There are more than a few of us out there who know first hand that acne is not just something teenagers suffer from. Adult Acne is more common that you may believe but it can be treated. We’ve gone to the experts for some basic advice on treating adult acne and have tried and tested some of the best products currently on the market so you can be on your way to blemish free skin.
Rescu. Expert:
A recent survey commissioned by Proactiv saw 86 per cent of respondents admit to having pimples and 25 per cent said their skin was their biggest concern when looking into the mirror. Worryingly, two per cent find this concern keeps them awake at night, 18 per cent said a pimple would cause them to feel embarrassed speaking in front or others and one in ten would go so far as to rearrange social engagements if they found a pimple on their face. These interesting statistics make it painfully clear just how big a problem acne is so, if you’re suffering from adult acne there’s no need to feel alone! There’s also no need to feel helpless because we’re here to Rescu. you from the traps of acne.
We asked Dermatologist Dr Katie Rodan, who along with Dr Kathy Fields created Proactiv for their patients, to tell us what exactly acne is and how to prevent it.
- Acne and pimples begin deep inside the skin
- Oil is released in the skin and then combines with dead cells to form a plug, like a cork in a bottle, causing the oil to back up
- The bacteria that live on the skin naturally begin to grow, and you end up with a clogged, angry pore
- You need to find a formula that prevents blemishes appearing in the first place rather than fixing ones that already exist.
- The best cure is prevention!
Rescu. Recommends:
The Re-invented Classic
NEW proactive 3 Step System
Proactiv have a new formula that is gentler and faster acting than it once was. Despite hearing so many stories of the wonders of Proactiv, we had also heard stories of the products bleaching towels and pillows or drying out skin. This is no longer the case. After using the three-step proactive system on very blemish prone skin, we were receiving more compliments on how clear and healthy our skin looked than ever before. We even found acne scarring reduced.
The magic ingredient in this one is microcrystal benzoyl peroxide. It targets oil production and dead skin cell build up to stop blemishes in their tracks.
Available from Proactiv stores, online at www.newproactiv.com.au or via phone 1300 664 011($29.95)
The Daily Wash
Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit
If your skin needs a real pick-me-up this daily cleanser might just do the trick. Uplifting grapefruit ensures your skin stays fresh andbright throughout the day while the microclear technology helps to cleanse deeply and eliminate spots and blackheads. We love the fresh scent and it leaves our skin glowing!
Available from leading supermarkets, variety stores and pharmacies ($14.99)
The Multi-Tasker
Garnier Pure 3-in-1 Wash, Scrub and Mask
If you want one product to cover all your skin care needs, Garnier have the answer. This clever wash can be used as a gentle wash, a scrub and a mattifying mask. Containing zinc to regulate skin tone, eucalyptus to soothe and clay to tighten pores and purify the skin, Garnier’s 3-in-1 is a great choice for mild acne sufferers who want a simple and effective solution.
Available from pharmacies, department stores, variety stores and supermarkets ($11.75)
The Foundation
Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Liquid Makeup
A make-up that’s actually good for blemish prone skin sounds like the thing of dreams are made of but, thanks to Clinique, it is a realityt. This foundation is designed to minimise sebum production in the skin without depleting the skin’s moisture balance. It also contains salicylic acid to exfoliate, caffeine to minimise irritation and other agents to help control the spread of oil and blemish causing agents.
Offered in eight shades to provide moderate coverage, camouflage blemishes, neutralize redness and conceal pores.
Available from David Jones, Myer, Terry White and selected independent pharmacies or online at www.clinique.com.au ($49.00)
The While-You-Sleep Remedy
Dr Lewinn’s Medic Oil Control Night Lotion
There’s nothing worse than waking up to a pimple. This light-as-air lotion is completely oil free and works while you sleep to soothe and calm irritation caused by breakouts so those nasty overnight pimples will be a thing of the past. Salicylic Acid helps to prevent future breakouts while Canadian Willowherb and Tea Tree fight against acne-causing bacteria.
Available from Priceline, Myer and David Jones ($34.95)
The Moisturiser
Shiseido Pureness Mattifying Moisturiser
Just because your skin is oily, doesn’t mean it won’t benefit from a moisturiser. Great skin is all about getting the right balance and you certainly don’t want to dry your skin out. Shiseido’s oil-free formula is ideal for blemish prone skin. It protects the skin’s natural moisture while absorbing oil to create the perfect balance.
Available from David Jones, Myer and selected pharmacies ($61.00)
The Take Anywhere Wipes
Bioré Daily Deep Pore Cleansing Wipes
Bioré’s Cleansing Wipes are a great product to throw in your gym back for a quick pre and post workout cleanse or for those mornings you don’t have the time to really cleanse your face. Using a gentle exfoliating action that cleans deep down, these wipes will remove oil, dirt and make-up from your skin instantly. And at such a tiny price, there’s no excuse for neglecting to cleanse!
Available from David Jones, Priceline, Target, Kmart, Big W, supermarkets and pharmacies ($8.99).