In an attempt to self-medicate, I’ve tried it all. From monthly facials to a rigorous routine that features chemical exfoliation, hydrafacials, microdermabrasion, clay masks, oil cleansing, and endless serums, I couldn’t crack the code. While the breakouts come and go, the clogged pores stay.
- Cleanse with water twice daily.
- Moisturize with aloe vera gel after cleansing.
- Exfoliate with baking soda every two days. It turns out that all the anti-aging creams and serums I’d been using were actually suffocating my already naturally oily skin, resulting in those clogged pores. I’m 29 and had shifted my focus to wrinkle prevention and anti-aging products a couple of years ago, as recommended by not only my mother but also various sources. But in this case, my facialist was adamant that I forgo all my fancy creams and serums in an attempt to let my skin breathe. And so for the last month, this three-step regimen has proved to be both the most affordable and the most natural I’ve ever used. As difficult as it was, I’ve stopped using all my luxury moisturizers and serums—the ones that are always touted as noncomedogenic, aka non-pore-clogging. It was hard to believe that aloe vera gel was the only hydration my skin needed, but, as it turns out, it is. I haven’t noticed any dry skin patches or even lasting tightness. After I wash my face and slather on some aloe vera gel, my skin feels clean and, most importantly, light. Not dry or tight at all! I was skeptical of applying baking soda to my face at first, as I’ve traditionally been a Sephora girl. But this ingredient isn’t just for the occasional tray of cookies. Baking soda is a natural exfoliant that can treat acne, dark spots, and dullness, all while brightening your skin. It softens sebum and debris, which gives way to a squeaky-clean feeling. It’s also antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, which is the perfect exfoliator for someone with clogged pores. But honestly, my skin has never felt as clean as it does after exfoliating with baking soda. It feels polished, cleansed, and, most importantly, free of gunk! There’s still a long way to go to get to a place I’m happy with, but I can finally say I’m on the right path. For now, I’ll be refraining from over-moisturizing and overloading with anti-aging serums and instead happily sticking to this affordable and natural regimen. The best part? I can now save my extra money for facials.
