Increased Clogged Pores and Bumps After Using Vitamin C E Ferulic and Custom Aloe Vera Gel

It sounds like you're experiencing increased clogged pores and small bumps after adjusting your skincare routine, specifically after incorporating the Vitamin C E Ferulic product and continuing your custom Aloe Vera Gel mix. Your skin type, which is very oily in the T-zone and prone to various types of acne, can be sensitive to certain ingredients or combinations.

Using many active ingredients simultaneously, as in your current routine with the Aloe Vera Gel mix containing multiple actives (Active Resveratrol™, GlucoBright™, Vitamin B5, Bisabolol, Vitamin B12, Hi-EGCG™, Coenzyme Q10 Extra, Soy Extract, AminoSilk™, Phospholipid) and the separate Vitamin C E Ferulic product, can sometimes overwhelm the skin. This complexity makes it challenging to pinpoint exactly which ingredient or combination is causing the increased clogged pores and small bumps.

It's possible that certain components in your current routine, such as Vitamin E in the Vitamin C E Ferulic product, or some ingredients in the Aloe Vera Gel base or the added actives, might be contributing to the clogging issue for your oily skin type.

To address the clogged pores and small bumps effectively and identify the cause, simplifying your routine is recommended, as suggested by the staff. You could temporarily pause your current active treatments and use a gentle cleanser and a basic, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Once your skin has calmed down, you can gradually introduce ingredients known to target clogged pores and small bumps. Some effective options for oily, acne-prone skin include:

• Salicylic Acid (BHA): This ingredient is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and exfoliate dead skin cells and sebum buildup, which helps to unclog pores and reduce the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. It is available in various forms, including powders and liquids that can be incorporated into serums or gels. A typical usage rate in leave-on products is up to 2%.
• Azelaic Acid (Liquid Azelaic™): This ingredient helps reduce inflammation, has antibacterial properties against acne-causing bacteria, and helps normalize keratin production, preventing clogged pores. It can also help reduce redness and post-acne marks. Liquid Azelaic™ is a water-soluble form that is gentler than traditional Azelaic Acid and can be used at concentrations typically ranging from 5% to 10%.
• Acne-TT™ (Standardized Tea Tree Extract): This extract contains a high concentration of Terpinen-4-ol, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects beneficial for acne. It can help reduce inflammation and fight bacteria associated with breakouts.

When reintroducing actives or trying new ones, start with one product at a time in a simple formulation to observe your skin's response. Begin with lower concentrations and gradually increase if needed and tolerated. Always use sun protection, especially when using exfoliating ingredients like Salicylic Acid or Azelaic Acid.

By simplifying your routine and introducing targeted ingredients gradually, you can better understand what works for your skin and effectively manage clogged pores and small bumps.