Tag: Oily skincare

Capital Femme: 0.1% Gentle Retinol for clogged pores and whiteheads

Unclog pores and exfoliate with Good Molecules’ Gentle Retinol Cream (review)

On By Capital FemmeIn Oily skincare, Skincare, Skincare ReviewsLeave a comment

Last updated: January 14, 2026

Editor’s Note: Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture 💛

Good molecule's Gentle retinol cream review by Capital Femme

You already juggle showings, client calls, and family time but did you know that chronic stress can cause premature signs of aging on your skin? In a study from April 2024, topical 0.1% retinol significantly improved crow’s feet, facial wrinkles, uneven skin tone amongst other skin issues. Dermatologists recommend retinol as a first-line anti-aging treatment (American Academy of Dermatology).

This is a reminder that even in our busiest seasons, our skin and our souls need intentional care.

In this review of Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream, we explore how its gentle, faith-aligned formula can help smooth fine lines, boost radiance, and support your self-care journey. Priced at just about $8 USD and earning praise from thousands of users. It’s a practical yet powerful choice for Christian skincare routines, because honoring your temple doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

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This skincare product is Leaping Bunny certified (meaning not tested on animals), vegan, and fragrance-free.

This cream is good for when you have hormonal acne in the form of pimples, at that time of the month. It works for your whiteheads in areas that are most oily like your nose and chin. It also helps the appearance of fine lines and with water being one of its main ingredients, firms the skin. It’s not only suitable for oily skin but for dry and combination skin types.

It can be used up to 3 to 4 times a week depending on your skin type. Use it at night only, as it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Also, ensure you wear your sunscreen during the day. Try to avoid using this product along with any acidic products and physical exfoliants.

Good Molecules retinol review. Unclog and exfoliate at the same time for oily skincare by Capital Femme
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You can expect the tube of the product to be sealed when you buy it. Its ingredients include:

  • Water
  • C13-16 Isoparaffin
  • Glycerin
  • Diheptyl Succinate
  • Heptyl Undecylenate
  • 1,2 -Hexanediol
  • Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolyler
  • Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate
  • Propanediol
  • Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed oil
  • Caprylic/ Capric Triglyceride
  • Bakuchiol
  • Tocopherol
  • Acmelia Oleracea Extract
  • Butylene glycol
  • Retinol
  • Allantoin
  • Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) seed oil
  • Capryloyl Glycerin/ Sebacic Acid Copolymer
  • Ethylhexylglycerin
  • Salix Alba (Willow) bark extract
  • Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
  • Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract

Takeaway

This product can make a good addition to your night time routine. Retinol a form of vitamin A, helps to treat acne, clear pores, exfoliate the skin, reduce signs of aging and give your skin a smoother texture. It’s also important to take note of what other products will work best with retinol and how often you use it.

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References (click to view)

https://www.stoneoakdermatology.com/blog/does-stress-make-you-age-faster/#:~:text=The%20stress%20theory%20of%20aging,the%20skin%20to%20age%20faster.

https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/new-data-on-retinol-patricia-farris-md-shares-insights-on-anti-aging

The wonders of Aloe Vera for your skin and overall health

On By Capital FemmeIn Oily skincare, SkincareLeave a comment

Editor’s Note: This post was written before our faith-centered refocus, but we still stand by the message. Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture 💛

Picture of hummingbird on Aloe Vera Plant benefits for skincare and overall health. By Capital Femme

Aloe Vera, in Jamaica it is also known as Sinkle bible. It is usually grown in tropical, semi- tropical zones but can be found all over the world. It thrives in warm, dry climates. This plant has many purposes, especially for skincare. Let’s look at a few of them.

Skincare benefits

It has antibacterial and antioxidant properties that can be used to treat numerous skin conditions. This plant has healing powers and can help treat cuts, scrapes minor burns including sunburn and minor wounds.

Due to its anti-bacterial properties, it helps manage excessive acne. It is also anti-inflammatory and soothes redness, flare-ups, irritation and promotes healing of acne scars. 

The antioxidants found in Aloe help fight free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells, causing illness and aging. 

Some of its additional benefits are moisturizing oily and dry skin, soothing inflammation, frostbite, cold sores, eczema and psoriasis.

For oily skin, aloe vera works because it has high water content which hydrates the skin and is a non-greasy moisturizer. Aloe vera can also be used as a toner as it is gentle enough that it won’t dry out your skin while helping to control oil production.

This plant is also known to help with wrinkles by increasing collagen production and improving skin elasticity.

The most potent form of the plant is the gel, you can use Over-the-counter aloe gel or you can use it directly from the plant.

Digestive benefits

When consumed aloe vera can be used to reduce:

Dental plaque – It can be used as an alternative to chemical mouthwash and can provide relief from bleeding or swollen gums.

Constipation – laxatives within the plant may help relieve constipation.

Blood sugar levels – consuming aloe vera can help persons with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

Aloe vera is a rich source of:

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin E
  • Vitamin C
  • Beta-carotene
  • Calcium
  • Folic Acid
  • Magnesium

Precautions

It may soothe sunburn but is not a replacement for sunscreen. So please use your sun protection. You can be sensitive to aloe vera and should try a small patch test on somewhere like your forearm. If you experience any adverse reaction stop using it. Try not to use this plant too frequently.

Finally

Aloe vera is a succulent plant packed with many benefits including skin care, digestion and nutrition. There are studies and data available that back these claims. However, you should be cautious of how much aloe you consume. This natural resource is truly extraordinary and with care can be great for your health.

 

Niacinamide. Get With it or Nah?

On By Capital FemmeIn Oily skincare, SkincareLeave a comment

Editor’s Note: This post was written before our faith-centered refocus, but we still stand by the message. Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture 💛

Seeing that this is the first post of 2024.  In proper fashion, I want to wish all of my readers a Blessed New Year.

Now back to today’s topic.

Niacinamide is a popular skincare ingredient these days. You may have come across it on your Instagram or Tiktok. If you’re unfamiliar with it, niacinamide is another name for vitamin B3. It works for all ages and skin types. In today’s post, we’ll focus on its topical use.

Topical niacinamide-containing products will have more direct benefits for the skin.

It can be used for many different skin concerns, some of which are addressed below.

Here are some of its benefits:

Helps with hydration

Niacinamide can improve skin hydration by preventing evaporation of moisture from the skin into the environment. It also may improve the skin’s barrier function by locking in moisture and keeping pollutants out.

Brightens skin

This ingredient is known to brighten skin tone, reduce hyperpigmentation by treating dark spots and improve skin texture.

Control oil production

Niacinamide helps to regulate the amount of oil produced by the oil glands. This helps to prevent breakouts and treat acne. It can also reduce the appearance of the pores by keeping the skin smooth and clear. Now when it comes to oily skin, this ingredient is a game changer. This is what in my opinion set it apart from vitamin C.

Soothe inflammation

It’s also an anti-inflammatory ingredient, so it’s great for calming irritated skin. Niacinamide can calm redness caused by breakouts (acne), eczema and rosacea. This makes it an ingredient which can be a good fit for those with sensitive skin.

Reduce signs of aging

Using niacinamide topically can boost collagen production to smooth wrinkles and fine lines. Its antioxidant properties may also help to protect your skin from damage due to aging.

How much is safe?

It’s recommended to use products with 5% or less when choosing products with niacinamide. Anything over that may cause irritation so it’s important to read the label of a product you are considering.

You can also do a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product to a small patch of skin and wait 24 hours to see if your skin agrees with the product.

 

Choosing products

Niacinamide is commonly found in sunscreens, cleansers, serums or moisturizers. It’s gentle enough to be used twice a day and works best when used in products that are left on the skin (like serums and moisturizers). Also, remember to read the instructions on the product.

For maximum results, this ingredient can also be paired with others like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol and AHAs such as glycolic acid.

 

In conclusion, niacinamide can be a gentle yet effective ingredient in your skincare routine and could be the boost your skin needs.

Basic skincare routine for complete beginners

On By Capital FemmeIn Oily skincare, SkincareLeave a comment

Editor’s Note: This post was written before our faith-centered refocus, but we still stand by the message. Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture 💛

Capital Femme: Basic skincare routine for complete beginners

Now if you have never really had a set skincare routine, specifically for your face, that is and would like to learn where to start.

Then this post is for you.

Let me start by saying I get that online many sources are claiming that you need to have a 10-step skincare routine. All you need, especially as a beginner are three products: cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. This is a simple yet powerful trio.

Your skin type will determine what kind of product you’ll buy. If you’re not sure what your skin type is.

You can check out this post.

For my oily skin readers, you want to choose a cleanser that’ll get into your pores to get rid of excess oil, any dirt and bacteria to prevent acne.

So you could choose a cleanser with salicylic acid.

Next, no matter what your skin type is, you need to moisturize. This helps reduce your chances of developing skin problems like acne and premature signs of aging (such as wrinkles). Urban Hydration’s Aloe Vera Daily Gel Moisturizer is a good one. Here’s a moisturizer that, in my opinion, is pretty universal. Read the full review of this product here.

Keep in mind you can choose products with multiple purposes. For example, Urban Hydration’s Aloe Vera Daily Gel Moisturizer will hydrate and brighten your skin.

Lastly, a sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, now this step is especially important if you use a cleanser containing acid because it can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.

If you know you’ll be outdoors and exposed to the sun, you should apply sunscreen daily in the mornings. I like products that are good for my skin and the environment, so you can try Coppertone’s Everytone SPF 50 sunscreen. It’s non-comedogenic and water-resistant. Check out the full review here.

Now as you go along and have specific skin issues that you believe this trio aren’t solving then you can consider adding other products to your routine.

In conclusion, as a complete beginner, you only need three products in your skincare routine: cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen. In this post, we included one of each of the three you can try. Hope this was helpful.

Comparing 2 affordable oily skin moisturizers by Capital Femme

Comparing affordable face moisturizers for Oily Skin

On By Capital FemmeIn Oily skincare, SkincareLeave a comment

Last Updated: January 14, 2026

Editor’s Note: This post was written before our faith-centered refocus, but we still stand by the message. Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture 💛

First up we have this moisturizer by Cera Ve

Cera Ve oily skin face moisturizer reviewed by Capital Femme
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Cera Ve PM moisturizer

Rating: 4/5

This moisturizer doesn’t have any added fragrance but it does have a slight scent. It helps oily skin, is moisturizing and won’t clog your pores. It’s light on the skin; contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. However, this product is not considered clean, cruelty-free or sustainable.

VERSUS

Oily skin aloe vera face moisturizer by Urban Hydration reviewed by Capital Femme
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Urban Hydration Aloe Vera Leaf Daily Gel Moisturizer

Rating: 5/5

This moisturizer makes your skin feel cool and hydrated as soon as it’s applied. A little takes you a far way. This gel moisturizer is non- comedogenic. It really does control shine and overtime brightens your complexion. It is also clean, all natural and cruelty-free. Check out the full review here.

It’s to note that both moisturizers can be used on other skin types.

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Ingredients that are good for oily, acne prone skin

On By Capital FemmeIn Oily skincare, SkincareLeave a comment

Editor’s Note: This post has been updated as of July 2025. Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture 💛

Christian faith aligned ingredients that help oily acne prone skin. Capital Femme

As a busy woman of faith, you’re juggling so much. You deserve skincare that works and aligns with God’s Word (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). You’re not alone if your oily, acne-prone skin feels like a battle  (about 85% of teens and adults face acne at some point).

In this post, you’ll discover top skincare ingredients, like niacinamide, aloe vera, and salicylic acid that help control oil, calm inflammation, and honor the temple God gave you. All without overwhelming your routine.

These are some of the top picks of ingredients that will help address issues of oily acne-prone skin type like controlling oil production, unclogging pores and reducing the appearance of large pores. They will also help to keep your skin moisturised. We know that having acne can mess with your self-esteem and confidence so let’s get into this list of helpful ingredients.

Niacinamide, also called vitamin B3 absorbs sebum (oil) and helps with the production of collagen that keeps the skin firm and improves skin texture. It also helps the skin grow a ceramide barrier which helps attract and lock in moisture. It treats acne, hyperpigmentation and protects your skin against sun damage. Niacinamide can also be found in meat, fish, poultry, green vegetables, whole grains and mushrooms.

Now, let’s look at Hyaluronic acid. Despite common misconceptions, oily skin needs to be moisturized. Otherwise, you’ll look like an overoiled mess, which can leave negative impressions on your clients.

Hyaluronic acid is a moisturizing ingredient commonly found in creams, lotions, serums, moisturizers, etc. It functions as a humectant, continuing to draw in and hold moisture to the skin even after it’s applied. It also hydrates the skin by binding water to the skin’s cells. So, less touch-ups during the day once you’ve got this ingredient in the mix.

Did you know hyaluronic acid is found in the body in connective tissues and the eyes? It decreases as we age. Some foods that aid in natural hyaluronic acid production include bone broth, leafy greens and citrus fruits, according to Chix Nutrix.

Next up is Aloe (also known as Aloe Vera) which is from a succulent fleshy plant. Aloe vera has soothing and cooling properties. It’s made up of 98% water. It can soothe irritated skin (such as sunburns), helps reduce inflammation, keeps skin hydrated and lighten blemishes all while fighting against acne. It also speeds up wound healing and limits scarring.

By Capital Femme. Ingredients good for oily skincare. Christian Faith inspired.

Retinol, also called vitamin A, helps reduce oil production by tightening the pores. Retinol cream is a good treatment for whiteheads and blackheads. It’s also known to smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Here’s one retinol cream that’s gentle, skin-loving and effective. To get a full breakdown of this product, check out this review.

Also, it’s recommended to use retinol at night as it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Please consult your doctor before using if you are pregnant. And of course, vitamin A can be found naturally in foods like beef liver, carrots, canteloupe and sweet potato.

Remember to always moisturize and wear SPF.

Salicylic acid is non-comedogenic meaning it won’t clog pores instead it gets into the pores keeping them clear to reduce breakouts. It can be found naturally in the bark of willow trees. Be careful not to overuse this ingredient, especially if pregnant, or using retinol and other exfoliants.

Lastly, Zinc has anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to get rid of acne-causing bacteria from the skin and reduces oil production when applied to the skin. Zinc can be found in foods like poultry, beans, whole grains and dairy products.

Takeaway

All the ingredients mentioned above are non-toxic when used in moderation. All the ingredients above can be found naturally. The key is choosing one or two at a time, especially if your skin is sensitive, and following up with SPF and moisturizer to prevent irritation. Consult your doctor if you’re pregnant before using retinol and salicylic acid. Otherwise, you can look out for these ingredients in your skincare products and let us know what other ingredients you’ve tried and how they’ve worked for you.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, as an Amazon associate I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting this blog!

References (click to view)

https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/acne

https://www.news-medical.net/health/Health-Benefits-and-Dangers-of-Aloe-Vera.aspx

https://curology.com/blog/foods-high-in-retinol-these-may-help-your-skin/

https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/zinc-for-acne#diet

https://chicnutrix.com/blogs/world-of-chic/foods-rich-in-hyaluronic-acid#:~:text=Hyaluronic%20acid%20is%20a%20naturally%20occurring%20compound%20produced%20by%20the,hyaluronic%20acid%20in%20the%20body.