Growing up I was one of the millions of teenagers who struggled with acne. It was pretty bad and made me incredibly self conscious (as it does to everyone). I became obsessively strict with my skin care routine to try and prevent and heal it…I can even tell you with 100% confidence there has not been one single night since I was a teenager where I have gone to bed with my makeup on. I know, crazy. The terrible part was it didn’t go away when I became an adult and it actually got worse, hitting it’s peak in my mid-20’s. Eventually I discovered some ways to bring my body back into balance and get my skin issues under control. At the end of the long LONG battle I was finally left with a clear face (hooray!) and an arsenal of information on the best ways to care for your skin. Below are a few of my favorite products that help me put my best face forward.

Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer SPF 47
If I had to vote this might be my favorite skincare product of all time. I have always been good about wearing SPF on my face but was never able to find something with an SPF higher than 15 or 30 that didn’t have a bunch of scary stuff in it. After years of searching I found this wonderful argan oil based line from Josie Maran (the face of Mabelline for years) and was smitten with its lovely smell, impressive sun protection and the addition of argan oil. I also love that this line thinks in terms of “luxury with a conscience” and cares about the impact of their business on the planet. You can find this product, and others from the line at Sephora (in travel size too!).

Bioelements Kerofole Mask
I started using this mask a few months before my wedding. It came with rave reviews from a trusted source and is a brand I am familiar with and trust. The Kerofole Mask can be used two ways, as a deep facial mask to tone, freshen and smooth skin or as an intensive treatment plan to remove dull and dead skin cells and purge impurities. I have done and love both methods. It always leaves my skin silky smooth for days following a treatment and I feel like my skin has a healthy glow. I bought the product in November and still have about half the pot left using it about three times a month now and twice a week plus one intensive treatment week before the wedding. A pretty incredible value given the quality of the product. Normal price is $48 but I have seen it as low as $27 on Amazon.

Burt’s Bees Anti Blemish Solutions
Chances are you have tried or currently use some of Burt’s Bees products in your beauty routine. I have tried many over the years and have always been pleased with them. This Acne spot treatment is no exception. It is natural, does the job and doesn’t break the bank, three things I really love. It can be a bit frustrating to apply but I have found the best method is to apply a drop to my finger or a q-tip and dab the intended area. You can usually find this for $10 or less at any major drugstore in your area, it lasts forever as you use it on targeted areas.