Adult Acne Treatments

Acne is a skin condition that can occur at any age. It is very common and most people suffer with it at one time or another. For general use, adult acne treatments will be largely similar to any other treatment or product.

Acne occurs in the tiny ducts of hair follicles that cover the face and body. At the bottom of each hair follicle is a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum, an oil for the skin. Dead skin cells from under the surface exit through this follicle. Sometimes extra skin cells accumulate under the skin and combine with extra sebum to form blockages in these pores, which ultimately results in acne. The condition takes the form of skin lesions, often called pimples. They can produce bacteria under the skin making a small pus sac that eventually ruptures.

There are many acne treatments available. You may need to try several until you find one that works best for your acne. There are acne washes, lotions, creams, ointments and gels. While many products are available over the counter, more severe acne may need to be treated by a dermatologist.

Over-the-counter treatments are usually effective for mild acne. The main ingredient in many of these products is benzoyl peroxide. This works by killing the bacteria associated with acne. Benzoyl peroxide products come in various strengths ranging from 2.5% to 10% solution. The mildest products are best for the face because they are very drying and can cause skin irritation.

Products that contain salicylic acid reduce acne by helping to loosen clogged pores to prevent pimples from forming. It also helps to normalize the shedding of dead skin cells that cause the clogging. Salicylic acid does not kill bacteria. Side effects can include skin dryness and peeling. Once you stop using the product the acne is likely to return because the pores can once again become clogged.

If your acne is severe or does not respond to treatments, a dermatologist can help. He can provide stronger topical treatments or prescribe oral medications to get rid of your acne. Often the recommended course combines two treatments. Oral medications can reduce inflammation, shrink the sebaceous glands and reduce the amount of sebum produced. As an adult it may be difficult to discuss acne with anyone. However, be assured that dermatologists treat many adult patients for acne with great success.

Retinoids are a type of topical medication that is available by prescription. It can actually work under the skin to speed up shedding of dead cells, which will loosen clogged pores and prevent buildup. It also fades red marks that are left after acne is gone. When using retinoids your skin may become extra dry and sensitive. Talk to your dermatologist if this occurs.

Oral antibiotics may prove useful to get severe acne under control. They kill the bacteria that are associated with acne. Because they work from within the body there are more possible side effects. Check with your doctor before deciding on this course of treatment.

For stubborn or severe acne your dermatologist may prescribe Accutane. This is an oral retinoid that shrinks the oil glands to reduce the oil produced, improves the shedding of dead skin cells and kills bacteria. This is a strong adult acne treatment and a medication that has side effects. However, Accutane works rather quickly and you usually only need to be on it for less than six months.