ADULT
ACNE
Adult acne is annoying. While most of us expect to be affected by spots at some stage during our teen years, it seems incredibly unfair to still be dealing with pimples into our 20s, 30s and beyond. That said, it’s not uncommon at all, one third of total acne-related visits to dermatologists are made by women over the age of 25.
According to Senior Scientific Advisor at La Roche-Posay Australia, this is at least in part because the nature of adolescent skin and post-adolescent skin is different. “Younger skin tends to be oilier, whereas adult skin is drier,” she says. As a result of this general difference in texture, adult acne manifests more deeply and often hangs around longer, too.
Because there’s no single answer to the question of what causes pimples, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, either. That’s right, there’s no one best acne treatment for adults. Fisher advises seeking out a skin expert who can advise on what kind of treatment would suit you best. If you’re keen to get a head start, there are a few helpful-for-most adult acne treatments you can try at home. Keep reading for 3 straightforward tips that could help achieve a clearer complexion.
Stick to a Consistent Routine
Regardless of the cause of your acne, there is one thing that benefits everyone—committing to a steady skincare regime. Simple is generally best, so don’t go crazy splashing out on products galore. The basics include a gentle-but-effective cleanser that doesn’t strip, a hydrating moisturiser and daily broad spectrum sunscreen. (Also? Don’t squeeze. Ever.)
Exfoliate (But Not Too Much)
Keeping your pores clear on the regular is important but overdoing it with exfoliation can do more harm than good. La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Duo (+) is a moisturiser that contains clarifying and anti-bacterial salicylic acid helping to reduce blemishes and clogged pores. A bestseller in Europe, it is potent but not so powerful that it’ll irritate sensitive skin types.
Consider Blue Light Therapy
Believed to have a frequency that is able to kill P. acnes (the bacteria that causes pimples), blue light is used by dermatologists to assist in mild to moderate acne cases. Whilst there isn’t a whole lot of research out there to support long-term effectiveness, many patients report success. If you’re not keen on taking medication, you might like to try this option first.
If you do end up on prescription medication to manage your acne, keep your skin hydrated with a soothing moisturiser like La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar H - designed to be used alongside anti-acne drugs.
DISCLAIMER: The content above is provided for your information only. It is not intended as medical advice, and you should use your own judgement regarding health information and seek independent specialist advice prior to making any decisions regarding your individual circumstances.