With Every Flaw

Take it or leave it, here is a story about my continual struggle with 

acne. If you’d like to skip ahead and read about the products 

I’ve had the most success with, click here.

{Today my skin is seeing better days, but I still have a breakout almost every week.
"Oh hey, pimple, right by my mouth!" This is a photo of me with makeup. I pray, one day,
 I'll be brave enough to post a photo without makeup!}

****

It's something that's stalked me for years. It's something like a mask that suppresses my ideas of who I hope to be and it interferes with the way I interact with other people. I know I'm not the only one to experience this–-and I know things could be far, far worse–-but everyday when I see my reflection in the mirror, I'm reminded that my frustrating case of acne truly has control over my self-perceived value.

Am I being dramatic? Probably. Should I care this much? Nope. 

Still, I can't help but feel judged. I often feel that others view my flawed complexion as a result of a lack of good hygiene. When my friends complain about a microscopic zit, I can't help but think, If that's considered bad, what do they think of my disastrous skin? Yes, I know, these are irrational thoughts and the world isn't thinking about my skin nearly as much as I do, but these lies continue to flood my mind with every conversation and every meeting with the mirror. 

I'm 22 years young, but consider myself to be an adult who shouldn't have to deal with this issue. I've tried more than my fair share of prescription, drugstore, and luxury skincare products to diminish these pesky flaws that have broken my confidence time and time again. 

In the last couple of moths I threw away the topical gels and the harsh antibiotic pills. I began reading health books that recommended specific diets for clearer skin. I started taking natural vitamins that have done more for my skin than any prescribed antibiotics. Then, I stumbled upon a skin cleansing system that seems to be working well for my oily complexion. 

{Read my review and breakdown of my current routine here. It may seem like a lot of work, but if you struggle with acne as well, I promise you’ll want to read this!}

Now, when my makeup is stripped away, I still see the scars and the occasional breakout, which serve as painful reminders of my self-doubt and of times when my confidence was shaken. In the back of my mind I worry that the skin I had a year ago will return in full force. Even so, I’ll continue to strive to give my insecurities to God, knowing He is the only One who can provide true restoration and the only One who loves me unconditionally, and with every flaw.