Acne is a common skin condition that can affect people of any gender. It most often affects teenagers, but many adults also have acne. Some factors increase the likelihood of acne for women, including hormone changes during puberty, medications, makeup and adult hormone shifts associated with the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. According to Womenshealth.gov, different types of acne exist, including the garden-variety pimples resulting from plugged pores and deep cystic lesions. Depending on the severity of acne, treatment ranges from regular skin care and product changes to medication and dermatologic assistance.
Step 1
Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Use products marketed specifically for treating acne. It is not necessary to use harsh cleansers, as this can strip the natural oils from your skin and lead to more acne. Never go to bed with makeup still on your face.
Step 2
Apply a treatment containing benzoyl peroxide after washing your face. Benzoyl peroxide is an acne treatment available in different strengths; lower strengths are available over the counter, but greater strengths require a doctor's prescription. Apply an over-the-counter benzoyl peroxide treatment twice a day. Follow with a moisturizer specifically formulated for acne because benzoyl peroxide is very drying.
Step 3
Change the type of makeup you wear. The Palo Alto Medical Foundation advises women with acne to choose makeup labeled oil-free and "non-comedogenic," which means it has been clinically tested and proven not to cause acne. Consider wearing less makeup or wearing it for shorter periods each day. Use only oil-free body products, such as sunscreen and lotion, if you have body acne.
Step 4
Consult a dermatologist if over-the-counter remedies do not work. Many types of acne, particularly cystic acne, respond well to long term treatment with certain antibiotics. Dermatologists can inject severe acne with cortisone shots to reduce the eruption. These doctors also sometimes prescribe other medications, such as Retin-A and Accutane. The Palo Alto Medical Foundation states that some of these treatments are so dangerous to developing fetuses that doctors will only to prescribe them to women if they use birth control.
Step 5
Watch out for hormonal changes. The most common time for acne breakouts in adult women is just prior to the menstrual period. Womenshealth.gov suggests that hormonal birth control might reduce acne. Birth control pills regulate your hormones, and many women experience less acne while taking the pill. Non-prescription natural progesterone creams, available at health food stores, may also work.
Tips and Warnings
- Increase the amount of water you drink. Greater water consumption is associated with clearer skin. Shower immediately after exercise to remove the sweat from your skin before it can cause acne. Change pillowcases frequently.
- Many myths exist about acne. It is not caused by poor hygiene, stress or a diet of chocolate or greasy foods.
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