Did you know that two of the biggest complaints women see at dermatologists are acne and wrinkles?

I have suffered from acne since I was a teenager and they insist on following me over the years. I thought that once I crossed into the thirties stage of my life, I would finally enjoy acne-free living but sadly I am not so blessed. I still occasionally get a pesky set of invaders on my chin or forehead and I wince with discomfort and annoyance until they go away.  Misery loves company so there’s never really just one pimple. Aside from trying to keep an eye on adult acne and large pores, I'm also becoming more aware of every nook and cranny of my face, hoping to spot and minimize fine lines before they become wrinkles. 

If you have similar concerns, check out my Skinceuticals Blemish + Age Defense Serum review.

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Brand Overview: Skinceuticals

But first, let’s briefly talk about the brand. Skinceuticals adds a scientific element to your self-care routine. SkinCeuticals manufactures "cosmeceutical" items such as serums, sunscreens, and moisturizers.

This US skincare brand established in 1997 is the brainchild of anti-aging skincare scientist Dr. Sheldon Pinnell. Skinceuticals products are sold in 25 countries around the world through a network of dermatologists, plastic surgeons, medical spas, selected pharmacies, and most online stores. If you are in UAE you can find their products in most local pharmacies and online. I purchased mine from Aster Pharmacy Dubai. 

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About the product and what it does 

Skinceuticals Blemish + Age Defense is an oil-free serum that reduces adult acne imperfections, controls oiliness, and helps correct the signs of aging. When the pharmacist at our local store told me that I decided I had to try it. At first, the price scared me, it retails at AED 490.00 ($134) here in the Middle East and UAE. But I thought it was for a noble cause, so I went ahead.

The product comes in a dark brown glass bottle of 1oz/30ml with the dropper. Its texture is super light and fluid and the formula is transparent, like water. It has a slightly higher density than water, but it is not thick or oily.  Also, this serum really doesn't leave my face oily at all when I use it. At the time it even shines, but it's a dry glow. The shine disappears after you apply your moisturizer and makeup. It has a slightly antiseptic smell that disappears in seconds.

Key Ingredients 

It is a blend of dioic acid, salicylic acid, LHA, glycolic acid, and citric acid. Let's take a quick look at what each one does: 

You already know about salicylic acid, an amazing BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) that refines pores and helps reduce acne.

And glycolic acid you're also familiar with; it's an AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) that removes dead skin-cell build-up and helps increase hydration.

A different type of AHA that promotes exfoliation and reduces the appearance of aging is citrus acid.

Dioic acid (this contains a full 2%) is a naturally derived vegetable acid that helps reduce sebum production and acne bacteria. It helps prevents those post-inflammatory acne marks caused by inflammation and sun exposure. 

Sebum - is the oil your skin produces. It's great, but like everything else, it works best in moderation. When your skin produces too much sebum, your pores clog and serve as a haven for bacteria that cause acne. This serum is the holy grail for oily skin. 

Lipo-hydroxy acid, also known as LHA, is a substance that exfoliates the skin, unclogs clogged pores, smoothes the skin's surface, and lowers inflammation.

SkinCeuticals' Blemish + Age Defense formula is the result of a combination of 5 acids, which help control oil production, fight acne, and reduce wrinkles and fine lines.

• 2% Dioic Acid
• 0.3% LHA 
• 1.5% Salicylic Acid 
• 3.5% Glycolic Acid
• 0.5% Citric Acid 

I know what you're thinking—that is a lot of acids! But I promise you, it's not harsh. I have more sensitive skin than most people, so when I first started using this product, just once a day in the evenings, it did make my skin around my nose a little flaky. Nothing major. Within a week or so, my skin adapted to the product, and I've been using it twice daily ever since without experiencing any dryness problems.

How to use SkinCeuticals  Blemish + Age Defense?

Apply the peel evenly all over your face using your fingers after washing and thoroughly drying your face. Avoid getting the peel on your eyes and lips. Apply once or twice every day, about four to five drops. If you feel your face is getting dry and flaky then apply only at night. 

Daily Regimen: 

Morning Routine

1. Cleanse & Tone 
2. Correct with Blemish + Age Defense serum 
3. Moisturise 
4. Apply SPF sunscreen 

Night Routine 

1. Cleanse & Tone 
2. Correct with Blemish

My experience with Blemish + Age Defense by SkinCeuticals

I love this product so much. I have used the product twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, always after washing my face. In the morning after applying Blemish + Age Defense, I use my moisturizer and the sunscreen La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ Sun Cream. 

I've been using the SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Salicylic Acid Serum for two months now, and I'm obsessed with this product. 

This product lasts a long time; three drops covers my entire face, so it's a good value for the price. I dab one on my forehead and one on each cheek, then spread it all over my face with my fingertips once it has been absorbed and the skin has dried.

I've seen some pretty significant results in that time. My face's oiliness has significantly decreased, and my pores appear much smaller.

While assessing signs of aging and wrinkles is difficult, I believe that long-term use should bring results as well.

As far as side effects go: there was some minor flaking around my nose when I first started using this serum (which went away after a few days). Honestly, it was well worth the money! The best product I've ever used for reducing oiliness, large pores, and adult acne—and one with no harsh chemicals or irritating ingredients. 

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Suraya xx

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