First of all, acne-prone skin is in a state of chronic inflammation, which by definition causes premature aging. Inflamed skin speeds up the aging process by creating free radicals and enzymes that break down collagen and elastin in the skin. The solution, of course, is prompt treatment of acne lesions. How you treat your acne, though, is a delicate situation. Especially for stubborn acne, long-term use of harsh treatments can leave the skin in a constant state of irritation, accelerating the aging process. To complicate matters, certain medications used to treat acne may increase sun sensitivity, which is also a cause of skin aging.

Acne in the teenage years is fairly simple, because teenage skin regenerates itself more quickly than an adult skin. Acne that plagues an adult, particularly during menopause, is another story. Skin that is already prone to dryness and shows the signs of aging must be treated differently. The article discusses three different acne treatments as they relate to treatment of adult acne: benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids, and exfoliation.

Benzoyl peroxide is a common ingredient found in topical acne treatments, and works by creating oxygen free radicals to kill acne-causing bacteria. The bacteria do not develop a resistance to benzoyl peroxide, giving BP an advantage over antibiotics. The problem is that these free radicals actually damage skin cells and the skin matrix, as well as kill the bacteria, causing premature aging. If you have tried other treatments and this is the only topical acne treatment that is effective, you are not alone. Consider switching to the lowest concentration of benzoyl peroxide (about 2.5%) and combine usage with other treatments as well.

Topical Retinoids like Tretinoid, or Retin A, have been approved by the FDA as anti-wrinkle agents, and are also effective in treating adult acne. However, they may also cause irritation and increase sun sensitivity, which can accelerate skin aging. Some individuals find they can use retinoids at low strengths to avoid such negative side effects, clearing acne and smoothing facial wrinkles. Other people find that their acne only responds to stronger formulations that cause chronic skin irritation, in which case, it may be time to explore alternatives.

Exfoliation using alpha or beta-hydroxy acids is commonly used in acne treatment programs, but is debatable. The positives are that it can improve penetration of other acne treatments, as well as rejuvenate the skin. The negatives? That too much exfoliation may cause dryness and sensitivity and can leave the skin perpetually irritated, much in the same way as benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids.

While treatment of adult acne is crucial, it is important to be gentle with your skin to avoid unnecessary sensitivity and irritation that further complicates the relationship between adult acne and premature aging.