FIGHTING ACNE : SKIN CARE PRODUCTS THAT ACTUALLY HELPED

Photo BY : Stitched The Blog 

Hello Everyone! Happy belated Valentine's day, I hope you received all the love you know you deserve from those who are special to your heart and if you're not "involved", self-love is key. (Big hugs) 
Today I'm sharing my skin care products routine that I have implemented since writing 'My acne story' which you can read over HERE! 
Like every other person out there suffering from a little bit of this and that, I have tried almost every product on the commercial market with limited results. Some may work for a few months and then it would seem that my skin became sort of 'use to' the product and it just stops working ... and on to the next! The products that I will list below are those that actually made some kind of difference to the appearance of my acne. This post ain't sponsored so what I'll be sharing is completely truthful and genuine (just how I like it!). The products that I use are a combination of Dermafix ,The Body Shop, Epiduo and ZO by Skin health.  

The Dermafix Active Cleansing Gel 

Why it's good . . . 

This deep cleansing formula thoroughly removes excess oil and surface impurities and what makes it different to other cleansers is that it is a Alpha and Beta Hydroxy cleanser which is pretty good for Acne prone skin. 

The results  . . .

I use this cleanser in the morning and evening. I make sure it lathers up pretty well so that the formula really gets into the pores! Once towel dried, my skin feels supple and cleansed. And not tight and dried up (if you know what I mean..!)  

The Dermafix Vitamin B cream 

Why it's good . . . 

This product is recommended for normal to blemished and oily skin. A complex of natural Botanical extracts, vitamins and amino acids help to moisturize and balance the skin, while natural Vitamin B complex helps to regulate the oil gland to reduce the possibility of clogged pores, inflammation and break outs. 

The results  . . .

After the cleanser and TE-Pad I apply a pea size to my face focusing on my T-zone areas. The texture is not oily but rather velvety and smooth. The only thing with this product is that I wish it had some sort of sweet scent and not very medicine-ish. Maybe that's just the girl in me talking. (Laughs). 

The Dermafix Dermashield SPF 40 

Why it's good . . .

The Dermashield SPF 40 sunscreen provides UVA/ UVB protection . This product contains Z-Cote which protects skin from damaging UVA rays proven to be responsible for premature signs of ageing. 

The results  . . .

Without a doubt, I use this product daily. Even when I don't intend heading out in the sun, I feel its important that I have a layer of sun protection. In addition, applying sunscreen also assists with pigmentation and dark marks caused by pimples. 

The Dermafix Vitamin Therapy Masque 

Why it's good . . .

The Vitamin Therapy Masque is a light weight, Nutrient rich, intensive treatment masque, utilizing anti-oxidants to protect the skin and prevent premature aging. This masque visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles whilst increasing the skin elasticity and boosting collagen production for healthy cell regeneration. 


The results  . . .

I purchased this product based on the premise that I will be out of the country for a few months and wouldn't be able to go for my regular treatments. Since then I used it less than 10 times and have seen slow results. Perhaps it's because I wasn't consistent with the use of the product. The results that I have seen with this product is that it leaves my skin feeling even more supple and cleansed. Personally, I prefer a scrub that's more pore cleansing than 'surface' cleansing. 

The Body Shop- Drops of Youth-Youth Cream 

Why it's good . . .

This product is derived from the Edelweiss plant from the Italian Alps known for its protective, renewing and restructuring properties. Working together, they are infused in a smooth velvety cream to help enhance skin renewal and trigger visibly fresh, youthful looking skin at the surface. 

The results  . . .

This product was recommended to me by my good friend Zaneb after talking about ways that we can maintain youthful looking skin. As the product suggests , after applying, it leaves your skin with a velvety texture. I would apply this before applying my make-up or in the evening after cleansing and using the T-pads. Again, I haven't used the product consistently to see any magical results but according to Z, it works and is definitely  a product that worked for her. 

The Body Shop- Drops of Youth-Youth Eye Concentrate 

Why it's good . . .

The youth eye concentrate promises skin around the eyes to be instantly firmer. 

The results  . . .

When I purchased the Youth cream, I decided to add the youth eye concentrate to my basket as well! Especially because the quickest signs of aging appears around the eye area. It is recommended that if you 25 and above, you should invest in a good eye serum. The Youth Eye concentrate has visibly reduced the fine lines under my eye area and brightens my complexion. So for a 'start out Product'. It's pretty good. 

ZO Skin health TE-Pads acne pore treatment 

Why it's good . . .

Reduces sebum production, removes dead skin cells & deep-cleanses

congested pores using 2% salicylic acid. Botanical extracts calm & soothe for healthy skin.

The results  . . .

After suffering from a crazy stretch of hormonal acne. I was left with deep dark marks and pigmentation on areas of my chin and the side of my face. I was getting pretty fed up with my complexion that I decided I wanted to do a pretty invasive chemical peel. I then headed over to Legs Eleven and inquired about these treatments. I was advised to purchase the TE-Pad acne pore treatment. "Another product.." I thought. But let me just say that this product is BOMB. After 3 weeks of use on my chin area, the dark marks has visibly reduced and the break outs is controlled and very minimal. This product is a bit on the pricey side, but really worth the money! 

Epiduo 

Why it's good . . .

Epiduo Gel is the only antibiotic-free topical acne treatment with a fixed dose combination of 0.1% adapalene and 2.5% benzoyl peroxide. It helps clear up the breakouts you have now and helps prevent future pimples from forming. Adapalene is a type of retinoid, and the other medicine in Epiduo Gel. It unclogs blocked pores, helping to stop acne from forming under the skin's surface and decreasing the redness, swelling and inflammation associated with pimples.

The results  . . .

I bought this product a few months ago in Riyadh. I needed something urgently because my break outs were getting pretty out of hand. This I bought at your local pharmacy in Riyadh. Although in South Africa, one may need a prescription from your dermatologist. When I see a pimple forming, I apply a pea size to the affected areas. Over the next few days, the pimple will begin to dry out and reduce in size and color. I am happy with this product and is definitely a must-buy. 

And that's it! I hope you found this post helpful and informative and that it assists you in choosing the best product for your skin. 

Liked this post? Don't forget to share. Be a doll and follow my blog to receive updates on all my posts! 

Love,  

My Riyadh experience - Part 2

so I finally managed to get part one of my Riyadh experience up on the blog. If you happen to be new here, you may read it over here! I received such an over whelming response to that post that it makes me feel awesome to know that there are people out there who support my journey. It truly warms my heart.The second part of my experience I'm going to cover 4 categories: The benefits of teaching abroad, which qualifications are required for teaching abroad, some useful tips on applying and lastly what it's like to teach international students and how they differ from South African students.So listen up fellow and future international teachers! 

What are the benefits of teaching abroad? 

Some of the cool benefits of teaching abroad is the great remuneration package. This includes a tax free salary, fully furnished accommodation (this may vary), transport to and from work, medical insurance for yourself, your spouse and up to 3 dependents (this varies too!) and one round air fare ticket to your country of origin during the summer break which is about 2-4 months long! And not forgetting the amazing travelling experience that comes with teaching abroad. Impressed? Read on ... 

Who is eligible to apply? 

Most international teaching jobs are aimed at experienced teachers although this doesn't discredit those of you who are still starting out. In terms of age group, positions are usually open to all ages, although some companies may have an age restriction due to visa purposes. If you are currently working as a teacher that's great. It means that you more than likely have a B.ed (Bachelors of Education degree) or a B.A degree with a specialization in English or Linguistics. Being qualified in this will totally get you into the program. If you don't, do a TEFL or CELTA course. Most companies that I have researched look for these qualifications in addition to a degree. 

Apply apply apply!

  

I've had countless emails of people inquiring about how I got 'into' the program of teaching abroad, as they have applied to numerous schools and recruiting sites with little luck. Firstly, I urge you to critically analyse your resume and ask yourself how you can improve it. You are probably in competition with hundreds of other applicants. Secondly, if you have applied, do follow-ups to recruitment agencies AND ASK if they have received your resume. Remember, you have to be persistent. In the end you have more to gain than what you have to lose. In addition, make sure that you meet the criteria of the post BEFORE applying. Often times, I found myself just clicking "apply" and forgetting the next day what exactly I applied for. So keep track. Lastly, don't give up on applying.  As my mom would always tell me 'You never know where your luck lies.' 

The differences in teaching International kids & South African kids 

In my first few months of teaching I have summed up some of the obvious differences between teaching kids from an international background and those from South Africa. First off, children from an international background are more tolerant and accepting. I suppose this stems from the fact that everybody comes from different parts of the world. I remember having a student who needed a walking aid to assist her and I recall how the children in my class would assist her by packing her books in the shelves after a lesson and head to the cafeteria to buy something to nibble on. This showed me tolerance and a deep sense of care. In comparison to South Africans students who will emotionally break down someone by making fun of them before lending a hand. And of course, this does not go for everyone as I recall a semi-handicapped student at my South African school who was helped by many students at the school by holding his bag whilst he climbed the stair. So I suppose in some light the tolerance level varies between international and South African students. 

I've often been asked about the type of students I teach abroad. I look at prospecting teachers scratching my forehead and asking what they mean by type (Laughs). 'They are kids..' I'd exclaim. 'But are they respectful?...' Aha! That's what this type is. Without a doubt, kids and their parents who are from an international background realize the importance of Education and once this is realized the respect follows to those who deliver the Education. At least this goes to the older group who I have taught. In my opinion, I think that South African parents and kids are slowly starting to realize the value of Education in their lives especially in the light of #feesmustfall situation. It has made it even more difficult for kids to 'get out' of the vicious cycle of poverty. In addition, we can't rule out that kids from SA face different 'issues' compared to kids from an international background. Internationally, the worse case scenario one would get is the child who comes from a divorce parent situation. As opposed to SA kids the situation varies greatly as children are exposed to different social ills of society like drug and alcohol abuse, teenage pregnancy - the list goes on! Naturally, kids who are openly exposed to the social ills become "survivors" very early on. With this being said, I found that those who are less exposed like the ones in Saudi Arabia, are way more sheltered than South African kids. In other words, drug abuse, prostitution, rape and sexual abuse are all terms that are not openly discussed in the classroom or even at home. 

Useful recruiting links 

https://saudi.jobs77.com/ea/

https://www.teachaway.com/

http://www.goabroad.com/teach-abroad

http://www.footprintsrecruiting.com/

http://www.seekteachers.com/

That's all from me! If you have any comments or questions leave them down below and don't forget to follow me on Instagram & Facebook. Thank for taking the time to read. 

Enjoy my photo gallery down below:

Strolls through the desert // Chilling with Zaneb // Getting ready for some bowling // Mandatory outfit selfie // Mandatory desert selfie before we hike // Fav lip color selfie // Best pancakes ever!! // Soul sistas // Farewell cake // Best Coffee bar //  Sistas chilling // Natures beauty //  The real MVP's // Sunset at a Compound

MODESTE

Photo By Capturing Concepts Photography

Modesty for me may not be the same as what it is for everyone else. For some, it may be something more internal and emotional like lowering ones voice when speaking, humbling oneself in front of others. For others, a more external and physical picture comes to mind: wearing over sized clothing, avoiding unnecessary prowling eyes;  basically covering your butt. 

To me, I am naturally extroverted (being a teacher and all) so in some respects the idea of emotional modesty doesn't come easily for me 'cause I constantly have to raise my voice in class and sometimes I present that to the world as well. In fact, Nur has to constantly remind me that I am not at school and that I need to remove my teacher hat! (laughs). 

So while I'm trying my darnest to work on my inner modesty, surprisingly, it seems that my outta modesty comes a little more easily. Some may comment that often dressing modestly may be boring and often mundane. I am here to dispute by saying "ABSOLUTELY NOT"!. One thing I love about dressing modestly, is that it does not imply wearing a head scarf the way I did here. You can do hats or even style your scarf into a Turban style which is usually my go-to style of late!

Here are Some of my tips for shopping modest wear: 

Whenever I shop around for clothing like basic shirts and dresses (dresses I tend to make it Bohemian), I purchase it slightly over-sized, with the exception of jeans and shoes of course. If I feel that jeans are too tight for me and I need to make my outfit a little more modest-y, I'll opt for a pants like this one. But if you are a more jeans Kind of Girl, you can totally wear this Shirt with a light colored jeans or Indigo if that floats your boat! 

When I say purchase slightly over-sized, I don't mean granny or to make you look like you wearing fat Amy's clothing, but rather to the point where you are still looking reasonably presentable. If you struggling to trudge the line between Fat Amy and Granny, take a trusted friend along to help you with this. Usually a sales consultants' opinion will also help you cross that river!

About this look...

Much of this look has been inspired by one of my favorite modest Fashion Bloggers, Saufeeya, from feeeeya.com. 

 I wanted to show you ladies how you can take seemingly loose fitted pants and shirt without looking like you are drowning in your clothing! I find that cuffed pants is key to achieving this look. In addition, making sure that my shirt is mid-length (depending on your height) also gives a great variation. Also, because I know it's still a little bit chilly, pairing this coat from Maya Maya just gives me life! In fact, I've decided to pair this with my Eid outfit InshA-Allah! 

On a final note, don't be afraid to shop around; that is heading into thrift stores and rummaging through the sale section. Sometimes expensive designer wear can make you look tacky and takes a toll on your pocket. 

Cuffed Pants/ Woolworths, Mid-Length white shirt / Mr Price, Grey Strappy Pointed heels / Zoom , Bag & Watch / Guess , Fringe Scarf in LOLA/ the Scarf company.

About my photographer...

Capturing Concepts will be having a Crazy Winter special!

Book a family, couples, pre-wedding/engagement, kids or an individual shoot and get a 20% discount. One Hour location based shoot in and around Cape Town (25km-30km) radius or even a studio set up at your home. You can have unlimited amount of looks and outfits with an unlimited amount of people. Limited to one Hour and a MAX of 30 edited High Def images supplied on a DVD disc for ONLY R280. 

Contact Abdul/ Rasheeqoh on 082 9920 703/4. 

SPECIAL RUNNING FROM JUNE-AUGUST 

Happy Shopping and be a doll and let me know what you thought of this outfit on my SM platforms or below!  

Love, 

Iptishaam   

MY ACNE STORY

Recently I was looking at myself in the mirror and I just felt a surge of frustration when I sat and analyzed my skin. Needless to say, the overall picture didn't look very pretty: Talk about large pores, break outs on the my chin,  an oily T-zone area and a uneven skin tone! 'Damn,' I thought. What the heck is going on with my skin? I know I always had these issues but lately it felt just all too much and completely over-whelmed me and pretty much knocked my self-esteem !

This wasn't new to me though. I've seen this a thousand times before. Mostly in my teenage years. There were many times that I didn't even want to head out the door, call it normal teenage insecurities but it really got me down. I remember the feeling after my and Nur's road trip. That familiar feeling of despair and total embarrassment similar to what I felt when I was a teenager suffering from mild acne. 

Later, I sort of became obsessed with skin. So much so, that whenever I would meet someone new. Their skin would be the first thing I'd analyze: Particulaly at how flawless it looked. So much so that I'll find a way to adroitly make SKIN CARE a topic. I think I did this to maybe stop their eyes from wandering over my large pores and also to make them aware that   " yeah I have bad skin" so let me just put it out there in case you wondering if I know Kinda feeling . But mostly, I'd want to know what their secret was to amazing skin. I mean, what were they doing that I wasn't??
 
To clear the air:I don't have ACNE acne but I do have a TON of imperfections that seems better when it's covered with expensive pore clogging make-up. I guess it became so bad that I just couldn't leave home without piling on the make up. And on every other occasion I noticed it was getting more and more thicker and even THIS I did not like! Critics would say that I am being too hard on myself (maybe I am) but I am a really observant person and I know when to admit when I am wrong or when something calls for some reflection time.

 I'd always joke to Nur and Friends -' time to put my face on.' But I became a little worried when make up became my face. I mean sure, I've heard it before, that 'make-up should enhance your beauty and not become it.' Being a blogger and at times in the spot light I feel as if it was so important for me to have perfect skin the way others do. And to fit the blogger norm of 'perfect skin'. I later did some more reflections and noted that bloggers are actually real people who were going through normal things.

 I turned to rant about my story on the ONE platform where stories are widely watched by a large audience - Snap Chat! I love Snap, not only because your story gets deleted after a few hours but also you get to see the people behind their blogging persona's. And that's what I did. I needed people to see what I was really going through with regards to my skin. And although some would admit that social media is never a good place to divulge ones feelings, I felt that it was the perfect forum. So much so, that the love, support and advice I got from you who follow me on Snap have reached out and given me awesome advice and most importantly hope that I am not alone in this! Thank you!

As for blogging and my look posts, It's all make-up guys and really good editing and photography.Zeenat and Miskaa edit my pictures and I always ensure- before posting that my skin looks dewy and flawless- when beneath its actually suffering.  I love make up but when it begins to take hold of me and my ultimate beauty or the ability to look beautiful naturally then I have to take another step.And that's what I hope to do from now on wards. In the hopes that I can inspire those young girls who are often left feeling frustrated after looking in the mirror. You're not alone. 

Until next time! 

XO

Iptishaam   

5 Cozy Autumn Outfits which will make you swoon

So the internet is filled with Autumn inspiration and I am happy to say that I am going to fill that blob of cyber space. Most of the items shown below don't really fulfill any 'trend'... To me, clothing and the key to having great style should be about setting your own trends and I hope that you see that in my outfits as much I think I portray that about myself. Most of what is below is how I tend to feel on that day and I suppose most of what was selected was , let's say, mood-dependent. 

Sometimes you'll find me in a jeans and sneaks and other times in A-line dresses and a great pair of heels. Even to school (which is my full time job-FYI)  I usually tone it down a little by dressing more modestly. That would mean making sure that my butt is covered cause , well, I teach growing adolescents! 

Peruse through these looks and let me know what you think. I'd love to hear whether you think I should continue. Comment below to let me know. 

xo

Iptishaam 

ALL IMAGES CREATED USING THE POLYVORE APP 

THROWN TOGETHER

Hi! 

Today's post won't be long but will involve a bit of randomness and more of this outfit. 

Random . . .

 After talking to my class about how they shouldn't be afraid to compliment one another one of my learners said something so profound. She mentioned that she doesn't understand why girls hate on other girls and that she believes that girls should support one another. Of course, I nodded in agreement. 

Later, I realized how really cool it was that a 14 year old girl thought this and the next day I called her one side and expressed how proud I was that she held this stance about women in general. I just think it's so awesome and hope that someday all women can uplift one another  instead of pushing one another down (especially since social media makes it so easy) Just a Random thought! 

About this look . . . 

This look was literally 'thrown together' as captured through the lens of the gorgeous and oh so talented Zeenat from Pursuing Pictorialism  I'm not one for trends but I like taking current trends and making them my own. I suppose that is what makes Stitched The Blog right? 

Although the blanket cape (with fringes, and all!) trend has always been my fav along with  the bohemian. I feel when the two are gelled together, its hard to make a mistake! The blanket cape from Cotton On which I purchased two years ago is still one of my essentials which I turn to for those Autumn days and of course is perfect to wear over jeggings as I've worn it here. The black straw hat- sent to me by the cool folk from 4Flavour -

 literally completes my look and is like the 'Stamp of approval' to confirm that this look, is in fact, Coachella-Bohemian. Which makes me super happy! And of course, not forgetting this gigantic over-sized scarf, I swear, it can wrap around my neck about five times (laughs). Last and certainly not least The lace up heels is the perfect ending to this Autumn inspired outfit. Don't you think? 

Let me know your thoughts by commenting below or on any of my SM platforms. They make my day! 

XO

Iptishaam 

ALL 4FLAVOUR STOCK AVAILABLE AT YDE STORES. 

FOLLOW ON 4FLAVOUR ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM

Stitched The Blog & Essence Beauty Giveaway

THANK goodness for a four day week right? I'm sure you spent it with those who make you super happy! I know I am because Stitched The Blog hit over a 1000 followers on its Social Media platforms. To celebrate, Essence Cosmetics and Stitched The Blog have collaborated to make your week even better. Stand a chance to WIN a beauty hamper containing 12 gorgeous beauty products to make you swooon... Below is what you need to do to WIN!  

                   

Step 1: Like Stitched The Blog & Essence South Africa on Face book. 

Step 2: Tag five friends.

Step 3: Share the competition on your time line.  

Step 4: Comment on Stitched The Blog Face Book page saying you've done so.. 

That easy right? 

For extra brownie points follow us on Instagram or Subscribe to my blog on your right by typing your email.....

@Stitchedtheblog 

@cosmetix_sa 

xo

Iptishaam 

winner announced Monday,4th March 2016.

Competition only open to SA citizens.