Paging Glycolic Users

[NayNay]

I have noticed that although my skin is clearing up. My complexion looks for lack of a better word...ashy. My dermatologist also gave me a very HEAVY sunscreen (30 UVA/UVB) with zinc oxide. Do you think it could be the zinc oxide. I am going to wash my face without the glycolic acid wash today to see if the sunscreen is causing the look. Has anyone else noticed this?

[Tee]

Yes, it's probably the zinc oxide. You should try one with "micronized" zinc ozide, which is more sheer. MD Forte and Pola make pretty good ones. The MD Forte leaves a very slight whitish cast if you don't rub it in well. The Pola is sheerer but has a heavy fragrance.

[NayNay]

Thanks Tee! I will cut down on the amount of sunscreen/moisturizer. Did the MD Forte really help you? It seems to be helping me, but SLOWLY on the old spots...great on the new ones.

[BlkMane]

NayNay-

What MD Forte products are you using? Just curious as I used to use the wash which I used to purchase from my dermatologist for $25.

BTW- they sell all the MDForte products at www.dermstore.com (http://www.dermstore.com) for much cheaper.

[Tee]

I only use MD Forte's sunscreen. I found their glycolic products too harsh for my skin.

[NayNay]

BlkMane & Tee
BlkMane- I use the Facial cream Cleanser I (8 oz). I purchased it from the Dermatologist (Montclair, NJ) for @ $25 and the sunscreen and she also gave me an alpha hydroxic mask which was really pricey! so far it appears to be helping! It has helped with the black heads. I just have to ease up on the sunscreen.
Tee-does that sulfur mask really really work...I have been told about "great" masks beforeand ended up disappointed. does it help SMOOTH the complexion?
Also Tee in addition at night I put on a heavier moisturizer which my face likes instead of the sunscreen!

[Tee]

NayNay,

I didn't realize you were using the same MD Forte sunscreen that I use. I don't think you should cut down on the amount you use (unless you were using a TON before), otherwise you won't get the full protection benefits of the sunscreen. Do you have to use a physical sunscreen (one with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide)? If not, you should try a chemical one with avobenzone (sp?). I like Bana Boat Vitaskin SPF30 for Faces. It is not as matte as the MD Forte, but it is oil free. And it is completely sheer; no whitish/ashy cast whatsoever. Give that a try. It's only about $6 or $7 for a pretty big bottle.

One more suggestion for getting the MD Forte sunscreen to work for you... Try applying it to a slightly damp face.

Yes, the DDF Sulfur Mask really does work. I use it occasionally as a spot treatment whenever I have a clogged pore/blackhead or when I feel a zit coming on. I wouldn't say it's a smoothing mask, it's more meant to clean your pores rather than refine them. Using scrubs and/or something with salicylic acid in it would be better for smoothing the complexion.

Is the MD Forte Mask you're using the hydrating one? I love that one! It makes my skin so soft and gives it a nice glow.

[legs71]

Nay-Nay,

The dermatologist in Montclair wouldn't happen to be Jeanine B. Downie??? If so, she's my dermatologist. She helped clear up my skin dramatically. I put her onto many of my friends who were in need of an African-American dermatologist. As my friend puts it she's so fly!!!! LOL I couldn't use the MD Forte sunscreen because it was so thick and it made me look ashy. I now use Neutrogena's VisiblyEven moisturizer with sunscreen(spf 15) The stuff is great.

[NayNay]

Tee-thanks for the information. Maybe I will try the banana boat one. My dermatologist told me an inappropriate sunscreen was the reason for the dark marks and I can say I believe her. Any new blemishes I have clear up immediately-minimum marking! Maybe I will try the other sunscreen too!
I use the hydrating mask too. I am only suppose to use it once a week and sometimes I forget /forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif So I don't think I am getting the true benefit from it!
I may try the DDF Sulfur Mask too. I also use Differin-prescription and that clears up pimples like you wouldn't believe!!!!! But I want to get rid of all the black heads and it is a SLOW process!
Legs-you are absolutely right! Jeanine is my doctor. I have another appointment in January! Talk about booking in advance....it is on ordeal to get an appointment. Her skin is beautiful and she talks a MILE a minute! /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif It is nice to see a sista doing well isn't it?????

[NayNay]

Legs21
Did you know that Dr. Downie is prego and going on medical leave next week. She still looked great but girl said she is READY to drop that load! LOL!!!!