A Slate article by Rebecca Schuman called “Radical Self-Care: Meet the feminist academics who love K-beauty” posted today mentioned me and fanserviced-b:

I wasn’t contacted by the author to discuss or confirm any of this. I made no statements on a relationship between radical feminism and skincare–ever–before the post went live. I’ve never even talked on my blogs or social media accounts about most beliefs I hold aside from those relating to kpop boybands and Asian beauty products. I’m pro-Jongin x chicken, in case you’re wondering.

The things that are true: I’m Tracy and I have a PhD in History.

I reacted very strongly to this use of my name and that of the blog, if misspelled, because I was shocked that someone would presume to speak for me when–as readers, shops, and brands know all too well–I am perfectly capable of using my own voice. The Renaissance women I studied sought to speak with their own voices, but in the present day I wasn’t even given that opportunity.

The article functions as an example of why I don’t identify with radical academic feminism: for all the world-upending rhetoric, the right to speak for oneself is afforded only to those within its walls while the women outside–my fellow beauty bloggers and me in this case–aren’t afforded the same privilege.

Don’t get me wrong, I love puppets. I even have a lookalike puppet. That doesn’t mean I want to be used as one.

It seems that I need some self-care, thankssss. Here’s my journey through tonight’s 10-step 12-step self-care routine.

Step 1: Whamisa Organic Flowers Cleansing Oil

This fucking oil doesn’t do it for me and it’s not just because I’m feeling pissed. It’s too thick and doesn’t emulsify well. Fuck this, I need to use something better.

That said, there’s something satisfying about getting all of my makeup, sunscreen, and oil off immediately upon returning to the house. The day is complete. The shittiness gets washed down the drain.

The day is not complete. I need to write this damn post.

Step 2: CosRx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

Damn, I love this cleanser. No drama, no difficulty, easy to use anywhere. This is like the flattering yoga pants of cleansers.

I’m starting to feel clean. ish. Urgh. It’s cold and I just want to read porn or make some Instagram videos and then snuggle with the cats. fml

Ok, pizza is here, praise!

Step 3: Pixi Glow Tonic

My shower felt good. I’m still mad. Time to burn some skin off ayyy.

Mmm this pH-adjusting toner is my jam. It lowers the pH level of my skin so my acids can get right down to the task of exfoliation. Yesss.

Step 4: Paula’s Choice Resist 10% AHA

I love this stuff. It’s kind of like what I image Korean dermatology “acne scaling” to be–a gentle scraping away of the surface to purge out clogs and clear dead skin.

I love the slight burn, the tingle of my face dissolving just a little. We’re getting something done, it says.

God, I’m tired and overwhelmed and I’d really like to cry out of frustration like a toddler, but I need this AHA to work evenly. ahahaa

Step 5: Curology: 0.018% Tretinoin, 1% Clinamycin, 8% Azelaic Acid

It’s been over a year and a half and I still haven’t written a full review of Curology. Combined with the AHA it’s going to burn and dry like fuck. Alone and it’s too weak. I have a way to go until I figure this one out and until then, no review. I need to be convinced before reviewing, however long that takes.

Step 6: IOPE Bio Essence

I use this as a first essence for the regular, post-acid part of my skincare routine. It’s great because it convinces my skin to take on more water-based moisture than it otherwise would accept, which helps to offset the impact of the acid and prescription combo.

Step 7: Blossom Jeju Pink Camellia Soombi Blooming Flower Toner

This is the most luxurious, amazing, elegant product in my whole collection right now. It smells like jasmine and honeysuckle, feels light, and is perfectly hydrating without overdoing it. It’s a treat I allow myself when I’m struggling.

Step 8: Lovemore Rosa Hybrida

This silk mask from Taiwan is amazing. It’s soft, stretchy, and the essence is perfectly hydrating while not being suffocating on my skin.

I’m feeling better. This mask is divine.

Step 9: LJH Tea Tree 90 Essence

This is my favorite skincare product of all time because it soothes my skin and offers a bit of light hydration.

Step 10: Leejiham Vita-Propolis Cream

This cream is immensely fragranced (but tastily so) and provides light but rich moisture that turns my skin into a happy, sticky soup.

Which is surprisingly useful for when you’ve been burned.

Step 11: Retraction

Just as I prepared to post this word came in that Slate issued a correction.

Step 12: