Location: USA

Skin Issues: Uneven skin texture, large pores, hyperpigmentation/mottled skin color and some saucer acne scars on temples and chin.

Prior to November 2004, my previous skin care routine was Differin Gel and 40% lactic acid peels 1 /week, but they didn't really do much. They worked better after I added a 3% BHA prep before the 40% peel, but I was still unhappy with my skin. I was also using 4% hydroquinone, but again, it didn't do all that much except irritate my skin.

I started with CP Serum the end of November 2004. I used it only 2 times/week to begin as any more caused me to break out in tiny pimples. After about 2-3 weeks, I moved up to using CP Serum undiluted every night. I think I added Exfol about this time as well. I used emu on my face at night. At some point in December, I moved up to using CP Serum and Exfol 2 x/day. I didn't know to wait after applying the Exfol. My face started to look worse--huge pores, lots of built up skin and the hyperpigmentation got much worse.

In January, I immediately slowed down the copper use. I actually stopped for a few days and just worked on really exfoliating my face. I started using Fruit Acid 15% every night and applying Exfol afterward. I also started to let the Exfol sit for 30 minutes before applying the CP Serum and Wildberry Serum on top of it. This was around the time of the Jan 12 photos. Between the first and second set of photos, I just really exfoliated a lot, trying to keep up with all the old cells that was accumulating on the skin surface. I was using Fruit Acid 15% every night, Exfol 2 x/day letting it sit for 1/2 hour both times. I then added in Super CP Serum at night only for about 1 week. I diluted it with with Wildberry Serum and followed this with emu mixed with HA. Then I increased to Super CP Serum 2 x/day (diluted with Wildberry Serum). In the PM, I add emu with HA afterward. In the AM, I add sunscreen with just a drop of emu oil. I also used one mild 12.5% TCA peel between January 12 and 24 and I continue to use the 40% lactic acid peels 1 or 2 a week as needed.

So my routine now (and since January 12) is:

AM

PM

1 to 2 times a week--40% lactic acid peel. I like to do the TCA as well and plan to continue but you have to plan for 3 days of peely skin! I think it really helps, though! I also use Differin 1 or 2 times a week if my skin is not feeling irritated. The emu oil in the morning has helped a lot. I found it I mix it with another product, it is not greasy and I think it has helped to improve my skin. Unfortunately, I am still using a Clinique eye cream over the emu (because that area gets so dry), but I just ordered the CP Night Eyes Premiere to try instead.