The Body Shop Liverpool One: New Store Launch

If you're a regular here on my blog then you'll know that I've been an avid fan of The Body Shop for years, they're one of my holy-grail brands who's products I know will never let me down. So you can imagine my excitement when I was invited to the launch of their brand new store in Liverpool One!

The Body Shop is one of my go-to brands when it comes to buying natural beauty products. It's always one of those stores I just have to call into when I'm having a shopping day, whether I'm going in for something specific or just to try some of their new products, it's always guaranteed that I'll come out with something - I just can't help myself!

Mum and I headed into Liverpool early in the evening, grabbed something to eat and then made our way over to the newly refurbished store in Liverpool One. The Body Shop is located on South John Street, right next to the Liverpool One Q-Park so you can't miss it! 

As soon as we walked through the doors I couldn't help but notice how bright it looked, I absolutely love the new sustainable workshop inspired interior. It felt as through I was in a Body Shop grotto and the employees were little festive elves, although I'm not sure they'll appreciate me saying that. 

We started our evening with a quick browse around the new store and a chance to try some of the new Christmas products. The store is so well organised, everything has it's own little section so it's not overwhelming if you've never been in before and don't know where to start. Although if you get excited over new Body Shop products like I do, it is difficult to decide what you want to go and look at first; skincare, gift sets, make-up, body butters, the NEW re-fill station - they've literally got the lot! 

If you're looking for some last minute Christmas gift inspiration then look no further than The Body Shop, they've got some gorgeous gift sets in stock that would be perfect for your loved ones this festive season, or just as a little treat for yourself for getting through this crazy year! 

I absolutely LOVE all the new Christmas products but my personal favourite is the Joy and Jasmine range. It's such a gorgeous, fresh, winter scent and I literally became obsessed with it, so much so that I was telling everyone to go and have a smell. 

As we had a browse around the store, there were samples of the new vegan menu from Wagamama for us to try which were also delicious. The team at The Body Shop Liverpool One are so welcoming, friendly and extremely knowledgable on all the products in store; they were always on hand to give recommendations and offer advice which was super helpful, especially if you're really indecisive like me.

After spraying, smelling and trying out some of the products it was time for our guided tour. The lovely Ryan took us around the new store and explained the concept behind everything they'd included; from supporting local artists to their motto of doing a random act of kindness. It was extremely informative and gave me an excuse to try even more of the products that I'd missed the first time round. 

On our tour we saw the brand new Refill Station, a special feature of a select few Body Shop stores. You can pop in to any store with a refill station, fill an aluminium bottle with your favourite refillable haircare, shower gel or hand wash and then once you've used it all up, you can bring it back to refill. I'd definitely recommend having a look at the refill scheme if you're trying to find little ways to help the environment. 

Another new concept, which is one of my absolute favourites, is the FREE (yes, I repeat, FREE) gift-wrapping service. Any purchase from the Body Shop can be gift wrapped for free by a member of staff which not only saves you time on the Christmas wrapping but is perfect if you're absolutely hopeless at wrapping presents like I am. 

The Body Shop advent calendars really are something special. There's so much choice and something for every budget, they'd even be perfect stocking fillers if you could share the products between everyone on your 'to-buy-for' list. The blue advent calendar is exclusive to eight stores in the UK and luckily, Liverpool is one of them, so if you're really looking to treat yourself then that's the one to go for! 

After our guided tour, we had another chance to browse and pick up anything that had caught our eye (which for me, was basically the whole store). Mum and I bought a few early Christmas gifts and treated ourselves to some other bits too but I won't say too much as that's all for another blog post! 

It was so refreshing to actually be able to take our time and have a good mooch around the Body Shop, to be able to talk to the staff and try products that we wouldn't usually look twice at. I even had the chance to chat to some of the bloggers who were also attending, including the lovely Ellie who came over to say hello! I'm pretty sure I convinced her to buy a Joy and Jasmine gift set, and we couldn't help but notice how cute the product names are; the 'Sweetness and Sunshine' gift set is definitely what I'm all about. 

After two hours of pampering, chatting and browsing, we left The Body Shop with a bag full of treats and a list of products we couldn't wait to try. It's incredibly inspiring to see how The Body Shop and the team at the Liverpool One store are working hard to become one of the most sustainable, environmentally friendly brands on the high street. Plus the new store is absolutely gorgeous, one of the team described it as 'old school Body Shop vibes' and that's exactly what it is! 

It was so refreshing to be back at a blogging event, chatting to likeminded people and generally just enjoying ourselves. Thank you to the incredible team at The Body Shop Liverpool One for inviting me to such a fabulous event, every time I get to work with my favourite brands it's always such a pinch me moment.

 If you're in Liverpool One, go and say hi to the fabulous team at The Body Shop and have a browse of their new store. Oh, and if I hadn't mentioned it already, go and try the Joy and Jasmine range - you won't regret it! 

Body Shop Haul Pending...

Lots of Love,

Meg x

Roaccutane: One Year On

When I first started taking roaccutane, it seemed like a never-ending journey; it was constant visits to my dermatologist, endless prescriptions and a whole nine months of aching joints, dry lips and tiredness. I've been off roaccutane for just over a year and a half (I stopped taking it in June 2019) and I still stand by the fact that it's the best thing I've ever done for my skin.

The biggest fear for any patient coming off roaccutane is the possibility that the acne could return. I had the same dread too. I'd already been on antibiotics which had cleared my skin up and the moment I stopped taking them, the acne came back within weeks. I didn't want that to happen again. 

I've been looking forward to writing this roaccutane update and believe me, I've got so much to tell you about; from the side effects of coming off the drug, to skincare products and treatments I've been absolutely loving. There's quite a bit to get through!

So, Did my Acne Return? 

When I was discharged from the care of my dermatologist, he prescribed me with Differin topical cream to introduce into my skincare routine. I had been using Differin previously whilst taking antibiotics and apparently it can be prescribed after roaccutane to help improve any scarring and pigmentation left behind. I started using it twice a week for two weeks, and then every other day after that. 

You'll be glad to know that my skin stayed completely clear for a good few months after taking roaccutane and using Differin, ignoring the occasional hormonal breakout which we all get now and again. I noticed my skin start to break out slightly after I stopped using Differin in March, although I only used it sparingly as I didn't want my skin to get used to it. 

Over the past year and a half, I have experienced breakouts mostly due to wearing masks, hormonal changes and other factors. However, my breakouts are nowhere near as bad as they used to be and are completely manageable with spot treatments, which I'll talk about in a bit. However, my skin is still pretty much clear and I'm so grateful that roaccutane helped me to achieve the skin I always wanted.  

What About the Side Effects?

I experienced quite a few side effects whilst taking roaccutane, the most common being the dryness of skin and lips. I'm pleased to say that this disappeared very quickly, although my skin is nowhere near as oily as it used to be pre-roaccutane and I'll never be able to snap out of the habit of applying lip balm. 

The side effect I've suffered with the most and one that I'm only just getting back to normal is my hair. Sadly, my hair continued to thin and fall out and I'm not going to lie, it really got me down. It's not something you're warned about but after talking to people who have also taken roaccutane, it is actually a very common side effect (more so when you come off the drug). 

Looking back I don't think I looked after my hair enough when I was on roaccutane, I was too busy enjoying the dryness and not having to wash it every other day. In hindsight, I'd definitely start using hair oils and conditioning treatments more; your hair needs its natural oils which roaccutane actually strips it of. Some of my favourites to use are Argan Oil and the Garnier Hair Food Hair Masks. My other top tips would be to let your hair dry naturally and avoid intensive heat styling, give your hair a break! 

Did your Mental Health Suffer? 

If you've done your research on roaccutane then you'll be no stranger to the reports and horror stories about the effect it can have on your mental health. Whilst on the drug, I noticed a slight shift in my mood but nothing too drastic - I was just more emotional than usual. However when I stopped taking it, I noticed a massive change. 

I've spoken about anxiety many times on my blog and in recent years it's something I've taken control of. However since being on roaccutane, my anxiety and panic attacks have slowly crept back in. I had my first panic attack in years whilst on roaccutane and also in the weeks coming off it. I've noticed that my low moods are more frequent and I seem to get down and anxious about things that would never usually have bothered me. I've also been dealing with other mental health issues since coming off roaccutane, but I'm not quite ready to talk about that yet - hopefully some day soon! 

So, coming off such an intense drug coupled with living through a global pandemic, I suppose you could say my mental health isn't the greatest at the moment but I'm working on it. 

Progress Photos 

Skin Treatments 

After finishing your course of roaccutane, it's recommended that you wait 6-12 months before you start having any skin treatments such as facials, tattoos or piercings. After six months I slowly started to introduce face masks back into my skincare routine but I personally chose to wait 12 months before I went for any intense skin treatments as I wanted to make sure my skin had fully healed from taking roaccutane and wasn't as sensitive. 

Dermaplane 

What is dermaplaning? I hear you ask. 

Well, it's basically a deep exfoliation treatment which removes dead skin cells, trapped dirt and peach fuzz. It's all done using an exfoliation blade and aims to leave you with a glowing complexion whilst also helping your skin to better absorb the products you use day to day and help with acne scarring. 

For those of you who know me, you'll know that I've always wanted to have dermaplaning done and I was literally counting down the months before I could book in at a beauty clinic. One of the most important things when booking any skin treatment is to make sure you go to a skincare specialist who is fully qualified and who you trust will look after your skin . I had my treatment at Pretty Faces in Merseyside and I can't recommend them enough! 

I booked in for the Dermaplane Cocoa Oxygen LED Facial which has all the benefits of a standard dermaplane treatment as well as helping to reduce breakouts. My treatment was done by Charlotte and it was basically painless, I didn't feel a thing and she explained everything that she was doing it. 

As you can see from the above before and after photos, my skin was left with the most stunning glow. It felt incredibly soft, my breakouts were reduced and when I next wore make up, the application was absolutely flawless. At the end Charlotte showed me all the trapped dirt that had come off my skin and it shocked me how much crap had built up over time, even with a good skincare routine. My skin glow lasted for ages and I'm already so excited to book my next treatment! 

The Prism Lab AHA Overnight Serum 

As I've previously mentioned, when I finished my course of roaccutane I was left with a little bit of scarring on my cheeks. I've tried many things to help with this including some must-have products from The Body Shop as well as the dermaplane facial, but one of my favourite solutions came from The Prism Lab. 

Their best-selling AHA Overnight Serum is suitable for all skin types and has so many skin benefits including improving moisture levels, promoting a healthy complexion and improving the appearance of damaged skin, redness and scarring. I used this for around one month and it really gave my skin a boost;  my scarring started to fade, my skin felt cleansed and every morning I woke up with a glowing complexion. I should also note that it smells insane and a little bit goes a long way, even my Mum started using it! 

Skin & Me 

In September I noticed that my skin was breaking out more and I got that dreaded feeling that my acne was coming back. I thought I was going to have to go back to my dermatologist and take another course of roaccutane which if I'm being totally honest, I don't think I'd do again. 

I know so many of us have been suffering with 'Mascne', a term we'd never heard of this time last year but one we seem to have given to breakouts caused by wearing masks. It's been the bane of so many lives, including mine, so when I heard about Skin and Me I thought I'd give them a try. 

Skin and Me are an online dermatology service based in the UK. They listen to your skin concerns and then prescribe you with a personalised solution which you apply every night before bed. I've been using my Skin and Me personalised solution for six months to help with my breakouts and I think the above results speak for themselves. It's so easy to apply and fits in perfectly with my skincare routine. Plus the dermatology team are so helpful and friendly - they even recommend the perfect products to use with your new solution! It's very quickly become a skincare favourite and I recommend it to everyone. 

So there we have it, my one year roaccutane update! 

It's so important to remember that the journey to 'perfect skin' is a marathon, not a sprint and if you persevere then you can find a solution because guess what? Perfect skin doesn't exist. I've come to terms with the fact that my skin is never going to be perfect. I'm always going to get breakouts, I'm probably always going to have scarring and I'll never have the airbrushed look that I wanted for so long and that's okay, it doesn't change who am as a person. 

Having acne is so beautiful and you should never feel ashamed.
Our imperfections make us beautiful. 

If you ever have any questions about roaccutane then feel free to message me on Instagram or Twitter, my DM's are always open and I'm always willing to talk skincare! 

I hope you're all keeping safe and well in these crazy times, June 21st is fast approaching! 

Lots of Love,

Meg x

PMD Clean: The Ultimate Facial Cleanser - AD

When it comes to skincare, I like to know that I'm using the best products on my skin. I just want that glowing, radiant complexion but let's be honest, who doesn't? 

I'm very open about my skin struggles and I'm constantly trying out new skincare products (it's actually one of my biggest thrills in life). An essential item in my skincare routine is a cleansing brush but since being on Roaccutane, I've struggled to find something that is both exfoliating and gentle on my sensitive skin. 

Recently, I've been testing the PMD Clean; a handheld anti-ageing cleansing device promising to leave my skin dirt and make up free whilst also boosting collagen for a more youthful complexion. Not to be dramatic, but it's literally changed my skincare routine forever. 

DISCLAIMER AD - Product has been kindly gifted by PMD & SVPR. All opinions are my own. 

So, How Does It Work?

The PMD Clean utilises SonicGlow technology which uses over 7,000 vibrations per minute to completely remove all impurities. It breaks down all the dirt and oil from deep within the pores, helping to reduce the formation of spots and blackheads which leaves your skin looking brighter and clearer. 

It's comes in six vibrant colours and is made from ultra-hygienic silicone meaning it's not only odour-resistant but also antibacterial, waterproof AND hypoallergenic.  I've finally found a cleansing brush that isn't as high maintenance as my skin, it's an absolute miracle! 

The device has two sides; one side has a combination of bristles for cleansing and the other ridged side can be used to massage serums and moisturisers into the skin. The large bristles at the tip of the brush head are for those pesky areas prone to buildup like your chin and jawline, whilst the small bristles are for that general overall clean. The brush bristles are super gentle and they don't aggravate my skin in the slightest, even when I'm having a good exfoliation after a full day of wearing make up! 

The brush has four different settings so you can choose which intensity is right for your skin. The first two settings are perfect for when you're using the bristly side of the device; the first is a gentle, constant vibration whilst the second is more intense. Setting three is a gentle pulsation and setting four is a faster pulsation. These are amazing when using the ridged side of the device, but if you want a super gentle cleanse then you can use these settings with the bristly side too. I tend to use settings 3/4 for a gentle cleanse in the morning and then settings 1/2 for a more intense exfoliation in the evening.  

How Do I Use It?

So now you know a bit more about the product, let's talk about how to actually use it. It's all well and good listing the endless benefits, but does it really work? 

I don't think there's a correct way to use a cleansing brush but PMD recommend to remove all of your make up and wet your face with lukewarm water. Then you rinse the device, apply a cleanser of your choice, choose your perfect setting and run the PMD Clean across your face in gentle, circular motions.

I usually do quite a quick cleanse in the morning and then a longer, more intense cleanse in the evening. I don't know about you but I absolutely hate the thought of dirt clogging up my pores, especially if I've had a full day of wearing make up. 

When you've finished your cleanse and exfoliation, rinse your face as you usually would and gently pat dry with a towel. Then run some water over the device to get rid of any product and you can either use a towel to dry it or leave it to air dry - that's the beauty of it being made of silicone! 

When it comes to using the ridged side of the brush I use a very similar technique to massage moisturiser into my skin and I tend to do this in an evening. I also love to use a face mask after exfoliating with the device - my skin literally tingles it's that clean! 

My Thoughts 

As I said previously, I absolutely love trying out new skincare products but that doesn't come without nerves. I'm always scared that products are going to aggravate my skin, cause a bad breakout and take me straight back to square one. 

It's safe to say I was both nervous and excited to try the PMD Clean, when it arrived I ran straight upstairs and started my evening skincare routine. I've been using this for around two weeks now and I can honestly say it is absolutely brilliant. I use it twice a day, both morning and evening and it's completely changed my skincare routine. 

In the mornings it wakes my skin up and gives it a much needed glow boost, whilst in the evenings it gives a full exfoliation and ensures I go to bed with perfectly cleansed skin and no horrible trapped dirt. My skin feels so smooth and soft after using the device and I've noticed it looking a lot healthier too! In terms of breakouts, I have noticed a reduction in blemishes although I don't get that many anymore due to taking Roaccutane. 

It's battery powered so there's no wires getting in the way and no waiting hours for it to charge up. I also want to mention that the ridged side of the brush is perfect for massaging any leftover product from using sheet masks - it's a game changer! 

The PMD Clean retails at £89 which is on the pricer side for a device of this kind, however the results are more than worth it. I literally couldn't imagine my skincare routine without it and my skin has definitely been thanking me since I started using it. I can't wait to have glowing skin in the winter months! 

A special thank you to Harlen from SVPR and the lovely team at PMD Beauty for allowing me to try this amazing device. They have been so helpful and answered any questions or queries I had about their products; if you have a browse on their website there's some amazing skincare devices on there. 

What's your favourite part of your skincare routine? 

Lots of Love,

Meg x

DISCLAIMER AD - Product gifted by PMD Beauty and SVPR. All opinions are my own. 

 

My Must-Have Skincare Products From The Body Shop

Trying new skincare products is one of my favourite things to do. Since finishing my course of Roaccutane and finally having the clear skin I always dreamed of, I've been able to experiment with new products and I must say that I've found some absolute game changers!

Skincare has always been something that I've been interested in. Having had acne from a young age, I've done my fair share of research and I've found that using natural skincare has endless benefits.

The Body Shop is one of my favourite brands when it comes to buying natural products. Not only do they have amazing morals and ethics, but every single product is made from natural ingredients meaning your skin and body are getting the best. I've been a fan of The Body Shop for years and although there's still a lot left for me to try, I thought I'd share some of my favourite products that are essentials in my skincare routine.

Facial Skincare

Vitamin C Glow Protect Lotion SPF 30

This is one of my newest purchases and something I've really been enjoying using these past few months. I noticed my skin was looking very dull and tired so my friend recommended the Vitamin C range from The Body Shop. It's specifically made for dull, tired, grumpy skin to give it a little glow boost for a brighter, more radiant complexion. 

I can fully confirm that my skin is literally GLOWING after using the Vitamin C Glow Protect Lotion, so much so that people are actually commenting on it! It smells like a tropical wonderland and a little bit goes a very long way. It's not as lightweight as I'm used to but it leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft and, with an SPF of 30 it's protecting my skin from those harsh UVA/B rays - SPF is super important when buying a moisturiser! 

I've also heard that Vitamin C can help with scarring and as I have a fair bit of acne scaring on my cheeks, it's something I wanted to test. Although I've not noticed a drastic change yet, my scars have reduced in colour and definitely aren't as noticeable. 

Vitamin E Eye Cream 

Using an eye cream has never been an essential in my skincare routine because I've never really needed it. However recently, the dark circles under my eyes have been very prominent and no amount of concealer was working. I went in search of something to help and came across the Vitamin E Eye Cream. I'd heard really good things so couldn't wait to give it a try. 

It aims to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles as well as protecting the fragile skin around the eyes. I apply it both morning and evening and my under eyes have never looked brighter. As with most Body Shop products, a little goes a long way and it's no wonder it's one of their best-selling products because it's certainly a firm favourite of mine! Why didn't I find it sooner!? 

Body Moisturisers

Strawberry Body Butter

You'll have seen me talk about this Strawberry Body Butter in my Roaccutane Holy Grain Products as it's been a firm favourite of mine for years. It melts into the skin and I absolutely love using this after I've had a bath/shower in the evenings as it leaves my skin feeling soft and smelling amazing. All the Body Shop Body Butters are brilliant, but the Strawberry scent is absolutely delicious - it smells like calpol and I'd eat it if I could! 

Strawberry Body Yogurt 

The Strawberry Body Yogurt is one of those purchases I make time and time again. It's perfect for when you're in a rush and haven't got as much time to moisturise, especially for me when I've overslept which is most mornings (a queen is never late, everyone else is simply early - 10 points if you know where that quote is from). 

The lightweight, gel formula absorbs into the skin instantly so it doesn't leave you with that horrible sticky feeling. I can literally apply this to my body and then get dressed straight away. It's also made to apply to damp skin too and it smells amazing! 

Face Masks

Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask 

The Himalayan Charcoal Face Mask is potentially my favourite Body Shop purchase I have ever made. I first heard about it watching Jade Billington's Skincare Video, she spoke so highly of it so I had to give it a try. 

I'm not exaggerating when I say that since I've been using this mask, my skin has never felt so cleansed and glowy. It aims to draw out impurities and refine the appearance of pores to give a healthy looking glow. As you watch it dry, you'll notice that the dark patches cling to where you have excess oil and you'll probably find it tingles a little bit when you first apply it but that soon fades. 

I can't even describe how refreshed my skin feels when I wash it off; it's so soft and has such a natural glow. It's the perfect face mask to use when you feel like your skin needs a real deep cleanse, especially after a full day of wearing heavy make up. I could literally rave about it all day, it's bloody brilliant! 

Tea Tree Skin Clearing Face Mask 

Although Roaccutane was amazing in clearing up my acne, I do still get the odd breakout. I've always used tea tree as part of my skincare routine, so I invested in the Tea Tree Face Mask and it's done an amazing job of minimising my breakouts. I noticed a few more breakouts after the first few times using the mask, but I think it has to bring out the impurities to get rid of them. 

I've been using this for around two months now and I can confidently say that my impurities are few and far between, my skin is incredibly clear and it's one of my favourite products. It's not as harsh as the Himalayan Charcoal Mask but the combination of the two is a dream! I use both once a week. 

So there we have it, my Body Shop favourites! 

I should mention that all products have been purchased by me and this post isn't sponsored in any way, I just really love The Body Shop! Also, all products mentioned have been perfect for my sensitive, acne prone skin! 

The Body Shop have literally changed my skincare routine for the better and I can't wait to try out more products in the future. Let me know some of your favourites in the comments! 

Lots of Love,

Meg x

My Top 10 Tips For Starting Roaccutane

So, you've just been prescribed with a dose of roaccutane and it's a weird mixture of feelings isn't it? One part of you is excited to finally have what could be a permanent cure for your acne, whilst the other is absolutely terrified of the skin journey ahead. It's completely normal to feel like this, I was scared too!

One of the most important things to do before, during and after taking this drug is to RESEARCH; you can never do enough! There's so many different posts out there full of peoples experiences, tips and tricks that I guarantee you'll learn something new from everyone. That being said, I'm going to add to this collection of posts with my top tips for starting your course of roaccutane!

Just some context before I start, I was taking roaccutane for a total of 9 months and my highest dosage was 50mg. I wrote a whole blog post about it, including progress photos, so if you fancy a read you can find it here.

1. Tinted Lip Balm Is Your Best Friend 

One of the most devastating things about being on roaccutane was the fact that wearing lipstick became a thing of the past. My lips were so dry that any lipstick just peeled off and generally looked gross! If you're a lipstick lover like me, then you'll feel like your make up looks drab without a pop of colour on your lips. My advice? Invest in a tinted lip balm. Not only is it super moisturising but it also adds that little shimmer of colour to your lips; it's the second best thing to lipstick and filled the lipstick shaped hole in my life. My favourite ones were from Nivea and Blistex. 

2. Carry Lip Balm Everywhere 

How many people have told you this? Well add me to that list.
I know you're fed up of hearing it and you probably don't believe us, but trust me when I say you need lip balm with you at all times. I'm talking every handbag, every room, every drawer; it needs to be there. Thank me for it later.

3. Drink Plenty Of Water 

As you probably know, roaccutane works by reducing oil production and shrinking oil glands which causes severe dryness, not only of your skin but your entire body. You may find that your feeling thirsty more often and my best advice is to drink as much water as possible. Not only is it generally good for your health, but it'll help with the dryness and aching joints! 

4. Keep Your Skincare Routine As Simple As Possible 

I won't go into a lot of detail about my skincare routine as I did a post on my Holy Grail Products which you can have a browse through, but all I will say is it that it's super important to keep your skincare as simple as possible. Think about it, your skin is already overwhelmed with the tablet itself, having a complicated skincare routine will make it even worse! 

I'd also recommend to use any new skincare products before starting your course as introducing them into your routine early will ensure that your skin is familiar with them.

5. Join Facebook Support Groups

This is a super important tip and one I recommend to everyone.
There's hundreds of Facebook groups, Instagram pages and Bloggers out there who talk openly about their struggles with acne and offer support to people on any kind of acne treatment. I created an Instagram specifically for my Roaccutane journey and I have to say that the acne community is so uplifting, welcoming and lovely. It might sound silly but for the first time in my life, I was actually proud to have acne.

6. Do Your Research 

I briefly touched on this before, but doing research on Roaccutane is so important; it'll prepare you for what you should expect and also give you a little bit of hope that this drug actually does perform miracles. Remember that this is not an easy drug to take, so no amount of research is too much. I'm presuming if you've found your way to this post then you're doing exactly that. 

7. Remember That Everyone Has A Different Experience 

Research is important, we've gathered that. But please, please, please don't scare yourself. We need to remember that everyone has a different experience of taking roaccutane; some say it's the best thing they've ever done whilst others will warn you off it like it's the plague. You make your own judgement but be prepared for most eventualities.

8. Document Your Progress 

Documenting your roaccutane journey with pictures and notes is super important to monitor your progress. It really helps on those days when you feel a bit rubbish and like the drug isn't working because believe me, we all have them. 

I made an Instagram specifically to document my progress. I took photos every week and wrote about any new symptoms I had or just how I was feeling. It helped me to remember that this was a marathon, not a sprint and that my skin was improving even when I didn't feel like it! 

9. Get A Tablet Organiser

If you're anything like me and are forgetful when it comes to taking tablets, I recommend investing in a small tablet organiser. They're only a few pounds on Amazon and really help to keep you organised, especially if you're on a higher dosage like me! 

10. Talk About How You're Feeling 

I thought I'd finish with the most important point, and one that I think everyone needs to hear. I don't need to tell you about the bad reports this drug has for its severe side effects on your mental health; from low mood to suicide. Please talk about how you're feeling; to your family, to your friends, to the online community - there is always someone willing to listen. My messages are always open. 

We will all have bad days when taking this drug, we'll all have low moods and we'll all feel a little hopeless. This is totally normal and completely okay, we're entitled to our feelings. I know when I was taking Roaccutane, I used to get aggravated at the silliest things and cry when there was nothing to cry about; again, that's okay. What matters is how we handle these situations and talking to someone is the best thing you can do. Trust me. 

I hope that these tips have helped some of you if you've just been prescribed with roaccutane or if you're thinking of taking it and are doing your research. Personally, although it wasn't easy, it's one of the best things I have ever done and my confidence has sky rocketed. If you are struggling with acne, go to see your GP or ask to be referred to a dermatologist -  there are so many treatments out there and acne is NOTHING to be ashamed of. 

If you have any questions or tips that I haven't mentioned, leave them in the comments or drop me a message, I'm always happy to chat! 

Lots of Love,

Meg x

Roaccutane: My Holy Grail Products

Receiving your prescription for roaccutane is one of the most exciting yet terrifying experiences. On the one hand you can't wait to start your journey towards clear skin and are over-joyed to have been prescribed a drug that could quite literally change your life. But at the same time there are a lot of horror stories out there because of the side effects.

Regardless of your feelings, there's a high chance that you're going to have to switch up your skincare routine. If you're anything like me you'll be in the process of doing your research to try and find the best products out there. It's looking expensive, right? Well it doesn't have to be.

I thought it'd be a good idea to compile a list of my favourite products that I used whilst taking Roaccutane. I tried to keep my skincare as simple as possible without breaking the bank so hopefully this will help some of you.

Moisturisers 

Roaccutane works by reducing oil production and shrinking oil glands which in turn causes dryness, not only of your skin but your lips and hair. It's a guaranteed side effect of the drug and although it can be frustrating at times, it's easily controlled.

It's important to invest in a good moisturiser for your skin type as taking roaccutane can make your skin very sensitive. I used four different moisturisers during my course, all of which were brilliant and I would highly recommend.

Simple Kind To Skin+ Moisturiser SPF30

If you've been reading my blog for a while you'll know that Simple are one of my favourite skincare brands and I've been using their products for years. I was using the Simple Kind to Skin+ Moisturiser before taking roaccutane and I continued to use it throughout my course. Not only is it perfect for even the most sensitive of skin types (it doesn't include any harsh chemicals) but it also provides instant hydration without clogging up your pores.

It also has a high SPF which is another important factor as roaccutane can make your skin incredibly sensitive to sunlight, even in the winter months. I used this as my daily moisturiser, applying it every morning after cleansing and it worked a treat.

La Roche Posay Effaclar H Moisturiser

La Roche Posay are the brand I recommend to everyone going through any kind of acne treatment, whether they're under the supervision of a dermatologist or trying to clear it up themselves.

The Effaclar H range is specifically formulated for oily skin that has become weakened by harsh, over-drying acne treatments including roaccutane. I used the Effaclar H Moisturiser each night before going to bed as it instantly soothed my dry, flaking skin without aggravating my blemishes. It's the one product I recommend to everyone and I don't think I could've got through my course without it. 

Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser SPF50

I switched to using the Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturiser in the summer months as it has a higher SPF and would therefore provide better protection for my skin when it was at its most sensitive. It's lightweight, easily absorbed and perfect for all skin types.

The Body Shop Body Butter 

It's important to remember that the rest of your body needs moisturising too as Roaccutane has been known to cause eczema and other skin conditions.

I absolutely adore The Body Shop's collection of body butters as they're rich and hydrating but don't leave you with that horrible sticky feeling. My current favourite, and the one I used throughout my course, is the Strawberry Body Butter - it smells absolutely delicious, a bit like calpol.

Cleansers

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser 

A complete holy grail product! 

As I said, I tried to keep my skin care routine incredibly simple. I didn't want to overwhelm my skin with tonnes of different products, I just wanted to let the tablet work its magic.

I only used one cleanser and that was the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser for dry sensitive skin. It's the one product that everyone recommended when I was doing my skincare research and now I fully understand why. Not only is it gentle and soothing on the skin but it also helps to relieve the dryness caused by prescription skincare products. 

I'm still using this cleanser now and I stopped taking roaccutane just over four months ago. It's become a must-have in my daily skincare routine and I wouldn't be without it. 

Foundations 

Wearing make up is something my dermatologist recommended for me NOT to do however, my acne was so bad I knew I had to use something to give me a little confidence boost when I was going out. I trialled various different foundations but most tended to cling to dry patches or made me break out until I found this absolute life saver!

No7 Hydraluminous Moisturising Foundation

No7 are the make up brand I go back to time and time again, I know I can trust in their products and the staff are always so helpful. For the first few months, I used my trusty No7 Stay Perfect foundation which worked but when my skin started to dry out I knew I needed to change things up. 

I went to my local Boots store and asked the staff for recommendations on foundations that were lightweight, decent coverage and suitable for dry skin. This is when I was introduced to the No7 Hydraluminous moisturising foundation and it ticked all the boxes. 

It's lightweight, buildable coverage and doesn't cling to dry patches leaving skin visibly fresh, radiant and moisturised. It's also suitable for even the most sensitive of skin types (perfect for us lot on Roaccutane) and it has SPF15 which is always a bonus! 

Lip Balms

Another main side effect of taking roaccutane is your lips to becoming dry, chapped and sometimes bleeding. I experienced all of this and more, but it was the side effect that was most manageable. Trust me when I say, your house will be FULL of lip balms - you need one in every room, every handbag and every location, so I've narrowed down my top picks which helped me along the way.

Okeefe's Lip Repair 

The O'keefe's Lip Repair was my favourite lip product to use, especially towards the end of my course when my lips started to crack and bleed. It provides relief for extremely dry, cracked lips and immediately improves the feel, protecting against dryness all day. 

Blistex Intensive Moisturiser

I used Blistex every night before I went to bed because when I woke up in the mornings, my lips were so soft and smooth. I found that my lips were at their driest in the evenings and this worked an absolute treat! 

Carmex

Oh classic Carmex, you can never go wrong. 

It's the lip balm that every one recommends and I'm doing the exact same to you. It's perfect to keep in your bag or on your desk at work and it even has SPF15 - what more could you want?

Blistex Lip Brilliance

One of the things I hated about being on roaccutane was that wearing lipstick became a thing of the past, it made my lips so dry and ended up cracking after five minutes of application - not a good look. If you know me well, you'll know how much I love my lipsticks so I had to find a way around it. That's where Blistex Lip Brilliance comes in. 

This is a tinted lip balm with all the moisturising goodness of classic Blistex, just with an added tint to give your lips that rosy glow. It wasn't exactly the same as wearing my favourite Charlotte Tilbury dark lip but it filled in that lipstick shaped hole in my life. 

Burts Bees Natural Lip Balm 

It's another classic and a product I've used both on and off roaccutane. Although Burts Bees isn't as moisturising as other lip products, it's natural goodness leaves your lips feeling so soft and smooth. It's a definite handbag essential! 

Soap & Glory Wonderbalm 

Now, this isn't the exact product that I used (they've stopped making it, sob) but the Soap & Glory Wonderbalm does the same thing. Not only is it for your lips, it can also be used on your skin and hair to leave you feeling and looking a million dollars. 

So there you have it, my roaccutane holy grail products! 

I hope this post has helped to narrow down some of the best products on the market for those of you who are going to be taking roaccutane, are currently taking roaccutane, or even if you're just curious about what products work for dry skin and lips. 

If you have any questions about my experience on roaccutane or any of the products I used, you can message me on Instagram, Twitter or send me an email. Also, if you have any other product recommendations then leave them in the comments to help each other out! 

Lots of Love, 

Meg x

My Skin Journey: Roaccutane

Last Week, after almost two years of dermatology appointments, I officially finished my course of roaccutane.

I've had acne since I was ten years old. I'm now twenty-two. That's twelve years of my life spent feeling insecure, dealing with bullies and waking up every morning to red cysts covering my cheeks. Twelve years of avoiding social situations, editing my blemishes out of photos and the sight of my own reflection bringing me to tears. I wrote a big ol' post about my skin story, if you fancy a read. 

I know most people say that they tried everything to clear up their skin but trust me when I say, I seriously explored every avenue possible, even the little side streets. Most of this was to avoid taking roaccutane, a drug I'd heard so much about; some things good, others not so much.

What Stopped Me Taking It?

I was first referred to start taking roaccutane (aka isotretinoin - a quick google search will tell you all about it) back in February 2018. However, after doing a lot of research and scaring myself silly, I chose to take yet another course of antibiotics. Granted, they did their job and cleared my skin up beautifully but when I stopped taking them, the acne came back in full force.

Although roaccutane is known as a 'miracle drug', it also receives a lot of bad press for the severe side effects associated with it; from skin as dry as the Sahara to issues as serious as low mood and in the worst cases, suicide. This was the side effect that scared me the most; there's no way I could put my mind and body through that. I knew my skin had to get worse before it got better but what if it didn't improve? So many questions! So many thoughts! My brain was a pile of mush.

I spent my nights watching vlogs, reading blog posts, interrogating friends and doing every ounce of research I could. However, no experience is the same and no matter how many people you talk to, everyone has something different to say.

Why Roaccutane?

In October of last year, I decided that roaccutane was my last resort and the only thing left for me to try. Taking this tablet is not a decision that should be taken lightly and I highly recommend that you make sure to do your research beforehand.

It took me a long time to decide I was finally ready to take roaccutane and I know I wouldn't have had the courage if it wasn't for the supportive network of people around me. Sure, some people tried to talk me out of it but deep down, I knew it was the right decision for me (and if worst came to worst, I could always stop taking it). At the end of the day, it's your decision and your decision only. You need to do what feels right for you.

I knew it was the one thing that could be a permanent solution to my acne and to be able to feel confident in myself again was something I so desperately longed for. I started my course of roaccutane on the 13th October 2018 and it truly is the best decision I have ever made.

Month 1 - Month 3

Dosage: 30mg

The first month of being on roaccutane is commonly known as the 'worst part' as your skin is supposed to purge all the badness which is why you're always told that it has to get worse before it gets better. However, my experience was a little bit backward.

I'd psyched myself up for this really bad breakout that was supposed to be brewing, yet nothing happened. I waited, and waited, and waited but my skin just seemed to be improving by the day. The overall texture was smooth and blemishes were few and far between, I'd be off this thing sooner than I thought (oh how naive you were, hun).

Side Effects

In terms of side effects, I think I was lucky. I got dry skin and dry lips pretty much straight away which was to be expected and nothing a bit of lip balm couldn't solve - even though nothing can prepare you for how many times you have to apply it during the day. 

Nearing the end of my first month I noticed myself feeling extremely tired and therefore sleeping a lot. This was potentially the worst side effect throughout the course as it brought a lack of motivation and hopelessness in some cases, not to mention it was bloody hard to get rid of. I continued to exercise and experienced sore joints however I found that taking a glucosamine supplement each day kept the aches and pains at bay. 

I also continued to drink alcohol in moderation and although it's not recommended, I had no major issues. Except that the hangovers are an absolute bitch. 

Other minor side effects included a few bad dreams, restless nights, nosebleeds, weight gain and painful periods but apart from that, the first few months were plain sailing. It seriously didn't feel like I was on medication. 

Mood

I'll be honest and say that my mood changed. It wasn't a dramatic change but I noticed myself feeling low and having a lack of interest in things. The only way I can describe it is feeling hungry, there's food there but you can't be bothered eating. However, it's hard to know if low mood is caused by roaccutane or personal issues. To help with this, I tried to keep myself busy and have some much needed me time. I also noticed that I let things get to me quicker than normal; I'd get upset about the smallest things and become aggravated quickly. 

Month 3 - Month 6

Dosage: 50mg

The next three months were the hardest and potentially the lowest I've ever felt. My dosage was upped to 50mg and subsequently, the bad breakout made an appearance. Seeing my skin get so bad made me feel disgusting, I couldn't bare to look in the mirror and the temptation to pick was so real. 

In all honesty, I felt like I'd made a massive mistake. I knew it had to get worse before it got better but I never imagined it would get that bad. It was really disheartening and I spent most nights crying to anyone who'd listen - I really was feeling sorry for myself. 

Side Effects

As expected, my side effects worsened and believe me when I say they really worsened. My periods became incredibly painful. I suffer with bad menstrual cramps anyway but roaccutane cramps were next level - I'd be in bed for days. 

The dryness also intensified, my lips started to crack and bleed and no amount of moisturiser could stop my foundation from clinging to the dry patches on my face. Eczema started to appear on my arms and legs and I was still incredibly tired all the bloody time. I had no motivation whatsoever. 

However, the worst side effect for me was hair loss. I went for my hair cut in February and my hair dresser pointed out that my hair had thinned so much it was falling out in her hands. As someone who takes pride in her appearance, especially her hair, this really upset me and my self esteem lowered even further. 

As you know, I will be truthful about this whole experience. I won't hide anything and I'll tell it like it is. So, if you want a summary of what these few months were like, I think my instagram post sums it up perfectly. 

Improvements

Towards the end of March I noticed that most of my active spots were small or had disappeared, leaving redness and scaring behind. I could only hope that the worst was over. 

Month 6 - Month 9

Dosage: 50mg

After three months of absolute hell, I finally started to see the massive improvements I was promised. I was backwards and forwards from my dermatologist, hoping it would be the last month and the end of my roaccutane journey but each time I was told, 'just one more month' and handed another prescription.

The majority of redness was scarring but I was still getting a few active spots now and again and according to my dermatologist, I had to be four to eight weeks clear before he could discharge me from his care. In terms of texture, my skin was smooth and my complexion was getting brighter by the day.

In the final months, I noticed that the warmer weather had a positive impact on my skin. It also raised the importance of using SPF, not only on my face but on my body too - something I completely overlooked when taking the drug. Due to the warm weather, I started drinking lemon infused water which had a positive impact on my scarring, calming redness and fading marks.

Side Effects

Towards the end of my final month, my body was telling me that I'd had enough and I knew that too. 

My side effects continued to intensify. Along with the bleeding lips, nose bleeds and intense fatigue, I was experiencing blinding migraines and terrible hot sweats. I could do something as simple as walk to the corner shop and I'd be sweating like I'd ran the London Marathon. Apparently, this is a common side effect towards the end of your roaccutane journey.

In terms of mood, I was low. I was really, really low. I went for weeks feeling like I wasn't good enough, feeling down about my appearance (not just my skin but my body) and feeling incredibly sensitive. I'd find myself sobbing at minor inconveniences - the silliest occasion being in work when I gave someone the wrong change. I couldn't cope anymore.

I'm lucky that I was able to talk to my family and friends about the way I was feeling. If it hadn't been for them and the supportive acne community on Instagram, I really don't think I'd have been able to get through this drug.

And Then, It Was Over

On 26th June 2019, I officially finished my course of roaccutane and let me tell you, I couldn't be happier. I was discharged from the care of my dermatologist and sobbed as he handed me my final letter.  I can't thank him enough for his support, guidance and help throughout my skin journey - he truly is an amazing human being and he's restored my confidence not only in the way I look but in myself as a person. 

What Now?

So I know what you're thinking, my skin journey is over and I'll be acne free for the rest of my life. 

Well, that would be the ideal scenario but my acne treatment doesn't end here. I'll be using Differin (a mild chemical peel) to help clear up any scarring that has been left behind and, in the words of my dermatologist, 'help my skin get better and better every day.' 

There is also a very minor chance that my acne could reappear. This is rare (and fingers crossed it won't happen) but some people have to go on two to three courses of roaccutane to get permanent results. That's the part I'm dreading. 

So, Was It Worth it?

Absolutely. 

I know I've sat here and complained about dryness, hair loss and tiredness but it really hasn't been that bad. I may have had some of the rarer side effects but there's people who've gone through the course without any dryness at all. I think the important thing is to do your research and be prepared for the side effects that can occur - that way, you know what to expect. 

In all honesty, it's changed my life. 

For the first time, I feel proud and confident in my own skin. I don't care what other people think. I don't care if they stare. It's crazy to think that two years ago, I wouldn't be seen in public without make up on, and now it's rare that I even wear it. 

I know how much bad skin knocks your confidence and I know how lonely it feels. As a society, we are under the impression that acne isn't normal when in fact, it's the most normal thing in the world. I think it's about time we see more acne prone skin portrayed in the media - instead of creating this unattainable image for people, why don't we try to encourage them to be proud of their flaws? 

I suppose I'm trying to say that it's okay to embrace your natural beauty. Acne is a part of you; spots, scaring, freckles and everything in between. Be proud of it. 

If anyone has any questions about acne, roaccutane or anything skin related then don't hesitate to drop me a Tweet, message me on Instagram or send me a little Email. I'm more than happy to talk! 

Lots of Love,

Meg x