My Skin Was Freaking Out and Here’s How I Calmed It Down
- Ryane Ashley
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 4
Even as an esthetician, I’m not immune to unexpected skin flare-ups. No amount of training or product knowledge makes you exempt from reactions, skin has a mind of its own, and sometimes it wants to prove it.
I recently started taking a new supplement that gradually triggered some unexpected side effects. It left my skin inflamed, itchy, and covered in a rash-like breakout. I’m about 80 percent sure the supplement was the cause because once I stopped taking it, my symptoms slowly started to ease.
With my skin in distress and nothing at home that could really address the issue, I knew I had to act fast. I needed a barrier repair skincare Routine stat, calming, and repair focused products that would support healing before I made things worse or completely spiraled. Here’s what I picked up and the logic behind each one.
I chose this instead of their more popular squalane cleanser because I needed something even gentler. The squalane formula is great for removing makeup and works well as a first cleanse, but it leaves more of an emollient finish. I needed clean skin without residue. The glycolipid cleanser is water based, low foaming, and better for skin that is already overstimulated or inflamed.
Where I skimp: I usually keep my cleansers affordable. There are great options in the twelve to fifteen dollar range that clean effectively without stripping. My cleanser does not need to multitask. I just want it to prep my skin and not disrupt my barrier.
This was a thoughtful pick. It includes chamomile to calm the skin and kiwi extract to support hydration and barrier repair. I tested a sample on my forearm in store and liked how it absorbed. My skin felt soft and relieved within minutes.
Where I splurge: I spend more on moisturizers because my skin responds best to gel textures with targeted ingredients. I look for products that provide hydration, barrier support, and environmental defense all day long. This formula feels like a good match.
I found this one by accident while vibing in Ulta. I've seen it online and decided to try the tester. I was surprised by how much I liked it. It felt like a serum, absorbed easily, and left a nice finish without feeling tacky or greasy. There was no white cast, which can still happen with some chemical sunscreens.
Where I skimp: SPF does not need to be expensive to be effective. I usually find options in the twenty to thirty dollar range that work well for my skin. Many Black women struggle to find mineral sunscreens that do not leave a cast and brands often charge more for those options. That is a bigger conversation for another day. Right now, my skin needs a reset and this SPF handled the job beautifully. I will keep testing it this week to see if it stays in my regular rotation.
This was my emergency buy. I needed relief fast. I went with a brand I trust and a formula that felt saturated but not heavy. Heartleaf is known for calming redness and irritation and that is exactly what I was hoping for.
Where I splurge: Price did not matter in this moment, and they also had a single option purchase. I needed something that worked and worked quickly. This mask gave me that sense of comfort and helped me feel like I was finally doing something for my skin to stop the madness immediately.
Final Thoughts
I have not used these products long enough to give full reviews, but every choice was made with purpose. My goal was not to chase trends. I just wanted to calm my skin, prevent more damage, and regain a sense of order.
If you ever find yourself in a similar situation, keep it simple. Focus on hydration and healing. Let your skin rest. Progress is possible, even when your skin is reacting.
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