1) Make sure that everything you put on your face —moisturizer, sunscreen, makeup — is noncomedogenic, meaning that it won’t clog your pores. If a product does not specifically have the word “noncomedogenic”on the label, do not buy it.

2) Since gentle but thorough cleansing is essential, it’s a good idea to invest in a sonic cleansing machine and use it once a day. It doesn’t have to be the most expensive machine available, and drugstores now sell relatively inexpensive versions. Some machines have special brushes for acne or delicate skin, which are gentle on adult skin.

3) Look for products that contain salicylic acid, because it is highly effective at unclogging pores and reducing breakouts. People with very sensitive skin might want to use a 0.5 % salicylic acid product, but for most adults, 2% will yield the best results. Use these products every night; do not use during the day, even under sunscreen, because salicylic acid can increase sun sensitivity. Products with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) will also work.

4) Those at-home microdermabrasion systems sold in beauty stores provide more exfoliation than salicylic acid and AHAs. Don’t do microdermabrasion at home more than once a week, or you risk irritating the skin.

5) If your skin is oily, you can use a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide product over areas prone to breakouts. Don’t just dot it on the pimple — use in on the whole area to kill bacteria. 

6) Consider light therapy, either at your dermatologist’soffice or with machines intended for home use. They’re not as powerful as the ones dermatologists use, but they do work.

7) Mild adult acne is easily treated with over-the-counter products. But people who scar easily or who have pimples that look like angry red cysts should to go to a doctor immediately.

8) Consistency is the key to having a clear complexion, even if you have adult acne. Daily treatment will lead to significant improvement, but if you stop treatment or do it only sporadically, acne will come back with a vengeance.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...This answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.