I'm not a teenager anymore, why am I still breaking out in spots?

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With June being Acne Awareness Month, this is a great opportunity to highlight the issue of adult acne that's suffered by many, including brides-to-be. Although acne can be more common in the teenage years, it's important to note that anyone, at any age can suffer. It can be a frustrating and debilitating condition and can not only have an impact physically but mentally too. It's a common condition that many of us will experience in our lives. According to the NHS, around 95% of people aged 11-30 are affected by acne at some point. There are many different types of acne breakouts, such as blackheads, whiteheads, papules and pustules amongst others. Acne scarring can be a frustrating reminder of the acne that might now be under control – there are treatment options available for this. Hormones, stress, genetics and medication can contribute to acne and there are different treatment options available that can control and reduce acne symptoms like the use of medical-grade skincare products at home. It's important to note that maintenance of the skin and keeping acne at bay is a life-long commitment and does require some work. As much as the treatments that you have and the products that you use are the most important elements to consider when controlling acne, there are a few other factors to keep in mind: •Change your pillowcase regularly When was the last time you changed your bedsheets? According to a 1000-person survey by bedding reviewer Mattress Advisor, the majority of people change their sheets every 24.4 days. That's more than three weeks of sleeping in the same sheets! Would you wear the same clothing for this length of time? If you're suffering from breakouts, it might be worth ensuring your face is being placed on a clean pillow, not one that contains bacteria. •Take your make-up off before bed - properly! There's no point investing in your medical-grade skincare products if you're not going to use them properly. Take your time when cleansing, maybe even treat yourself to a double cleanse, and don't rely on face wipes. •Be mindful when picking hair products Ensure that you rinse your hair conditioner from your face (and try to avoid getting it on your face in the first place) because it's designed to seal the hair and make it appear super-shiny and smooth. That's great news for your locks but not such great news for your skin because conditioners can block pores and lead to breakouts. Although acne can feel like the most frustrating condition, there's nothing to be ashamed about. Acne doesn't mean that you don't wash your face properly. It's a recognised skin condition that requires treatment and commitment to achieve the clear skin you've always dreamt of.

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