Adult Acne Treatment Options

Acne is an annoyance, a frustration, and a skin disease with no certain cause or solution. What serves as a cause and works as a treatment for one person may not work for another. Taking it a step further, what works in your teens may not work if acne returns in adulthood. Skin, like so many other parts of our internal and external being, changes during our lifetime, which is why many people begin to suffer from acne later in life. When considering adult acne treatment, the first course of action is dependent on a willingness to experiment with potential treatments.

Comparing Adult Acne Treatment Methods

The first thing you want to identify in treating adult acne is the severity of the breakouts, and the type of acne involved. Are they the annoying white-heads, large blackheads or the stubborn cystic acne which often make it painful to use facial expressions or even smile? Taking into account acne type, and considering the variable of breakout frequency, makes it easier to move in an effective direction.

For starters, there is nothing wrong with seeking a dermatologist for an evaluation and suggestion. You may find that they suggest a simple over the counter remedy, or they may be able to identify something else causing acne that can be addressed through a combination of treatments or a diet and lifestyle change.

Over the Counter Adult Acne Medications

One of the most popular and best selling over the counter acne medications is Proactiv. Developed by dermatologists, the Proactiv skincare regimen possesses an impressive list of success stories, many people trusting their continued skincare to the product. Designed to treat acne at the root, the three step system exfoliates the skin, cleanses the new skin and pores and targets acne development at the root – the hair follicle.

Other medications include topical ointments and spot treatments found in retail stores. While the products use a combination of different working ingredients. Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and varieties of sulfur and resorcinol are all quite effective in treating mild to moderate adult acne.

Prescription Medication and Advanced Acne Treatments

When you suffer from adult acne, patience is one of the first things to be thrown out the window. It’s not enjoyable going to work, going out afterwards or trying to meet people when you’re suffering from a skin disorder that is most commonly associated with adolescence. Fortunately, as time continuously flies, specialists are able to more quickly identify potential acne treatments for specific adult acne cases. Doctors will prescribe an oral medication such as erythromycin or tetracyline to use in conjunction with a topical medication. However, treatment with antibiotics isn’t something that should be viewed as permanent.

Laser Treatment for Severe Adult Acne

In the most severe adult acne cases, many medical professionals have begun to use lasers and light therapy to “overhaul” the skin. Different light and laser therapies will help to shrink the sebaceous gland, ultimately decreasing the amount of oil production, the cause of all problem acne.