Hormonal fluctuations, stress, environmental assaults and a poor cleansing routine are the driving forces behind adult acne, a condition that many women experience well beyond their teenage years. This month, Esteé Lauder introduces Clear Difference, a rapid-acting medicated system designed to treat adult acne. This new system is comprised of Clear Difference Advanced Blemish Serum, Clear Difference Targeted Blemish Treatment and Clear Difference Complexion Perfecting BB Crème SPF 35.

“There are many anti-acne products available that actually exacerbate flare-ups because they contain harsh ingredients that irritate or dry out skin. Our objective was to create a powerful system with effective ingredients that is also gentle enough for everyday use. This system is proven to improve skin while minimizing irritation and redness. Our studies show that in just one week, blemishes are significantly reduced while revealing a smoother, more refined texture and controlling excess oil,” said Dr. Nadine Pernodet, Ph.D. Vice President, Basic Science Research, Research & Development, The Estée Lauder Companies.

The innovation of Clear Difference lies in the new exclusive Triple Action Clarity Technology that is found in both Blemish Serum and the Targeted Blemish Treatment. This exclusive technology contains three key ingredients: salicylic acid to purify pores and keep them clear of debris; glucosamine, a sugar-derivative that normalizes skin’s natural cellular turnover to and prevent pores from becoming clogged; and, laminaria saccharina, a natural marine extract that controls excess oil while visibly reducing the look of pores. Together, this trio helps to stop the breakout cycle, refine and calm skin and control excess oil and reduce the look of pores. All products are oil-free, non-acnegenic, and ophthalmologist-tested.

The Blemish Serum, a concentrated, fast-action treatment, is meant to be applied at the first sign of a breakout, while the Targeted Blemish Treatment, helps to reduce and prevent blemishes while controlling excess oil, minimizing pores, and refining skin’s texture.

The Complexion Perfecting BB Crème SPF 35 is a color-correcting moisturizer that neutralizes redness, hydrates, protects, perfects, calms and soothes skin acne-prone. It’s available in three colors, Light, Medium and Medium Deep, to even out skin tone, while providing hydration and oil-control.

To launch the product lineup, Esteé Lauder has tapped spokesmodels Joan Smalls and Constance Jablonksi. Clear Difference is a global launch; items are available beginning this month. Prices range from $54 for Clear Difference Advanced Blemish Serum, to $82 for Clear Difference Targeted Blemish Treatment.

According to The NPD Group, Inc., the top five U.S. prestige skincare acne brands by dollar sales for Q1 2014 are Clinique, Kate Somerville, Peter Thomas Roth, Origins and Kiehls.