Serena, can you share a bit about your skin journey with us?
My skin journey has been a long one! I’ve struggled with eczema on multiple parts of my body, including my face, since I was in fifth grade and then began getting acne in high school. My acne was never extremely severe, but nothing would clear it, so I eventually went on acutance in 2016 and then again in 2021 when the acne came back. Since 2021 I have worked hard to implement a routine that includes silk pillowcases, filtered shower heads, supplements and skincare products that I love and trust while always searching for new ways to nourish and protect my skin.
Finding the right skincare routine can be a daunting task, especially when living with multiple skin concerns. What was your process in discovering the right solutions and practices that worked best for your skin?
Finding the best products for me was a mix of listening to my dermatologist, doing my own research, as well as some trial and error. I do use a prescription non steroid eczema cream often but day-to-day I have found a mix of drug store and higher end skincare products that I love and really work for my skin type! Trying new products on your face can be scary, especially for someone with very sensitive skin, but I always try to focus on products that are gentle and hydrating. If you are trying products that aren’t ever working, getting advice from a dermatologist can always be a great place to start to move in the right direction with your skin. Skincare can feel so overwhelming, especially with TikTok, so it always helps to consult a professional if you can!
Self-care is an important aspect of maintaining skin health. What are some of your favourite self-care practices for nurturing your skin and overall well-being?
Self-care is a huge part of maintaining my skin health because if I’m travelling, stressed, or my gut health is off this will all show through my skin flaring up with eczema or breakouts! No matter where I am I try to practice self-care for my mental and physical health through taking supplements and moving my body every day, even if it’s just a walk. When I do travel, or I feel like my skin just needs extra love I’ll add some extra hydration into my routine with something like a face mask and lots of water.
Finally, what message do you hope to convey to others who may be struggling with their skin health? What words of encouragement or advice would you offer to those on their own skin journey?
BE PATIENT! My skin journey has been going on for years and I am STILL working on my skin all the time. I’m so thankful that I’m in the best place with my skin that I’ve ever been but I still have good days and bad days with it. My biggest advice is less is more, there are so many super long skincare routines online, but I really believe that starting with a few quality basics is best and then you can always build from there! Skin is a process because it’s a living organ on your body, but you know your body best so don’t be afraid to really listen to your skin/body and what it’s tell you! Whether you have perfect skin or are breaking out, you are SO beautiful and as much as the journey can be such a struggle always be kind to yourself and you will find the skin solutions you’re searching for.
