Acne Treatments that Work for Teens and Adults

Acne isn’t just a teenage problem. While it’s common in adolescence, it affects adults too, perhaps more than you might think. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, adult acne impacts up to 15% of women and 5% of men over the age of 25. This persistent skin condition can cause physical discomfort and take a serious toll on self-esteem. The good news is acne treatment options have never been more effective or accessible. At Brampton Cosmetic, we understand how deeply acne can impact your confidence, and we offer real solutions for people at every stage of life.

What Causes Acne and Why It Keeps Coming Back

Acne develops when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. While this seems like a straightforward cause, the underlying reasons are often multifactorial, and that’s why acne can be so persistent.

Androgens (male hormones present in both men and women) increase during puberty and at various points in the menstrual cycle, stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. That’s why teens are more prone to breakouts and why adult women often see recurring acne in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s.

Other contributing factors include:

• Stress, which increases cortisol and can trigger breakouts.
• Diet, especially foods with a high glycemic index, like white bread and sugary snacks.
• Improper skincare, such as using pore-clogging products or exfoliating too often.
• Genetics, which can influence how oily your skin is and how it reacts to inflammation.

The reason acne keeps coming back for many people is because these root causes are chronic or cyclical. You may temporarily reduce breakouts with over-the-counter products, but if the underlying triggers, like hormones, stress, or ineffective skincare, aren’t addressed with the right clinical support, the cycle continues. That’s why treating acne successfully often requires a combination of consistent at-home care and in-clinic support from skincare professionals who can assess the skin and customize solutions based on the individual.

Best Treatments for Acne Often Starts with Ingredients 

If you’re wondering how to treat acne, the answer often starts with proven, medical-grade skincare. Some of the most effective ingredients include:

Salicylic acid – a beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and penetrates deep into pores to clear blockages.
Retinol (Vitamin A derivative) – promotes cell turnover, reduces oil production, and helps prevent clogged pores.
Benzoyl peroxide – kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces inflammation.

At Brampton Cosmetic, we carry medical grade skin care brands like ZO Skin Health and Vivier. Our best-selling products for acne-prone skin include:

• ZO Complexion Clarifying Serum
• ZO Complexion Clearing Program
• Vivier Acne Treatment Kit
• ZO Correct and Conceal Acne Spot Treatment in Light and Medium

Medical-grade skincare is often more effective than over-the-counter products because it contains higher concentrations of active ingredients and is backed by clinical research.

Specialized In-Clinic Acne Treatment Options

Topicals alone aren’t always enough. For persistent or moderate-to-severe acne, in-clinic procedures can offer additional benefits. At Brampton Cosmetic, we offer several targeted options:

Chemical peels – Our TCA peels are customized to your skin’s needs. They resurface the skin, treat discoloration, smooth texture, and reduce the appearance of acne scars. TCA is especially effective for treating sun-damaged skin, pigment irregularities, and superficial scarring.

Acne Facials– Our specialized deep-cleansing facial is designed for oily, acne-prone, or congested skin. It features 20% salicylic acid exfoliation, ultrasonic extractions with the BT-Micro device, and a soothing sulfur mask to treat breakouts and restore hydration. It’s a targeted treatment that helps clear blemishes and prevent future flare-ups.

Forever Clear BBL– A proprietary of Sciton, this broad-band light technology is used to clear breakouts and stubborn acne with blue light and post-acne redness with yellow light. The result is visibly brighter, clear, healthy skin.

Laser Hair Removal– Frequent breakouts on the lower face or back are often linked to irritation caused by shaving or waxing. Laser hair removal offers a skin-friendly alternative by reducing hair regrowth and minimizing pore congestion, which helps prevent acne while leaving skin smoother and calmer over time.

If you experience chronic cystic acne, in-clinic treatments may not be the answer. In these cases, prescription medication is often necessary to treat inflammation below the surface and help regulate the internal factors contributing to breakouts.

A consultation at our clinic can help you make the right decision.

Acne Awareness Month Promotion

In honour of acne awareness month, we’re making it easier to access professional care. Until the end of the month, we’re offering:

• A TCA Chemical Peel for $99 (reg. $150).
• 30% off acne products while quantities last.

Ready to take control of your skin?

Let us help you feel good in your skin again. Book a consultation with our experienced team to explore the best treatments for acne based on your unique skin concerns.