Overview

Acne is often associated with teenagers; however, this condition can also affect adults, especially women. Most adult acne is considered hormonal. Proper skin care for adults with acne-prone skin can help minimize the risk of an acne flare-up. It can also help treat a current flare-up and prevent acne-related scarring.

Step 1

Keep the acne-prone area clean. The Mayo Clinic recommends washing acne-prone areas no more than twice per day using a gentle cleanser. Ideally, one of the times you wash your face should be just before you go to bed.

Step 2

Resist the urge to pick at the acne. Squeezing the zits can increase the risk of scarring and may introduce an infection into the area.

Step 3

Treat the acne using products containing benzoyl peroxide or salicyclic acid following the package directions. Treatment must usually last four to eight weeks, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Step 4

Apply only non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic products to your face. Cosmetics, sunscreens and moisturizers that aren't labeled with one of these terms may clog pores and make acne worse.

Step 5

Visit a dermatologist if your acne is persistent or severe. You may need prescription acne medications, antibiotics or laser treatments to treat and control the acne.