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There aren't many things that are worse than dealing with the acne you thought you'd left behind as a teenager. Unfortunately, adult acne is incredibly common and can have a variety of causes. In fact, nearly 80 percent of people will experience some form of adult acne in their lives.
The good news is that there are a lot of options for treating these breakouts. This post will cover a few of the easiest acne fixes to try before you spend time and money on a dermatologist appointment.
Low pH Face Wash
For some people, changing their face wash is enough to help deal with breakouts. Healthy skin has a pH in the 5.0-6.0 range. This means your skin is naturally slightly acidic, which helps to keep acne bacteria from flourishing.
However, most face washes, especially those marketed for acne treatment, have a pH that can be as high as 10.0. This will strip your face of all its natural protective oils and allow the "bad" bacteria to grow unchecked. Switching to a non-foaming or gentle face wash with a pH of 6.0 or lower will help keep your skin in peak acne-fighting condition.
Azealic Acid
Azealic acid, which is sometimes referred to as nonanedioic acid, is an amazing workhorse product for your skin. It is most often prescribed to rosacea sufferers, but it can be incredibly helpful for those suffering from adult acne as well.
Nonanedioic acid is a fantastic anti-inflammatory, which is why rosacea sufferers love it so much. However, it is also able to inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria. As if that wasn't enough, it can also specifically target the cells that line the hair follicles of your skin, which can prevent clogged pores and inflamed lesions.
It is generally considered one of the gentler acne treatments as well, so even those with sensitive skin may be able to use it.
Retinol
Retinol, or vitamin A, is best known for its anti-aging and antioxidant powers. It can also help adult acne as well. Retinol and its derivatives are great for keeping pores clear and treating existing acne breakouts. However, it's always best to start with low amounts of retinol due to its potential for drying or irritating your skin. N
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is another powerhouse ingredient that can do a lot for your skin. It is also sometimes referred to as vitamin B3, and you can find it in a broad range of skincare products. In addition to its ability to heal acne, it can help to increase skin elasticity, reduce redness, calm inflammation and prevent acne in its earliest stages.
Adult Acne is Treatable
Almost everyone will experience adult acne in the course of his or her life. While you may not be able to avoid it, you can use the products and ingredients listed above as a starting point to get it under control. Give each product at least 30 days to show results before adding another to keep your skin as healthy as possible, and don't be afraid to speak to a dermatologist for help.