*PR: Products in photos were gifted.

Sian Victoria © - Environ skincare, Advanced Nutrition Programme supplements, Jane Iredale makeup

Start of 100 Day Reset Environ Skincare Challenge to Treat Acne

If you read the previous post about my Environ Facial experience, you'll know that I enjoyed an amazing facial at Harvey Nichols in Birmingham last week. The facial, called the "Active Vitamin" facial, is provided by Environ Skincare, a South African skincare brand.

Environ is part of the iiaa (Institute for Anti-Ageing). After receiving a skin analysis and undergoing a facial that utilises state-of-the-art technology and scientifically proven skincare products, I was genuinely impressed and decided to take on their 100-Day Reset program.

The 100-Day Reset program by iiaa involves using their skincare products for 100 days. To kick off the program, I first received an in-depth skin analysis using a facial scanner that evaluates the underlying layers of my skin. The scan reveals various areas of skin damage, including spots, wrinkles, texture, pores, UV spots, brown spots, red areas, and porphyrins. Each issue is accompanied by a percentage that helps measure results over time.

Following the skin analysis, I experienced a unique facial that uses sound waves to penetrate a cocktail of active vitamins 40% deeper into the skin layers. Typically, it takes 70 hours for a facial to reach these deep layers by hand, making an Environ facial significantly more effective. After the treatment, I received a beautifully presented box filled with iiaa-branded products to use over the next 30 days.

After sharing my Environ experience in this post, I’m going to break down how you can kick off a Vitamin A treatment plan for cystic acne. This amazing vitamin helps with skin cell turnover, calms inflammation, and can lead to clearer skin, making it particularly useful for dealing with stubborn cystic acne. I’ll share some tips and tricks on how to work Vitamin A into your skincare routine for the best results.

Sian Victoria © - Environ skincare, Skin EssentiaA AVST Moisturiser 1, Body Profile

The 100 Day Reset Challenge

The 100 day reset challenge has three phases:

Day 0 - 30: The first phase involves a skin consultation and an Environ facial, followed by the use of a designated box of products for 30 days.

Day 30 - 60: After the initial 30 days, I will receive another facial to discuss my experience thus far. The therapist will make any necessary adjustments to my personalised skincare regimen.

Day 60 - 100: In the final stage, I will compare photos from the initial skin analysis to those from the final analysis, allowing me to visibly see how the products have impacted the underlying layers of my skin.

I had my first facial and consultation on July 25th and began the program on July 28th. I will update you on my skin journey in a post during the second and final stage. For now, I’ll share the products I have started using.

My Environ Skincare Experience

I'm going to be using the Environ Skin EssentiaA AVST Moisturiser 1 twice a day for the next month after I cleanse and moisturise with my usual products. The big thing about Environ skincare is that it focuses on vitamin A.

Vitamin A, also known as retinal, retinol, or retinoic acid, is awesome for the skin. It boosts skin cell production, helps protect against sun damage, slows down ageing, and can even help with acne, among other things.

The Environ body profile gel does a similar job and packs in lots of vitamins A, C, and E, plus rosemary extracts to hydrate and soothe dry or sun-damaged skin.

Sian Victoria © - Advanced Nutrition Programme, Skincare supplements

Advanced Nutrition Programme Supplements

Another brand under the IIAA is the Advanced Nutrition Programme (ANP). When combining Environ Skincare with ANP supplements, you can ensure that your skin benefits from Vitamin A both internally and externally.

The Skin Ultimate pack includes 28 days' worth of supplements. It features a powerful combination of five capsules, which should be taken daily to provide essential nutrients that support hair and skin from within.

The supplements come in convenient pods, and I have written the date on the back of each one to remind myself to take them. My last pod will be on August 24th.

The five ultimate skincare supplements consist of the following ingrediants:

Vitamin A + D: Vitamin A is super important for making new skin cells and keeping your skin looking fresh. It can help smooth out fine lines, improve skin texture, and even tackle acne. Vitamin D is necessary for a lot of things, too, like skin health, helping to boost your immune system and speed up skin repair.
Omegas 3 + 6 Fatty Acids: These good-for-you fats are a must-have for keeping your skin's moisture barrier intact. They help calm irritation, reduce inflammation, and leave your skin looking plump and hydrated.
Biotin: Known as Vitamin H, biotin is ideal for getting healthy skin, hair, and nails. It helps break down fats and proteins, making your skin look vibrant and moisturised.
Astaxanthin: This super antioxidant comes from microalgae and fights inflammation. It helps keep your skin safe from sun damage, makes it more elastic, and helps reduce fine lines.
Q10 (Coenzyme Q10): Q10 is a natural antioxidant that guards your skin against stress and damage from the environment. It also helps energise skin cells, speeding up regeneration and fighting signs of ageing.
Pine Bark Extract: With its high antioxidant levels, pine bark extract helps improve blood flow to the skin, reduces inflammation, and is thought to help collagen keep your skin firm and stretchy.

Antioxidants:

Bilberry: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, bilberry helps clear up skin and can reduce inflammation for a more even tone.
Turmeric: This spice is famous for fighting redness and protecting your skin from damage, all while giving you a nice glow.
Green Tea: Loaded with polyphenols, green tea shields your skin from UV rays and calms irritation. Plus, it helps combat ageing by cutting down oxidative stress.
Grape Seed Extract: Full of proanthocyanidins, this extract is a powerhouse of antioxidants that protects skin cells and boosts elasticity.

With all these ingredients working together, you can nourish, protect, and revitalise your skin for a healthier, more youthful look.

Jane Iredale Skin Care Makeup

Sian Victoria © - Jane Iredale, eyeshadow palette, eyeliner & lipstick

To wrap up my new skincare routine for acne, I added some 'skin care makeup' from Jane Iredale. What I really like about this makeup is that it’s all natural and actually good for your skin. Plus, it’s free of any nasty chemicals, dyes, and toxins, which is a big win.

This brand is a favourite among celebs and has racked up some serious beauty awards. I had a blast checking out the 'about' page for Jane Iredale to learn why she started this vegan and cruelty-free makeup line.

In my package, I got the ‘Naturally Matte Eye Shadow Kit,’ ‘PureMoist’ lipstick in the shade Cindy, and the ‘Mystikol’ powdered eyeliner in onyx. All the colours look stunning, and I can’t wait to rock them this week for some fancy events in Birmingham.

The full Jane Iredale makeup collection looks lovely, with everything from mineral foundation to highlighters and face tanners. The ‘Smooth Affair for Oily Skin facial primer’ sounds like a game changer, it helps with blemishes, controls shine, and minimises pores while evening out your skin tone and highlighting your features. And the ‘Purepressed base mineral foundation’ has shades for everyone, so there’s something for every skin type.

Sian Victoria © - Environ Skin EssentiaA AVST Moisturiser 1

How to Use Vitamin A for Adult Cystic Acne

Dealing with adult hormonal cystic acne can be upsetting and stressful, which only makes the condition worse, which I know firsthand. So, you definitely need a good plan to manage it. Vitamin A is super popular for helping your skin renew itself and reducing inflammation, which makes it awesome for tackling this type of acne.

It helps stop pores from getting clogged and keeps your skin in good shape. Overall, it's a key player in fighting acne. That said, bringing Vitamin A into your skincare routine takes some thought to avoid irritation and really get the most out of it. Figuring out the best way to add it in can make a big difference in your results.

1. See a Skin Doctor

A dermatologist understands your skin's needs and can come up with a personalised treatment plan just for you. They can figure out if your cystic acne needs stronger prescription retinoids or if an over-the-counter option will do the trick. Plus, they can help you figure out if there are any health issues or hormone problems that might be behind your acne.

With their guidance, you’ll learn how to use Vitamin A in a safe and smart way. They can also suggest other treatments or skincare products that pair well with Vitamin A, so you can keep things balanced. Regular check-ups are great for keeping tabs on your progress and adjusting your plan when needed.

2. Pick the Best Type of Vitamin A

Vitamin A treatments come in a bunch of different strengths and forms, each one tailored to meet various skin needs. Prescription retinoids are usually more powerful and best for tackling serious cystic acne. On the flip side, you have milder options like retinol and retinaldehyde that you can easily find over-the-counter, which is the best option for people with sensitive or drier skin.

Some products even include soothing ingredients to help reduce irritation, which can be a good idea if you're just starting out with Vitamin A. When picking a product, just check the concentration and formulation details on the packaging to figure out how strong or suitable it is for you.

3. Start with a Lower Dose

When you start using Vitamin A, it’s important to ease into it to avoid irritating your skin. Try a product with a lower concentration first, so your skin can adjust to it. Just use a tiny amount, like a pea-sized dot, on clean, dry skin every other night at first, and then you can increase how often you use it as your skin gets used to it.

Stay away from areas that tend to get really dry or sensitive, like around your eyes and the corners of your mouth. Using a good moisturiser can help with any dryness or flakiness. And don’t forget to check the product instructions to make sure you’re using it right!

4. Stick with Your Routine

Using Vitamin A regularly can really help with cystic acne. Try to pick a time in your routine when you won’t be interrupted, like right before bed, to make sure you can apply it without distractions. After you cleanse your skin, let it dry completely before applying, since putting it on damp skin might make it more sensitive.

Stick to a routine each week and gradually increase how often you use it as your skin gets used to it. If you skip applications or use them all over the place, it might slow down your progress and put off noticeable results. Also, don’t forget to use a good moisturiser to keep your skin barrier strong during the whole process.

5. Make Sure to Add Some Sunscreen

If you’re using Vitamin A, you know that sun exposure can really amp up skin sensitivity, so protecting yourself from UV rays is absolutely necessary. When picking a facial sunscreen, go for one that’s broad-spectrum and has at least SPF 30. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, look for something that won’t clog your pores.

Don’t skimp on the application; make sure to slather it on all exposed areas, including your neck and ears! And remember to reapply every two hours if you’re spending a lot of time outside. If you’re sweating or swimming, a water-resistant sunscreen is the way to go.

Also, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and finding shade during peak sun hours is a good move. Tinted sunscreens are a nice option too since they protect your skin and provide a bit of coverage, so you can skip the heavy makeup. And remember, it’s best to avoid direct sunlight after you’ve applied Vitamin A products, so it's always best to use retinol in the evening since some formulas can make your skin more sensitive. Taking these steps not only helps prevent sun damage but also boosts the benefits of your Vitamin A treatment.

6. Drink Water and Hydrating Fruits

Being well-hydrated is ideal for maintaining healthy skin while undergoing Vitamin A treatment. When you drink enough water, it helps your skin stay flexible and cuts down on the dryness and flakiness that can come with retinoids. Try to make water your go-to drink and cut back on sugary or caffeinated beverages that can lead to dehydration.

Adding water-rich fruits and veggies like cucumbers, melons, and oranges to your meals can also help keep you hydrated. If you struggle to drink enough water during the day, carrying a reusable water bottle or setting reminders can really help you keep up with it.

7. Stick to a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is always needed to get better skin; however, if you want to improve the before-and-after results of using Vitamin A, then eating real foods alongside your treatment is best for your skin. Eating foods packed with vitamins and minerals can really help your skin heal and bounce back from irritation.

Load up on veggies like kale, spinach, and bell peppers since they’re full of antioxidants that keep your skin barrier strong. Omega-3s from salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds are great for cutting down inflammation, especially if you’re dealing with cystic acne. Don’t forget about protein, too! Lean meats, tofu, and legumes give your skin the stuff it needs to heal itself.

Whole grains like oats and quinoa are a smart choice as well since they help keep your blood sugar steady, which can help with acne flare-ups. Fermented goodies like yoghurt, kimchi, and miso can also be a win for your skin by keeping your gut healthy.

It's best to steer clear of processed foods and sugary snacks since they can cause inflammation and mess with hormone levels. Instead, go for natural snacks like nuts, seeds, and fresh fruit. Plus, cutting back on alcohol and salty foods can help your skin stay hydrated and less puffy, which is a bonus when you’re trying to keep acne at bay.

8. Keep an Eye Out for Any Side Effects

Starting Vitamin A treatments can sometimes cause your skin to get a bit dry, red, or flaky, especially if you’re just getting used to it. Just monitor how your skin reacts and feel free to tweak your routine if you need to. If it’s really bugging you, try using it less often or switch to something gentler. A solid moisturiser that supports your skin barrier can help keep things comfy and hydrated.

Also, it’s best to steer clear of scrubs or harsh cleansers because they might make things worse. If your skin feels super sore or tight, a calming, fragrance-free cream can do wonders. And if the irritation is really bad or sticks around, it’s a good idea to stop applying the product and mention it to a dermatologist for other options or adjustments.

9. Combine with Other Treatments

Using extra treatments along with Vitamin A can really help tackle cystic acne more effectively. Ingredients like niacinamide are great because they help calm inflammation and boost your skin’s barrier. Azelaic acid is another solid choice since it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it perfect for acne-prone skin.

When you're layering products, start with the thinnest ones first so they can soak in well before adding the next. If you're thinking about using a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid, it’s best to stick to using it on alternate days to prevent irritating your skin too much.

10. Be Patient with Results

Getting noticeable improvements in cystic acne with Vitamin A takes a bit of patience, and it's important to keep your expectations realistic. The skin renews itself slowly, so don’t expect results to pop up overnight. In fact, at first, you might actually see more breakouts as the treatment brings hidden blemishes to the surface. This is totally normal and doesn’t mean the treatment isn’t working. Staying consistent is key; following your dermatologist’s advice or product instructions for regular use lets the active skincare ingredient do its job over time.

It’s also a good idea to notice the little changes along the way, like reduced redness or smoother skin, and fewer new breakouts. Don’t worry about how others are doing because everyone’s skin is different. Things like skin type, how bad the acne is, and how strictly you stick to your treatment plan all make a difference. Additionally, lifestyle choices such as consurming more water and eating a colourful diet with good carbs, lean protein, fruits and veggies can significantly improve the effectiveness of your skincare routine.

While you’re waiting for those visible improvements, steer clear of throwing too many new products or treatments into the mix, as that might mess with how your skin reacts. Trust the process, and give the treatment enough time to show its benefits.

11. Document Your Progress

Keeping track of your skin’s journey while on Vitamin A treatment can really help figure out what works for you. When keeping a journal, you can jot down your skincare routine, note what products you use, how often you apply them, and any side effects or improvements you see. This makes it easier to spot patterns or triggers affecting your skin over time.

Taking photos can also be super helpful for showing your progress visually. Snap pictures in similar lighting and at regular intervals, like every week or every couple of weeks, to really see the changes. This can be comforting, especially when improvements are slow and you might not notice them day-to-day.

Keep an eye on how your skin reacts when you tweak your routine, like when you add new products or change how often you use them. Writing down these changes helps you see if they’re good or bad, so you can adjust your approach if needed. It might also be useful to track things like stress, sleep, or your menstrual cycle since these can sometimes affect cystic acne.

Sharing your journal or photos with your dermatologist can make your appointments more productive, giving them a clearer idea of your progress and any bumps along the way. This can help you both make better decisions about your vitamin A treatment plan.

To conclude

Getting clearer skin with a Vitamin A treatment plan takes some commitment and a balanced approach. It’s all about customising the treatment to fit your skin's needs and slowly getting your skin used to it to avoid irritation while still enjoying the benefits. Being consistent with your application and using sunscreen is ideal for keeping the treatment effective and protecting your skin.

Pairing this routine with a healthy and wholesome food and drinking a good amount of water each day can really boost your skin’s health and resilience. Monitoring your progress can also give you a better idea of how your skin is reacting, making it easier to tweak your routine if needed. Just remember, seeing results takes time, so sticking with your plan is best for long-term success.

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12 Tips for Managing Adult Hormonal Cystic Acne with Vitamin A