Michael Todd True Organics - Acne/Oily Skin Regime Review

When it comes to acne treatments, it feels like I have tried everything. I have been dealing with some horrendous acne since the age of 12, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. Enough of the dermatologist appointments, gimmicks and heartbreak. I read what seemed like thousands of reviews and decided to try out the Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions System which worked a treat. While it did keep the breakouts at bay (which believe me, I was stoked about!), I didn't feel particularly good for my skin. In hindsight, this Anti-Blemish line was extremely drying on me and felt rather harsh. So after a year of staying faithful to the same old Clinique system, I thought my skin had calmed down a little bit and I was ready to try something that sounded a bit more nourishing.

I had heard a lot about Michael Todd True Organics because of their KNU Anti-Aging Facelift which I thought might help my next big hurdle now that the blemishes are infrequent, the scarring shines through (it never ends, does it?). The price tag was far to steep for me though so I kept browsing and found the Acne/Oily Skincare Regime and at half the price of KNU cream, I happily chucked it into my shopping cart.

Just briefly, Michael Todd True Organics seem like a really innovative and thoughtful brand. The first wonderful thing that drew me to this brand is that they are a cruelty free brand so all their products are produced without animal testing and are subsequently, certified vegan. The second thing that drew me in, was the fact that they use certified organic products, without the added nasities like sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrances, artificial dyes or filling the bottles mostly with water. Due to this, the products that I have tried are quite fragrant and very confronting when you first see them in the flesh. The first time it might be a bit of a surprise, but you'll get used to it. The packaging looks lovely and it is very practical. The only thing I wish they would reconsider is the pump on the Charcoal Detox Cleanser which doesn't lock so if you are looking at travelling, this one might be a no-go.



The Charcoal Detox facial cleaner is perfect for my oily skin. It is a black, gel-like consistency when they say 'charcoal' they are not joking around! Known for its absorbent properties, the activated charcoal works to clear pores of impurities, dirt, dead skin cells and oil. This cleanser feels lovely and luxurious on the skin and leaves skin feeling clean, hydrated and soft afterwards. I use this product after I remove my makeup in the evenings. This is probably my favourite Michael Todd product (so far), it doesn't feel as harsh, drying or stripping as many other acne treatments but it still calms acne flare-ups.

Moving on, the Blue Green Algae Anti Bacterial Toner has been formulated to take advantage of the benefits of blue green algae (which I learnt in biology! Hooray!), organic kelp and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients incorporated to nourish the skin and assist in eliminating toxins and cellular renewal. I like this toner as it is isn't comprised predominately of alcohol like many toners are, so this product feels much nicer and doesn't dry out or irritate my skin like many other toners do. I use this product morning and night, I just take a small amount of this clear solution on a cotton pad and swipe it over the face a few times, because it's anti-bacterial it also removes any makeup that might have stayed put after washing your face.

Various types of kaolin clay are used for their absorbent properties in the Kaolin Clay detoxifying facial mask. The mask works to detoxify, supersede minerals, balance oiliness, tighten pores, improve texture and better skin tone. I do like this mask and I use it twice a week for 15 minutes. My advice to applying this comfortably would be to apply this mask a while after it has been washed (half an hour or so) because if you use it straight after washing your face, it tends to sting a little. However, keep in mind, what happens to my skins reaction to it might be entirely different to yours and the stinging does subside.

The Antiox Serum with DMAE and alpha lipoid acid is my least used product in this line so I can only give you a fairly limited review of this one. I just can't get past the smell of this one! Usually I'm pretty tolerant with fragrances and its not an issue but this just smells like something that has been stored away in your grandma's closet for way too long. I've probably only used it begrudgingly 10 times so I can't really tell you whether or not it delivers on its promises. If you have a sensitive nose then this is definitely not one for you. I couldn't find any other reviews to link you to find some more positive feedback. However, on the bottle it states that the serum moisturises, soothes and combats fee radicals, environmental stress and minimises the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. I am trying to get past the smell and get back to you when/if I have any further thoughts on this product in the future.

Another favourite in this skincare regime of mine is the Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub. This scrub is comprised of tiny jojoba wax beads and activated coal which feels much less scratchy then a lot of the exfoliators I have tried (i.e. Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream). The scrub is said to remove toxins, impurities and dead skin as well as refining texture and encouraging skin renewal. I love this product, many scrubs can feel like they are doing more harm than good, leaving skin dry and mini-lacerations. The Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub feels quite gentle but it still does the trick, without any added damage.

Overall, I am really happy with this skincare regime and I am looking forward to trying out some more Michael Todd True Organics products in the future. I was really worried about how my skin would react to a change after the Clinique Anti-Blemish system, but my skin has remained pretty calm and is looking much healthier! I definitely feel a lot better about the ingredients and the ethics behind what I am putting on my skin too.

What skincare products have been doing you justice lately?