If you’re wondering how normal it is to suffer from adult acne, the answer is, it’s becoming more and more common with adult acne affecting around 50% of women worldwide, says dermatologist Neal Schultz. “For the last 10 to 20 years, we’ve seen a steady rise in adult acne cases, with women in their 50s suffering from it – right up to menopause.”
If you’re suffering with bouts of acne on the lower portion of your face – particularly around your chin and jaw area – don’t worry, you’re not alone!
Causes of adult acne
In a recent Harvard Health report, experts reveal some of the most common causes of adult acne. These include:
- Hormonal fluctuations (this can be due to menopause)
- Chronic stress
- A poor diet and lack of water
- Skincare products or make-up that clogs pores
- A pro-inflammatory diet (which is often high in sugar, trans fats and processed foods)
Finding a good balance in your skincare regime can be tricky – as you might feel like you have to choose between anti-ageing products that target fine lines and wrinkles, or a range that addresses particular concerns such as adult acne or dryness.
The good news is, thanks to technological advancements in the beauty and skincare world, there’s a new breed of intelligent treatment products on the market that can target most of your skincare concerns in one. No more stripping your skin with drying acne control products!
ALSO SEE: How to beat back acne for good
Here are 4 tips and products to help you combat adult acne:
The salon skin-fixer
Chemical peels are the number one treatment we recommend to solve a plethora of skin issues, especially when it comes to combating acne, sun spots, and even fine line and wrinkles… Not to mention the visible glow your skin will radiate once the treatment is over.
The latest in chemical peel treatments? The Optiphi Skin Rejuvenation Glycolic Acid Peel, from R700, works on improving skin’s tone, texture and pore size, with no downtime!
Take note: Optiphi recommends having had at least 2 x 25% glycolic acid peels before upgrading to this skin-rejuvenating oil-based peel.
The spot treatment
When you don’t have time to fit a salon visit into your schedule, use a lightweight and fast-acting home treatment product, like Neostrata Spot Treatment Gel, R395 for 15g. It contains mandelic, tartaric and citric acids, to help minimise redness and inflammation. Simply dot a little onto spots and blemishes.
The daily skincare solutions
An oil and fragrance-free moisturiser will nourish your skin, and leave it shine-free. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Lotion, R420 for 125ml, retains essential moisture while keeping your skin hydrated. This is a key factor when it comes to balancing your skin care needs and your complexion.
We also recommend using a product clinically proven to reduce acne breakouts, restore the skin’s pH and protect the skin from secondary factors that could trigger or exacerbate acne.
Eucerin DermoPurifyer Mattifying Fluid, R220 for 50ml, promises to keep skin shine-free for up-to eight hours, plus contains licochalcone A, which soothes redness.
The hydrating product
Sometimes, skin breaks out because it’s dehydrated. If moisturisers that aim to reduce sebum production aren’t working for you, it might be due to the fact that your skin needs a more balanced approach with adequate hydration.
Put the moisture back into your skin with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel-Cream, R159,95 for 50ml. It’s fragrance free so it won’t irritate sensitive skin and is formulated with hyaluronic acid to nourish the skin and lock in moisture.
Expert tip: If you’re really struggling with adult acne, it’s best to see a dermatologist who can look at your lifestyle and genetic history to determine the appropriate treatment plan for you.
ALSO SEE: If you want to prevent adult acne and skincare problems, avoid this…
Compiled by Writer, Tammy Jacks
