Treating Post-Teenage Acne

Q: I'm too old to be breaking out -- help!

A: Unfortunately, you're never too old to get acne. In fact, many women who never had a pimple in adolescence start to break out in their 20s and 30s. There are many reasons women break out later in life, but usually it's caused by a combination of hormones and stress. If you've got a serious problem, consult a dermatologist. Otherwise the best way to get rid of acne is to take care of your skin. Try this three-step approach:

Step 1: Cleanse your face morning and night. You must always remove your makeup before you drop into bed. All skin types can use a gentle cleanser morning and night to clean your pores without drying out your skin. Try: Cetaphil.

Step 2: Try a treatment product. Use an acne treatment that targets inflammations while exfoliating skin to prevent future eruptions. Try: Neutrogena Multi-Vitamin Acne Treatment. Also, use a deep-cleansing mask once a week to rid your skin of impurities and dead skin cells that may be clogging pores. Try: Origins Clear Improvement Mask. Avoid grainy, harsh scrubs -- they will only exacerbate the problem.

Step 3: Use the right makeup. If you must cover up the problem, look for concealers, foundations and powders that are oil-free. Also look for makeup containing the ingredient salicylic acid, which will help treat breakouts. Try: Almay Clear Complexion Light & Perfect Pressed Powder.

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