Although acne is most common in teenagers and adolescents, affecting around 85% of this age group, adults can also struggle with this troublesome ailment. From blackheads to pimples to cystic acne, some people suffer from spots throughout their entire lives.
Thankfully, if you are one of the afflicted, there have never been more skincare products that are designed to banish blemishes and leave you with a clean and clear complexion.
Read on to discover everything you need to look out for in acne skincare, with options for all skin types and age groups.
Salicylic acid
If you have acne-prone skin, you need to make sure you are cleansing your complexion twice a day. Ideally, you should use a cleanser that contains salicylic acid as this ingredient can penetrate deep into your pores and help to reduce blackheads and breakouts.
Avoid over-cleansing, even if your skin is looking greasy, as this strips the skin of sebum and encourages the production of even more oils.
Hyaluronic acid
A hyaluronic acid serum should ideally be applied after cleansing and works hard to lock moisture into the skin. This is a good skincare ingredient for anyone with blemished skin, not just those who also suffer from a dry complexion.
Hyaluronic acid makes your skin appear smoother and more plumped up, as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide is a naturally occurring B3 vitamin that helps to reduce excess oil on the skin, making it the ideal choice for anyone who suffers from acne. It has antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce future breakouts and the risk of infection.
It also helps to control redness and even out skin tone, ensuring a brighter complexion for the long haul.
Choosing the right acne product for your skin
When it comes to acne skincare, there are so many products on the market, which can make the selection process more than a little overwhelming. Here are some general guidelines for choosing non-prescription acne products that you may find useful:
- Start with lower-strength products. If you are new to using skincare products that are specifically designed to treat acne, you should always start with low-strength creams and serums. This will allow your skin to gradually get used to a new ingredient and prevent any unwanted side effects or allergic reactions.
- Use more than one product. For those with stubborn spots that won’t go away, it can be beneficial to apply more than one acne product. For example, one active ingredient in the morning and a different one before bed.
- Try different formulations. Skincare products are available in many different formulations such as creams, serums, gels, and ointments, so take the time to find out which ones work best for your skin.
Be patient. If you are expecting instant results from an acne skincare product, you are setting yourself up for disappointment. Nearly all skincare products take time to work their magic, some up to 3 months, so try to be patient.
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