I think a lot of my problems are due to sun damage. I have had seven skin cancers removed (all benign), five on my face/neck, one on my forearm, and one on my back. I grew up in the California desert in the 60s and nobody told us about sunscreen. I have always been outdoorsy, from hiking and camping to military service, and now gold prospecting and rock-hounding.
The plastic surgeon who did my eye surgery suggested I use Retin-A for fine lines, rosacea, etc. I tried using it, but it works by kicking skin cells in high gear, so you get breakouts and sloughing to reveal the new skin underneath. Then exfoliating to remove that so shaving doesn't rip holes in your skin. But shaving afterward still irritates the skin from all these things rubbing and scraping the surface. I stopped using the Retin-A until I see my new Dermatologist next week.
My previous Dermatologist suggested BBL (Broadband Laser) to reduce the rosacea and smooth things out. But it is considered "cosmetic" and I couldn't afford the $500 price tag. I want to get into a good skincare routine so I will wait and see how my appointment goes. I'll ask many questions and come back here with more information.
