So, I'm very slowly incorporating some testing of AB into my Western routine, planning on going with a hybrid. I'm on a super stripped down routine because my skin was breaking out like crazy and I'm trying to slowly reintroduce products.
Combo/oily possibly dehydrated skin
Acne prone/breakout sensitive with first aging signs
Midwestern US
I get dry patches on my chin, mild sebaceous filaments in my nose and a bit on my chin, and I break out around my mouth and jawline, but it's been better since I've pared down. I'm looking to even out my skin tone from some very mild post acne pigmentation and redness and brighten it up, and to keep minor wrinkles at bay/treat early aging signs.
As far as some western background, I'm an ex pocketderm user, it was not for me...too harsh. I also am wary of Cerave, a few of their products seemed to give me a mild breakout, even though it's supposedly great for a basic routine.
AB Products that have not worked for me/wouldn't rebuy:
-Hada Labo gokujyun oil cleanser (the yellow/olive oil based) broke me out immediately
-Hada labo gokujyun foaming cleanser was okay but nothing special
-Hada labo Tokyo Skin plumping gel creme was okay, liked it a lot at first but less over time, bought twice and the price is high at us stores.
Current routine
AM-
-cleanse with warm water if skin is not oily, otherwise cleanse with Neutrogena skin polishing acne cleanser (I can't seem to ditch this one, I always go back to it because it treats me well)
-Mizon Snail Recovery gel creme (pink tube, got this for Christmas and just moved into rotation after patch testing, this my HOLY GRAIL daily light moisturizer. It keeps my skin SO MATTE, is gentle, reduced my mild redness overnight, and no new acne! I'm a snail convert!)
-Dr. Jart Ceramidin liquid (use mostly on any winter dry areas)
-Biore watery essence sunscreen
-Dr Jart dis a pore BB
PM
-same Neutrogena face wash
-stridex red box
-Mizon Snail gel creme
-aquaphor as an occlusive
I also do masks when I feel like I need a boost, I've liked the MBD I've tried. I occasionally do a benzoyl peroxide treatment at night, either to spot treat or all over my face, depending on skin condition. Usually once or twice a week or less.
Next to patch test:
-Paula's Choice 2% BHA to replace my very drying Stridex.
-Hada Labo Tokyo Replenishing Hydrator
Want to slowly add a Vit C, some more moisturizing (especially since it's winter) and skin tone balancing steps like essences and such, and a sleep pack good for sensitive skin, and a non olive oil oil cleanser. Anti trouble recommendations, and anti sebum welcome.
Should I try Peach Sake pore serum? What are some other suggestions of the next type of item I should rotate into my routine? I hear aloe and green tea items might be a good choice for me, am I on the right track? I'm just not sure which step would be right to introduce first.