What facial cleanser do you use? I need a new one!

So, I'm tired of Pro-Activ. I'm tired of how much it costs, and how I always use one step of the system more than the others. I'm tired of how it gives me weird bumps on my chin, and how the blackheads on my nose never go away.

All in all, I want a new system for my face!

I'm looking to go as all natural as possible, but a few ingredients with harder to pronounce names is fine. I am hoping to stay away from things with preservatives in them (anything that ends in paraben, really) just to be safe, rather than sorry.

I have combination skin with really oily forehead and nose, blackheads and the occasional angry red zit. I tend to not have problems with dryness, and my complexion overall is pretty clear (no cysts or inflamed acne day after day). Mostly I want to keep my skin clear, get rid of the blackheads, and make it so my skin isn't as oily.

What do you use, and what have you tried? I want as many reviews as possible! :D Even if you used something and hated it, warn me! Even if your skin is super dry, tell me what you use!
Thanks :D

Cetaphyil

I have not had time to read the other posts, but Usana puts out a produce line that has no parabans or chemical preservatives.  It is called Sense and it is absolutely wonderful- unique in the industry- patented.  If you want to know more message me; I absoultely love it.

Someone else here already mentioned this product but I would also suggest retin-a, It not only fights acne but also aging. =)

Original Post by loren56:

Someone else here already mentioned this product but I would also suggest retin-a, It not only fights acne but also aging. =)

Is there an over-the-counter similar version?

Original Post by cptbunny:

Original Post by loren56:

Someone else here already mentioned this product but I would also suggest retin-a, It not only fights acne but also aging. =)

Is there an over-the-counter similar version?

No, Sense is a unique product (patented) by Usana.  You can get small sample packs - if you like and then get the product delived to your home directly if you like it.

Kiehl's. I can't say it enough. Their honey almond scrub is good, it's like a balance between a harsher scrub and an everyday facewash.

They have an amazing toner for every kind of skin.I use cucumber for my sensitive but even on the website it'd tell you what kind's for you if you don't have a store near you

Original Post by cptbunny:

Original Post by loren56:

Someone else here already mentioned this product but I would also suggest retin-a, It not only fights acne but also aging. =)

Is there an over-the-counter similar version?

Not that im aware of. You can also order these products online from canadian or mexican sites.

I use the Clean and Clear brand Advantage Acne control kit - i guess it's similar to proactiv but it's only about $20 bucks and it lasts me 2-3 months.  I've heard with proactiv if you skip ONE day you break out, but that doesn't happen to me with this stuff.  i started using it a year ago, and I've have had like 3 blemishes since.  I always had combination skin..not bad acne but never pefect skin.  But now it's pretty perfect.  This stuff is amazing I swear.

Original Post by cellophane_star:

I love Philosophy's "Purity" facial cleanser.

 The best stuff ever!  I sold cosmetics for years and tried a ton!  I love this stuff!

Hi there, I am actually an esthetician, and I have tried the gamut of skincare products. I have found that switching it up often helps. I always keep two cleansers at hand, right now I have Elemis sensitive skin wash(its antiseptic, antibacterial, and so good for breakouts) and Peter Thomas Roth glycolic 10% wash. I totally throw down on my skincare, my skin was so bad in the past that I only trust more expensive brands that I have worked with in the past. Not saying that everyone needs to go that route, but works for me.

Hi there, I am actually an esthetician, and I have tried the gamut of skincare products. I have found that switching it up often helps. I always keep two cleansers at hand, right now I have Elemis sensitive skin wash(its antiseptic, antibacterial, and so good for breakouts) and Peter Thomas Roth glycolic 10% wash. I totally throw down on my skincare, my skin was so bad in the past that I only trust more expensive brands that I have worked with in the past. Not saying that everyone needs to go that route, but works for me.

Ditto on the Cetaphil.  I use the Walmart Equate version!  I also use Duac (a benzyl peroxide rx) and tazorac .1% (retin-A rx).  I have flawless skin - the Cetaphil keeps it hydrated and cleans without striping, clogging, etc.  AWESOME product!

brivb10, I'm on a regimen similar to yours, plus an antibiotic. If I may ask, how long did it take your skin to clear up after starting?

I've been on it about 6 weeks, and so far, there's been a little smoothing, but no real improvement in appearance.

And in answer to whoever asked if there is an over the counter version of retin-A (tretinoin), no there isn't, as it is a pretty strong medication. There are generic prescription versions though I think, but their formulation can be a bit more irritating if you have sensitive skin. Either way, you're going to have to go to a doctor to get them.

Cetaphil.  I was having serious breakouts that would not go away - and  I'm 37.  It was terrible.  They were in the same spots everytime.   Tried everything from the dermatologist - wouldn't work.  This went on for 2 years.   I was pitiful.   Then I started using the Cetaphil anti-bacterial bar soap.  Have had PERFECT skin ever since.  Will not use anything else.  And it's only about $3.20 a bar.