This Derm-Developed Skin-Care Line Features 2 of the Most Effective Ingredients for Treating Adult Acne

The first time Cori Zeichner—who’s known on social media as @TheDermWife—saw a dermatologist was on her first date with her now-husband, board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD.

“That was a big joke between us… because growing up, I was lucky to have clear skin,” says Mrs. Zeichner.

Fast forward to a few years (and one wedding) later, and she began to notice that she was breaking out with hormonal acne along the lower third of her face. Luckily, being married to a dermatologist meant that she had easy access to prescription products—but her struggle to find a good over-the-counter product to help with her adult hormonal acne needs made her question the acne market at large.

Considering the prevalence of adult acne—research has shown that 50 percent of women in their 20s, 35 percent of women in their 30s, and 26 percent of women in their 40s suffer from breakouts—the Zeichners were surprised to find that there were so few treatment options available specifically designed for this demographic.  “There are lots of big products on the market that target acne,” says Mrs. Zeichner. “But as an adult who was having breakouts, it really changed my views. It made me realize that there aren’t many products specifically addressing the population of people fighting against adult hormonal acne.”  Hence, JORI was born.

JORI, which launched last month, features a line of formulas specifically designed to target adult acne. The first two SKUs—a salicylic acid primer and a benzoyl peroxide treatment mask—work synergistically to fight current breakouts and prevent future ones from happening. Keep reading for why this one-two punch of actives is so effective for kicking grown-up zits to the curb.

Understanding adult acne

According to Jamie DeRosa, MD, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon in Boston and Palm Beach, adult acne is a slightly different breed than what you might have experienced during puberty.

“The mechanism of teenage acne and hormonal adult acne is the same, but the causes are very different,” she says. “Teenage acne appears due to the body production of hormones called androgens that increase the production of oil by the skin that clogs pores.” Since this hormone surge happens during puberty, teenage acne is pretty standard. Once the hormones stabilize, however, the acne typically subsides.

“Adult acne, on the other hand, is most often seen in women and is typically triggered by hormonal fluctuations like menstrual cycles and changes associated with pregnancy,” says Dr. DeRosa. “One study suggests that most women report acne breakouts immediately before having a menstrual period.” Certain medical conditions, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), involve hormone production and an abnormal balance can also trigger adult acne.

How JORI’s products can help

When talking about acne-fighting formulas, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are almost always at the forefront of the conversation—which explains why they’re the heroes in JORI’s first two products.

The Acne and Oil Control Primer ($70), centers on salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that works by removing excess oils and dead cells from the skin. Designed to be used every day as sort of a makeup/skin-care hybrid, the formula clears away current breakouts while also preventing new ones from forming. According to Dr. Zeichner, “when it comes to salicylic acid being effective, you really need a higher concentration,” which is why the brand opted for a 2-percent formula, the highest salicylic acid concentration available in over-the-counter acne treatments.

JORI Acne and Oil Control Primer — $70.00

JORI Daily Leave-On Acne Treatment Mask — $52.00

“Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is widely regarded as one of the most effective medications to treat acne,” says Dr. DeRosa. “It fights bacteria, unclogs pores, and decreases inflammation at the acne site. In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, it also minimizes bacterial resistance potential.” In addition, benzoyl peroxide has been shown to decrease sebum production, effectively minimizing blackheads and whiteheads.

JORI’s products use micronized benzoyl peroxide, which means the molecules are smaller than what you’d find in your standard drugstore formulas. Because of this, the actives can penetrate into deeper layers of the skin without causing irritation. Furthermore, the 2.5-percent concentration of the ingredient in the Daily Leave-On Acne Treatment Mask is far gentler than a standard 10% concentration, meaning that there’s a lower risk it will sensitize the skin (don’t worry—it’s still plenty effective).

The secret to JORI’s efficacy is the botanical blend in both products. According to Dr. Zeichner, “Some of the leading causes of hormonal acne in adults are hormones, diet, and stress.” These formulas contain saw palmetto, a botanical extract that helps balance dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels; Omega-3 fatty acids to help balance the effects of a sugary diet; Skullcap (scutellaria baicalensis) to mitigate the effects of stress; and linoleic acid, which is a fatty acid down known to be deficient in the oil glands of acne-prone people. In addition, these products also contain zinc and niacinamide to help diminish the look of blemishes, dark spots, and redness.

Now, don’t worry if you only struggle with hormonal acne during menstruation. Dr. Zeichner mentions, “prevention is key when dealing with hormonal acne.” Incorporating JORI into your daily routine can keep future breakouts at bay, whether you notice them crop up after a sugary meal, during that time of the month, or when you’re dealing with the trials and tribulations that life has to offer.

For more tips on dealing with adult acne, check out the video below. 

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