I am an ORPW, but am on the borderline in most scores.
My specific question is about the Resistant/Sensitive score.

Is there any reason that I shouldn't use some of the products recommended for OSPWs? I ask because I have had a couple of breakouts since starting my regimen, and the OSPW chapter seems to deal much more with acne than does the ORPW. In addition, I recently had face stinging due to a chemical sunblock, so I'm thinking that maybe my skin is not as Resistant as I had thought. I never had skin sensitivity issues before, but maybe that's because I didn't really use anything -- washed my face with Dove soap and used some Aveda foundation and blush, and that was about it.

Or is it a waste of money to try the S products? From reading the book, I gather that some of them may not be strong enough to be effective for R skin.

Thanks for any help.

Ann

I am an ORPW, but am on the borderline in most scores.
My specific question is about the Resistant/Sensitive score.

Is there any reason that I shouldn't use some of the products recommended for OSPWs? I ask because I have had a couple of breakouts since starting my regimen, and the OSPW chapter seems to deal much more with acne than does the ORPW. In addition, I recently had face stinging due to a chemical sunblock, so I'm thinking that maybe my skin is not as Resistant as I had thought. I never had skin sensitivity issues before, but maybe that's because I didn't really use anything -- washed my face with Dove soap and used some Aveda foundation and blush, and that was about it.

Or is it a waste of money to try the S products? From reading the book, I gather that some of them may not be strong enough to be effective for R skin.

Thanks for any help.

Ann

I see from the S score you have listed that you're on the border between 'somewhat' and 'very' resistant skin. But you've been using pretty gentle products on your face. I would say try the OSPW regimen. It not only deals with acne but it also deals with ingredients between sensitive and not-so-sensitive types. For example, my S score is 41. Very Sensitive. :-[ In the OSPW section, Dr. Baumann explains that if your skin is more acne prone instead of sensitive ( a lower S/R score between 25 and 30), you can use ingredients like Hydroquinone for pigmentation and Vitamin C for pigmentation and wrinkles. So I can't use them but you might be able to. And that's just one example. Give it a try and let us know how you do.

I agree with virgogem. Go with the "S" products, but look for ingredients tailored to your specific issues. You probably can tolerate a wider range of products and ingredients than someone who is more sensitive.

I border on S and R, but treat myself like an S due to acne and sunscreen sensitivity. It seems to be working pretty well. For example, I can tolerate benzoyl peroxide without a problem, which helps me so much with my breakouts, whereas some S types can't.

Marcy

OK, thanks. You've both been very helpful. Jerseygirl, you sound a lot like me.

As for the 'P' part ... well, I didn't even know that I had 'pigmentation issues' until I took a close look in the mirror to take the test. So I'm not quite as concerned about that issue -- I'd rather combat the breakouts and large pores.

Thanks!
Ann