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How To Get Rid Of Adult Acne

Despite common the misconception that only teenagers suffer from acne, adults of all ages can also get frustrating acne and breakouts. Adult and teen acne are similar in that they both are caused by a buildup of sebum oil. Produced from sebaceous glands just below the surface of the skin, this oil can become entangled with dead skin cells, resulting in a heavy paste-like substance that can cause a blockage for hair follicles. From blocked hair follicles spring blackheads, whiteheads and all of the above.

Some causes for excess sebum oil are hormonal changes - such as menopause or the menstrual cycle for women, or a buildup of testosterone mainly in men, not enough cleansing, or frequent consumption of greasy foods. Other adult acne causes can be the result of medication side effects, bacterial infections, reactions from makeup, or even just stress.

Home Remedies for Adult Acne

One way to get rid of adult acne using a home remedy is to try lathering the affected area of skin with an oatmeal and honey paste. The 2 foods work hand in hand; while the oatmeal absorbs an overabundance of oil, the honey is equipped with antiseptic properties to help cleanse the area. By applying this twice every week, you may be able to reduce breakouts. To try this treatment yourself, cook 1/2 cup of oatmeal, then combine it with 1/8 cup of honey. After allowing the mixture to cool, apply it to the affected region of skin for about 15 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water.

Another home remedy is tea tree oil, a natural antifungal and antiseptic that may decrease the number of breakouts as well as the severity of them. The Mayo Clinic reports that 5 percent of tea tree oil may be used to aid in the fight against mild to possibly even moderate cases of acne. Make sure to stay away from tea tree oil that is undiluted as this can increase inflammation. You can use this home treatment by taking a cotton swab and applying it to the acne before bed.

Best Treatment for Adult Acne

Oral supplements may be given to calm down restless or fluctuating hormones, particularly in women. Alternatively, purchasing commercial treatments over-the-counter (OTC) can also help to get rid of adult acne. These can be certain creams and washes to clear your pores up. Despite many of these products being aimed toward teenagers, they work for adult acne just as effectively. You're probably going to want a medication with either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in it. These are the 2 most common ingredients found in over-the-counter products that can help to get rid of adult acne. Be sure to give each product you try at least 2 months to show some results as treatment will be slow.

If over-the-counter medications don't show improvement by 8 or so weeks, you can obtain some of the best treatments for adult acne by visiting a dermatologist. A dermatologist will probably prescribe you with a medication, such as retinoid, which is used to clear up your pores, or he or she may supply you with an antimicrobial to fight any bacteria beneath your skin.