Retin-A is Saving my Skin - Orange Park, FL

I am 34 years old. I am white, skin tone- fair/ medium, type: mixed. I never had teenage acne, but I had acne in my early adult years - 20- 22. Back then, in Poland,cosmetics from " Avene"- Eau Thermale were very popular, and my dermatologist recommended them. I was using all 6 products from that line in addition to Differin for about a year. They helped tremendously, but I still ended up with mild acne scarring on my cheeks. It would not matter as much if I was Ok with wearing make -up, but I happen to absolutely despise it. Three years ago, in hopes of getting rid of my acne scars and never having to put make up on again, I underwent 3 Fraxel Restore laser treatments- $750 each at Park Avenue Dermatology in Orange Park, Fl. This treatment left holes in my face and burned my skin on my cheek bones. I literally looked like a burned french fry ( yellow and brown patches on my face). I felt taken advantage off and helpless. Months passed and my face still looked 10 years older, although I was told that " the real benefits" would show in about 6 months. Well, in my case, they didn't. So, I decided never to trust anybody with my skin again. I researched and read, especially Paula Begoun's website but also many Polish and Italian websites. As a result I got rid of all my posh cosmetics that had horrible ratings but a high price. I either gave them away or threw them away.

I substituted them with 4 products: " Olay Regenarist Serum", " Olay Regenarist Daily Moisturizer 15 SPF", " ROC- Multi-correction Retinol night treatment", and " Non-alcohol, Thayer's witch hazel toner". Also I started using Neutrogena hypoallergenic sun block- 70 SPF for my face and 50 SPF for my body. ( Every day before I exercise outside, I put the sunblock on religiously). Also during the last 2 years, I have had 1 Vitalize chemical peel by Skin Medica and about 3 exfoliating facials at a spa- mild glycolic acid concentration used. With only this regime, I have noticed much improvement in my skin. I do not have any discoloration, and the acne scars are almost gone. One month ago, I started using Retino- A, based on my research from various websites. I started very slowly every 3 rd night for a week, then every other night for 2 weeks, and finally every night for 1 week. I experienced mild dryness of the skin during the first week, no peeling. During the second week- very mild peeling ( chin area and cheek bones) but was completely gone after I put my regular Olay moisturizer. Skin never itchy, never red. In this short month, I have noticed that my skin is brighter and has a certain glow. I have noticed that my pores are hardly visible- they were huge after the Fraxel treatment and many months after. I honestly can't say enough good things about the Retino- A: it's cheap 0.5 %, my skin glows, my pores are very small, and I don't have to wear make-up! I will update every month on the progress and post pictures once done- 6 -month point. P.S I have always exercised at least 1 hr a day, have always eaten very clean. I don't drink, don't smoke and don't lay out on the beach. I also don't take any medications other than glucosamine and chondrointin for joint health and Biotin for skin and nails. Oh and I drink about 10 cups of green, red or white hot tea a day.