Q: The products I’ve always used for blemishes no longer seem to be working. Why is this happening and what can I do about it?
MyChelle Dermaceuticals licensed esthetician Catie Wiggy responds:
Blemishes are disappointing at any age, but when you’re well past your teenage years and breakouts are still happening, it’s especially frustrating.
Teen acne is typically the result of the hormone fluctuations that come along with puberty and it tends to show up in the “T-zone” on the face. Teens normally have oiler skin, and over-the-counter products are designed to treat oiliness and dry the skin.
Adults tend to have dry or combination skin when experiencing breakouts. Acne products for teens can overdry, irritate and inflame adult skin. Instead, you want to choose formulas like those from MyChelle that focus on hydrating, balancing and healing the skin.
It’s important to stick with a consistent treatment plan, including cleansing your face once or twice a day (more than that isn’t necessary and can result in excessive dryness). But remember that cleansers are only on your skin for a short period of time.
For blemish-prone skin, I recommend trying a leave-on product such as MyChelle Vitamin A Plus Serum or Oil Free Grapefruit Cream. If you have oily skin, you might try MyChelle Clear Skin Serum, a potent formula with natural ingredients that works to clear pore-blocking debris for clarity and absorb excess oil to minimize surface shine.