Nivea Baby Extra Mild Shampoo

It was when I was running out of shampoo when I thought of replenishing with baby shampoo. I initially settled on Johnson's, my staple shampoo from younger days, when for some reason Nivea floated into my mind. So I ventured into unchartered territory, and settled on the Extra Mild Shampoo.

This shampoo contains a gentle formula for babies' sensitive scalps. It is also free of parabens, alcohol, soap, and colorants. I am not so sure about the last claim, as the shampoo itself is clearly transparent. The yellow you see is the container's color. The product has a powdery scent that I do not find appealing. One big plus about this shampoo is that sodium laureth sulfate is near the bottom of the list. 

The cap has soft corners all around. The baby blue color is very comforting.

It opens up to reveal the dispenser,

This shampoo lathers so poorly that the few bubbles it produces don't really count as lather at all. However, the rather small quantities of sodium laureth sulfate make this shampoo very mild and easy on the hair. Even if it doesn't lather well, it cleans the hair properly. Another thing I noticed is that it made my hair soft and shiny, something I rarely experience with shampoos. Aside from the unappealing scent (which is a subjective matter, actually), I think this is one of the best shampoos I've used. For those who don't mind fuss-free shampoos, this product will not disappoint.

Skinoren Gel (Azelaic Acid)

Azelaic acid has a number of functions cosmetically, most commonly as treatment for acne and rosacea. It is also used to counter pigmentation, and sometimes as hair loss treatment. Different pharmaceutical companies produce azelaic acid in various name brands. This review focuses on Intendis' Skinoren, a 15% gel azelaic acid formulation.

This was prescribed by my dermatologist after I finished with Robaz, which was a stronger medicine for rosacea. Skinoren is supposed to be a maintenance treatment to curb rosacea, because of its ability to reduce inflammation.

It comes in an aluminum tube, typical of Rx products.

The gel is white and has a light cream texture. It requires some rubbing onto the skin surface for it to sink in.

I personally experienced a lot less breakouts since using this product. While this does not take the place of a moisturizer, it functions like a preventive product to keep spots and pimples at bay. I am not sure about it reducing rosacea symptoms, as I still suffer from flushing/redness.

Overall, this is a gem of a product. I consider it a staple in my skincare drawer as it keeps prone-to-breakout skin pimple-free and happy.