The Biggest Mistakes You're Making with Your Acne Treatment in Your 20s, 30s, and 40s

by Cheryl Wischover


Yesterday I popped by the Clear Clinic, a dedicated acne treatment center that a lot of people (including a Glamour beauty blogger or two) swear have helped cure them of the dreaded spots.


Dr. Eric Schweiger, the dermatologist who runs the whole operation, had some good news for those of you who don't live in New York City. Starting January 7, you'll be able to access Clear Clinic products and experts via a program called Clear Clinic @ Home. For $87.50 per month, you'll receive four customized products (there are currently 19 products in the Clear Clinic arsenal) based on your skin's needs, a video consult session with an acne treatment coach, and ongoing email access to the coach. They'll switch up your regimen based on how your skin reacts.

See more: 13 Sneaky Habits That Can Cause Acne

While I had Dr. Schweiger as a captive audience of one, I chatted with him about some common mistakes we make at all ages while trying to combat the dreaded zits:

All ages can be guilty of this--using the wrong cleanser: Some women use a cleanser containing active ingredients (like salicylic acid) which can be way too harsh if you're using multiple topical products during the day. Just find a gentle cleanser that isn't too drying.

See more: Perfect Makeup: 8 Super-Easy Steps for Looking Flawless--Fast!

Biggest mistake in your 20s--under moisturizing: According to Dr. Schweiger, women in their 20s tend to forget this step. Then skin gets too dry and you get rebound oil production, thus making your skin oilier and more prone to breakouts. You should look for a moisturizer that says "oil-free" and "non-comedogenic" right on the packaging. Avoid heavy cream moisturizer.

Biggest mistake in your 30s and 40s--using the same products you used in your teens and 20s: Lots of women will continue to use ingredients like benzoyl peroxide. Many don't realize that some alternate treatments, like retinol, can have both anti-aging and anti-acne effects.

Have you learned any good tricks for zapping zits? Share with us!

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