My Secret to Beating Adult Acne: Top 2 Ingredients Used by Dermatologists to Clear Acne

Here, we uncover the reasons why acne is so prevalent and what's the most effective way to get rid of them.

Gemma, 25, a makeup artist, had suffered from clogged pores since the age of 16.

She has spent thousands on masks, scrubs, washes, and lotions which claimed to be effective at stopping acne.

When they failed to meet their claims, the usual fallback excuse would be due to “hormonal acne”, which can’t be controlled.

Source: Instagram (@myskinjournal_)

“I had been to the doctors several times and was given oral meds and prescription topical creams but my skin wasn't getting any better. Then, I took matters into my own hands, I used the Internet to look up acne hacks and expensive treatments, creams, lotions – anything that was out there, I was buying it. I even tried going vegan. This still did not clear my skin!” - Gemma W.

To understand why there are extraordinary numbers of adults with acne, and the numbers seem to be going up, we turn to the experts.


Why Is Acne More Prevalent Than Ever?

A 2016 study¹ from the University of Colorado found that, between 1990 and 2010, acne rates increased 11% among U.S. teens.

In the 80’s, adult acne was a rare occurrence amongst our population. Yet just over the last few decades, rates of acne in adults are rising² — extraordinarily fast (especially among women).

Figuring out the causes of acne’s apparent surge is tricky.

Some researchers speculate the relationship between diet and hormones. However, Dr. Adam Friedman says it’s also possible that acne treatments are to blame³: They could be unbalancing the skin’s bacteria populations — also known as the skin microbiome — in ways that promote pimples and breakouts.

“It’s only during the last 50 years that people started using all these acne products” — antibacterials, but also benzoyl peroxide creams and salicylic acid, to name just a few — “and now we’re seeing massive numbers of adults with acne,” - Dr. Adam Friedman

…But It’s Always About Diet, Isn’t It?

“Drink more water,” people say – even though Gemma is probably the most hydrated person on the planet.

“Avoid carbs and dairy,” say friends – even though she had cut out those foods entirely and still the breakouts would come back.

While there is emerging evidence that specific dietary changes may help reduce the risk of acne, the truth is that there is still NO SOLID link between acne and diet⁴ – We still see hundreds of thousands of vegans battling acne every year!

Note: While researchers tried to link diet and acne, the evidence is still weak, and NONE of these studies establish a clear cause and effect, just an association. So far, what we know is that a pro-inflammatory and processed diet is associated with more acne.

"Diet myths resulted in many people cutting out foods from their diet, and in resultant disordered eating patterns⁵. I have seen patients refuse to eat cake on their birthday, decline dinner with friends, and develop health anxiety around food, for fear of triggering acne. There are inherently no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ foods. Diet is more about eating in a sustained, healthy manner across the course of one’s lifetime. Moderation is key." - Dr Anjali Mahto

In desperation, we've probably had this thought many times …

So I Need Scrubs, Masks, Facials, and Peels…?

facemask

Many have spent thousands on masks, scrubs, peels or cleansers that some YouTuber or Instagrammer recommended to treat our pimples – only to end up with more breakouts...

Forget the marketing hype!

It's NOT about scrubs, masks, and facials, as they DON'T STAY on your skin long enough to make a difference⁶!

It is also NOT about using a acne spot treatment to calm down angry pimples*.

*There is little that one can do to stop a pimple once it has surfaced since the body needs to send blood into the area in order to fight off bacterial infection.

In fact, over 90% of the acne treatments use benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid which are unlikely to have the strength to stop adult acne.

But, there must be a way to stop pimples from surfacing at all. Right?

Yes! There is...

The key is to get rid of clogs trapped deep inside your pores to PREVENT pimples from surfacing rather than trying to treat them.

Retinol - The Gold Standard

retinol

Maybe you’ve heard of topical vitamin A (retinoids)?

They are the primary tool derms use to treat breakouts⁷.

algo

And for a good reason!

It's very well-researched and the gold standard in reducing blemishes, promoting skin renewal and stimulating your skin’s collagen production.

However, they require a derm's oversight because they are HARSH, can IRRITATE your skin (topical) and are HARD on your liver (oral).

Before resorting to prescription, look first to retinol, a GENTLER* variant⁸ of it.

*To further reduce the possibility of irritation and increase effectiveness, we've paired it with other ingredients that balance the pH and amplify the results thereby causing LESS irritation and more targeted results.


AZA - The Unsung Hero?

aza

It’s a mystery why some great skincare ingredients fly under the radar, despite plenty of research proving them worthy of your attention. AZA is one of those ingredients!

In the standard acne treatment listed above, derms' second choice ingredient against acne is AZA.

AZA is very helpful in flattening existing pimples and diminishing the appearance post-acne marks⁹.

It also reduces skin sensitivity and improves skin texture10. In short, AZA is a must-have in your acne treatment.


Meet Clear Out – Effective, Gentle Solution for Clear Skin

Most acne products only have a SINGLE active ingredient. However, to maximize effectiveness and minimize irritation*, Clearly Basics spent years formulating Clear Out so that it contains BOTH retinol + AZA .

*We've combined the top two ingredients which derms use to fight acne (in the right percentages) to drive synergy. This means Clear Out is very effective in flushing out clogs while being gentle on sensitive skin. Over 50% of our users have sensitive or combination skin and they have no issues using Clear Out.

This unique formulation is a deadly combination that flattens active pimples and reduces future breakouts.

It took us years of intensive research to create this formulation that can’t be found anywhere else on the market!

98% of people who use Clear Out see significant improvements. If you don't see a noticeable improvement after using your first bottle of Clear Out, you can get a full refund through Clearly's moneyback guarantee.

@myskinjournal_ Individual results may vary

See what others have to say...


Real People with REAL, Lasting Results

Toni (@xx.tonilumsden), a stylist from Hertfordshire spent over $6500 in acne products and treatments that did nothing for her acne…

Then she discovered the Power Duo and it changed her life…

@xx.tonilumsden Individual results may vary

Never in my life did I imagine my skin would be this clear! Clearly Basics has completely transformed my skin!”


Alisha (@skinwithak) suffered from severe acne and went on oral medications 3 times before finding Clear Out :

alisha

@skinwithak Individual results may vary

All I can say is ‘ Clear Out ’ by @clearlybasics is a Godsend ❤️ It doesn’t leave me overly dry or flaky which most retinol creams did.” "I wish I came across Clearly Basics before starting oral medication as I would have purchased these and wouldn't have had to put my body through so much!"


Although Deanna(@deannaskin)saw minor progress by going vegan and using natural products, she saw the most improvement using Clear Out. Occasionally, she may get a flare up, but with Clear Out, it goes away quickly.

@deannaskin Individual results may vary

“At the moment, my skin looks a lot clearer and fresher than usual and I've gained so much more confidence after using Clear Out."


Or Ella (@_myskinstory), an aesthetician and a makeup artist who has not found anything like Clear Out to keep her breakouts under control.

" Clear Out is my favorite and most recommended product to any of my followers who suffer with mild-acne as well as post-acne suffers. The combination of ingredients are unique and work THE BEST in keeping spots at bay as well as improving acne marks & scars."


And many more reviews....

Google reviews


FAQ

How is Clear Out any different from other retinol or AZA products?

Most products in the market contain only a SINGLE active ingredient so it does not use multiple pathways to address your skin concern.

Using multiple ingredients simultaneously is more EFFECTIVE, but getting the percentages correct in order to maximize synergy is difficult without precision machinery.

Every ingredient in Clear Out took years to balance in order to maximize synergy: ingredients work together to address your skin concerns with better results and less side effects.

I have sensitive skin. Can I use Clear Out?

Clear Out can work on its own for 95% of the population. The formulation is gentle yet powerful enough to tackle many cases that would otherwise require prescription medication.

For the 5% with very sensitive skin, add Protective Moisturizer. Using Clear Out with Protective Moisturizer will ensure that it works for even the most sensitive of skin. Protective Moisturizer contains a wealth of antioxidants and botanicals that nourish your skin and peptides that simulate your lipid barrier to regrow.

This moisturizer reduces your skin's sensitivity and reduces general redness/blushing. It doesn't clog your pores even on the most sensitive skin!

I have oily skin, what's best for me?

Acne and larger pores are often attributed to oily skin.

As pores are clogged, oil may not reach its intended target leading to a vicious cycle of overproduction (clogged pores -> more oil production -> more clogged pores).

Thus we designed Matte Hydrator , to break the oil production cycle. It keeps your skin matte and supple so that your skin does not need to overproduce as much oil during the day!

Most skincare brands have one, perhaps two formulations that are really effective.

However, Clearly carries FIVE formulations that are UNIQUE and the BEST in its class: Clear Out, Lighten Up, Protective Moisturizer, Matte Hydrator and Dark Mark Defense .

What if it doesn't work on my skin?

Clear Out is so EFFECTIVE that you will get a full 90-day money back guarantee if you do not see a noticeable improvement after your first bottle. T&Cs apply.

This moneyback guarantee has been on every bottle of Clear Out and we have seen over +98% success rate.

How long will it take to see results?

In the first month, this formulation will trigger a purge of dead skin trapped in your pores which can appear as flakes or low level breakouts.

This purge will peak at week 5 and subside after week 8 of use. At week 10, you will turn over a clearer layer of skin that is less clog prone. See below:

Toni progress
@xx.tonilumsden Individual results may vary

Directions for use?

Clear Out is only used in the evening as part of your night-time routine:

  1. Wash your face with a cleanser
  2. Apply toner (if applicable)
  3. Apply Clear Out (leave-in lotion)
  4. Apply moisturizer or other skincare that you normally use in the evening

Try Clear Out, Risk FREE!

If you finish an entire bottle and don’t see any results…

You’re entitled to a full refund within 90 days! T&Cs apply.

Try it with CONFIDENCE!



References:
1. Darren D Lynn et al, 2016 : The Epidemiology of Acne Vulgaris in Late Adolescence
2. Joshua A. Zeichner et al, 2018 : Emerging Issues in Adult Female Acne
3. Adam Friedman, 2019 : Why Is Acne More Prevalent Than Ever?
4. Apostolos Pappas, 2009 : The Relationship of Diet and Acne
5. Anjali Mahto : Can You Cure Acne With Diet?
6. Maria Valéria et al, 2016 : Characterization and Short-Term clinical study of clay facial mask
7. James Leyden et al, 2017 : Why Topical Retinoids Are Mainstay of Therapy for Acne
8. Marissa Laliberte : Retinol-vs.-Retinoids
9. Nazzaro-Porro, et al : AZA in the Treatment of Acne
10. Paula Begoun : Everything You Need to Know About AZA for Skin

Disclaimer:

Nothing on this article should be interpreted as personal medical advice. For medical related matters, please consult with your dermatologist.

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See what others have to say about Clearly Basics.

Based on 25 reviews
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Skin Type: Normal
Comments: Any ideas on how to get rid of brown skin damage
Skin defence

Marks of sun damage are still there they haven't faded much after using twice a day for 60 days. . I will continue until product is finished. I'm a bit disappointed

Skin Type: Combination

I am so happy that I stumbled upon clearly basics on instagram. I was skeptical at first but decided to give it a try and bought clear out clarifying lotion. It's been 2 months and my skin has improved a lot. I can see significant reduction in pores and acne.

Skin Type: Combination
Amazing

After years of medication and products, I decided to try clearly basics. In just 6 weeks my skin has calmed and I am now able to treat scarring.

So glad to have found these products!

Finding products that helped to control my acne without irritating my sensitive skin has always been a huge challenge. The clearly basics products have been my saviour, I can't recommend them enough ☺️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Excellent and actually works

I am so incredibly impressed with the TLC for pore minimising - it 💯 works and has transformed my skin.

I’m in my 50’s and always had hormonal flare ups with larger pores as I age - this is a game changer and have just reordered my 3rd bottle !

❤️❤️❤️❤️

Skin Type: Combination
This is the stuff.

So, long time sufferer of acne. Started when I was 12 and I'm 28 now still battling it. I've tried all kinds of different things to try and get it under control and besides birth control, nothing has helped long term. I never want to take birth control ever again and I just happened upon this brand and decided well, why not try? To my amazement, it has helped more than anything else I've tried, I'd say it has improved my skin to the level it was at when I took BC. Of course I still get pimples every now and then, and tiny flare ups during PMS but my skin is nowhere near as bad as it used to be. I highly recommend this company. To those who are considering trying this out, be aware that during the first week or so your skin will go through a purge and your acne will appear to get worse at first. Stick with it! Once that phase is over is when your skin will begin improving. I do need to use it every night for it to be fully effective, but even when I do forget, the pimples don't get too out of control. I just can't say enough good things about this product. It has helped my confidence improve immensely and I definitely recommend trying it to those who have skin as finicky as mine.

Skin Type: Sensitive / Dry
The only moisturiser I trust

I am super sensitive and this is the only moisturiser that I trust honestly incredible.

Skin Type: Combination
Amazing!

I use this product and with the clear out and it has really helped my hormonal acne.

Skin Type: Sensitive / Dry
Here one day, gone the next!

After success with Clearly Basics for my acne scars, I stocked up with all of the active acne products to prepare myself for how angry my acne would get when going off hormonal birth control. I have tried and failed twice as my acne comes back so bad that I just start taking it again. This time I have been using clearly basics without fail every day (lighten up and clear out). I have had 3 pimples start to form and I use ‘Stop Spot’ and the next day instead of a much redder, much angrier pimple with a big white head - the pimple is gone! I have been very happy with this product. I’m one month down (typically when acne gets the worst) - let’s do this!

I love that these products are gentle on my daughter skin.

This skin care routine is the o lay one that has helped clear up my daughters skin.

My daughters skin is really starting to look better!

Skin Type: Oily
So far so good

Bought this for my daughter that has struggled with acne for years. She has seen improvement and less frequent breakouts.

Best moisturizer I have found!

V
Lighten Up Redness Rescue Cream
Veronica Ilenya Ranieri
Skin Type: Sensitive / Dry
Perfect

Has changed my skin from acne pro to almost perfect 😍😍

Skin Type: Combination
Obsessed !!

Obsessed with this cleanser!! It left me feeling fresh and prevented break outs. It is incredible . Loved this product so much

My skin feels so soft after using this moisturiser!

My skin feels so soft after using this moisturiser!

Skin Type: Combination
Fresh and clean!

My face is filled with energy and feels so fresh and clean!

Skin Type: Normal
excellent item!

have been using this for years! so good for my skin :)

C
So Fresh pH Balancing Cleanser
Carmelinda Di Manno
Skin Type: Combination
Fresh Feeling

My skin feels so clean and still hydrated when I use this cleanser. It’s balancing and refreshing. My skin has responded really well to it and at times my skin can be sensitive. I highly recommend this product to anyone with relatively oily t-zone area

Skin Type: Combination
Very happy!

Love the texture, the minty scent and the lather.
I wish the bottles were a bit bigger HOWEVER they are just small enough to fly with.

Skin Type: Normal
Comments: The only thing I now need to use to keep my skin clear.
The holy grail for clearing hormonal acne.

This is the only product that I have needed to keep my skin clear since discovering it about 2 years ago, after suddenly developing cystic hormonal acne at the age of 25. I now only need to use it every second night, so it's incredibly affordable. It has also never irritated my sensitive skin and it has faded previous acne marks to truly clear my skin. After years of trying expensive supplements/products/harsh prescription creams, Clear Out was the only thing that gave me long-lasting results.

Skin Type: Oily
Clearly Basics is the only product that has helped my Adult Acne

I have always struggled with dehydrated acne prone skin. Every month like clockwork I would get a new breakout on my chin or cheek area. These included large cystic acne that by the time they came to a head would take me months to clear. With new breakouts each month this created more & more spots before the first could heal leaving more hyper pigmentation spots that never have time to clear. Clearly basics changed all that for me. It gave my skin a chance to heal and reduced the number of breakouts each month. When I do get a new breakout it resolves itself quickly with less scarring and redness. Now that the acne is under control the products are helping to eliminate the remaining hyper pigmentation spots left from years of acne. I have not been using the product for long but I will continuing relying on this product and look forward to the day I can happily look in the mirror at a smooth clear & even complexion some day soon.

Skin Type: Combination
Comments: Product consistency in terms of smoothness/coarseness/stickiness/ is sometimes a miss, don't believe it affects the result provided.
Great Combo

Have seen great improvements by using these 2 items concurrently, hard to fault and wil continue purchasing.

Individual results may vary

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