Recent Skin Condition & Beyond The Rack Purchase

The acne on my face has gradually gotten worse over the past year. I really wish I knew if it was something I did differently that cause the sudden change or if I am going through hormonal acne again. But unlike my acne from my puberty years, these have been leaving me with different kind of scars...the dreaded ice-pick scars. I know I shouldn't be touching, let alone picking, the pimples but sometimes my hands just do it subconsciously. Other times, it is really hard to resist myself. Hopefully they don't become too noticeable. But for now, I just have to stop myself as best that I can.

I recently went to the dermatologist for first time in years. The consultation wasn't very long so I am not sure how thorough it was. The doctor did ask whether I preferred to ingest or apply treatment. Since I chose the latter, she said that the type of acne I have would benefit from using Retin A. I heard this term now and again on YouTube, but don't really know much about it in detail. But from the dermatologist, I got that it'll make my skin very sensitive and requires me to wear tons of gel sunscreen in particular. (Which I don't know any of, so if anyone has recommendations for one I'd be glad to check it out!) Hopefully, the treatment will work a whole lot better than what I've been using for my skin for now. & I'll try my best to update on how Retin A is.

Prior to my derm visit, I placed an order from Beyond the Rack towards the end of May (I think...). It took a long time to arrive. But I think that's just how shopping at those sort of sites work. The sale event has to end, Beyond the Rack gets the stuff from the company and then they ship it out to the buyer.

First time I've seen such a box filler!

Top: Honey & Oat Cleanser, Charcoal Detox Cleanser, Organic Lemon Toner
Bottom: Acne/Oily Skin Kit

There are so many enticing sale items but I really tried & continue to try not to get sucked into all the deals. Be it clothing, shoes, etc. I think I have done pretty well. This is only my first purchase and I joined the site a year + ago! I haven't heard much about Michael Todd skincare but the description and price of these items convinced me to get it at the time. I only started to use the Charcoal Detox Cleanser for now and it isn't too shabby but not great either. Definitely isn't deep cleansing or treating but cleanses well and is gentle.

Has anyone else tried Retin A before? How was it for your skin?
What about any Michael Todd skincare products?