Spotty complexions should be exclusive to the teenage years, but adult acne is on the rise and it's frustratingly hard to treat, especially without drying and ageing the skin. We asked Dermalogica's Leanne Windsor about the causes and how to control it.
"Most adult acne seems to be low-grade, persistent and oily in nature," she says. "The catalyst is often chronic stress, which throws adrenal glands and hormones into overdrive and boosts sebum-production. A build-up of dead skin cells, bacteria and inflammation are also contributing factors, plus adults often have sensitised skin, which makes treatment challenging. To effectively treat acne you need to focus on ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree, green tea, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Cleanse skin with an oil-free cleanser twice a day, use a lightweight moisturiser that won't clog pores and to treat problem areas, a hydrating gel that doesn't sensitise the skin."
1. Dermalogica Clearing Skin Wash, $63
2. Murad Anti Aging Moisturizer SPF20 for blemish prone skin, $102
