Sensitive/Oily Skin and Hydrolast Questions...

[sphiny]

I've always had really oily skin, and REALLY sensitive skin. Acne has been a problem for me my whole young adult life, and continues to be an annoyance today. With that in mind, here are a few questions.....

1) For someone with oily, sensitive skin, is it better to use a AS Balm, or Splash? When answering, keep in mind that my face does not take well to shaving at all, and usually is a bit irritated after a shave. However, a few hours later, it becomes very shiny and greasy (I assume in response to shaving and just general oiliness). I currently use Nivea Extra Soothing Balm, but am wondering if a Splash/traditional aftershave will help with irritation as well as the balm, while keeping my skin a bit less oily. Also, I'm not sure that the oiliness is directly attributable to shaving, but it definitely does seem like my face gets much greasier during the day after taking up wetshaving.

2) Hydrolast.......I haven't had an extremely bad experience with any particular cream (though C&E Sandalwood did burn a little), but I've read several great reviews of this system, and have read a little bit of info on their website. For anyone out there who uses this stuff, is it a good solution for someone with REALLY sensitive skin (we're talking someone who practically touches their face, and causes a reaction of some sort, and has problems with acne and oil)??? It seems like a super-hydrating mixture, but it also seems expensive and involved, and I don't want to make the investment (the whole regimen, brush, etc.) unless it will really make a difference over traditional creams and brushes.

[Austin]

The balm is probably causing your skin to produce more oil. I tend to use a splash during the summer months. Here is a very good resource for you.

http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=12205

Secondly, as far as Method shaving, I have copied your thread to this forum.

http://badgerandblade.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=29

We have a few resident experts on this technique.

[sphiny]

is it best to go alcohol-free with sensitive skin, and do you have any particular recommendations?

[Austin]

I don't have sensitive skin so I can't answer your question. Perhaps someone else will chime in.

[msandoval858]

Given that you have sensitive skin issues, I would highly recommend that you give Charles a call and discuss your issues with him. His system has done extremely well for many men with serious skin issues, several of whom I've met in person, and I do think it might be worth exploring.