5 skin care methods that can help manage adult acne

Here's one of life's little "you gotta be kidding me" moments: An adult wakes up one morning to find a pimple cluster front and center on their chin. Wasn't this kind of surprise supposed to be over once high school was in the rearview mirror? Research, however, points to stress as a possible factor in the worsening of acne, which may help explain why acne can affect adults later in life. In fact, about 20 to 40 percent of women who have adult acne experience acne for the first time as an adult, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).

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What causes adult acne?

The basic mechanics of a pimple are well understood. The skin has pores that release oil and sweat from the body. When these pores get clogged with dead skin cells, oil or dirt, it can lead to acne. Researchers don't know why some people are more prone to bouts of acne, but hormones probably play a role.

Stress is another factor that seems to worsen acne, and it's one that researchers have been working to understand better. "Stress causes cortisol to surge, and cortisol causes inflammation and a spike in glucose," says Deanne Mraz Robinson, MD, a dermatologist in Westport, Connecticut. "These two factors are associated with acne." In fact, acne is considered an inflammatory skin condition; many of its hallmarks - the redness, swelling and tenderness that often accompany a pimple - are classic symptoms of inflammation.

So how can someone get rid of breakouts? An adult with acne can take charge of clearing up their skin by following five smart ways to help prevent and treat acne and speaking with their health care provider before starting or stopping any therapy.

5 skin care methods to help prevent breakouts

Retinoids

Retinoids, or vitamin A derivatives, are a popular acne fighter. As an effective acne treatment, they can help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. "It also helps minimize scarring from acne breakouts," says Dr. Robinson.

Esta Differin 0.1% adapalene gel treatment offers a retinoid at prescription-level strength in an over-the-counter (OTC) formula. That said, it can make skin dry and flaky, so consider pairing it with moisturizing products and daily sun protection. Talk to a health care provider before adding some form of retinoid treatment to a skin care routine.

However, all retinoids must be avoided if someone is pregnant or may become pregnant. Pregnant individuals can speak with a health care provider to help determine which products are safe to use during pregnancy. These products should also be used with caution while breastfeeding.

Unclogging pores

"Alpha hydroxy acids are chemical exfoliants that help to keep pores open and clear - and keep dead skin cells on the move," says Dr. Robinson. They can help remove dead skin cells that have accumulated on the surface of the skin. This means an exfoliating cleanser with alpha hydroxy acids can be a great face wash for people with adult acne. Also, consider trying CeraVe salicylic acid acne treatment gel, which supplements salicylic acid with a blend of two alpha hydroxy acids: glycolic and lactic.

Using moisturizer for acne-prone skin

Skin care for adult acne isn't complete without a moisturizer. "Sebum is produced by the body's own glands on a supply-and-demand system to keep our skin moisturized," Dr. Robinson says. For some, using an oil-free moisturizer can help skin regulate how much of its own moisture it needs to make. Look for a moisturizer that's labeled as "oil-free," "comedogenic" or "won't clog pores."

Because skin can become dry when someone is trying out different treatments for adult acne, moisturizing can help keep skin's moisture barrier balanced. Look for a moisturizer for acne-prone skin that bolsters the barrier with ceramides.

Consider products containing sulfur

Standard acne treatment ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, can be irritating to skin. If someone is looking for a skin care routine for sensitive, acne-prone skin, consider using sulfur instead. "Sulfur is gentler but has similar benefits of regulating excess oil," says Dr. Robinson. (Drying lotions tend to dry to a pink color, so someone may want to reserve this type of acne treatment for overnight use.)

Reduce stress

The American Psychological Association has a number of suggestions about how to tame stress, including better sleep habits, being more physically active and learning how to meditate. While trying to minimize stress won't clear up skin all by itself, stress may delay healing, so it's something to consider during a breakout.

Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.