Waking to breakouts when you thought acne was behind you? Feeling frustrated but not sure what to do? Believe it or not, adult acne is more common than you think, and it can be just as frustrating, if not more, than those pesky teenage pimples we all endured! From hormonal changes and stress to skincare mistakes and environmental factors, there are a number of reasons why blemishes can return in adulthood. The good news? With the right targeted skincare routine and lifestyle changes, you can achieve clear skin once again! Keep reading as we discuss what’s causing your breakouts and, more importantly, our expert approved tips and solutions on how to treat them!   Why you’re getting breakouts - the most common triggers for adult acne Unfortunately, adult acne can be caused by a number of factors, often different from the breakouts we experienced in our teens, so it’s important to try and identify your specific root cause. Everything from hormonal imbalances, stress, diet, and even the medication you might be taking can contribute to your breakouts. Here are the most common triggers:  1. Hormonal Imbalances If you are experiencing blemishes and acne in your 40’s and 50’s, chances are it could be to do with perimenopause and the menopause. And if you had a history of pimples and acne as a teenager, you’ll more likely to be susceptible to getting acne flare ups now too! Unfortunately, fluctuations in our hormones, particularly androgens (like testosterone), can increase oil production, this excess oil can then mix with bacteria, dead skin and debris leading to clogged pores and breakouts! This is why acne also often flares up around the menstrual cycle, and during pregnancy, as well as due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 2. Stress When you're stressed, your body produces more cortisol, which can stimulate oil glands and worsen acne. Stress-induced inflammation can also slow healing, making breakouts last longer. 3. Skincare & Makeup products Using the wrong skincare or makeup or simply overloading your skin with it, can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Too many products, as well as heavy, oil-based, or comedogenic products can worsen acne, while harsh cleansers can strip your skin and in turn cause it to go into overdrive and overproduce oil, which is where the cycle comes into play!  4. Diet Some studies suggest that high-glycemic foods (like white bread, potatoes, rice, cereals), dairy, and processed sugars can trigger acne by increasing inflammation and oil production so if you are ingesting much of these foods it could be one reason for your increased blemishes! 5. Lifestyle It can be hard to get that 8-9 hours of sleep a night believe me! But lack of sleep, as well as other lifestyle choices like smoking and drinking alcohol and sugary drinks can and will affect your skin in one way or another and it’s usually through the increase in blemishes. 6. Environmental Factors Pollution, sweat, and even your phone screen or pillowcase can harbor bacteria that contribute to breakouts. Regularly cleaning your phone and changing pillowcases can help reduce bacteria exposure. 6. Medications Certain medications, including steroids, birth control pills, and antidepressants, can disrupt hormones or increase oil production, leading to breakouts. 7. Over-Exfoliating or Harsh Skincare Too much exfoliation or harsh acne treatments can strip the skin’s natural barrier, leading to more oil production and irritation, making acne worse instead of better!   How to treat breakouts and adult acne 1. Cleanse gently (but effectively!) Many people with acne-prone skin make the mistake of over-cleansing or using harsh scrubs, which can strip the skin and lead to even more breakouts. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid. We highly recommend Hubislab A.C Clearing Purifying Cleansing Gel. It’s a soothing gel-based cleanser which has been especially formulated (salicylic acid and powerful antioxidant green tea) for congested and acne prone skin to completely but gently clear pores, removing makeup, dirt and grime from the skin without over-drying, all whilst protecting the skin against oxidative damage. 2. Don’t skimp on moisturiser It’s a common misconception that oily or acne-prone skin doesn’t need moisture! The truth is, when your skin is dehydrated it can actually produce even more oil to over compensate, leading to further breakouts, eek! You do need to be careful about the moisturisers you choose though! When looking for the best moisturisers for acne prone skin, you’ll want to choose lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers that hydrate without clogging pores, like the ProCorrective Clear-Control Moisturiser for balancing hydration and oil control. It’s carefully selected non-comedogenic (non-pore clogging) super skin-clearing, calming and hydrating ingredients (we are talking Zinc Chloride, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Cinnamon, Thyme, Mallow, Witch Hazel, Tea Tree Extract, Niacinamide, Glycolic and Salicylic Acids, Microcitrus Australasica, a.k.a. Caviar Lime and Hyaluronic Acid!)combine to deeply target acne by rapidly clearing away blemishes and clogging, while moisturising and smoothing uneven texture. It’s so good! In fact the whole Pevonia ProCorrective line is outstanding for the management of adult acne! 3. Exfoliate regularly (but don’t overdo it!) Exfoliation is key to unclogging pores and preventing breakouts, but doing it daily can damage your skin barrier. Stick to gentle chemical exfoliants with AHAs or BHAs (like glycolic or salicylic acid) two times per week to keep your skin smooth and clear. We love Pevonia Enzymo Spherides Peeling Cream. Do not let the name ‘peeling cream’ put you off though! Papaya and Pineapple have been selected for their enzyme peeling action, an action that gently digests away impurities, sebum, toxins and the dead skin cells, instead of abrading or burning them off. So, it’s gentle, really gentle, and it’s effective too! Nothing makes skin feel cleaner, lighter or more purified than this jar of goodness and it’s easy to use! Simply apply a thin layer on cleansed skin, wet the fingertips with warm water, this will help to “wake up” the enzymes, then leave them to do their thing for 5-10 minutes, then rinse away.  4. Spot treat your skin When a breakout appears, resist the urge to squeeze it please! And yes, I know how tempting it can be, but squeezing spots can spread bacteria and exacerbate your acne! Instead, use a targeted spot treatment with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur, or tea tree oil to reduce inflammation and speed up healing. 5. Manage your stress Easier said than done we know, but there are some amazing aids and coping mechanisms when it comes to stress. Try to give yourself a little “me” time. This might feel like an impossibility especially if you are a busy, working mum! But we are simply talking even a few minutes a day to soak in a bath, read your book, listen to a podcast, meditate, exercise or simply listen to music! Breathing exercises can also be game-changing and I know have seriously helped me! One of the main symptoms of perimenopause is anxiety and being in my mid 40’s I have definitely been hard hit. I find music and breathing has helped no end. I’m telling you just a little time out can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s clarity.   6. Choose your makeup wisely Heavy, oil-based foundations can clog pores and worsen acne so you’ll want to opt for non-comedogenic, breathable makeup formulas, and always remove your makeup before bed to prevent buildup and irritation! Mineral makeup is the best makeup for acne prone skin, its free from common irritants such as fragrances, preservatives, and synthetic dyes, making it less likely to cause breakouts or allergic reactions plus so many formulations are lightweight and breathable, so you literally feel like you aren’t wearing makeup (even though it will help conceal those blemishes) and will literally allow your inflamed skin to breathe and not be clogged! I know I am biased but I have been using ELES Mineral Makeup for YEARS. And I will never use anything else. I can hand on heart say their products have helped my skin, prevented me from getting spots even! I personally love the ELES Mineral Sheer Tint and ELES Mineral Powder Foundation, but the no. 1 ELES best-seller is the Liquid Powder Mineral Foundation, and the reviews speak volumes! All three products are mineral, filled to the brim with skin friendly, anti-ageing ingredients and do not ever clog pores! Brillant stuff. 7. Watch your diet If you are struggling with adult acne, you should try and cut down on high-glycemic foods which have been linked to acne flare-ups. Also try reducing your intake of processed sugars and dairy products. Instead eat a diet rich in antioxidants (like leafy greens, nuts, and berries) and healthy fats (like fish, avocado and unsalted nuts), and increase hydration to help balance skin. 8. Try to get enough sleep Sometimes getting that 7-9 hours of solid sleep a night can seem like an impossibility, I know! But sleep really is essential for skin health because it allows for cellular repair, collagen production, and hydration balance. During deep sleep, our body boosts blood flow to the skin, helping to reduce inflammation, prevent premature ageing, and promote a radiant complexion (crazy right?) 9. Stay kind to your skin and consistent with your routine From spots to adult acne, we know how frustrating breakouts can be! But constantly switching products can often make things worse! Remember to treat your skin with gentle, nourishing care and give products time to work their magic. Clear skin doesn’t happen overnight! Sticking to a consistent skincare routine with the right products for your skin type really is key to preventing breakouts in the long run.   By following these simple yet effective tips, you can take control of adult acne and enjoy a clearer, healthier complexion, we promise!

Find yourself suddenly dealing with adult acne? The unexpected breakouts, stubborn spots, irritated skin? Believe me when I say you are not alone! Here at BC we get customers asking us why they might be suffering from acne in their 40’s and beyond all the time as well as the best solutions. Well, we can’t recommend enough a new (tried-and-tested by us) collection from Pevonia that tackles adult acne head-on while being kind to your skin! Whether your breakouts are stress-related, hormonal, or perhaps genetic, this routine will make a huge difference to your skin and your confidence! Cue Pevonia’s ProCorrective Line, a game-changing solution for tackling adult acne at its root!   Firstly, why are you suffering from adult acne? Adult acne can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you thought breakouts were a thing of the past! Unlike teenage breakouts though, adult acne often stems from a combination of factors from hormone changes to stress to genetics to pollution and more! Hormonal fluctuations often play a big part in adult acne though, whether it be during menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause or menopause, this is because it can increase oil production leading to clogged pores which can trigger breakouts. Androgens, particularly testosterone, stimulate oil glands, worsening breakouts. These hormonal shifts also increase inflammation and disrupt the skin's barrier, making it more prone to bacterial overgrowth and persistent blemishes! Stress, which many of us adults can feel on a daily basis! Elevates cortisol levels, stimulating oil glands and worsening acne. And then there are the environmental factors like pollution or bacteria from touching your face which may clog pores, while certain skincare or makeup products can exacerbate the issue. Unfortunately what we eat and drink can also play a role, with high-glycemic foods and dairy potentially contributing! And then of course there are genetics (thanks parents!) and underlying medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or PCOS which can further increase the likelihood of adult acne. Eek!   Why Choose the Pevonia ProCorrective Line? Whatever your reason for suffering from adult acne, following a targeted skincare routine can make all the difference. And we might indeed be biased but Pevonia’s ProCorrective is one of the best targeted adult acne lines on the market especially when it comes to hormonal acne! This innovative range of 4 products combines advanced formulations with natural, skin-loving ingredients to deliver powerful results without compromising on gentleness. Whether you’re battling stubborn blemishes, post-acne marks, or uneven texture, this line has been meticulously created to meet your skin’s unique needs believe me!   What Sets Pevonia ProCorrective acne range apart? Unlike many harsh acne treatments, Pevonia’s ProCorrective Line prioritizes the health and integrity of your skin. The formulas are free from parabens, artificial fragrances, and other irritants, making them ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Plus, the range leverages the best of science and nature, combining potent actives with botanical extracts for unparalleled results.   There are 4 acne fighting products in the range, these include; 1. ProCorrective Clear Control Exfoliator This multitasking cleanser and exfoliator in-one is specifically designed to target acne at its root (literally!) delivering outstanding benefits and results, all while being gentle enough for regular use, no harsh scrubbing or irritation here! By deep clearing of the pores (removing dead skin cells and impurities that block pores), it helps prevent future breakouts while calming current ones. It also smooths and resurfaces your skin, so you can say goodbye to uneven texture and hello to clearer, brighter skin. Plus, it supports your skin’s barrier to keep it balanced and healthy! So what does it do in a nutshell? It provides deep cleansing – It effectively clears away dirt, oil, and dead skin cells to prevent clogged pores. It refines skin texture – It gently polishes the skin, leaving it smooth and soft. It calms and soothes skin - It effectively reduces redness and irritation often associated with acne-prone skin. It improves and prevents breakouts - It improves the appearance of existing blemishes and helps to keep pores clear for long-term acne control. Key ingredients Salicylic Acid: A BHA powerhouse that penetrates pores to dissolve excess oil and unclog them. It’s a must-have for acne-prone skin. Niacinamide: Reduces inflammation, controls oil production, minimizes redness, and strengthens the skin barrier Kaolin: A natural clay that absorbs excess oil and impurities without stripping your skin. Jojoba: Has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Tea Tree Oil & Rosemary: Encourage a healthy skin environment for greater comfort and remarkable visible improvement. 2. ProCorrective Clear Control Moisturiser When it comes to caring for acne-prone skin, hydration is key, and this moisturiser does not disappoint! Many people with acne worry that moisturisers will clog their pores, but this lightweight, non-comedogenic formula is specifically designed to hydrate without causing additional breakouts. In fact, it’s the best of the best for providing nourishment while actively helping to control breakouts at the same time! In my opinion it’s a real multitasker that addresses acne from every angle. It hydrates deeply without heaviness, calms inflammation, and creates a protective barrier to support your skin's healing process. Plus, it keeps oil production in check so no more morning shine! By delivering acne-fighting and soothing ingredients, it’s a perfect balance of treatment and care!   So what does it do in a nutshell? It hydrates without clogging pores – It provides essential moisture without causing breakouts. It controls oil production – It helps regulate sebum to prevent clogged pores and future acne. It soothes irritation: It reduces redness and inflammation, leaving skin calm and comfortable. It supports skin healing: Strengthens the skin barrier to promote recovery and prevent scarring. Key ingredients Salicylic Acid: This acne-fighting hero dives deep into pores to clear excess oil and debris, preventing new blemishes from forming. Niacinamide: A calming powerhouse that reduces redness, controls oil, and strengthens the skin barrier. Aloe Vera: Hydrates and soothes irritated skin, promoting healing and comfort. Hyaluronic Acid: Delivers lightweight, non-greasy hydration to keep skin balanced and plump. Allantoin: Calms inflammation and encourages skin repair for a clearer complexion.   3. ProCorrective Clear Control Blemish Treatment Specifically designed to target active blemishes, this powerful yet gentle treatment gets straight to work on reducing pimples, calming redness, and preventing new breakouts, all while being kind to your skin! It is all about targeted action. It goes beyond simply drying out a pimple, it tackles acne at the root by reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and accelerating the healing process. Plus, it’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and won’t leave a chalky residue, so you can use it day or night without a second thought. It really is the perfect product for anyone looking for an effective yet gentle way to manage breakouts! Whether it’s a single pesky pimple or a sudden flare-up, this treatment works hard to calm, clear, and heal your skin. So what does it do in a nutshell? It targets active breakouts - It reduces the size and redness of blemishes fast. It calms irritation - It soothes inflamed skin to minimize discomfort and redness. It prevents future pimples - It fights acne-causing bacteria and keeps pores clear. It supports healing: It promotes recovery to help prevent scarring and uneven texture. Key ingredients Salicylic Acid: A beta hydroxy acid that penetrates pores to clear out excess oil and impurities, preventing clogging. Tea Tree Oil: A natural antibacterial agent that fights acne-causing bacteria and reduces redness. Zinc Oxide: Calms irritation and regulates sebum production, helping to control shine. Aloe Vera: Hydrates and soothes the skin, preventing dryness while reducing redness. Allantoin: Encourages skin repair and healing for a smoother complexion.   4. ProCorrective Clear Control Mask When it comes to effectively controlling acne this deeply purifying mask is a game-changer I’m telling you! It really is a multitasking marvel, working to detoxify your skin, reduce inflammation, and control excess oil, all while keeping your skin hydrated, calm and soothed. Unlike many acne masks that leave your skin feeling tight or dry, the Clear-Control Mask strikes the perfect balance by nourishing and revitalizing your skin as it clears congestion. It is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their acne skincare routine. Whether you’re battling frequent flare-ups or the occasional blemish, this mask is a self-care essential! So what does it do in a nutshell? It deeply cleanses skin – It draws out impurities, toxins, and excess oil to leave your skin fresh and clear. It unclogs pores – It helps to reduce and prevent blackheads and breakouts. It calms and soothes – It reduces redness and irritation, making it perfect for sensitive, acne-prone skin. It balances oil production – It keeps shine under control while maintaining essential hydration. Key ingredients Kaolin Clay: A natural mineral clay that detoxifies skin by drawing out impurities and absorbing excess oil. Salicylic Acid: Penetrates deep into pores to clear out oil and debris, preventing future breakouts. Niacinamide: A soothing ingredient that calms redness, strengthens the skin barrier, and regulates oil production. Aloe Vera: Hydrates and soothes the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Zinc Oxide: Known for its calming and oil-regulating properties, it also helps protect the skin.