How to Avoid Adult Acne

Acne isn’t just for teens. Many people have it as adults.

Temi Zeitenberg got acne in college, just as most people her age were outgrowing it. Because of her acne, “there were times I would not leave the house,” says Zeitenberg, an attorney in Boca Raton, Fla.

It doesn’t have to be that way. There are steps you can take to turn your skin around at any age.

What Causes Adult Acne?

There are many reasons you can break out as an adult. Stress or changes in your hormone levels, like menopause or switching or stopping birth control pills, are two possibilities.

Some medications, including lithium, antiseizure drugs, and corticosteroids, can cause acne.

Your dermatologist can help you figure out why your acne is happening. In some cases, it may be related to another condition.

Daily Skin Care

“It’s very important to cleanse your skin every day,” says dermatologist Doris Day, MD, of Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. Follow these steps:

1. Wash your face no more than twice a day.
2. Use cool or warm water and a gentle cleanser.
3. Use your hands, a baby washcloth (it’s gentler than a regular one), or a cleansing brush for 30 seconds.
4. Pat (don’t rub) your skin dry.

The types of products you can use to curb your acne include:

Cleansers. Cleansers wash away dirt, grime, makeup, and pollution, Day says. A good cleanser will also let other skin products reach your skin and work better. Choose gentle cleaners that won’t strip your skin, says Jonette Keri, MD, PhD, associate professor of dermatology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

Over-the-Counter Creams and Lotions. Retinoid creams or lotions can help clear your skin and also lessen wrinkles. Products made with sulfur can be good for the occasional spot treatment. Benzoyl peroxide is another acne fighter. Use benzoyl peroxide products only occasionally, because they can dry out your skin, Day says. You could also try a milder benzoyl peroxide product.

Cosmetics. Some cosmetics include salicylic acid, which fights acne. In general, look for skin care products that say on the label that they are noncomedogenic (which means they don’t clog pores) or non-acnegenic (they don’t cause breakouts).

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Prescription Medications. Medications that affect hormones, like birth control pills, can help control acne. You might also discuss antibiotic pills and prescription retinoids with your dermatologist. There are also antibiotics that are effective. Doctors may prescribe Aldactone (spironolactone), which was first made to treat high blood pressure, to treat acne. “That works miracles but it can take three months to kick in,” Day says. Isotretinoin is another prescription drug for acne, but you can’t take it if you’re pregnant or planning to get pregnant.

High-tech solutions. Light therapy, or PDT, uses lasers to treat acne. Some people say it hurts. Vacuum therapy also works with lights. Both of these options can be expensive.

Don’t pop pimples. Your dermatologist can likely treat the problem in their office.

After years of struggling with different treatments, Zeitenberg now has her acne under control. She takes Aldactone twice a day as well as birth control pills. She cleans her face both morning and night, and uses retinoid or benzoyl peroxide wash as needed.

“I don’t even know how to put it in words,” she says of the changes to her skin. “I can leave the house without makeup.”

Sources

American Academy of Dermatology: “Acne,” “Adult Acne: A Fact of Life for Many Women,” “Adult Acne: Effective Treatment Available.”

Doris Day, MD, dermatologist, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York.В

Jonette Keri, MD, PhD, associate professor of dermatology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine

Articles On Acne

Acne – 10 Tips for Preventing Acne

• What Is Acne?
• Symptoms
• Treatments
• Prevention
• Acne During Pregnancy
• FAQ

1. Keep your face clean. Whether or not you have acne, it’s important to wash your face twice daily to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and extra oil from your skin’s surface. Washing more often than twice daily is not necessarily better; it may do more harm than good. Use warm, not hot, water and a mild facial cleanser. Using a harsh soap (like deodorant body soap) can hurt already inflamed skin and cause more irritation.

Avoid scrubbing your skin harshly with a washcloth, an exfoliating glove, or loofah (a coarse-textured sponge). Gently wash it with a very soft cloth or your hands. Always rinse well, and then dry your face with a clean towel. (Toss the towel in the laundry hamper, as dirty towels spread bacteria.) Also, use the washcloth only once.

2. Moisturize. Many acne products contain ingredients that dry the skin, so always use a moisturizer that minimizes dryness and skin peeling. Look for “noncomedogenic” on the label, which means it should not cause acne. There are moisturizers made for oily, dry, or combination skin.

3. Try an over-the-counter acne product. These acne products don’t need a prescription. Most of them have ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid, which curb bacteria and dry your skin. They may cause drying or peeling so start with a small amount at first. Then you can adjust how much you use and how often. Another option is a new OTC topical retinoid gel (Differin 0.1% gel). It works to actually keep the acne from forming. Use these products with caution if you have sensitive skin.

4. Use makeup sparingly. During a breakout, avoid wearing foundation, powder, or blush. If you do wear makeup, wash it off at the end of the day. If possible, choose oil-free cosmetics without added dyes and chemicals. Choose makeup that is labeled as “noncomedogenic,” meaning it should not cause acne. Read the ingredients list on the product label before buying.

5. Watch what you put on your hair. Avoid using fragrances, oils, pomades, or gels on your hair. If they get on your face, they can block your skin’s pores and irritate your skin. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Oily hair can add to the oil on your face, so wash your hair often, especially if you’re breaking out. Got long hair? Keep it pulled away from your face.

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6. Keep your hands off your face. Avoid touching your face or propping your cheek or chin on your hands. Not only can you spread bacteria, you can also irritate the already inflamed facial skin. Never pick or pop pimples with your fingers, as it can lead to infection and scarring.

7. Stay out of the sun. The sun’s ultraviolet rays can increase inflammation and redness, and can cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (dark discoloration). Some acne medications may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Limit your time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and a broad-brimmed hat. Whether you have pimples or not, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with 6% zinc oxide or higher andВ SPF 30 or higher at least 20 minutes before sun exposure. Look for “noncomedogenic” on the sunscreen label to make new pimples less likely. Read the ingredients on the product label to know what you’re putting on your skin.

8. Feed your skin. Most experts agree that certain foods, like chocolate, don’t cause pimples. Still, it makes sense to avoid greasy food and junk food and add more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to your diet. Dairy products and foods high in processed sugar may trigger acne. Avoid these.

9. Exercise daily. Regular exercise is good for your whole body, including your skin. When you exercise, avoid wearing clothing or using exercise equipment that rubs your skin and may cause irritation. Shower or bathe right after exercise.

10. Chill! Some studies link stress with the severity of pimples or acne. Ask yourself what’s making you feel stressed. Then look for solutions.

When in doubt, check with a dermatologist to see if you need more treatment to prevent or stop acne.

Sources

Stathakis. V. Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1997.

Nguyen, Q. American Family Physician, 1994.

Chiu, A. Archives of Dermatology, 2003.

Video Transcript

Narrator: Rhonda Barrymore is a professional makeup artist whose job is to make people look good. She’s also learned a thing or two about skincare along the way.

Rhonda Barrymore, Professional Makeup, Artist, Help Me Rhonda, Inc.: Cleansing your face, you can use a small wipe like this.

Narrator: We arranged to have her give WebMD’s own Lauren Gracco a few pointers about how to maintain clear skin.

Lauren Gracco, WebMD: I tend to break out, which I haven’t done since I was a teenager, but it’s mostly along my hairline. It’s not where it use to be. Like right here or on my nose.

Rhonda Barrymore, Professional Makeup, Artist, Help Me Rhonda, Inc.: It’s probably just a little bit of adult acne.

Narrator: Like with teenagers, breakouts in adults can often be traced to hormonal fluctuations. Karen O’Kelley is a skincare specialist who educates patients and healthcare professionals:

Karen O’Kelley, BSN, RN, Skin Care Specialist—Aesthetic Advancements: Acne is a clogged follicle or pore—that’s how it starts when the pore becomes blocked then the sebum or the oil in the skin can’t work its way out of skin like it needs to. Then bacteria floods into the area followed by inflammation. So whether you’re a man or a woman that’s basically what’s happening to you.

Narrator: Routine and proper cleansing and exfoliation with a gentle face cleanser containing antibacterial agents is key to preventing unwanted oil buildup.

Rhonda Barrymore, Professional Makeup, Artist, Help Me Rhonda, Inc.: So you just gently put it around your eye area to get under-eye makeup first.

Karen O’Kelley, BSN, RN, Skin Care Specialist—Aesthetic Advancements: We want to use a cleanser that’s made for facial skin. You don’t want to use a cleanser that’s made for the body.

Lauren Gracco, WebMD: Can I exfoliate and cleanse at the same time?

Rhonda Barrymore, Professional Makeup, Artist, Help Me Rhonda, Inc.: You sure can–definitely. And you just use a circular motion and you’re going to exfoliate as you’re cleansing your skin.

Karen O’Kelley, BSN, RN, Skin Care Specialist—Aesthetic Advancements: We recommend that you cleanse your skin twice a day—with acne you don’t want to over-cleanse the skin. Because if you over-dry it, then the body’s just going to turn around and make more oil.

Lauren Gracco, WebMD: What are some of the benefits of using a facemask?

Karen O’Kelley, BSN, RN, Skin Care Specialist—Aesthetic Advancements: The mask can be great. Typically you use them twice a week. A mask would be for deep cleansing or purifying of the pours.

Rhonda Barrymore, Professional Makeup, Artist, Help Me Rhonda, Inc.: Well, there are different types of masks and I like the ones that don’t have any grains in them.

Karen O’Kelley, BSN, RN, Skin Care Specialist—Aesthetic Advancements: If you’re using skincare products that have granules or seeds or things like that in them and you’re scrubbing the face, you’re spreading bacteria to areas of the face that was not infected originally.

Rhonda Barrymore, Professional Makeup, Artist, Help Me Rhonda, Inc.: Best to do a little bit of water on your skin to get your skin a little bit moist. Then you can apply a mask, probably just with your fingertips and just pat it on the areas, And then allow it to sit on your face for about 15 or 20 minutes, and then I would take a wipe. Get some water onto the wipe and then lay it onto the areas where you put the mask to soften it, so you’re not going to scratch it off of your skin. And then you’ll splash your face with some water until all the mask is gone.

Narrator: In addition to a proper cleansing regimen, a healthy lifestyle, including a good diet and exercise is critical to helping your body fight back should you get a blemish. For WebMD, I’m Damon Meharg.

Dermatologists explain why those pimples are popping up past puberty—and how to get rid of them fast.

There are some things you may miss about your teenage years—say, the ability to stay up all night and then sleep until noon. One thing that’s likely not on your nostalgia list? A sprinkling of pimples on your face.

But it turns out that many of us notice blemishes way past puberty. According to a 2017 review of research published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, one third of acne office visits are made by women over 25 years old. What’s more, nearly twice as many women seek help for their acne compared to men.

No matter how old you are, pimples usually form in the same time-honored way: Pores—which contain oil glands—become blocked, letting dirt, bacteria, and cells build up and form a plug.

For most women, hormonal changes, either around the monthly cycle or during a menopausal shift, are the culprit. However, dietary imbalances and stress also cause adult acne flare-ups. (Read more about the causes of adult acne here.)

So, how do you get rid of it? Here, dermatologists explain the best adult acne treatments you can try to clear up those pesky bumps fast.

Eat fewer refined carbs

“Eating chocolate or a lot of junk food doesn’t by itself seem to cause acne, but not having a balanced diet and eating too many refined carbs can cause problems,” says dermatologist Albert Lefkovits, MD, director of the Park Avenue Center for Advanced Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology in New York City.

According to a 2016 review of research that examined how diet may impact breakouts, researchers concluded that “compelling evidence shows that high glycemic load diets may exacerbate acne.” Foods high on the glycemic index (GI) tend to be higher in refined carbs, like those found in white bread. Scientists suspect that raised insulin levels from the carbs may trigger a release of hormones that inflame follicles and increase oil production.

In one recent 2018 study, researchers randomly assigned 66 people a diet of high GI foods or low GI foods for two weeks. They found that people who consumed low GI foods had lower levels of IGF-1, a hormone known to trigger acne breakouts.

If you suspect your diet may be the culprit, steer clear of these high GI foods (meaning they have a score of 70 or higher) and see if you notice a difference: sugary snacks and beverages, white bread, bagels, corn flakes, instant oatmeal, white rice, potatoes, pretzels, popcorn, and certain fruits, like watermelon.

Consume less milk

While more research needs to be done to truly understand how dairy intake may lead to acne, a growing body of studies suggests the link is there, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

In one 2018 meta-analysis published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereolog, researchers found that milk consumption—particularly skim milk, which is higher in sugar than whole milk—was associated with a greater risk of acne. Beyond the higher sugar content, scientists believe that proteins and hormones found in milk products, including IGF-1, may play a role in acne flare-ups by increasing oil production and inflammation.

Surprisingly, yogurt and cheese seem to be a mystery, as they don’t seem to cause the same effect, according to a 2018 meta-analysis published in the journal Clinical Nutrition.

So if you regularly drink milk, consider switching to a non-dairy alternative like almond milk to see if your skin improves. Look for something that has fewer than 10 grams of sugar per serving.

It’s a cruel irony that more than half of adult women are battling breakouts at the same time they’re coping with crow’s feet. The culprit is hormones, which ebb and flow throughout a woman’s life rather than stabilize as they do in men. “As estrogen levels fluctuate—or in the case of menopause, decrease—androgens, the hormones that stimulate oil glands, can lead to breakouts,” says Jonette E. Keri, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Miami School of Medicine. Also to blame: stress, which raises hormone levels. One thing you needn’t stress about is controlling the condition. New remedies make it easier to get the clear skin you’ve always wanted—and erase signs of aging in the bargain.

Beat Blemishes at Home

This skin care routine fights the main cause of acne: pores clogged by oil and cellular debris and inflammation from P. acnes bacteria. But unlike topical teenage treatments—formulated for oilier complexions—these OTC solutions are less likely to dry mature skin and make wrinkles more pronounced. The routine relies on products that address the dual concerns of acne and aging by employing agents such as:

Salicylic acid, which unclogs pores and smooths skin by sloughing off dead cells.

Retinoids like retinol, a vitamin A derivative that improves acne, fine lines, and sun spots by normalizing cellular turnover.

Humectants that attract moisture and anti-inflammatories, like green tea and allantoin, to quell inflammation.

Follow these steps to eradicate existing pimples and prevent new ones:

In the morning:
Cleanse gently
Use a facial wash with salicylic acid. “It gets into the pores and dislodges debris,” says Diane Berson, MD, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University and board member of the American Acne and Rosacea Society. Avoid gel cleansers (they can contain alcohol) and granulated scrubs, which strip the skin of oil, making it overcompensate and produce more, says Keri.

Treat affected areas
If you have a blemish, dab on a spot corrector with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which kills surface bacteria and dries oil. If you’re prone to breakouts in a particular area (say, your chin), apply it to the entire zone daily to help prevent them.

If skin is dry, apply a moisturizer with SPF 15 or higher
Choose one that contains an alpha-hydroxy acid like glycolic acid for a double benefit: The AHA exfoliates pores as it sloughs off dead cells and moisturizes skin. If your complexion is oily, use an oil-free sunscreen. UV rays thicken the outer layer of skin, which can block pores and lead to breakouts. [pagebreak]

At night:
Remove makeup with a gentle, nonmedicated cleanser
The skin can’t exfoliate properly if it’s not clean.

Apply a retinol cream
The prescription retinoid Retin-A was approved for treating acne long before it became the gold standard for fighting wrinkles. “Retinoids help clear up and prevent all kinds of acne, from tiny bumps and blackheads to inflammatory acne and red nodules around the jawline,” says Keri. OTC retinoids like retinol don’t pack the same punch as Rx versions, but they can be less irritating and a good way to acclimate skin.

Moisturize as needed
Apply face lotion frequently to prevent dryness.

What Your Doc Can Do

If your skin doesn’t respond to at-home treatments within a few weeks or you have many pimples (especially cystlike nodules, which are large, painful, and can cause scarring), see a dermatologist. She’ll prescribe a more potent retinoid and topical antimicrobial like benzoyl peroxide to kill bacteria and quell inflammation. Bonus: New Rx meds are more appropriate for aging and dry skin. “If there’s not enough improvement after a few months, other drugs can be added,” says Berson. Also available in a derm’s anti-acne arsenal:

Oral antibiotics
A 2- to 6-month course speeds healing by targeting deeper blemishes. These drugs travel through the bloodstream, so they also fight hard-to-reach back and chest acne.

Hormone therapy
To steady hormones and quiet premenstrual flares, patients are often put on a low-dose birth control pill. One caveat: Women who are over 40 can be at increased risk of developing the same side effects associated with hormone therapy to reduce menopausal symptoms, including blood clots. Also prescribed in conjunction with oral contraceptives or by itself: spironolactone, an anti-androgen that decreases oil production.

Light therapy
These treatments are used in conjunction with other Rx remedies to boost their benefits. Blue light therapy temporarily kills P. acnes in a painless 15-minute procedure. The bacteria can return, however, so ongoing therapy—at up to $500 a pop—is necessary. The new Isolaz Pore-Cleansing Acne Treatment suctions pores to eliminate excess sebum, while a laser targets bacteria. Four to six sessions at $300 to $500 each are needed, followed by monthly maintenance.

Think breakouts have no age? Think again. Here, the best acne face wash products for adults and other pro-approved ways to keep pimples from popping up.

Despite what Katy Perry seems to believe, being a teenager tends to be more of a nightmare than a so-called “dream.” The aggressive (and awkward) games of dodgeball in P.E., the pop-quizzes in honor chemistry. the list goes on. Thankfully, you can leave most of these cringe-worthy items in the past. Unfortunately, however, acne isn’t one of them.

About half of women in their twenties experience breakouts (and one-third in their 30s), according to research from Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. But instead of popping up in the oily T-zone area, as it did in high school, adult acne, which is caused by monthly surges in the hormones estrogen and progesterone, often appears as pink pimples on the lower part of the face in a V shape from the chin up the sides of your jaw. (See: What Is Cystic Acne?)

“If you’re prone to hormonal breakouts, avoid spot-treating,” says Diane Berson, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. Instead, wash your face with the best acne face wash for adults, a salicylic acid cleanser, followed by a salicylic acid toner in oilier areas. (BTW, here’s why salicylic acid is such a miracle ingredient for your skin.) Finally, treat those same zones with a gel that has benzoyl peroxide, like Clean & Clear Persa-Gel10 Acne Medication (Buy It, $5, target.com).

Now that you have your basic plan of attack—and the best acne face wash for adults—to prevent acne before it pops up, keep these other pro tips in mind for healthier, brighter, and clearer skin.

How to Prevent Adult Acne

Two acne fighters are better than one.

Salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide have been recommended separately by derms for decades. But when used in tandem, these two OTC ingredients are just as effective as benzoyl peroxide plus the prescription antibiotic clindamycin, according to a study from Harvard Medical School. “Salicylic acid unclogs pores so that benzoyl peroxide, which treats the breakouts, can penetrate better,” says Dr. Berson. A good combo: Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Daily Acne Facial Cleanser (Buy It, $8, target.com) and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment (Buy It, $30, target.com).

Wash your face every night, even if you don’t wear makeup.

Your skin collects pore-clogging oil during the day, and pollution might trigger breakouts as well. Keep oil-free face wipes, such as Clearasil Rapid Rescue Deep Treatment Pads (Buy It, $6, target.com), on your night table for times you’re just too exhausted to wash before bed.

Clean your phone on the reg.

A 2017 study found that 93 percent of health-care workers’ phones and 58 percent of the general population’s phones contained germs, some of which are known to cause infections. And bacteria plus friction can make you break out. When your phone rubs against your jawline, it can irritate pores, creating inflammation, a cause of acne. Clean your phone with a disinfecting wipe a few times a week. (Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to clean your phone.) “Better yet, use an adapter or earpiece if you plan on chatting for a while,” suggests Francesca Fusco, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City.

Consider what hair products you’re using.

Acne along the hairline can pop up when heavy ingredients settle into the skin on your forehead. “Hair products are created to coat strands, so on your face they can clog pores and cause nasty breakouts,” says Ranella Hirsch, M.D., a dermatologist in Boston. Always rinse your face with the best acne face wash for adults mentioned above after washing out conditioner, and if you are breakout prone, apply a thin barrier of skin moisturizer along your forehead before styling your tresses.

Try to keep a steady weight.

Your family medical history can have a huge impact on your chances of being plagued with adult acne, but it’s not the only contributing factor, says Dr. Fusco. Losing or gaining weight can throw off your levels of hormones, like cortisol and androgen, triggering pimples. “When one hormone increases or decreases, other hormone levels will also change, leading to increased oil production,” she explains. (ICYMI, glycerin might be the secret to defeating dry skin.)

Ugh. You’re a grown woman—maybe even battling fine lines—and now. a pimple? Seriously? Adult acne is increasingly common, but some easy steps can be taken to nip these spots in the bud before they show up on your face.

Eat the right food.

And the bad news? A small study presented at the February 2011 meeting of the Academy of Dermatology found a correlation between the amount of chocolate that participants consumed (only men were studied, so as to minimize the role of hormonal influence) and the number of acne lesions they developed. (Get A Free Trial of Prevention + 12 Free Gifts.)

Keep your stress in check as much as possible.
Stress increases the inflammation that leads to adult acne breakouts, says Gil Yosipovitch, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University. If you do have a stress-related breakout, smooth your skin with a lotion containing skin-sloughing salicylic acid or bacteria-busting benzoyl peroxide, plus a noncomedogenic moisturizer so skin won’t get too dry. (Try this 5-minute technique that lowers your stress 55%.)

Use the right foundation.
To nix slick spots, try an oil-free, long-lasting liquid (it stays matte longer) or a cream-to-powder formula; both contain silica, a powderlike ingredient that sops up shine. (Check out these foundations that take years off your look.) If you’re pimple-prone, use a base with acne-fighting salicylic acid. Since oil and acne form mostly in your T-zone, use a foundation brush to apply; its tapered tip helps target hard-to-reach nooks. Pro picks: Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Foundation ($9, maybelline.com) or Almay Clear Complexion Blemish Healing Makeup ($8, ulta.com).

Don’t sleep with your makeup on.

Use a facial wash with salicylic acid.
“It gets into the pores and dislodges debris,” says Diane Berson, MD, an assistant professor of dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University and board member of the American Acne and Rosacea Society. Avoid gel cleansers (they can contain alcohol) and granulated scrubs, which strip the skin of oil, making it overcompensate and produce more.

Use the power duo.
If salicylic acid doesn’t work, try something that combines a retinoid with benzoyl peroxide. When researchers combined adapalene, a retinoid that reduces inflammation, with benzoyl peroxide, which kills the bacteria that cause acne, study participants’ acne improved on average by more than 50% in 12 weeks—about 15% better than with either ingredient alone. “This combination therapy targets three out of four causes of acne,” says Diane Thiboutot, MD, professor of dermatology at Penn State’s Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

You want your acne gone ASAP. Apart from the treatments you use to clear up your skin, you can also take action to help prevent future breakouts. Start by making these shifts in your lifestyle.

Tame Stress

“The most important thing you can do in terms of preventing or minimizing acne is to decrease stress in your life,” says dermatologist Ivy Lee, MD, of Pasadena Premier Dermatology in California.

The amount of oil (or sebum, as doctors call it) in your skin is “directly influenced by stress,” Lee says. The more stress (physical and emotional) that you feel, the higher the cortisol levels in the body and the more active the sebaceous glands in the skin.

“Anything you can do to decrease stress — by relaxing, being more mindful, focusing on wellness and exercising — all decrease levels of cortisol, lower stress, and reduce acne,” Lee says.

Get Quality Sleep

When you wake up in the morning, how do you feel? If the answer is anything other than rested, it’s time to take a look at what the problem is. Do you go to bed too late and get up too early? Or is the problem that your sleep isn’t restful?

If you don’t get good, restorative sleep, your body might not feel rested and could kick-start that cortisol surge, which could put you at risk for more acne.

The fix is simple, but not always easy: Make sleep a priority to give your body the rest it needs and your acne a chance to heal. And of course, you should always take all your makeup off before you go to bed.

Continued

Clean Up Before and After Exercise

Working out is a great way to handle stress. Just make sure you clean your skin before and after workouts so it doesn’t worsen body acne.

Take off all your makeup before you get started. Cleansing towelettes can make this easy. Look for wipes that say they’re oil-free and noncomedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores, Lee suggests. Or simply wash up with a gentle cleanser and rinse with lukewarm water.

While you work out, pat your skin with a towel if it gets too sweaty. Rubbing it could be irritating.

When you’re done, take a shower and change into dry, clean clothes ASAP. This helps prevent breakouts caused by oils in sweat that your clothes absorbed.

Wash Your Workout Gear

Lee recommends washing your workout clothes at least twice a week, depending on how hard your workouts are. “I see some patients who don’t want to damage their pricey workout garments so they launder them once every 2 weeks,” she says.
“That’s not hygienic and it’s not great for acne-prone skin.”

Lee prefers laundry detergents that are hypoallergenic, dye free, and fragrance free since they’re gentler on the skin.

If you wear a sweatband or headband when you exercise, clean that, too. “[If it’s dirty] it can lead to further acne along the hairline,” Lee says. Stash a few headbands in your gym bag and toss used ones in with your laundry. If you wear a hat while working out, wash that often as well.

Step Up Your Diet

There are no specific recommendations for dietary changes to help with acne because the evidence is still coming to fruition at this point, Lee says. “The emerging data only shows that foods with high glycemic index, like processed carbs and sweets, can be associated with acne,” Lee says.

Some research shows weak links between cow’s milk and acne, but it’s not a proven cause.

“I usually say that what’s good for theВ heart is good for skin as well,” Lee says. “You want a well-balanced, antioxidant-rich diet.” Avoid foods with empty calories and load up on fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy sources of protein to benefit your skin and the rest of your body.

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Clean Your Phone

You probably already know that touching your face often can lead to more breakouts. But when’s the last time you cleaned your cell phone or its case?

Even if you don’t make calls regularly, your fingers probably touch that dirty device all day long and then your face.

“Whether it’s your smartphone, office phone, or a headpiece for a smartphone, those can be colonized with bacteria and may be covered in oil just from your hands touching it,” Lee says.

Wipe your phone down with a slightly damp microfiber cloth daily. Check your phone maker’s recommendations for your specific device.

Slather on Sunscreen Daily

You need to protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) ray damage with a daily sunscreen.

“With acne, you want to normalize your skin, which is the main barrier between you and the outside world. Protecting that barrier involves moisturizing it and protecting it from the sun. Sunscreen is a very effective way to do that,” Lee says. She usually recommends that her patients look for an oil-free, noncomedogenic formula so it won’t worsen their acne.

Choose an SPF of 30 or higher that’s broad-spectrum, meaning it blocks UVA and UVB rays. A lot of these sunscreens also help moisturize skin so it doesn’t dry out. “When skin is too dry, your skin can sense it, and then it signals the body to create more oil . causing a negative spiral in terms of the oil production,” Lee says. Apply sunscreen daily in the morning and reapply throughout the day as needed.

Sources

Ivy Lee, MD, Pasadena Premier Dermatology, California.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America: “Physical Activity Reduces Stress.”

Cleveland Clinic: “23 Foods That Are Good For Your Skin.”

Sleep: “Sleep loss results in an elevation of cortisol levels the next evening.”

Consumer Reports: “How to Clean a Computer.”

Lancet: “Acne vulgaris.”

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology: “Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris.”

American Academy of Dermatology: “Is Your Workout Causing Your Acne?” “10 things to try when acne won’t clear,” “Adult Acne.”

The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology: “The Role of Skin Care as an Integral Component in the Management of Acne Vulgaris: Part 1: The Importance of Cleanser and Moisturizer Ingredients, Design, and Product Selection.”

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As far as pimples go, those deep, cystic acne flare-ups are probably the most traumatic. Aside from how much surface area those suckers tend to cover, the pain they cause makes them impossible to ignore. Press on one and it reverberates throughout your entire face. (That’s not an exaggeration.)

While pimples come in many shapes, sizes, and forms, cystic acne is considered to be the most severe type of acne, according to board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. It’s characterized by the development of “tender, inflammatory nodules underneath the skin.” Ouch.

Moreover, when it comes to treating these bad boys at home, your typical acne skin-care routine might not cut it. “Usually, people run to their dermatologist’s office for a quick cortisone injection to dry up those monsters within hours,” says Rachel Nazarian, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.

But what if you don’t have the time (or the money) to pop into your dermatologist’s office the moment you feel one coming on? Here are the next-best, at-home treatments, and advice from top dermatologists for getting rid of those under-the-surface cysts ASAP.

We know you’ve heard it before, but we’ll say it again: As satisfying as you think it might feel, do not try to pop your pimples — especially if they are cystic. “The hardest thing for me to communicate with my patients is that often, around age 20, women experience a major change in their acne,” New York City board-certified dermatologist Scott Dunbar has told Allure. “No longer are the zits the juicy whiteheads that explode with a satisfying pop. By the mid-20s and 30s, acne is made of deep pockets of white blood cells and these can’t be popped.”

Trying to pop them will not only be unsuccessful, but it will also make them worse.

The type of acne we’re talking about here is rooted deep beneath the skin, so you will usually be able to feel it starting to form. When you do, don’t panic. Instead, grab an ice cube and apply it to the area for several seconds. “Applying an ice cube directly to your pimple will constrict the small blood vessels that are feeding the cyst and will immediately decrease the redness and size,” Nazarian says.

This trick is especially helpful if you aren’t able to follow the next steps right away and you need something that will calm the oncoming redness and swelling before you cover it up with concealer and get on with your day.

“The best way to treat acne is to use different ingredients that work differently and complement each other,” Zeichner says. “That’s why I typically advise my patients to use both salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.”

To maximize the efficacy of both of these active ingredients in your skin-care routine, Zeichner recommends a salicylic acid cleanser, followed by an oil-free moisturizer, topped off with a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment.

“Think of your cleanser not as a true wash, but rather as a short-contact therapy,” Zeichner suggests. For this reason, he typically recommends that patients with cystic acne use cleansers that contain high concentrations of salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that helps remove excess oil, slough off dead skin cells, and dry out pimples.

Typically, salicylic acid concentrations range between 0.5 to two percent, and if you’re prone to cystic acne, Zeichner recommends looking for a cleanser that leans toward a higher concentration. A couple of great 1.5- to 2-percent salicylic acid-based cleansers include La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Acne Face Wash and Murad Clarifying Cleanser.

If your skin is both acne-prone and sensitive, higher concentrations of salicylic acid could be overdrying. In that case, cleansers that contain lower concentrations (0.5 to one percent) of the ingredient include the Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser and Burt’s Bees Natural Acne Solutions Purifying Gel Cleanser.

Zeichner says to apply the cleanser and let it sit while you sing the alphabet before rinsing it off. “The cleanser needs enough contact time with the skin for the active ingredients to exert their effects.”

Even if you’re prone to cystic acne, you should still use a facial moisturizer regularly in order to maintain a healthy skin barrier. After you’ve rinsed off your salicylic-acid face wash, follow up with an oil-free moisturizer such as Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel, Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture, or Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet.

Benzoyl peroxide works by lowering levels of acne-causing bacteria on the skin, thereby reducing inflammation, which is why Zeichner recommends using the ingredient as a spot treatment. Skin-care products come in 2.5, 5, and up to 10 percent concentrations of benzoyl peroxide, but you don’t necessarily have to max out on it. “Studies have shown that even low concentrations of benzoyl peroxide are as effective as higher concentrations, but are associated with less dryness of the skin,” he says.

Zeichner recommends looking for leave-on acne spot treatments with 2.5 percent benzoyl peroxide, such as Neutrogena Rapid Clear Stubborn Acne Daily Leave-On Mask or Paula’s Choice Clear Daily Skin Clearing Treatment.

Applying an over-the-counter, 1 percent hydrocortisone cream, which contains a low dose of topical steroids, can help reduce redness and calm inflammation. Try Aveeno’s 1% Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Cream or Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength Cream.

For the peskiest of cysts, combine a hydrocortisone cocktail as a leave-on spot treatment. Zeichner recommends a hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation, a 2 percent salicylic acid product to dry out excess oil (we like The Ordinary’s Salicylic Acid 2% Masque), and then benzoyl peroxide to kill acne-causing bacteria. “Put a drop of all three in the palm of your hand, mix them together, then apply.”

For those with skin that’s not sensitive or doesn’t get easily dried out, another combo option is to swap in a sulfur-spiked treatment in place of the salicylic acid. “The combination of these three over-the-counter products — a sulfur-containing mask (try Sunday Riley Saturn Sulfur Acne Treatment Mask), a benzoyl-peroxide cream (try Clearasil Daily Clear Acne Treatment Cream), and a mild cortisone salve — usually proves very effective when mixed and applied two to three times a day over the cyst for 7 to 10 days,” says board-certified dermatologist Leyda Bowes, the medical director at Bowes Aesthetics in Miami.

When your cystic acne persists despite your very best efforts, Nazarian recommends using makeup with a slight green tint to help mask redness and blend your pimple into your natural skin tone. Try Cover FX Correct Click Color Corrector or Urban Decay Naked Skin Color Correcting Fluid. Apply a thin layer over the cyst before reaching for your concealer and foundation.

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Why it happens and what you can do for it

This 25-year-old woman has had acne for years. Acne can be particularly frustrating for adults. A treatment that worked so well during our teen years can be useless or even make acne worse. If this happens, you may wonder whether those blemishes really are acne. After all, do adults get acne?

Reasons for adult acne

Yes, adults get acne. Some adults continue to get acne well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. It is even possible to get acne for the first time as an adult. Dermatologists call this “adult-onset acne.” It is most common among women going through menopause.

Women tend to get adult acne more often than men do. If you’re getting acne as an adult, it is likely due to one or more of the following reasons.

Fluctuating hormone levels: An imbalance can lead to breakouts.

Women often experience fluctuating hormones:

Around their periods

During pregnancy, peri-menopause, and menopause

After discontinuing (or starting) birth control pills

Stress: Researchers have found a relationship between stress and acne flare-ups. In response to stress, our bodies produce more androgens (a type of hormone). These hormones stimulate the oil glands and hair follicles in the skin, which can lead to acne. This explains why acne can be an ongoing problem when we find ourselves under constant stress.

Family history: Does a close blood relative, such as a parent, brother, or sister have acne? Findings from research studies suggest that some people may have a genetic predisposition for acne. People who have this predisposition be more likely to get adult acne.

Hair and skin care products: If you have adult acne, you should read the labels on your skin care and hair care products. Make sure that you see one of the following terms on every container:

Won’t clog pores

You want to make sure your moisturizer, cleanser, sunscreen, and all other products contain one of these terms. These products are least likely to cause acne.

Medication side effect: Acne is a side effect of some medicines. If you suspect that a medicine is triggering your acne or making it worse, continue taking the medicine, but talk with the doctor who prescribed it. Ask if acne is a possible side effect. If acne is a possible side effect, ask if you can take a different medicine. If you cannot take another medicine, you may want to see a dermatologist who can help you control the acne.

Undiagnosed medical condition: Sometimes, acne is a sign of an underlying medical condition. Once the medical condition is diagnosed and treated, the acne often clears.

Effective treatment available for adult acne

If nothing clears your acne, you should see a dermatologist. Effective treatment is available. Often a dermatologist will use two or more treatments. With a dermatologist’s help and a bit of patience, virtually every case of acne can be controlled.

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Acne is the most common skin condition in the United States. It can cause blackheads, whiteheads, and pus-filled spots.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 40-50 million Americans have acne at any one time.

Acne tends to start at puberty, and most people experience it during this time before it resolves itself in the late teens or early 20s. For some people, however, it can persist into their late 20s and even 30s.

Its severity can vary from just a few spots to larger clusters of affected areas. As well as on the back, acne can appear on the face, neck, and chest. If acne is left untreated, dark spots and permanent scars can appear on the skin as it clears.

Fast facts on back acne

• Oily skin, blackheads, whiteheads, red spots, yellow pus-filled pimples, and scars are all characteristic of acne on the back.
• People who are prone to acne have oil-producing glands that are particularly sensitive to some hormones.
• There are many treatments for acne including topical treatments and medication.
• When it comes to mild acne, continuing to use over-the-counter medications after the original problem has cleared up will help to avoid breakouts.

There are several treatment options available to help people get rid of acne on their back.

Topical creams

Share on Pinterest Back acne can affect anyone, and is the most common skin condition in the United States.

Most treatments involve applying topical medications directly to the skin. These are usually the first choice to treat cases of mild to moderate acne.

For people with just a few spots, over-the-counter medications will often deal with the problem. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a product that contains benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

A range of products are available for purchase online, including products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

People should apply the medication to the whole affected part of the back, not just the spots, usually once or twice a day. This kind of treatment will usually result in clear skin within 4-8 weeks.

Pills

A doctor or healthcare provider may prescribe oral medication if a person has severe acne, including acne cysts and nodules. Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to kill bacteria and reduce inflammation: sometimes, doctors will prescribe these alongside a topical medication. A person may need to take them for 2 to 6 months.
• Birth control pills and other medicines that impact hormones: these can reduce the amount of oil the skin produces but can take 3 to 4 months to take effect. This option, which interrupts ovulation, may not be suitable for young teenage girls.
• Isotretinoin: this is a powerful medication that can benefit people for up to 2 years after treatment. It does, however, have the potential to cause side effects – it can harm unborn babies, meaning it is not suitable for women who plan to get pregnant. Before prescribing isotretinoin, doctors may order blood tests and continue to monitor people while they use it.

With some medications, notably isotretinoin, there are also concerns that it can cause depression and suicidal feelings. Isotretinoin can also result in dry skin, particularly around the lips, so a lip moisturizer is recommended.

Also, isotretinoin may cause joint pain issues secondary to the drying and decreased lubrication of the joints.

Skin procedures

Laser and other light therapies can reduce the levels of p.acnes on the skin, but there is limited evidence to support the effectiveness of this approach. Dermatologists sometimes offer a chemical peel to treat blackheads and papules.

Drainage and extraction is a procedure to remove large acne cysts if they do not respond to medication. It will help ease the pain but will possibly leave a scar.