It seems odd to me there is an Acne Awareness month because when you have acne, you are aware. Well aware. Yet, June is Acne Awareness month and while you might think this month is dedicated to teens with acne, there are adults who have everything from the occasional pimple, to flare ups to chronic acne. It’s God’s cruel joke that one can be plagued with acne flare ups and wrinkles at the same time! Adult acne is just horrifying, let’s face it.
Here are our top 8 adult acne products that help all sorts of breakout problems:
1. Kate Somerville ‘EradiKate’ Acne Treatment, $24
I love this product so much, you can find it in my bathroom cabinet within reach at ALL times! A soon as I see or feel a pimple I dab a bit of EradiKate directly on it with a Q-Tip and POOF! it’s gone (OK within a day or two). This exclusive formula contains the highest level of sulfur allowed (10%) in order to calm acne flare ups and keep skin free of further bacteria buildup. Zinc oxide also helps aid in the healing process.
2. NeoStrata Oily Skin Solution, $32
I keep one of these in my makeup bag at all times. You never know when a zit will suddenly appear! This advanced formula instantly delivers an extra dose of micro-crystal benzoyl peroxide to your most stubborn blemishes. It’s invisible, oil-free and fortified with soothing botanical ingredients to help moisturize and calm irritated skin. It is also easily hidden under concealer.
4. Murad Acne & Wrinkle Reducer, $58
This dual-function formula reduces acne while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Murad’s proprietary Kombucha Collagen Defense stimulates collagen production revealing a healthier complexion. Meanwhile encapsulated salicylic acid and silver citrate help neutralize acne-causing bacteria while penetrating deep to keep skin clean and clear. With the help of retinol, optimal collagen levels are restored, skin regains a healthy resilience, fullness and has an improved barrier function strength. So future breakouts are minimized.
5. EVE LOM ‘Dynaspot’ Treatment, $34
If you find most acne spot treatments too drying or irritating, Dynaspot is for you. This advanced formula is comprised of naturally antiseptic tea tree oil, soothing fennel and chamomile as well as a carefully balanced amount of salicylic acid to eliminate “spots” quickly without over-drying the skin. Zinc oxide and yarrow to help control sebum production. Developed after years of research, this fast-healing formula can be applied under or over makeup and as often as needed.
6. Murad Acne Treatment Concealer, $18
I love a concealer that simultaneously fights the little bugger! Murad’s Acne Concealer provides easy blending blemish coverage with a highly effective acne-fighting formula. Salicylic acid clears active breakouts and prevents new ones from forming, vitamin A regulates sebum production, and vitamin C, vitamin E and green tea extract provide powerful antioxidant protection. Done and done!
7. SkinCeuticals Blemish and Age Defense, $88
The name kinda says it all. This new product by SkinCeuticals is a dual-performing serum to help treat adult acne and the signs of aging. A combination of 2% dioic acid with alpha and beta hydroxy acids prevent blemishes while diminishing hyperpigmentation and reducing wrinkles and fine lines. This targeted treatment also inhibits an excess of sebum production, unclogs pores and helps prevent skin darkening from UV exposure. Apply to clean skin and cover the entire affected area with a thin layer in the morning and evening. This “serum” really packs a punch!
8. CLINIQUE Acne Solutions BB Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 40, $37
Leave it to Clinique to make a BB cream that makes life easier! This all-in-one skin perfector is a multitasking SPF cream for oily and acne-prone skins! It features high-level UVA/UVB protection (SPF 40), moderate coverage and oil-control in an ultra-lightweight, non-greasy formula that also hydrates the skin. The non-greasy texture eliminates shine throughout the day and does not cause breakouts. It’s available in 5 shades and mattifies skin and reduces the look of pores without leaving it feeling dry or uncomfortable. Better yet, it’s long-lasting (for up to 12 hours) for a super smooth, beautiful finish. Brilliant! If you have problematic skin I highly recommend this as your summer foundation.
– Lauren Dimet Waters
