Q I thought I would outgrow my acne problems after my teenage years but I am now in my late 20s and I still suffer from pimple outbreaks. What can I do to keep my problem skin under control and will I ever outgrow my pimples?
A Unfortunately, not everyone grows out of acne problems.
Teri Tay, the consulting skincare specialist for skincare brand Bioxil, says the primary cause of adult acne is stress, which increases the levels of hormones such as testosterone and cortisol.
This results in an increase of sebaceous gland activity and oil production, which makes your skin prime breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria.
Other possible triggers include genetics, hormone fluctuations as well as cosmetics containing skin irritants and environmental pollution such as dust and smoke.
For an over-the-counter treatment of acne, Dr Eileen Tan of Eileen Tan Skin, Laser and Hair Transplant Clinic at Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre suggests using pimple creams that contain benzoxyl peroxide.
If your condition does not improve after one to two months, her advice is to visit a doctor or dermatologist.
A doctor can prescribe retinol or tretinoin, a component of vitamin A, which is scientifically proven for its ability to improve the appearance of skin.
It is mostly used to treat acne, improve scars, decrease fine lines, even out rough spots and bring back the natural colour and tone to the skin.
Unfortunately, as adult skin has a slower rate of cell repair compared to teenage skin, the healing process for acne may take a longer time.
So your first line of defence is a basic skincare regimen to keep your skin clean and bacteria-free.
Choose a regimen that fits your skin type. Bioxil's Protective Daily Essentials range ($59 to $88, left), for instance, has products tailored for normal, dry and oily skin.
Popular Japanese drugstore brand DHC, available at Watsons, has just launched its Acne Series range of products which includes a face wash ($29.50), toner ($29.50), milky moisturiser ($29.50) and spot treatment ($20.90).
This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.
