It is a misconceived notion that acne is a skin condition that only affects teenagers. It is quite common for adults to suffer from acne at some point of time. While the condition is not that rampant in adults, as many as 5% of the adult population is affected by it.

The cause for acne both in teenagers and adults is the same- hormonal imbalance; stress and oily skin lead to this condition. A study shows that as many as 50% of women and 25% of men suffer from adult acne.

If left untreated, acne can cause as much damage in adults as in teenagers. The pimples lead to infections and this in turn can leave ugly and permanent scars on the skin. No amount of creams and other medications can rid you of these scars. Therefore it is very important to attend to acne promptly and get it treated.

The prime cause for adult acne is stress. Therefore it is essential to keep stress under control. A healthy and happy individual will rarely suffer from acne. In women, the problem of acne is seen to be aggravated during the menstrual cycle.

Treatment for adult acne is more or less similar to that of the teenagers. Clean the pores thoroughly. The pimples should not be picked or cut. Use external medications like ointments, gels and lotions. In case of severe acne consult your dermatologist.

The best treatment for any ailment including adult acne is prevention. Therefore pay a lot of attention towards hygiene and diet. Follow an active lifestyle free of stress and other worries. A balanced diet combined with an active lifestyle and clean habits will go a long way in preventing acne both in teenagers and adults.

The problem can be tackled by following a combination of good hygiene and simple treatment. Eat a balanced diet. Clean the pores with a mild antiseptic cream or lotion. Using a sulfur based soap will also bring in good results. Apply creams and ointments prescribed by your doctor. Do not let the acne spread and turn into pimples. While pimples are a normal occurrence in teenagers who reach puberty, in adults it however is rare.

Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Increase the intake of water; eat plenty of onions and garlic to keep adult acne at bay. In case of severe acne, a combination of both oral and external medicines will often bring in the best results.