As teenagers, we never imagine that spots will be a problem in our adult lives. But whether it's the odd pesky zit or adult acne, many adults - including some celebrities - still suffer from some form of spots. So why is this? And what can we do about it?

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No one likes getting spots. In fact, most of us can guarantee that if we've got a hot date, a job interview, or any reason whatsoever for having to have a photo taken, then a spot will miraculously appear. Just one spot can blow your confidence. But if it's more than one, or if you've got acne, then your self-esteem can really suffer.

When do a few spots become acne?

Acne, or its proper medical name - acne vulgaris - is a condition most associated with teenagers; a staggering 85 per cent of teens will suffer from it. Acne affects teenagers because of the hormonal changes their bodies are going through.

However, the British Association of Dermatologists told us that 14 per cent of women aged between 26 and 44 suffer from facial acne. Acne is hard to cope with. The skin forms red, swollen spots that can turn into pustules, which can leave scarring. Apart from the embarrassment factor, it's also painful.

The British Association for Dermatologists also explained that adult acne can be divided into persistent acne - which has continued since teenage years into adulthood - and late-onset acne, which first appears after the age of 25.

If you think you're suffering from either form of acne, it's best to see your GP. There are a number of possible causes, from hormonal changes to nutritional problems, and your doctor is the best person to discuss these with. There are also treatments available that only a doctor can advise you about - for instance, certain forms of the Pill for women, and anti-biotic treatments. Your GP may also refer you to a specialist: a dermatologist, or a gynaecologist, depending on your specific symptoms.

It's not acne, but it's still getting me down

There are a number of things you can do at home to help prevent spots, and tackle the little blighters if they do appear.

If your problem with spots isn't caused by a medical condition, it could be a problem with skincare. Spots are often caused by blocked pores, so for example if you're falling asleep with your make-up on, then you are likely to get spots.

Useful products

There are literally thousands of products on the market to treat spots. The majority of them are aimed at teenage acne, and if it's just a few irritating spots that are bothering you, many of these products are likely to be too strong and harsh for your skin. One of the best ways to tackle spots in adults is by treating your skin well. Remember, your skin is your body's biggest organ, so be nice to it, and in return it should be nice to you.

Many people have found that their skin benefits from taking a step back from 'product overloading'. Treating skin delicately allows it to calm down and heal itself, which should mean you don't get spots so often.

Dr Hauschka is a fantastic range of holistic products. Try the Cleansing Cream (£12), followed by Facial Toner (£18) and Normalizing Day Oil (£18) - a routine to calm down temperamental, spot-prone skin. The oil might seem a little odd, but it does the trick. It's not greasy and actually regulates the amount of oil your skin naturally produces. Plus it calms inflammation, softens (to a miraculous degree) and helps minimize any annoying open pores.

Origins Mega Mushroom range works on a similar philosophy; it's all about optimizing your skin's defences. Origins worked with Dr Andrew Weil, a leading figure in the world of integrative health. He believes that for most people, skin problems come from the 'fire within', so if you calm skin down, it'll become clearer. The products have had some impressive results: an Origins survey claims that 84 per cent of people asked said that their skin was soothed and calmed by the Mega-Mushroom Programme.

The range includes all of the usual products - moisturizers, cleansers, eye creams etc - but if you want to pick just one, opt for the Face Serum, (£40 for 30ml, or £50 for 50ml). Apply it morning and evening for calmer, clearer skin. And no, it doesn't smell like mushrooms!

Elemis SOS Emergency Cream (£45) claims to calm skin which is prone to hormonal flare-ups, so it's a great product to prevent those time-of-the-month spots. It's a blend of soothing, protecting ingredients such as willow, lavender and myrrh. Use it in place of your usual moisturizer, just until skin calms down.

If you think your problem is a bit more high-maintenance, take the next step up. Jan Marini was one of the first brands to use Glycolic Acid and liquid soluble Vitamin C in products, which have both shown great results in treating acne and scarring, as well as premature ageing and sun damage. You can't get these products in the shops; you'll need to visit a dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon or trained therapist, who will tailor a full beauty regime to your skin problems. To find out more, visit their website. Celebrity fans including Sadie Frost, Pearl Lowe, Trinny Woodall and Jemma Kidd, who all claim that the products have had dramatic results.

Dermaquest's Purity Gel Spot Treatment (£28) works in a different way. It contains MSM, a form of sulphur - a mineral which is anti-inflammatory and helps boost the skin's immunity. You apply it just to the affected areas, and unlike some products it doesn't dry the skin... though it doesn't smell too sweet. Dermaquest have other products in this range, including cleansers and masks, all of which are saturated with anti-bacterial agents. It's not the easiest range to get hold of, so call 01306 886 425 for stockist information.

To treat individual spots, try Origins Spot Remover (£10). Containing salicylic acid as well as natural ingredients such as oregano and cloves, it helps shrink spots and reduce their redness. A similar product is Benefit's Boo Boo Zap (£13.50), loved by Jools Oliver. It also contains salicylic acid plus camphor and its thin formulation means you can also apply it over makeup without it being visible.

Finally, we're not going to lecture you about not picking. You're going to - it's human nature. Just remember: clean hands, be gentle, and dab a bit of one of the salicylic acid products mentioned above onto the offending spot immediately.

- Gallery: Celebs with bad skin