Done having kids but my face shows the wear and tear

[Anonymous]

I am 39, but have been neglecting my skin since I was 34 and pregnant with my first baby. Since then, I've been pregnant, nursing, or trying to get pregnant so my skin care options were greatly limited.

Now I am finally done, nursing over and tubes tied, and I feel like I look totally haggard. This is likely due to the lack of sleep and addition of more stress of kids + my nonexistent skin care regimen.

I want to try to fix myself up but not sure what to do/where to start. I want to go nuclear on my face - bring on the retinol stuff, the peels, etc. Anyone been where I am and made significant improvements? I'm open to Botox but don't want to go the filler route. I just don't want to look so run down - I'm not trying to look 20 or even 30 - just less beaten down

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

I'd suggest seeing the Dermatologist. They do those skin treatments.

[Anonymous]

I started small (ish. I guess it may depend on your point of view). I treated myself to a "real" facial (Red Door salon - gets mixed reviews here. I loved it, YMMV)

I just looked at the site quickly, and didn't see the treatment I had, but it was basically a "rejuvenating" facial and face/neck/shoulder massage.

Anyway, as I went through everything I asked the person doing it to let me know what she was doing, and to recommend anything I could do at home. I wound up getting a light exfoliating peel and moisturizing masque that I could use at home. Once or twice a month I amuse my DH by giving myself the "full treatment" while we watch a movie or something. I also use regular moisturizing and cleansing products from Clinique.

I doubt my skin will ever be back to where it was (when I had time for regular skin care), but I'm definitely noticing a difference. Brighter, I don't notice immediately when I go longer than usual between "treatments", etc. It's possible!

[Anonymous]

Also, OP, regular exercise (sweating) is a big part of keeping skin looking fresh.

[Anonymous]

Oh gosh Op, I'm right there with you. Right there with you!
I tried to cut some side bangs the other day to hide the wrinkles.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Also, OP, regular exercise (sweating) is a big part of keeping skin looking fresh.

that's not true in fact people who run look their faces are falling down and stretching off

[Anonymous]

Sleep, drink lots of water, exercise, see a dermatologist for a treatment/peel/retinol/home skin care depending on your needs. Start there, and see how much better you can get after a few months before making decisions on Botox, etc.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Also, OP, regular exercise (sweating) is a big part of keeping skin looking fresh.

that's not true in fact people who run look their faces are falling down and stretching off

Only because they are too skinny, which is bad for your skin, and they perform lengthy cardio, which creates hormonal stress on your body.

But working out the right way releases hormones that improve your skin. Lift weights and do cardio bursts.

[Anonymous]

Drink more water, sleep more, use a moisturer with SPF and anti aging regularly. Get a a great BB cream. Ask for recs at Sephora or a dept store.

See a dermatologist.

[Anonymous]

Microdermabrasion. Love it!! But yes, see a dermatologist first.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Also, OP, regular exercise (sweating) is a big part of keeping skin looking fresh.

that's not true in fact people who run look their faces are falling down and stretching off

Only because they are too skinny, which is bad for your skin, and they perform lengthy cardio, which creates hormonal stress on your body.

But working out the right way releases hormones that improve your skin. Lift weights and do cardio bursts.

o

Sun exposure is why runners look wrinkled.

[Anonymous]

I got a Roche Poussay (I'm sure I spelled it wrong) called Mela-D from Target. It is a great exfoliant. It has really reduced the fine lines on my face and the sunspots. Highly recommend. It was only about $24.

Also, make sure you're drinking enough water.

[Anonymous]

You haven't used moisturizer for 5 years?

[Anonymous]

I have been having a tablespoon of gelatin every day and my face looks younger and the fine lines are gone. I still have crows feet though.

[Anonymous]

OP here - thanks for the ideas. I made a dermatologist appointment so hopefully that will help.

To the PP who asked if I moisturized, yep but nothing with anti-aging properties. I have used Cetaphil cleanser and moisturizing cream, but I need something that's really going to help with the aging.