When I first moved to New York City in 2022, I was overwhelmed—not just by the city’s bright lights and endless opportunities, but by how terribly my skin reacted to the sudden shift in environment. Traveling has always been a major part of my life, and each new country or state comes with its challenges. However, the one constant through it all? My skin loves to remind me that it hates change.
I remember scrolling through my media recently and seeing how bad my skin was when I first arrived in New York. Acne breakouts, dryness, and irritation became regular visitors, and I could barely keep up. I had tried several products, hoping to find something that could calm the storm, and that’s when CeraVe entered the chat.
The Journey to CeraVe
CeraVe was initially a casual purchase. I didn’t plan to commit to the entire product line, but hey—it was turquoise, and my love for color coordination may have subconsciously played a role. I promise that wasn’t the sole reason. What started with a single cleanser quickly turned into a full-on relationship. Now, CeraVe is my holy grail, and I couldn’t be more thankful.
My CeraVe Arsenal
Here’s a peek into my go-to products:
- CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser:
This was my first purchase, and it set the tone for the rest of my routine. With 4% benzoyl peroxide, it’s powerful enough to clear acne without drying out my skin. It maintains the balance, keeping my skin comfortable and clean. - CeraVe Acne Control Gel:
This is the fighter in my arsenal. It’s packed with AHA and BHA to target clogged pores and gently exfoliate my skin, keeping future breakouts at bay. - CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum:
Retinol can be intimidating, but CeraVe makes it manageable. This serum worked wonders on my acne scars, slowly fading them away while improving my skin’s overall texture. - CeraVe Acne Control Cleanser:
Salicylic acid is key to keeping oil in check, and this cleanser helps control shine without over-stripping my skin. It’s the balance I didn’t know I needed.
Why It Works for Me
I think what makes CeraVe stand out is its simplicity. The products are fragrance-free, packed with ceramides, and gentle enough for daily use. Traveling means exposure to different climates, water types, and even stress, and this line is forgiving when my skin is not.
CeraVe has given me a routine that works no matter where I am, whether I’m attending MBA classes in Michigan or back home in Malawi for a grounding trip. The consistency is what matters, especially when my lifestyle is anything but.
Travel and Skincare: The Balancing Act
Every time I travel, I prepare for my skin to throw a fit. But with this range, it’s less dramatic. I’ve learned that keeping a routine simple, hydrating, and consistent can save me from those dreaded breakouts. The key takeaway? Stick to what works, and don’t overcomplicate things.
For the Girlies Struggling with Acne
I’ve been there, staring at the mirror, feeling like nothing works. But let me tell you—it does get better. It takes time, patience, and finding the products that meet your skin where it’s at. For me, CeraVe wasn’t a magic fix overnight, but it’s been a steady, reliable partner in my skincare journey.
And yes, if you’re wondering, the turquoise packaging is a bonus.