Murad has come out with a skincare line just for acne-prone or teenage skin. I’m in my ’30s, but my skin still thinks I’m 16 most of the time. These products have been great – just enough acne-fighting power without drying out my skin (and making my oil glands go into overdrive).
1. Down for Defense – a light SPF 15 moisturizer for normal to oily skin. When you use acne medications, hydroxy acids, retinol, or skin lighteners like hydroquinone, you need to remember to use a sunscreen to keep your skin from burning and your spots from getting darker. Down for Defense protects against UVA/UVB rays with 2% Avobenzone, 4% Homosalate and 5% Octisalate. It also contains:
- Yumberry, a powerful antioxidant, helps neutralize free radicals, skin damaging enemies of balanced, smooth skin
- Allantoin, a natural skin protectant and anti-irritant from the comfrey plant, used for its healing, softening, and moisturizing properties
- Sodium Hyaluronate, a natural hydrator, helps to keep skin moisturized, soft and smooth
2. Begging for Balance – an oil-free, non-SPF moisturizer for those days when you’re not going outside much or for use at night. The dimethicone absorbs oil and gives my face a matte look all day. Salicylic acid exfoliates and prevents blackheads and breakouts. It also contains:
- Yumberry, an exotic Chinese wonder and powerful antioxidant
- Bisabolol, the active therapeutic part of Chamomile, it’s used for its anti-inflammatory and calming effects
- Sodium PCA, a natural hydrator, helps to leave skin soft, smooth and hydrated
3. Crazy for Clear – a sulfur and salicylic acid-based spot treatment. It contains moisturizing ingredients to prevent peeling and to help acne scars heal. It also contains:
- Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, works to exfoliate dead skin cells and banishes breakouts
- Yumberry, a powerful antioxidant
- Zinc Gluconate, a natural amino acid used for its antiseptic properties, helps to leave skin soft and smooth
4. Craving for Clean – a lightly foaming cleanser that rinses clean. I’m very picky about cleansers that leave a film and thankfully this one does not! It’s a good cruelty free dupe for Clearasil, but without the triclosan. Craving for Clean cleanser contains:
- Yumberry, a powerful antioxidant
- Sodium PCA, a natural hydrator, helps to leave skin soft, smooth and hydrated
- Zinc Gluconate, a natural amino acid used for its antiseptic properties
5. Gaga for Glow – a micro-scrub that really gets the gunk out! Great for keeping skin clear and free of blackheads and acne. I love this scrub! It contains:
- Yumberry, a powerful antioxidant, helps neutralize free radicals, skin damaging enemies of balanced, smooth skin
- Salicylic Acid, a beta hydroxy acid derived from Meadowsweet, works to exfoliate dead skin cells and fights breakouts
- Micro-scrubbers and colorful jojoba beads polish away dead skin cells and dissolve as you scrub to leave skin soft and smooth