A little about my skin: I have suffered from mild to moderate acne breakouts throughout my teens and into my twenties. Around my time of the month or when my stress levels are higher I tend to see worse flare-ups. As often as I cleanse my face and use acne-spot treatments and/or masks, these flare-ups just aren't prevented. My skin type I would say is combination, but in the winter it tends to get dried out easily. A product of these flare-ups are dark spots and scarring, which are more than a little embarassing and can be difficult to conceal.
As you may know by now, I really don't like to purchase a product until I have read extensive reviews about its effectiveness. I do keep in mind that every skin type is different and a product is likely to receive mixed reviews based on differing needs of the users. So, instead of purchasing right away, I went home and did my research.
Vichy markets this product as a daily oil-free moisturizer that is clinically proven to tackle acne and blemishes, minimize the size of pores, and improve skin texture after 4 weeks. Its main acne-fighting ingredients are 1% Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and LHA.
Basically all reviews on the Vichy website attested to its effectiveness, however I ran into quite a few negative reviews on outside websites. Most of the negative comments were in response to its inability to act as a base for makeup. Because my main concern was with combatting my current and future breakouts, and not how well this product would sit under my foundation, I decided to try it out.
I have actually been using this product both daily and nightly. I apply it after I cleanse and tone. It comes out of a pump-bottle as a gel-like cream. It is really easy to apply and absorbs into the skin quite quickly. I wouldn't say that it gives my skin any type of glow, but it does look hydrated. I would also recommend to use a bit less of this product than you would of your normal moisturizer, as only a thin well-distributed layer is needed. Also, if you apply more than is needed, the excess will not absorb, and tends to pill or flake.
This product really makes your skin feel hydrated and doesn't sting or even tingle, even though there are acne-fighting ingredients in it. It also doesn't have a medicinal smell to it, it just smells pretty fresh, like greenery. Most acne-fighting treatments I have previously applied to my skin give off a white tinge and make my skin feel tight and dry, so this is a nice alternative.
So far, I've experienced clearer looking skin. I have noticed that some of my dark and more reddish blemishes have started to fade. However, I can't be entirely certain if this is due to this one product or the combination of my new skin care routine. I would like to think that this is a helpful addition.
It's one major downfall, however, is, like other reviewers have claimed, that it is not made to have makeup applied overtop of it. I have even tried to just spot my light concealer on top of blemishes that are obviously still visible. This just causes the moisturizer beneath to pill and flake off. This is fine for the days that I do not choose to wear concealer or foundation on top of my moisturizer, however, for the days that I do, I will not be using this product. I may just stick to using this as a nightly product entirely.
This product is relatively reasonable to purchase. I bought it on sale at Shoppers Drug Mart for $23.50, however, I believe it is around $27-$28 regularly. It comes in a 1.7fl oz. bottle, which should last me for a few months. I will definitely be repurchasing this product, unless I come across something that claims to be more effective.
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