How To Clear It Up Like a Dermatologist
Acne-Prone Skin 101

As we mentioned earlier, blemishes pop out when your pores become clogged up with excess oil production, dead skin cells. ​​ ​​Other factors that can contribute to or worsen acne-prone skin include humid weather conditions, hormonal fluctuations, and improper skincare practices (like picking at your skin).

​​​It’s not your imagination: Being stressed out can severly impact your skin. While it is not a direct root of acne-prone skin, stress can act as a roadblock to achieving clear skin. ​​It’s not your imagination: Being stressed out can severly impact your skin.

​​​You may think of blemishes as an adolescent skin disorder, but the truth is, anyone can face blemishes. In fact, a survey conducted by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that more than 42% of adults aged 20 or older experience breakouts. So, if you’re breaking out well past your teenage years, don’t fret: You’re not alone. More importantly, adult breakouts can be managed. If you’re struggling to get your acne-prone skin or whiteheads under control, consider consulting a board-certified dermatologist for help.

​​​Two of the most common ingredients in improving acne-prone skin are salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that offers gentle exfoliation and helps improve the appearance of blemishes (in other words, blackheads and whiteheads).

​​Benzoyl peroxide helps with the appearance of blemishes. Both of these ingredients can be found in CeraVe’s gentle yet effective products for acne-prone skin. If you’re unsure which is right for you, a board-certified dermatologist should be able to steer you in the right direction.

​​​Dark spots that appear after a breakout are caused by an excess production of melanin, your skin’s natural pigment. These spots are particularly common amongst those with darker skin tones, ​​and can make achieving even-looking skin feel like a challenge—especially since they often take a long time to fade.

​​​To help with the process, consider adding CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum to your nightly skincare routine. ​​Formulated with encapsulated retinol, brightening licorice extract, and three essential ceramides, this gentle formula helps promote a more even complexion while supporting your skin’s protective barrier.

​​​When you have a big and irritated pimple, it can be really tempting to pop it. But doing so may do more harm than good. Not only does popping your pimples make you more likely to get stuck with dark spots. Instead, tackle blemishes with a gentle spot treatment, such as CeraVe’s alcohol-free Blemish Control Gel. ​​Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin one to three times daily for noticeably-clearer skin within three days.​ ​When you have a big and irritated pimple, it can be really tempting to pop it. But doing so may do more harm than good. Not only does popping your pimples make you more likely to get stuck with post-skin irritation darkening but it can also worsen it, as the bacteria from your fingers can spread to your skin. Instead, tackle acne breakouts with a gentle spot treatment, such as CeraVe’s alcohol-free Acne Control Gel. ​​Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin one to three times daily for noticeably-clearer skin within three days.

1. “Skin Conditions By The Numbers.” American Academy of Dermatology Association, 2023.
2. Collier, Christin N. et al. “The prevalence of acne in adults 20 years and older.” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2008.