How do I get my skin to look smoother

[ktm2433]

I am only 39 but my skin has old acne scars and it's beginning to show the signs of aging.  It just looks "rough" and not smooth and even tones.  I want to make it look as smooth and even toned as possible and can't afford a chemical peel.  What do you suggest?

[persia1015]

I suggest you start with really clean skin.  Clarisonic is an investment but its worth it.  My pores are dramatically smaller.  You also need to exfoliate daily. I use Philosophy's microdelivery exfoliating wash morning and night, and Philosophy's microdelivery peel weekly.  Dr. Brandt's microdermabrasion exfoliating face cream is also a good one. A retinol treatment at night  I like Philosophy's Help me, its not harsh, no redness or flaking.  Unfortunately skin care is not cheap, but I really do suggest the Clarisonic it opens the door for all other products to work.

[lyinlyon]

I agree with the previous poster who suggested exfoliation and sunscreen.  But I would add that for acne scars, you should invest in a good retinol product.  I have sensitive skin, but have had really great success for Philosophy's "Help Me" retinol product.  It has a time release formula (you wear it at night) and start by using it every other day.  Then after a week or so, begin using it nightly.  Retinol will help to do the following:

- Exfoliate and promote skin cell turnover/renewal

- Smooth skin texture

- Reduce fine lines

- Keep skin clear/pores unclogged

Retinol is the #1 dermatologist recommended product for anti-aging and skin surface improvement.  But it does make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so definitely invest in a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.  I like Olay Total Effects, but Neutrogena makes great ones too that are fast absorbing and won't clog pores.

Also, if you'd like some more recommendations for great weekly exfoliators, I love Philosophy's microderm set.  It's a two step process, but it really makes your skin very soft and has a great citrus scent.  My newest favorite is Kate Sommerville's Exfolikate.  This is a one step process, which is nice, and my skin is instantly brighter, softer, and smoother after using this.  There is a small size of this product that is decent price so you can try it out.  Plus until Nov 3rd you get 20% off on sephora.com by using the discount code FF2010.  Hope this helps!

[paleispretty · Accepted solution]

From what you are describing, I really think a alpha-hydroxy peel would benefit you - Dr. Dennis Gross makes an extremely popular Alpha-Beta Peel that is very easy to use and I just noticed he has a very affordable trial kit available so you can try it out. It's really important to exfoliate your skin on a regular basis and this product makes that easy. It's also very important to moisturize your skin because as we age, our skin stops producing the collegen that give skin it's elasticity and firmness, so make sure to use a daily moisturizer with at least spf 15 and a nighttime age-repair cream. I am not sure what skin type you have, but Estee Lauder makes an excellent serum that you use under your moisturizer to help repair past damage and strengthen your skin. HTH!