8 yrs, 8 mths ago

Reaction to silicones or retinol?

So I grabbed a bunch of products during the last Paula’s Choice 20% off sale, and thought finally my skin would become as close to perfect as possible but things are not going to plan! I had previously used her cleanser, toner and 2% bha with excellent results, but when I added a moisturiser and serum (both containing silicone) I seemed to get tonnes of blackheads 🙁 Problem is I have been trialling bits and pieces from the Priceline skincare bag too, so I don’t actually know what’s causing them. I assumed it was silicones because I was suddenly using a bunch of products with them in, having previously used them only sporadically. I stopped all silicone products for a few days, but now have this strange bumpy feeling to my skin, like my skin is rough? I thought perhaps that could be caused by the retinol in the moisturiser I switched to, to avoid the silicone. I hate not knowing what is causing these problems and having my dreams of clear skin whisked away from me, when I was so close! Anyone else had similar reactions or have a good plan for getting my skin back on track and finding the culprits?

8 comments 32 voices

Replies

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    I have heard retinol can cause irritation though? Until your skin gets used to it? The bumps were more like irritation than anything acne related. I haven’t used any silicones for a couple of weeks now and the blackheads are improving, but I have actual whitehead pimples all over my chin – something I haven’t had since I was a teenager! I don’t know what is going on, it’s like I’ve traded one hideous skin problem for another. My husband suggested I use my old skincare (proactiv) on just my chin, but I’m sure there is a whole face solution out there somewhere. So disappointed as I thought Paula’s Choice was going to be my holy grail. I should probably try some other products of hers sans silicones but now I’m really leaning towards natural and organic products, after trying sukin and antipodes recently.

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    I totally agree with bunnynose bunny. It can’t be the retinol. Retinol stops breakouts and makes my skin clear.
    Perhaps its the products added into the retinol ..if its rich it would be other ingredients.. Try a pure retinol serum.
    I’d love to hear your thoughts on the PC retinol product bunnynose….,

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    I doubt if it’s the retinol. I use the PC retinol serum and the clinical 1% PC moisturiser. The PC serum does have cones in it but I don’t think the 1% does. I have been using the 1% for awhile and find it very good.

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    EmmaApple, I feel your pain. My skin hates silicone, and as you say, it’s pretty difficult to avoid. It might take a while for your skin to settle down, but in the meantime perhaps using a clay mask or something to unclog your pores might be a good idea.

    I use Clarins Beauty Flash Balm instead of a primer and I find it really good. Let me know if you’re after a list of any other skincare products I have had success with.

    I understand your frustration. It’s hard being a beauty product addict when you can’t use the majority of products on the market!

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    Why did u stop both? Maybe just try a vitamin a serum instead.

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    I have stopped the silicones altogether, and stopped the retinol for a couple of days too. Would suck pretty hard to not be able to use silicones because they’re in everything, and in all my favourite products like primer! It seems so hard to find the right brand and mix of products for my skin.

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    I sometimes get a small amount of milia under the eyes if I use an eye cream containing retinol. It’s on and off for me though and not so bad that I need to discontinue use as it’s not too noticeable and clears up quickly.

    Maybe stop using all the new products you’ve started recently and reintroduce them one at a time once everything’s cleared up to try and find the culprit?

  • 8 yrs, 8 mths ago

    I get mila from silicones. Little white bumps under the skin. And blackheads too, so your not alone.
    I love Paula’s choice but find that my skin hates silicone and her products are laced with silicone.
    I dont think that retinol would cause these products, I find its one of the only thing that removes my blackheads milia. Perhaps the retinol product your using is too rich with other ingredients. Try getting rid of the silicone.

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