Struggling with acne? These skincare tips are dermatologist-approved.
You're not a teenager anymore. So why are you still getting pimples?
Not to worry: Acne is completely normal at any age, dermatologists stress. And it's extremely common — acne is the most common skin condition in the United States and affects upwards of 50 million Americans every year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD).
"Please know that acne is very normal and it's not your fault, and you are in excellent company — about 90% of people struggle with acne at some point in their life, and this includes celebrities," says board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, M.D. "Acne, unfortunately, is normal and largely out of our control and it does not define who we are."
Here's what dermatologists want you to know about dealing with acne flare-ups.
What triggers acne the most?
Stress, diet, not getting enough sleep or using oily makeup, skincare or haircare products may worsen existing acne, per the AAD.
But the primary causes of acne are genetics and hormones, experts say. That can be both reassuring and frustrating — it may not be your fault that pimples are popping up, but there's also only so much you can do about it before getting help from a professional.
"Even if you are doing everything right from a diet and lifestyle perspective, you may still have to deal with acne," King says.
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How to prevent acne
Stress management and cutting out foods that may trigger acne may help, experts say. As can a regular skincare routine and certain medications or prescriptions, if needed.
Gently cleansing your skin twice a day, protecting your skin from the sun, regularly washing your hair and avoiding touching your face are some of the best practices to manage acne, according to the AAD.
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If you're already doing all that, King recommends looking into a handful of over-the-counter products to aid in your skincare routine:
- A topical retinoid, which helps to prevent and unclog blocked pores. "They also decrease the discoloration that can be left after a pimple, and because they increase the turnover of skin cells, this reduces the healing time for acne," King says.
- Salicylic acid, which exfoliates the skin's surface and helps to remove oil from pores. "This is a great ingredient for people with oily and acne-prone skin, and particularly for treating and preventing ... blackheads and whiteheads," King says.
- Benzoyl peroxide, which is a topical antiseptic that reduces the amount of bacteria on the skin. "It not only kills bacteria that contribute to acne, but also helps to prevent and clear out clogged pores," King says. Those with sensitive skin should opt for treatments labeled "micronized" to avoid irritation, she adds.
If acne issues persist, King recommends seeing a licensed dermatologist who may be able to prescribe other options.