The best acne treatments

Best acne treatments by age

For the most up-to-date, personalized advice on skin care ingredients, we recommend consulting with a dermatologist.

Your skin changes over time, and so do its needs. That’s why selecting acne treatments tailored to your age is key to healthy, happy skin. Teenage skin often battles oiliness and hormonal fluctuations, while adult skin might juggle acne alongside sensitivity, dryness, or fine lines. And yes, menopausal skin introduces its own challenges with shifts in elasticity and hydration. The right products for your age can do wonders—not just to address breakouts, but to support your skin’s overall balance and glow.

Discover gentle yet effective solutions at Ulta Beauty that cater to every stage of life. From lightweight cleansers for teens to targeted serums and moisturizers packed with powerhouse ingredients for adults, our selections help you feel more confident in your skin. Start your age-perfect acne care routine today and explore all things beauty, all in one place.

How to tell if acne is hormonal or bacterial?

Distinguishing between hormonal and bacterial acne is crucial for effective treatment.

• Hormonal Acne: Often appears along the jawline, chin, and neck. It typically presents as deep, cystic, and painful bumps that may not come to a head.
• Bacterial Acne: More commonly manifests as whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, and papules that can appear anywhere on the face, chest, or back. It's caused by an overgrowth of acnes bacteria.

While there are distinctions, both types can coexist, and a dermatologist can provide a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.

What is the best treatment for teenage acne?

The best treatments for teenage acne often include gentle cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, oil-free moisturizers, and spot treatments. Teen skin is typically oilier, so look for non-comedogenic products that help unclog pores and balance oil production without stripping the skin.

Discover our Teen and Tween Skin Care Faves buying guide for expert recommendations.

What is the best acne routine for teens?

A simple yet consistent acne routine for teens is most effective:

Morning:

• Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser, possibly one with salicylic acid.
• Treat: Apply a thin layer of topical treatment (e.g., benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin, if prescribed) to affected areas.
• Moisturize: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
• Protect: Finish with a broad-spectrum, non-comedogenic SPF 30+ sunscreen.

Evening:

• Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup.
• Treat: Apply a topical retinoid (like adapalene) to clean, dry skin.
• Moisturize: Follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer.

Avoid picking or squeezing pimples, as this can lead to scarring and further inflammation.

Why do teenagers get pimples?

Hormonal changes during puberty could boost oil production, which could clog pores and cause acne.

How can adult acne be treated?

Adult acne could require targeted treatments that address hormonal triggers, inflammation, and slower skin cell turnover. Common solutions include retinol or adapalene, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur.

What causes pimples in adults?

Stress, hormones, and environmental factors could disrupt skin balance, leading to acne in adults.

At what age is it considered adult acne?

Adult acne typically refers to breakouts occurring after the age of 25.

What does menopausal acne look like?

You may see deeper, cystic breakouts often along the jawline or lower cheeks due to hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause.

How do you get rid of menopause acne?

Look for lightweight, active-packed options such as retinol or niacinamide to help calm inflammation and promote cell turnover.

How long will menopause acne last?

Its duration varies, depending on the individual and how long hormonal changes persist. A consistent skincare routine can help.

What is the best product for menopausal acne?

Go for acne treatments that are gentle yet effective, like a soothing retinoid serum or a clarifying cleanser, to address breakouts without stripping moisture.

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