macandme's Full Review: Murad Acne Complex Starter Kit
To introduce myself, rather, my skin type, I have sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts on occasion (whether due to that time of the month or high stress). I was interested in trying something new for my skin in hopes of clearing it up.
I purchased the Murad Acne Complex Starter Kit ($35) at my local Sephora store in the mall. I had used Murad sunscreens in the past but that was about it.
The first step in the system is the Clarifying Cleanser (4.5 oz.), you message a little onto wet skin, rinse off, & pat dry. According to murad.com the cleanser is supposed to "gently but effectively reduce acne blemishes to keep skin clear." The cleanser contains triclosan and salicylic acid... both of which I have used on my skin before.
The next step was the Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel (2 oz.), just rub a small amount over your face. The retinol, salicylic and glycolic acids combination found in the gel definitely irritated my skin and created redness. As well, the gel made my existing blemishes much, much worse. I feel like I can not emphasize that enough.
The final step is the Skin Perfecting Lotion (1.5 oz.), rub a small amount over skin. Inside there is retinol and arnica. Supposedly these two ingredients "work together to reduce redness and help prevent clogged pores" (murad.com). Well, I don't know about healing redness... my skin was looking quite red! The redness looked much more intense on my face as my skin is very fair. However, the lotion did make my skin soft.
In addition there is also a small .25 oz Acne Spot Treatment. This spot treatment created immediate irritation on contact with my blemishes. The spot treatment burned so much I had to wipe it off.
I used this product for about a week before I realized I needed to go to my dermatologist and show her what was happening to my face. After she looked at the ingredients of the products and my face she told me to immediately stop using the system and she gave some prescriptions. The ingredients of the system were too much for my sensitive skin.
In the end all I got out of the Murad Acne Complex Starter Kit were red areas, irritated skin, and horrible scab-like blemishes on my face. They were horribly embarrassing and a pain to cover up with makeup. They cleared up in about 2 weeks.
If you are looking to try this do so knowing the risks involved. Speak to your dermatologist before trying this system.
Here is the complete list of ingredients for each product. Check to see if you are allergic to any of these ingredients before you get the products.
What it is:This tin containing all you need to stop breakouts in their tracks - at home or on the go.What it is formulated to do:Sized for travel, thi...More at Sephora
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