A Journey in Adulting & Self-Care

 Does it seem like whenever you have a big event or project where you'd like to put your best face forward...your skin somehow decides to go rogue and bam! A giant pimple hits you out of no where? Unfortunately, the cortisol we produce when we are stressed can increase sebum production which can acne. So while relaxing spa treatments are not an everyday option, we can certainly take some steps to help minimize any unwelcome visitors. - Do not pick I hate this advice because as a WOC, my skin always left hyperpigmentation marks, regardless of whether or not I picked at it. I did notice that they healed faster and there was less collagen damage if I didn't pick at it. So if possible, hands off! No matter how tempting. - Ok, but you want to pick at it, don't you? Ah...I see you ignored the last advice. If, and only if, your pimple has come to a head and is soo close to oozing that you just can't help yourself...we can get through this together. First of all, wash your hand

 This blog was born out of two reasons: 1. for my daughter to have a documented way to take care of herself...when she decides mama has something worthwhile to say and 2. from the numerous friends and family who have asked to have my ideas and research documented for them. The specific topic of healing acne scars was something that has been requested a few times so I thought it was about time to document it! What is scarring? So, for the purpose of this post, I will be discussing acne scars. Many people refer to any mark left after acne is gone as acne scars but there are actually two different types of scars, PIH and atrophic scars. PIH (Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) These are the red or brown discolorations that are left after your acne is healed. This can be a result of popping the pimple or just because you have melanin and your skin is prone to pigmentation. They are not 3-dimensional and you may have reasonable success in covering it with makeup. These scars will get worse