Holly Sherrard, skin therapist
adult acnecanada
(Feb.27.07)
Deborah R. of Halifax emailed us at asktheexpert@sweetspot.ca:
I turned 50 last October and always thought that at this age all I would have to worry about were wrinkles, but I also suffer from adult acne. What should I do?
...and our expert, Holly Sherrard answered:
Efficiently reduce adult acne by addressing the main contributors: Since the average age of menopause is 52, acne experienced around this time is most likely driven by the body’s fluctuating hormones, with stress and improper product use worsening the breakouts. Here are three ways to get your skin under control:
- Relax. Acne causes stress, which increases hormone production, leading to even more acne — a self-fulfilling pimple prophecy. Interrupt the cycle with stress-busting activities such as a weekly massage or reflexology. A professional skin treatment doubles as a calming face rubdown and acne-fighting appointment.
- Pay attention to what goes on your face. Use a pH-balanced cleanser and avoid stripping your skin of moisture with the harsher anti-acne products (find something containing less than 2% salicylic acid). Try mineral-based makeup that uses natural ingredients instead of those containing artificial colour.
- Visit a skin centre. A skin treatment professional, educated in hormonal-driven acne, has the tools (such as high frequency equipment) and experience to make a major improvement in your skin’s health. A series of six suggested skin treatments, combined with the skincare therapist’s home-care guidelines, will usually help get acne under control.
And remember: Don’t pop it! Pushing or poking a pimple can push dirt and debris into the dermis (the healthy, living layer of skin), which will contribute to scar formation.
Holly Sherrard is a Senior Instructor for The International Dermal Institute in Canada. She has received skincare training in Canada, the U.S., Spain and the U.K., and trains students and other instructors across Canada.