A common misconception is that acne only affects teenagers. But more than ever before, adults are suffering with oily and acneic skin conditions. Clinical studies indicate that between 40 and 55 percent of the adult population in the 20-40 age group are diagnosed with a low grade, persistent acne and oily skin. According to the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology, 54% of women older than age 25 have some facial acne, which is most likely attributed to hormonal fluctuations that trigger excess sebum resulting in acne.
Acne arising in adulthood is more likely to be inflammatory, with fewer comedones than teenage acne, and with lesions predominantly located around
the mouth, chin and jaw line. Likewise, adults often have sensitized skin, or a combination of skin conditions in addition to their acne, which makes treatment more challenging than treatment of teens who generally have a more resilient, uniform oily skin condition.
In addition, adult cases of acne are often more persistent than teenage acne,
What can be done to help treat, clear and prevent adult acne?
In order to control acne, we must interrupt the degeneration of the follicle by affecting the four main contributing factors. The International Dermal Institute has researched several new ingredients that are extremely effective in controlling acne.
By inhibiting the activity of overactive sebaceous glands, we not only eliminate the food source for the bacteria, but we also eliminate oily shine and create a more esthetically-pleasing appearance for the client.
To control cell accumulation we need to stimulate natural exfoliation superficially as well as in the follicle lining. By exfoliating to remove surface cells that have not been shed, we can help eliminate the impaction of follicles which triggers the early stages of comedone formation.
By controlling bacteria on the skin’s surface and in the follicle, and the lipase activity?
we can control the source of fatty acids that contribute to irritation.
To help keep inflammation caused by adult acne under control, we must consider the application of topical anti- inflammatory repair agents, botanicals and humectants to help the healing process and soothe inflamed skin.
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