I’ve been dealing with acne for just about as long as I can remember. At least since 5th or 6th grade, for sure. Just about everyone can identify with the embarrassment and discomfort acne brings, but when you have had it for your entire life, it really drags on your self-esteem as well.
I’ve tried just about every treatment out there (that I could afford). Going to a dermatologist has never really been in the cards for me because it just isn’t an expense I can afford, especially now as a single mom. So, if you can buy it from the drug store or online (Proactiv), then I’ve tried it.
In the last few years I have done a lot of research on acne as well as my BRCA gene mutation. One wouldn’t think those would have anything in common, but I have discovered that my acne seems to been driven by hormones. Guess what can make my hormones go crazy? My BRCA gene mutation. Obviously, I’m not a doctor and I’m no geneticist. But from some of the research I’ve done, I believe that I have wack-o hormones due to my BRCA2 gene and those wack-o hormones seem to be the leading cause of my acne.
On a side note….since discovering that I was positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation, I started trying to live a healthier lifestyle which has included eating healthier and mostly plant-based, exercise and trying to limit the harsh chemicals in my everyday life. I’ve moved to chemical-free household cleaners and have started moving toward chemical-free beauty products as well.
A few weeks ago I went to a market of sorts here in Louisville. It was called the Made Market and was full of vendors of handmade items. While there I encountered a lovely couple at their booth who were advertising and selling their handmade skincare products. Obviously I was intrigued. I spoke with the creator of the company, Jessa, who told me of her hormonal acne problems since having their first child. As soon as she said hormonal acne, she had me!
I knew I wanted to try them out, but I JUST bought a facial cleanser (also chemical free) and didn’t want it to go completely to waste. So, I said I would wait. I started following SoulCandy on InstaGram. Finally, I decided I would jump in and purchase their Activated Charcoal Face & Body mask (**disclaimer, I did get a discount for my honest posting).
I am really excited to start trying out all of their products, but since I have another cleanser still leftover, I’m going to wait until next month to buy the SoulCandy cleanser.
Anyway…Monday I was SO excited to get a package in the mail, open it up and….
This beauty had arrived. It was packaged so pretty and with such care. You can immediately tell they love what they do and really put a lot of time into their work.
So yesterday I got to try it out for the first time. It comes as a powder to which I added a little water to create a paste. I was a little worried about this, but it was A LOT of fun and super easy.
I slathered it on my face and snapped another picture (sorry it’s an awful picture, but it was LOTS of fun)!
I don’t think I’ll REALLY know the effects of it until I use it a few times, but my face felt really nice with it on and super smooth when I took it off. Next month I’ll be getting the facial cleanser to try out as well, and I’ll let you all know how it goes in combination with the Mask.
What are your favorite Organic, chemical-free skin products?
The Morning Bell 