Pimples that pop up long past the teenage years are just, well, unfair."Hormonal changes and using the wrong skin-care products are common causes," says Dr. Melissa Schwarzschild, a dermatologist with Richmond Dermatology & Laser Specialists in Virginia.
But you can fight back:
Wash your face every night. Oil, dirt and sweat build up in skin pores and can lead to pimples. That's true for women -- especially those who wear makeup -- and men, who naturally produce more oil. Also aim to shower soon after exercise.
Exfoliate regularly. Remove dead skin cells at the skin's outermost surface once or twice a week. Use a low-strength glycolic acid or mild facial scrub.
Buy "non-comedogenic." Skin-care products -- lotions, cleansers, cosmetics, soaps and sunscreens -- with this designation are formulated not to block pores and trap in oil. "Water-based" and "oil free" are other good words to look for on labels.
Balance out hormones. Just before menstruation, a woman's estrogen levels decrease and the hormone progesterone becomes dominant, which can trigger breakouts. Several types of birth-control pills can make a difference.
Manage rosacea. This facial skin condition, marked by redness from broken blood vessels, is the most common cause of adult acne. Sun, heat, alcohol and spicy foods can trigger flare-ups, as can not wearing sunscreen daily. A dermatologist also can help with treatment.
Touch your face less often. Your hands pick up bacteria and dirt throughout the day -- no matter how often you wash up -- which you can transfer to skin on your face.
