Many factors can come into play to cause adult acne, including of course hormones, but also stress, use of cosmetics and an increase in resistant bacteria. Many adult women also notice premenstrual or menstrual flare-ups on the face, often around the mouth.

Acne is a disorder of keratinization, or faulty development of the cells lining the sebaceous gland. The cell walls are sticky, binding together and plugging the gland rather than easily exfoliating themselves onto the surface. Meanwhile, the sebaceous glands continue to secrete sebum (oil), which clogs pores even further. Acne-causing P. acnes bacteria that live on the skin thrive and flourish in this environment, causing irritation in the gland. This persistent plugging, excessive oil build-up and irritation cause the gland to rupture, manifesting in inflamed acne papules or cysts – more commonly known as pimples, or zits.
Interrupting this cycle at various points will help clear acne, but acne therapy is a long-term process and can take up to 6-8 weeks for considerable improvement to show, so don’t expect a “quick fix” for more serious, ongoing acne issues.

A longer-term strategy should include regimens that focus on killing the bacteria, reducing unnecessary oils, unplugging the pores and reducing irritation. Start a regimen that includes multiple products aimed at those issues, from cleansers to moisturizers and serums and try to select a line designed for adult skin.

If you have sensitive skin, a great solution is DERMAdoctor’s Ain’t Misbehavin’ line. Ain’t Misbehavin’ aha/bha acne cleanser is formulated in a soap-free, pH balanced, creamy base to dissolve and exfoliate pore-plugging debris, curb bacteria growth and help control oil production, offering medically effective treatment in a base specially formulated to be gentle to the skin.

Ain’t Misbehavin’ medicated acne control serum targets all five points of blemish development, disrupting acne’s formation by exfoliating pore plugging debris. This formulation is bolstered by botanicals thought to curb bacterial proliferation, calm irritation and hormonal influences. For additional acne-fighting power, use the Ain’t Misbehavin’ sulfur acne mask up to three times per week.

This amazing mask is combined with sulfur, a blemish causing bacteria killer and exfoliation aid, and phytosphingosine, the newest ingredient used in acne-fighting therapy.

Acne on the body in places such as the back, arms or legs can be just as concerning as acne on the face, where it seems more common. Fighting it requires the same basic methods as dealing with facial acne.

Living a totally acne-free life is next to impossible for pretty much anyone – but with these tips and tools, you can reduce breakouts and the appearance of blemishes as quickly and painlessly as possible so you can focus on more important things with confidence.

Amy Burger
DERMAdoctor Staff Writer

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