Top 5 treatments for adult acne
“My ability to turn good news into anxiety is rivaled only by my ability to turn anxiety into chin acne.” –Tina Fey
Blemishes, zits, pimples --whatever you like to call these lovely skin surprises-- are not fun to deal with. Like going to the DMV or getting stuck in line at Starbucks, acne is a fact of life. This is why we have created a short and sweet list of our top five picks for acne treatments.
#5 Lasers and IPL
There are a variety of lasers and IPL’s (intense pulse light therapy) used by med spas and dermatologists to help destroy bacteria. They do this by using a combination of light and heat. Picture someone snapping a rubber band on your face and that's basically what it feels like. No pain no gain, right? The major appeal to this treatment is that you are killing the bacteria that you can't get to by washing alone. This is an easy treatment...just stay out of the sun for a few days after treatment.
#4 Microdermabrasion
Short on time? Microdermabrasion may be the best option for you. It is a fast, easy, and generally painless process. Doctors and estheticians use an instrument that either sprays tiny crystals onto you face or diamonds, which remove clogged pores and exfoliate the skin. This process makes way for smoother, softer skin. Skin may become pink after treatment but will usually fully recover within 24 hours.
#3 Watch your diet
There are many foods that can irritate your skin and result in flushing. Ever been embarrassed and your face turns bright red? Same thing. This inflammation can aggravate acne like no other! I know we all love to come home after a long day at work to a cocktail or a glass of wine, but unfortunately, alcohol is one of those things to avoid if you want to clear up your acne. Not to be a buzzkill, but alcohol can cause inflammation which leads to breakouts. Caffeine is another acne-causing culprit on this list. This means chocolate and coffee (aren’t these food groups?) need to be consumed in small amounts. Lame, I know. Easy tip: try carrying around a water bottle with you during the day so you can stay hydrated and help keep your skin clear of breakouts.
#2 Stay out of the sun
I thought the sun can help destroy bacteria on my skin? The answer yes and no. It’s true that UV rays can destroy bacteria. But when you are in the sun, even for short periods of time, your body produces more oil in order to make up for dry conditions on your skin. More oil equals more acne, and nobody wants that. You can thank mother nature for that sneaky little trick.
#1 Salicylic & Glycolic Acid Cleansers
These two cleansers are excellent at pulling out dirt, oil, and bacteria off of your face. These cleansers have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties which is a must-have in your skincare arsenal in the fight against acne. It is best to use a medical grade skincare line as potency and fillers can be an issue at the department store.
To clear skin,
Team Reflect
We can also help create a personalized skin care program for you. Take our skin care quiz and find out the best fit for you!