Whether or not you spent your teens and young adulthood battling random zits or acne has nothing to do with your chances of having adult acne.  It affects 25% of men and 50% of women at some point in their lives often causing depression and social anxiety.  The causes may have to do with your hormonal balance as well as stress, old makeup and birth control.  

It starts with blackheads, which are the result of oil and dead cells trapped into a pore where they block the duct and mix with bacteria.  Red pimples occur when blackheads become inflamed and are spread when touched with dirty hands.  The best treatment for adult acne is identical to the treatment for teen acne which is benzoyl peroxide.  Another option for you may be an herbal supplement that keeps your skin oil free.  Popular 3-step systems have worked for many celebrities

If you have serious acne such as cysts on your face you should see a dermatologist.  He or she will examine and monitor your skin closely to determine what type of acne you have.  Retinoids, antibiotics, azelaic acid or birth control pills will be administered and are all covered by health insurance.  They also have samples for you to try which eliminates the need to purchase over the counter remedies that do not work. 

For the most severe cases, a well known 5 month long course is the best treatment but can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy.  Whatever you do, don’t give yourself an at home treatment by squeezing your pimples, it can only spread to more infections.  It is a common myth that certain foods such as cheese and chocolate cause pimples.  However, greasy, oily foods can get on your face and clog your pores.  Have no fear, you are not alone in this battle!