which is where my skin is most problematic.
This is a prescribed cream used as an alternative to the oral medication Doxycycline. I also visited my Caci clinic for treatments every three-ish weeks while my skin was at its worst, with favourites being the facials and LED light mask. I consider the time I take to wash my skin, morning and night, as daily ‘me’ treat time. I try not rush the cleansing process and instead really massage the products into my skin.
2. What were/are your biggest skin concerns that you struggle with in your twenties?
Acne, acne, acne! Cystic, painful, inflamed acne, particularly on my chin. I’ve had acne since I was around 15 years old, and in the past 10 years I have never had what I would consider ‘clear’ skin, although I am getting pretty close now. Doctors response was to always put me on medication, whether that was the contraceptive pill or antibiotics. I was never taught about the importance of using high quality products and how to get the most out of them. I think in my late teens/early twenties I was also more oblivious to how lifestyle choices affected my skin. These years were all about parties and surviving on cheap meals, rather than nourishing my body, which, as I approach 25, I am far more aware and enthusiastic about. My journey has been very difficult.
Even when I changed my lifestyle choices, was eating incredibly well, drinking a lot of water, and exercising regularly, I was frustrated that my friends who didn’t make such choices had skin that was acne-free and glowing. It didn’t feel fair! I had to first take a lot of time teaching myself that the people who matter do not care about my acne, and it didn’t define who I am. This didn’t come overnight, but practicing self-love and acceptance is a big step (and something we should all do regardless of our skin!) My skin journey also involved becoming more confident in any doctor appointments I attended. “Can you please tell me why you think this medication is the best approach for me?” Is a question I ask every time now, and helps me to be sure that my doctor has listened to me and my experience, rather than a one-size-fits-all.
In saying this, I did have to overcome my dislike for being put on a medication, and in August 2020 I agreed to be put on Doxycycline, which has definitely played a part in calming my skin. As mentioned above, I no longer take Doxy and have been off it for around a month now, yay! Combining a balanced lifestyle, doctor advice, and the support from Caci has been instrumental in getting to where I am today. My advice would be to learn to love yourself, and ask 101 questions to anyone prescribing you medication or treatments, as this will help both you and the practitioner to reach your goals, while ensuring you have the best understanding of the path you are on.
3. What are/were your skin goals?
Having acne-free skin is my biggest goal. ‘Acne-free’ for me, is that day-to-day I do not have multiple outbreaks. I understand that from time to time I will get a pimple and I accept this. Recently I have been wearing less and less makeup as my skin becomes healthier, which feels so nice, as having naturally glowing skin is also a goal for me. In line with wanting glowing skin, I’d love for the darkness under my eyes to calm, and so as I finally get on top of my acne, I plan to spend some time learning more about eye products and how these can improve the overall appearance of my skin.
Prevention is a big goal - preventing lines, darkness, and redness where I can. Regardless of whether I am on a Caci skin treatment plan or not, I plan to always consult the team for products that will help me reach my goals. I see purchasing Skinsmiths and Murad range skincare as an investment in myself, and well worth the money.
4. What is the best thing about having #skinconfidence in your twenties?
Just feeling like I can be me - not having awful feelings of not wanting people to see me, or spending a ton of money on makeup to cover my skin (that also wouldn’t have been helping my skin improve!) My skin confidence means I embrace my freckles and use products to enhance my natural beauty, rather than using products as a way of hiding.
5. What Caci are you a member at?
I visit Caci Palmerston North. I have recently finished my Reformaskin plan, but still visit the clinic for advice, products, and I have booked in some casual skin treatment appointments to continue to nourish my skin. What I love most is that I can call or drop in and the Caci team are so attentive and willing to provide recommendations for whatever my concern may be.
Thanks for sharing Isabella! Want to hear more Skin Journey Stories? Get to know Aroha, Waihoroi, Deby and Linda.
