This is the third post in the Murad Q&A series. For more information on this series please see here – if you want to read the other Q&As then all of the posts should pop up here.

Akilina:

My question has to do with blemishes and hormonal acne. People who suffer from it hear lots of advice and try many approaches. Some suggest using harsh products that dry your skin out, others diet, exfoliation and the list goes on. So far nothing has worked for me and whenever I visited a dermatologist they just want to prescribe antibiotics and get me out the door. So I would like to ask Dr.Murad what would his approach be when it comes to hormonal acne (caused by coming off the pill). I would like general advice (diet etc) as well as suggestions about how my skincare routine should be. I ask for too much, I know, but it’s not like I will ever have the chance to ask Dr.Murad about my problems!

Dr Murad:

Hi Akilina,

Effective treatment of adult acne needs to be balanced so that it can address the issue without irritating fragile adult skin that has been compromised by the aging process. For patients experiencing adult acne, I recommend a treatment that takes into account all three components of my Inclusive Health^® philosophy—internal, topical, and emotional self-care. Internal care means eating healthy, nutrient-rich foods and taking supplements to protect and promote cellular integrity, which improves all systems in the body, including the skin—its largest, most visible, and most connected system. Eating foods rich in vitamin A—such as apricots, shiitake mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and mangoes—increases cellular turnover and helps keep pores clear. Topically, it’s important to use products that treat both acne and aging concerns. In addition, there are steps you can take to lower your skin’s exposure to irritating bacteria: regularly changing out pillowcases and towels, replacing makeup sponges often, and gently washing skin with lukewarm water (excessive scrubbing or using hot water will lead to additional irritation). Reducing stress by maintaining a healthy connection with friends and family and structuring a positive social environment will help address your emotional self-care. Stress can be a serious factor in adult acne, so it is essential that you take care of yourself mentally in order to take care of your skin.

Here at Murad, we know that spots and blemishes don’t just happen to teenagers, they can happen to adults too and they need to be addressed differently. That’s why we have created a line completely dedicated to adult acne; the Anti-ageing Blemish Control range. These products are packed full of antioxidants for maximum skin health, anti-inflammatories to calm and soothe the skin and hydrators to deeply nourish the skin. This means that not only will these products gently but effectively treat and prevent blemishes; they will ensure maximum hydration and skin health.

Many adults, even some who have never experienced spots or blemishes in their youth suddenly experience a secondary hormonal burst, much like when you stop oral contraceptive. Once your hormones begin to regulate, blemishes may subside again. Generally breakouts are on the lower part of the face including the chin and cheeks. Adding a supplement like the Pure Skin Clarifying Dietary Supplements are great for building skin health from the inside out and preventing breakouts.

*Please note that these posts are in no way sponsored, but Dr Murad is naturally going to refer to his own product ranges when talking about skincare. If you want to have a look at them, you can find Murad lines on FeelUnique.com)