My All around the world Skin Care Journey

I grew up having problem free glowing skin until my late twenties. Then……………
In 2009 I was overworked, overtired, depressed and overweight from the stress of working 120+ hours/week, being mommy and a full time grad student. I also lost my Dad unexpectedly. Overnight I developed acne and grey strands in my hair.I lost weight slowly with a change in lifestyle. My skin never recovered fully- few blemishes stayed on my cheeks. I felt saddened but used moisturizer only intermittently.

Then this summer my skin turned grey, more dry and sallow. My hair was falling. Turned out I was hypothyroid, B12 , vit D and iron deficient. IV iron, thyroid supplements, megadoses of vit D and B12 later my skin turned less grey.The realization dawned that I was no longer eighteen with the flawless skin. I needed to take more care of it.

I cleanse twice daily with Cetaphil, moisturize with la Roche Posay anthelios cream which is hydrating enough for my dry skin ( now available in the US). I got this tip from a dermatologist- to use Anthelios formulas because of the superpotent UVA-blocking ingredient Mexoryl and because as she said sun damage is the number one thing to protect skin from. For my dry, dry elbows, knees and ankles I have starte using Yube cream- a Japanese product that has camphor and is very good for my rough skin ( available on Sephora.com). I also followed Ines’s advice after reading Parisian chic and started using neutrogena body oil after my shower.

Since I consider my hair part of my skin care regimen: in addition to prescription dandruff shampoo, I always use mositurizing conditioner. I alo use moroccan/aragan oil on my hair- its also great on skin! I try to limit heat styling. I do color my grey hair and get highlights intermittently.

And I take my vit D, B12, B1 and thyroid meds on a regular basis now as well as drinking plenty of water and limiting caffeine.

So from France, Japan, Morocco and North America: there you have it: my international skin regimen.