Bid adieu to the ever-persistent teenage era drama!
What is it? A dermatologically tested anti-acne range
For? Acne-prone, congested and blemished skin including sensitive types
Claims? Effective on spots and imperfection marks, results can been seen by first use
Usage? Morning &/or Evening: PureActive Scrub> Toner> Eye Cream> Serum> PureActive Roll-on> Moisturizer
Acne is most commonly thought to affect only teenagers, especially those entering puberty. In reality, acne can plague adults even after years of clear skin. I fall into both categories and have tried most anti-acne skincare available. From drugstore to high end – even that popular range advertised on TV and endorsed by many American celebrities. Some were too mild to effectively treat my sensitive, acne-prone skin and most of the stronger formulas irritated my face badly, leaving dry, red, peeling patches.
I usually have clear skin but lately, I have been breaking out very badly around my whole jaw area and lower cheeks. The bumps are clustered, big, red and hard – causing the surrounding skin to be irritated, inflamed and painful to the touch. Though the redness can be concealed with a good BB cream, the cluster of bumps are still highly visible.
There are a number products in the Garnier PureActive range but I tested the Multi-Action Scrub and the Anti-Imperfections Cooling Roll-On. This European brand has formulated the entire range with Purifying Salicylic Acid, which has antibacterial properties, and a special ingredient called HerbaRepair, a natural blueberry fruit extract that stimulates the regeneration of cells. The two work together to eliminate impurities and accelerate the healing of acne marks.
The Multi-Action Scrub is essentially a cleanser with 3 sizes of exfoliating beads. It “roots out blackheads, peels off imperfection marks, purifies pores and smoothens skin texture”. I use it nightly after removing my makeup. Although tiny, I could still feel the beads on my skin as I lathered the cleanser on my face. Most scrubs are too harsh for my sensitive skin but this was so gentle, even on the painful and irritated areas! The formula foams up nicely and my skin tingled a little as I cleansed. After rinsing, there was no taut or uncomfortable feeling at all, which is very important. The scent is clean and fresh but not in a citrusy way.
After applying a toner and serum, I used the Anti-Imperfections Cooling Roll-On on the lower portion of face. This roller “dries out imperfections, helps clear marks and reduces redness” and was very easy to use- just roll it over targeted areas. I prefer rolling the ball on my finger and applying it directly because I get more product out that way. The solution is clear, not runny nor sticky and is absorbed almost instantly. Used day and night, it doesn’t affect my makeup application at all. It has a slight clinical scent which wears off quickly. On open wounds or open headed pimples, it might sting a little but generally there is no discomfort. My indication if a spot treatment works is if it stings or tingles- no feeling means its not working, too much means it’s too strong for my skin. Remember to moisturize after.
It has only been a little over a week but I am already very pleased and impressed with the two products. My skin has improved so much- the redness is almost gone, my skin feels purified, there are a few bumps and scars but now they are almost non-existent under makeup. I did see a difference in my skin from Day 1, so this range does live up to its claims.
As my acne clears up, I might not use the Scrub as often but I will definitely keep it around for future breakouts. The Roll-on is a gem, as it helped banish small spots before they got any bigger and also helped soothe and get rid of the “full-blown” ones. It gets a permanent place on my dresser. This range worked well at targeting my acne concerns without drying out or irritating my skin. A truly effective and affordable skincare for teenagers and adults alike.
Garnier PureActive Multi-Action Scrub (RM 11.90 for 100ml) and Anti-Imperfections Cooling Roll-On (RM 24.90 for 15ml) will be available at all major pharmacies and retailers starting next month.
