I know this is an off-brand post for my travel blog, but it's something I'm passionate about because I'm still struggling with it. I will update this post as I find new favorites.
I have extremely sensitive skin and have a very fair complexion.
I'm allergic to nickel, latex, and more (Ingredients I have not narrowed down).
On top of that, I have acne-prone skin.
Until this year, I did not realize that hair product, shampoo, and conditioner were significant contributors to my acne.
I will share my tried and actual favorite products that have helped and what products I'm still trying to find. My skin has finally cleared up these past few months after eliminating products and slowly introducing new ones.
I am not a professional and cannot give professional advice, and I recommend you speak to a dermatologist first. Therefore, I can only share my own experience and success.
(This post contains Amazon Affiliate links which means I earn from qualifying purchases).
Hair Products
Shampoo
I've been using Head & Shoulders for years for my shampoo, and I recently started the Tea Tree Oil (affiliate link) version and loved it.
Conditioner
I've been using this Free & Clear Hair Conditioner 2 pack (affiliate link) once I realized conditioner contributed to my body acne.
Here's the link for a single bottle.
I'll be honest, I wish it were more hydrating, and I'm welcoming any recommendations here, and also for a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant.
Household Products
Laundry Detergent
I've used All Free & Clear pods (affiliate link) for at least ten years. Unfortunately, I learned the hard way if I use a regular detergent, a rash (contact dermatitis) can appear, covering most of my body.
Here are some lower-cost options:
This one is 99% Bio-based Clean (affiliate link), and my lazy bum hopes they create a pod version. It was voted Product of the Year by the Consumer Survey f Product Innovation 2021.
Dryer Sheets
I own these All Free & Clear Dryer Sheets (affiliate link), but I prefer these more environmentally friendly Wool Dryer Balls (Similar to those I bought).
These environmentally friendly, reusable options save a lot of money in the long run.
Pillowcases
It's been a few years since I became a convert to silk pillowcases. I now bring them on the road with me. I own about eight silk pillowcases from different companies (Slip, Quince, Fishers Finery). Honestly, I don't notice a considerable difference between them, and I like them all.
I switch out my pillowcase at least every other day, sometimes every day if I'm paranoid.
Hair Accessories
I also like to wear my hair in a loose clip or bun to keep my hair from touching my face.
These are the Slip silk scrunchies (affiliate link) I use. I only use silk hair ties now. These are the large hair clips I use. I use the clips more often.
Skin Care Products
Body Lotion
If you've been to the dermatologist, they've likely recommended either CeraVe or Cetaphil. I prefer CeraVe because they include three essential ceramides in all of their products; instead of a "feature," it's a standard.
I prefer this CeraVe Salicylic Acid Body Cream (affiliate link).
But sometimes it's hard to find in stock or just more expensive, so I'll use the regular CeraVe moisturizing Cream (affiliate link).
And this link includes a facial cleanser with the cream.
Body Wash
I mainly use this wash for my body (minus the more sensitive areas). I stocked up a few months ago and have at least five bottles in storage.
CeraVe Renewing S.A. Cleanser (affiliate link)
CeraVe does offer a specific Salicylic Acid Body Wash (affiliate link), but I usually find the prior link is a better deal.
I also use the Dove Sensitive Skin Body Wash and have had luck with this Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash (affiliate link), but I chose the subscribe and save option for the Dove option a while ago.
Itch & Pain Relief
I haven't found a specific one that I'm loyal to when I experience contact dermatitis, but I've liked this Gold Bond Cream (affiliate link) and Aspercreme. I plan on trying this cream from CeraVe next.
Face Products AM
Cleansers
This Glycolic Renewal Cleanser Gel by SkinCeuticals (affiliate link) has been my favorite and primary facial cleanser this past year.
For more affordable options, I use this Mandelic Acid Cleanser (affiliate link) by Vivant on occasion and have had luck with this Green Tea Cleanser.
Serum
My favorite daytime serum is C E Ferulic by SkinCeuticals (affiliate link). However, it can be pricey, so I'm looking for an alternative during those periods when my budget is tighter. I always purchase directly from a local authorized seller.
My favorite moisturizing serum is, by far, by SkinCeuticals, the H.A. Intensifier (affiliate link), although I'm planning on trying this CeraVe Serum.
Eye Care (Day & Night Routine)
I've been using SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex (affiliate link) and have liked it. However, this is a product I'm looking for an alternative budget-wise.
Two weeks ago, I did buy this eye cream from CeraVe, but that's too soon to have a genuine opinion of it.
Moisturizer
My absolute favorite moisturizer is by Vivant, the Marine Skin Nourishment Cream (affiliate link). If it's unavailable on Amazon, here's the link for Dermstore.
Face Products PM
The Glycolic Renew Overnight Treatment by SkinCeuticals (affiliate link)
This is another favorite of mine that I use a few times a week. I prefer glycolic acid to retinol. I usually only use this product, not with anything else.
Serum
I use the Glossier Super Pure Serum (affiliate link) as a part of my regular night routine.
Moisturizer
I've also been using this CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream (affiliate link) in my regular night routine.
On Occasion, when my skin needs extra help and hydration, I will mix in my hand my regular face lotion and an ointment. I feel the balm by itself takes too long to absorb. I usually use this one from Alastin, but I also like this Healing Ointment (affiliate link) from CeraVe.
When writing this post, I was trying to do a better job of using bandaids.
I had assumed that any I owned were latex-free and safe but soon found out they were not. So I took the bandages off, and they left blisters and took some skin.
I then needed bandaids because of my bandaids and tried these neat hydrocolloid bandages... which ended up leaving actual burns in the shape of the bandages.
Alternatives & Products I'm looking for:
A more affordable daytime Vitamin C serum.
Leave-in conditioner for my hair that won't clog pores or result in acne.
A more affordable eye cream.
Nail Polish that's safe for sensitive skin.
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