Acne Treatment for Adults

It may seem anticlimactic, but acne treatment for adults is a very real need. While many teenagers complain about pimples, it is a well-documented fact that many adults are battling the same problems. Approximately 25% of men and 50% of women have this problem, and the trend is increasing as the years go by.

What causes adult acne?

The root cause of acne is excess oil and clogged pores. There is also evidence that adult acne may be linked to a substantial change in hormone production during menopause or pregnancy. Certain infections may also cause this condition. Many acne remedies target some or all of these causes, making treatment simpler.

Effective acne treatment

Many acne solutions on the market today are aimed at teenagers because they are the biggest market for such products. An increasing number of adults who suffer from this condition, though, are using many of the same treatments.

Effective adult acne treatment includes the use of benzoyl peroxide, which targets pimple-causing bacteria and helps the skin to dry and peel, thus replacing it with fresh new skin cells. This is also used by teenagers, but it must be used moderately by adults because of its skin-drying properties. Other substances for acne care include azelaic acid cream, which is a natural topical cream aimed at soothing inflammation and reducing bacteria; topical antibiotics, which further lessens bacteria; and alpha-hydroxy acids, which can help in cleaning up clogged pores.

Last resort treatments

Sometimes acne gets too severe for mild topical creams or antibiotics to handle. For those who are afflicted most severely, one of the most effective acne products is isotretinoin, which is used to treat severe cystic acne. However, it is not without its risks. Aside from some side effects, it can also cause birth defects. Pregnant women are strongly advised against taking this medication, and women who plan to take it should use adequate birth control. Indeed, the warning is so strong that it can only be taken when all other means of acne treatment have been exhausted.

Acne certainly does not only affect teenagers. Adults are also affected to a higher degree because of the advanced condition of their skin. However, effective treatment is available, and it is a very manageable condition. With these acne treatments, adult acne sufferers can say goodbye to their pimples.