How I Manage My PCOS-Related Cystic Acne (My Diet, Supplement, and Skincare Plan)

How I Manage My PCOS-Related Cystic Acne (My Diet, Supplement, and Skincare Plan)

The Hormonal Harmony Approach

My Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis finally explained my painful, persistent cystic acne along my jawline. Managing it required a three-pronged approach. For my diet, I focused on balancing my blood sugar by reducing sugar and refined carbs. For supplements, after talking to my doctor, I started taking spearmint capsules and inositol, which can help with the hormonal aspects of PCOS. For skincare, I use a gentle retinoid to keep my pores clear and azelaic acid to calm the inflammation. This holistic approach has been far more effective than any single topical cream.

The “Thyroid-Skin Connection”: My Journey with Dry Skin and Hair Loss from Hypothyroidism

The Underactive Gland’s Impact on My Glow

I was experiencing extreme fatigue, my hair was thinning, and my skin became painfully dry and dull. A blood test revealed I had hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid. Your thyroid regulates your metabolism, and when it’s slow, it can slow down your skin’s cell turnover and oil production. Getting on the right thyroid medication was the most important step. To support my skin topically, I switched to a routine focused on intense hydration and barrier repair, using rich ceramide creams and gentle, hydrating cleansers to combat the persistent dryness.

A Diabetic’s Guide to Skincare: Healing Dry, Cracked Skin and Preventing Infections

The Blood Sugar and Skin Barrier Link

As a Type 1 diabetic, I know that high blood sugar can impact circulation and nerve function, leading to extremely dry, cracked skin, especially on my feet. This isn’t just a cosmetic issue; those cracks can be an entry point for infection. My daily routine is non-negotiable. I use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and a thick, therapeutic moisturizer containing urea or lactic acid, which helps to exfoliate and soften the thick, dry skin. Daily inspection of my feet and keeping my skin well-moisturized is a crucial part of my overall diabetes management.

My Skincare Routine for Calming an Autoimmune-Related “Butterfly Rash” (Lupus)

The Gentle Approach to a Malar Rash

When my lupus is active, I sometimes get the classic “butterfly rash,” a red, sensitive rash across my nose and cheeks. My skincare routine during a flare is all about calming inflammation and avoiding irritation. I stop all my active ingredients—no retinoids or acids. I use only a very gentle, creamy cleanser. My hero product is a moisturizer with anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide and centella asiatica. And most importantly, I am militant about using a high-SPF, mineral-based sunscreen, as UV exposure is a major trigger for lupus flares and the rash itself.

How I Deal with Hirsutism (Facial Hair Growth) and the Associated Skin Irritation

The Hair and Skin Harmony Plan

Due to a hormonal condition, I experience hirsutism, which is unwanted hair growth on my face. This brings its own set of skin challenges, like irritation from removal methods and ingrown hairs. My management plan is twofold. For hair removal, I opt for threading, as I find it less irritating than waxing. For skincare, I focus on gentle exfoliation to prevent ingrown hairs. I use a toner with a low percentage of salicylic acid a few times a week. After hair removal, I always apply a simple, soothing balm to calm any redness or inflammation.

The Best Skincare for People on Chemotherapy (Managing Extreme Dryness and Sensitivity)

The Chemo-Comfort Care Kit

When my mom was going through chemotherapy, her skin became incredibly dry, sensitive, and fragile. We built her a “comfort care” kit. We swapped all her products for ones that were extremely gentle and fragrance-free. Her cleanser was a simple, non-foaming cream. Her moisturizer was a thick, rich balm packed with ceramides and shea butter, like Vanicream or La Roche-Posay’s Lipikar balm. She also used a very gentle, hydrating mineral sunscreen. The goal wasn’t “anti-aging”; it was purely about keeping her skin comfortable, hydrated, and protected during a difficult time.

My Gentle, Soothing Routine for Managing a Psoriasis Flare-Up on My Face

The Plaque-Calming Protocol

When I get a psoriasis flare on my face, usually near my hairline or eyebrows, my routine becomes an exercise in calm. I use a cleanser that contains a gentle exfoliant like salicylic acid, which can help to soften the scales. My dermatologist prescribed a non-steroidal cream to manage the inflammation. Over that, I apply a very thick, occlusive moisturizer. The key is to soften the plaque and reduce inflammation without causing further irritation. A gentle, consistent, and moisturizing routine is crucial for managing the flare-ups.

The Link Between Endometriosis and Hormonal Skin Issues

The “Estrogen Dominance” Effect on My Face

My struggle with endometriosis was mirrored on my face. During certain times of my cycle, my skin would erupt in hormonal acne and look inflamed. Endometriosis is often associated with “estrogen dominance,” and these hormonal fluctuations can directly impact the skin. Working with my doctor to manage my endometriosis holistically—through diet, stress management, and medication—had a direct, positive impact on my skin. It was a clear reminder that for many of us, our skin is simply an outward expression of our internal hormonal health.

How to Care for Your Skin While Taking Accutane (My Holy Grail Products)

The Isotretinoin Survival Guide

Taking Accutane (isotretinoin) was a game-changer for my severe acne, but the side effects, especially the extreme dryness, were intense. My survival guide was built on three holy grail products. First, a super gentle, non-foaming cleanser like Cetaphil. Second, a thick, no-frills moisturizer. I bought a huge tub of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and applied it multiple times a day. And third, the most important product of all, Aquaphor Healing Ointment. I had tubes of it everywhere. I used it on my lips constantly, on my dry nostrils, and even on my hands.

My Skincare Routine for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) to Soothe and Prevent Flares

The Gentle Approach to a Difficult Condition

Managing my Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory condition that causes painful abscesses, requires a very specific and gentle routine. I use an antiseptic wash, like one with chlorhexidine, in the shower on my flare-prone areas to reduce the bacterial load. I wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction. I’ve also found that using a gentle chemical exfoliant with mandelic acid a few times a week can help to prevent the hair follicles from becoming clogged. It’s a routine focused on gentle cleansing and friction reduction.

The Surprising Ways My Celiac Disease Was Showing Up on My Skin

The Gluten-Glow Connection

Before I was diagnosed with Celiac disease, I had a persistent, incredibly itchy skin rash with small bumps and blisters, primarily on my elbows and knees. I thought it was eczema. It was actually dermatitis herpetiformis, the “skin manifestation” of Celiac disease. It’s a direct autoimmune reaction to gluten ingestion. Once I adopted a strict gluten-free diet, the rash completely disappeared. It was a shocking realization that the root cause of my “skin problem” was actually in my gut and what I was eating.

How to Manage a Rosacea Flare Triggered by an Underlying Health Issue

The Root Cause of the Redness

My rosacea was well-managed for years. Then, suddenly, I was experiencing constant flushing and flare-ups. After consulting with my doctor, we discovered I had developed SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), which is known to be a potential trigger for rosacea. As I worked with a gastroenterologist to treat the underlying SIBO, my rosacea flares calmed down dramatically. It was a powerful lesson that sometimes, a sudden change in a chronic skin condition can be a clue that there’s something else going on deeper inside the body.

My “Spoonie” Skincare Routine: A Low-Energy, High-Impact Guide for Chronic Illness

The Minimum Effort, Maximum Comfort Plan

As a “spoonie” living with a chronic illness, some days I barely have enough energy to get out of bed, let alone do a 10-step skincare routine. My low-energy routine is about impact and ease. I keep a bottle of micellar water and some soft cotton pads by my bed. This allows me to cleanse my face without having to stand at the sink. My one other bedside product is a do-it-all, hydrating facial mist. A few spritzes makes my skin feel comfortable. It’s not a perfect routine, but it’s much better than nothing on a low-energy day.

The Best Products for Soothing Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) Without Steroids

The Itch-Calming, Barrier-Building Arsenal

When my eczema flares, I try to use non-steroidal products to calm the itch and heal the barrier. My go-to is a moisturizer containing colloidal oatmeal. Brands like Aveeno have an entire line dedicated to it, and it’s incredibly soothing and proven to reduce itching. I also look for thick balms and creams with a high concentration of ceramides, which help to repair the compromised skin barrier. And for intense itching, a cream with pramoxine hydrochloride can provide temporary numbing relief without the use of steroids.

How I Adapted My Skincare After a Menopause Diagnosis (Hot Flashes, Dryness)

The Mid-Life Skin Shift

Entering menopause felt like my skin aged a decade overnight. The drop in estrogen led to intense dryness, loss of firmness, and, thanks to hot flashes, new sensitivity and redness. I had to completely overhaul my routine. I switched to a creamy, hydrating cleanser. I incorporated products with phytoestrogens—plant-based compounds that can help with elasticity. Peptides and retinoids became non-negotiable for boosting collagen. And I keep a calming thermal water spray in the fridge to spritz on my face during a hot flash.

The Best Skincare for People with Sjögren’s Syndrome (Extreme Dryness)

The Ultimate Hydration and Occlusion Routine

Sjögren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disease that causes extreme dryness everywhere, including the skin. My aunt, who has it, has a routine that is all about layering hydration and locking it in. She uses a very gentle, milky cleanser. While her skin is still damp, she applies a hyaluronic acid serum. She follows that with a thick, ceramide-rich cream. The final and most crucial step is to apply a thin layer of an occlusive ointment, like Vaseline or Aquaphor, on top. This creates a seal that prevents any moisture from escaping.

How to Protect and Heal Skin Prone to Pressure Sores

The Barrier-Support Strategy

When my grandfather was bedridden for a period, preventing pressure sores on his skin was a top priority for his caregivers. The strategy was all about reducing friction and supporting the skin barrier. They used a very gentle, pH-balanced skin cleanser. After cleansing, they would apply a “barrier cream,” often one containing zinc oxide or dimethicone. This creates a protective film on the skin that helps to reduce friction from the bedsheets and protect the skin from moisture. It’s a simple but vital routine for vulnerable skin.

My Pre- and Post-Op Skincare Routine to Minimize Scarring

The Surgical Scar Solution

When I had to have a minor surgery that left a scar on my chest, I was determined to help it heal as well as possible. Before the surgery, I just kept my skin healthy and moisturized. The real work began after the stitches were removed. My post-op routine was simple. I kept the area clean and hydrated. Once the wound was fully closed, I started applying a silicone scar gel twice a day. Silicone is clinically proven to be one of the most effective ingredients for improving the texture and color of scars.

The Best Sunscreens for People with Sun-Sensitive Medical Conditions

The Ultimate Protective Shield

Certain medical conditions, like lupus, or medications can make your skin extremely sensitive to the sun. For this, a regular sunscreen often isn’t enough. The best choice is a high-SPF (50+), broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen. Mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are generally less irritating than chemical filters. More importantly, I look for sunscreens that are also tinted. The iron oxides that provide the tint are the key ingredients that protect the skin from visible light, which can also be a trigger for these conditions.

How to Manage “Steroid Face” (Moon Face, Redness, Thin Skin) from Prednisone

The Prednisone Pampering Plan

I was on a high dose of prednisone for a time, and the side effects on my face were significant. I had “moon face” from water retention, my skin was flushed and red, and it felt thin and fragile. My skincare routine became extremely gentle. I used a simple, calming cleanser. I used a niacinamide serum to help with the redness. To combat the puffiness, I used a cold gua sha tool every morning for lymphatic drainage. The goal wasn’t to “fix” the side effects, but to soothe and comfort my skin while it was going through a difficult time.

My Experience with Light Therapy for My Psoriasis

The In-Office Lightbox Treatment

My psoriasis was not responding well to creams alone. My dermatologist recommended phototherapy. Twice a week, I would go to his office and stand in a “lightbox” for a few seconds. The box emits a very specific wavelength of UVB light that helps to slow down the rapid growth of skin cells that causes psoriasis plaques. It was a strange experience, but after a few months of consistent treatment, my plaques were significantly reduced. It was a powerful, non-medicated way to manage my condition.

The Best Skincare for People with Liver Disease (Managing Itchiness and Jaundice)

The Soothing and Brightening Approach

When my uncle was dealing with liver disease, he had two major skin concerns: jaundice (a yellowing of the skin) and severe, persistent itching. His skincare was focused on comfort and appearance. For the intense itching, he used a thick, soothing moisturizer containing calming ingredients like colloidal oatmeal or pramoxine. For the jaundice, while skincare can’t fix the underlying issue, using a brightening Vitamin C serum and a tinted moisturizer helped to give his skin a healthier, more radiant appearance, which was a huge boost for his morale.

How I Manage My Seborrheic Dermatitis Around My Nose, Scalp, and Ears

The Yeast-Fighting Regimen

My seborrheic dermatitis causes yellow, greasy flakes around my nose, in my eyebrows, and behind my ears. It’s caused by an overgrowth of Malassezia yeast. My management strategy is simple but effective. I use an anti-dandruff shampoo with ketoconazole not just on my scalp, but also as a “face wash” on the affected areas, letting it sit for a minute before rinsing. On other days, I use a gentle cleanser. I also use a lightweight, calming moisturizer to avoid further irritation. This simple routine keeps the yeast in check and the flakes at bay.

The Connection Between Iron-Deficiency Anemia and Pale, Dull Skin

The Iron-Glow Link

For months, my skin was looking incredibly pale, dull, and lackluster. I felt tired all the time. A routine blood test revealed I had iron-deficiency anemia. Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. When you’re anemic, there’s less oxygen being delivered to your skin cells, which can lead to that pale, “washed-out” appearance. Getting on an iron supplement prescribed by my doctor was the most important step. As my iron levels returned to normal, the color and vitality came back to my skin.

My Gentle Skincare Routine for Managing Shingles on the Face

The Calming Care for a Painful Rash

When my dad got shingles on his forehead and near his eye, his doctor immediately put him on an antiviral medication. His skincare during this time was all about being incredibly gentle and preventing secondary infection. He cleansed the area very gently with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. He applied the prescribed antiviral cream. And over that, he would apply a thin layer of a simple, occlusive ointment like Vaseline. This helped to protect the painful blisters, keep the skin hydrated, and provide a barrier against bacteria.

How to Care for Skin Grafts and Donor Sites

The Delicate Healing Process

After a skin graft surgery, my friend’s care routine was dictated by her surgeon and was all about creating the optimal environment for healing. For the graft site, it was crucial to keep it clean and protected, often with a specific type of dressing. For the donor site, which is like a deep scrape, the goal was to keep it moist to encourage healing and minimize scarring. She used a thick, occlusive ointment and a non-stick dressing. It’s a long, slow process that requires patience and following the medical team’s instructions precisely.

The Best Products for Lymphedema-Affected Skin

The Gentle Compression Companion

My aunt has lymphedema in her arm, which causes swelling and makes the skin fragile and prone to infection. Her skincare is a crucial part of her management. She uses a gentle, pH-balanced, and moisturizing cleanser. The most important step is her moisturizer. She uses a thick, low-water, ceramide-rich cream to maintain a healthy skin barrier, which is the first line of defense against infection. She avoids any products with strong fragrances or potential irritants. This routine works in conjunction with her compression garments to keep her skin healthy.

My Skincare Survival Guide for a Hospital Stay

The Bedside Beauty Basics

During a recent hospital stay, the dry, recycled air and harsh sheets were tough on my skin. I had my partner bring me a small “survival kit.” It contained a pack of gentle, fragrance-free cleansing wipes for when I couldn’t get to a sink. A multi-purpose, healing balm like Aquaphor was my hero product; I used it on my lips, my hands, and my dry face. And a simple facial mist felt incredibly refreshing. It wasn’t about a full routine; it was about having a few simple products to keep my skin feeling comfortable and human.

How to Talk to Your Doctor About the Skin-Related Side Effects of Your Medication

The Proactive Patient Approach

When my doctor prescribed a new medication, I proactively asked about potential skin-related side effects. Instead of just waiting for a problem to happen, I said, “I’ve read this medication can sometimes cause sun sensitivity and dryness. Is there anything you recommend I do to be prepared?” This opened up a great conversation. He recommended I switch to a higher-SPF sunscreen and a richer moisturizer. Being an informed and proactive patient helps your doctor to help you, and it can prevent a lot of uncomfortable side effects.

The Best Deodorants for People Prone to Clogged Glands and HS

The Gentle Glide for Sensitive Pits

For people who struggle with clogged sweat glands or Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a typical antiperspirant can be irritating. The aluminum salts that block sweat can be a problem. The best option is often a gentle, aluminum-free deodorant. I look for formulas that don’t contain baking soda, which can be very irritating. Instead, I opt for ones that use magnesium or gentle acids to neutralize odor. A brand like “Meow Meow Tweet” makes a great baking-soda-free deodorant cream that is effective and gentle on sensitive underarm skin.

How to Handle “Allergic Shiners” and Under-Eye Puffiness from Chronic Allergies

The Allergy-Induced Dark Circle Solution

My chronic dust and pollen allergies give me “allergic shiners”—dark, puffy circles under my eyes caused by nasal congestion. Managing them involves more than just eye cream. First, I take a daily, non-drowsy antihistamine, which is the most important step. Second, I use a saline nasal spray to help clear the congestion. For the skin itself, a cold compress or an ice roller in the morning helps with the puffiness. And an eye cream with caffeine can help to temporarily constrict the blood vessels and reduce the dark appearance.

My Diet and Skincare Changes to Manage My Histamine Intolerance Rashes

The Itch-Fighting Inside-Out Job

I discovered I have a histamine intolerance, which was causing me to break out in itchy hives and rashes. Managing it has been an inside-out job. On the inside, I follow a low-histamine diet, avoiding aged cheeses, fermented foods, and processed meats. I also take a quercetin supplement, which is a natural antihistamine. On the outside, my skincare is all about calming. I use a simple, fragrance-free routine. My hero product is a cream with colloidal oatmeal, which is incredibly effective at soothing the itchiness when a rash does appear.

The Best Skincare for People with Raynaud’s Phenomenon

The Circulation-Boosting Care

My friend has Raynaud’s, where her fingers and toes turn white and numb in the cold due to poor circulation. This can also affect the skin on her face, especially her nose. Her skincare is focused on protection and gentle warming. She uses a thick, occlusive balm on her nose and cheeks before going out in the cold to create a protective barrier. She avoids splashing her face with cold water. And she loves using “warming” masks that gently increase circulation to the skin. It’s all about keeping the skin protected from the cold triggers.

How to Manage Skin Issues Related to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

The Hormonal Transition Skincare

When my friend started testosterone as part of his gender-affirming hormone replacement therapy (HRT), his skin changed dramatically. He experienced a second puberty, with increased oil production and acne. We built him a new routine. He started using a cleanser with salicylic acid to help manage the oil and keep his pores clear. He also incorporated a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. For many people on HRT, the key is to adapt your skincare to treat the new skin concerns that arise as your hormones shift, whether it’s acne from testosterone or dryness from anti-androgens.

The Best Skincare for People with Kidney Disease (Managing “Uremic Frost” and Itching)

The Renal-Friendly Routine

My grandfather, who was on dialysis for kidney disease, struggled with severe skin issues. His skin was incredibly dry and itchy, a common symptom. The best relief came from a very specific routine. He used a gentle, soap-free cleanser. His moisturizer was a thick, rich cream containing urea. Urea is a fantastic ingredient for this condition as it both hydrates and helps to gently exfoliate the dry, scaly skin. This simple but consistent routine helped to manage the intense itching and keep his skin more comfortable.

My Gentle Approach to Exfoliating Skin Prone to Psoriasis Plaques

The Softening, Not Scrubbing, Method

Exfoliating psoriasis plaques is a delicate business. You want to soften and remove the scale, but aggressive scrubbing can trigger the Koebner phenomenon, where an injury can cause a new psoriasis lesion to form. My gentle approach is to use a chemical exfoliant, not a physical scrub. I look for a lotion or a cream containing salicylic acid or urea. I apply it to the plaques to help gently dissolve the excess skin cells. This softens the scale so it can be washed away gently, without any harsh, damaging scrubbing.

The Best Foundations and Concealers for Covering Medically-Related Redness or Rashes

The Calming Camouflage

When I have a rash or a patch of redness from a medical condition, I need a concealer that provides coverage without causing further irritation. The best options are typically from brands designed for sensitive skin. Dermablend is a classic brand known for its high-coverage, gentle formulas that can cover everything from rashes to tattoos. IT Cosmetics’ “Bye Bye Redness” is another fantastic option; it’s a calming cream that neutralizes and covers redness beautifully. The key is to look for fragrance-free formulas with soothing ingredients.

How to Care for a Stoma Site and Prevent Skin Irritation

The Peri-stomal Skin Protection Plan

Caring for the skin around a stoma is crucial for preventing painful irritation and breakdown. My dad, who has an ostomy bag, follows a strict routine recommended by his nurse. He cleans the area with warm water only, avoiding soaps that can leave a residue. He makes sure the skin is completely dry before applying the new appliance. He uses a “skin barrier” wipe or spray, which leaves a protective film on the skin. This film helps the appliance adhere better and protects his skin from the output. A healthy peri-stomal skin barrier is key.

The Best Skincare for Managing Folliculitis

The Follicle-Friendly Fix

I once had a bout of folliculitis on my legs, which is an inflammation or infection of the hair follicles, causing little red bumps. My dermatologist’s plan was simple and effective. She had me wash the area with an antiseptic cleanser, like one with benzoyl peroxide or chlorhexidine, to reduce the bacteria. She also recommended I wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid friction. And a few times a week, I would use a gentle chemical exfoliant with glycolic acid to help prevent the follicles from becoming clogged in the first place.

My Journey with Vitiligo: Skincare, Sun Protection, and Self-Acceptance

The Pigment and the Pride

Living with vitiligo, an autoimmune condition where the skin loses its pigment in patches, has shaped my relationship with skincare. My number one priority is sun protection. The depigmented patches of my skin have no melanin and will burn very easily, so a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of my life. Beyond that, my journey has been one of self-acceptance. I’ve learned to see the unique patterns on my skin not as a flaw, but as a beautiful part of who I am.

How to Soothe “Chemo-Induced Acral Erythema” (Hand-Foot Syndrome)

The Tender Loving Care for Hands and Feet

Hand-foot syndrome is a common side effect of some types of chemotherapy, causing redness, swelling, and pain on the hands and feet. When my aunt experienced this, her oncology nurse gave her a care plan. She had to avoid hot water and any friction on her hands and feet. She would apply cold packs for fifteen minutes at a time to reduce the swelling. And she would gently apply a thick, urea-based moisturizing cream multiple times a day to keep the skin hydrated and support the barrier. Gentle, cooling care was essential.

The Best Products for Healing Radiation Dermatitis (Radiation Burn)

The Post-Radiation Repair Regimen

After radiation therapy, my friend developed radiation dermatitis, which is like a severe, painful sunburn. Her radiation oncologist recommended a very specific, gentle skincare routine. She was told to cleanse the area with lukewarm water and a mild, gentle soap. The hero products were calendula-based creams and pure aloe vera gel, which are known for their soothing and healing properties. She also used a hydrogel dressing to keep the area moist and protected. The goal was to keep the skin clean, calm, and hydrated to facilitate healing.

My Skincare Routine for Managing Ichthyosis Vulgaris (“Fish Scale Skin”)

The Hydration and Exfoliation Duo

I have a mild form of ichthyosis vulgaris, a genetic condition that causes dead skin cells to accumulate in thick, dry scales. My management routine is a constant two-step process. First, exfoliation. I need to use a strong chemical exfoliant daily to help my skin shed properly. I use a body lotion with a high concentration of lactic acid or urea. Second, hydration. Immediately after exfoliating, I apply a thick, occlusive moisturizer or a simple oil to lock in moisture. This combination helps to keep the “scales” at bay and my skin feeling comfortable.

The Mental Health Toll of a Visible Skin Condition

It’s More Than Skin Deep

Living with a visible skin condition like severe acne or psoriasis is not just a physical battle; it’s a mental and emotional one. There have been days when I have cancelled plans or avoided looking people in the eye because I was so self-conscious about a flare-up. The unsolicited advice from strangers can be exhausting. It’s a heavy burden to carry. Finding a supportive community, whether it’s an online forum or a trusted therapist, has been just as important a part of my healing journey as any cream or medication.

How to Build a Routine That Supports, Not Fights, Your Medical Treatments

The Skincare Teamwork Approach

When you’re undergoing medical treatment for a health condition, your skincare should be a supportive teammate, not an opponent. When I was on a strong medication that made my skin dry, I didn’t try to use my usual strong anti-aging serums. Instead, my routine became focused on supporting what the medication was doing. I used the gentlest cleanser I could find and a rich, nourishing moisturizer. The goal was to support my skin barrier and mitigate the side effects of the medication, allowing it to do its job more effectively.

The Best Lip Care for Medically-Induced Dryness

The Prescription for a Parched Pout

Many medications can cause extreme lip dryness and chapping. When my friend was on Accutane, his lips were constantly cracked and painful. A simple lip balm wasn’t enough. The absolute best solution was a thick, occlusive ointment. His dermatologist recommended he use pure lanolin or a product like Dr. Lipp’s Nipple Balm. He would apply a thick layer of it throughout the day, and especially before bed. It was the only thing that provided a strong enough barrier to allow his lips to heal.

How to Strengthen Skin That Has Been Thinned by Long-Term Steroid Use

The Rebuilding and Resilience Plan

Long-term use of strong topical steroids can cause the skin to become thin, fragile, and easily bruised. When I had to wean off a potent steroid, my dermatologist gave me a plan to help strengthen my skin. The routine was focused on collagen-stimulating and barrier-supporting ingredients. I started using a very gentle, over-the-counter retinaldehyde serum to help rebuild collagen. I also used a moisturizer packed with ceramides and peptides. It was a slow process of rebuilding the skin’s “scaffolding” and supporting its natural resilience.

The Best Scar Gels and Sheets for Post-Surgical Healing

The Gold Standard for Scar Management

After my C-section, I was determined to minimize the appearance of my scar. My surgeon recommended I use silicone-based scar treatments, which are considered the gold standard. I started with a silicone gel, which I applied twice a day once the incision was fully healed. Then, I switched to using silicone sheets. They are self-adhesive strips that you wear over the scar for several hours a day. The silicone hydrates the scar tissue and provides a gentle pressure that helps the scar to heal flatter and with less discoloration.

How I Advocate for Myself at the Dermatologist’s Office with a Complex Medical History

The Prepared and Empowered Patient

With my multiple health conditions, a visit to a new dermatologist can be intimidating. I’ve learned to advocate for myself by being prepared. I come to my appointment with a typed-up list of my diagnoses, my current medications, and my allergies. I also have a list of my specific questions and concerns. This shows the doctor that I am an engaged and informed partner in my own care. If a doctor dismisses my concerns or doesn’t seem knowledgeable about how my conditions interact, I know it’s not the right fit, and I seek a second opinion.

My “Happy Skin” Routine: Finding Joy in Skincare Despite My Health Condition

The Ritual That’s More Than a Regimen

Living with a chronic skin condition can make skincare feel like a chore, a constant battle. I decided to reframe it. My “happy skin” routine is less about “fixing” my skin and more about finding moments of joy. I’ll light a candle. I’ll choose a cleanser that has a beautiful, silky texture. I’ll take an extra minute to gently massage my face. It’s about turning the mundane act of applying my medicated creams into a mindful, calming ritual of self-care. This shift in perspective has made a huge difference in my relationship with my skin.