I have adult acne that drugstore products cannot fix. What should I do?

It's incredibly frustrating when adult acne doesn't respond to drugstore products, but don't lose hope! This often means you need a more targeted approach, which typically starts with professional guidance and medical-grade solutions.

Here's what you should do:

1. See a Dermatologist (Crucial First Step):

   • Why: A board-certified dermatologist is the most important resource for persistent acne. They can accurately diagnose the type of acne you have (hormonal, cystic, inflammatory, etc.) and create a personalized treatment plan. They can also rule out underlying conditions.
   • How: Look for a dermatologist in your area through your insurance provider's directory or reputable online health platforms.

2. Explore Prescription Medications:

   • Once diagnosed, your dermatologist can prescribe stronger treatments than what's available over the counter. These might include:
     • Topical Retinoids (e.g., Tretinoin like Retin-A, or stronger formulations of Adapalene): These are vitamin A derivatives that increase cell turnover, preventing clogged pores and reducing inflammation.
     • Oral Antibiotics (e.g., Doxycycline, Minocycline): Used short-term to reduce inflammation and bacteria associated with acne.
     • Hormonal Therapies (e.g., Spironolactone): Often prescribed for hormonal acne in women by blocking androgen hormones.
     • Isotretinoin (Accutane): Reserved for severe, stubborn, or cystic acne, this powerful oral medication significantly reduces oil production and can lead to long-term remission.

3. Consider Professional In-Office Treatments:

   • Your dermatologist might recommend these alongside or in conjunction with prescriptions:
     • Chemical Peels (e.g., Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid peels): Services like those offered by PCA Skin or medical spas using SkinCeuticals professional peels can help exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.
     • Laser and Light Therapy (e.g., Blue Light Therapy, Pulsed Dye Laser): These treatments can target acne-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation, or address redness and scarring.
     • Cyst Injections (e.g., Cortisone shots): For large, painful cysts, a dermatologist can inject a corticosteroid to quickly reduce inflammation and speed healing.

4. Incorporate Medical-Grade Skincare Products:

   • While you're working with a dermatologist, they may suggest specific over-the-counter or professional-grade products to complement your treatment. These brands are often formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients or specialized delivery systems:
     • Paula's Choice: Their 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is highly effective for unclogging pores and reducing blackheads/whiteheads.
     • SkinCeuticals: Products like their Blemish + Age Defense Serum contain a blend of acids to target adult acne and signs of aging.
     • La Roche-Posay: Their Effaclar line (e.g., Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser, Effaclar Duo Dual Action Acne Treatment) is well-regarded for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
     • EltaMD: Their Foaming Facial Cleanser and their line of sunscreens (like UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46) are excellent for acne-prone skin as they are non-comedogenic and gentle.
     • Alastin Skincare: While newer to the acne space, their Skincare CLR line including the CLR Cleanser and CLR Exfoliator are designed to be gentle yet effective for blemish-prone skin.

Key takeaway: Don't try to fix this alone anymore. Your next step is to book an appointment with a dermatologist. They will provide the expertise and tools necessary to get your adult acne under control.