Adult Acne: Causes, Cures, and Resources

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Adult acne can be extremely frustrating, as acne is generally viewed as a condition that occurs in teenage years – not in the 20s and beyond. An occasional zit or small breakout should not be worried about, as this is common for a number of reasons. However, consistent inflammation and redness, breakouts, and scarring should be approached as acne and treated properly.

What Causes Adult Acne?

The following covers a majority of the causes for adult acne. A dermatologist should ultimately diagnose and recommend treatment for skin-related disorders.

• Stress: This may be one of the most controllable and most missed causes of adult acne. As stress increases, the adrenal glands in the kidneys begin producing male hormones full force – in both females and males. In turn, this causes the skin to become oilier, as male hormones cause increased oil secretion. This will lead to clogged pores. This simplest solution is to relax. Realistically, decreasing stress is much easier said than done. Learning to control stress will help reduce the breakouts. Stress-related acne will occur primarily in the cheek area.
• Improper Skincare: Using a product that is too rich or to light for the skin can trigger acne. Cleansers and moisturizers that are overly rich in oils or fragrances can clog pores and flare-up the skin. Beware of using anti-aging solutions on oily skin, as these products are very oil heavy and can cause more problems. Additionally, using oil-free products on very dry skin can cause the body to produce more oil, clogging the pores. Of course, not properly washing the face can allow pores to become clogged with dirt, oil, and bacteria. Skin should be washed and moisturized at least once a day, and exfoliated no more than three times a week. Exfoliating too often or using a harsh exfoliant can cause microscopic tears in the skin which allow bacteria to easily get under the top layer of the skin and cause infections and breakouts. Avoid apricot and other fruit pit scrubs, as these tear the skin the most. Be sure to avoid touching the face when hands are dirty, and often clean telephone handsets and cell phones. Wash the face immediately after sweating excessively.
• Hormones: Hormones are unfortunately difficult to control without medical attention, but tend to be responsible for adult acne in many situations. Hormone increases can be caused by stress, pregnancy, prescription drugs/steroid use, or because of premenstrual flare-ups and menopause. Hormonal acne will often show around the jawline. A doctor will decide if hormone therapy or other prescribed drugs will be necessary to control the influxes.
• Diet and Digestion: A diet heavy in rich foods, such as chocolate and wine, can cause temporary breakouts in the nose and forehead area. Moderating consumption can alleviate the issue. Digestion issues, such as lactose or gluten allergies, can also cause breakouts in the forehead area. Learning what foods trigger acne will help reduce the breakouts. Digestion-related acne often appears on the chin and around the mouth.
• Dehydration: Drinking the recommended amount of water – about eight glasses a day – can quickly help to reduce oiliness and acne. When the body lacks water and the skin drys out, it makes up for it by producing oil to lubricate the skin. In turn, the oil clogs pores and causes flare-ups. Increasing water consumption will allow the body to produce less oil.
• Skin Conditions: One of the most commonly mistaken conditions is rosacea. Many believe they are experiencing an acne breakout, when in fact they have been affected with rosacea, which tends to imitate acne by producing small red acne-like bumps. This condition can be mild or extreme, is often hereditary, and should be treated by a dermatologist. Diet control can reduce rosacea flare-ups.

Ultimately, using the proper skin care regimen can reduce adult acne. See an esthetician or doctor to figure out which line and program is right. If the problem is more serious, see a doctor, who may prescribe prescription drugs or gels to help moderate the breakouts. Adult acne can be controlled and can disappear with time.

Resources about Adult Acne

More Information on Adult Acne

WebMD Adult Acne Treatment Options on WebMD

Acne Resource: Does Stress Cause Acne?

Resource by Thrive Med Spa

Thrive Med Spa is a leading medical spa in Chicago that is privately owned and operated by Dr. Barry Summers, a Board Certified General & Cosmetic Surgeon. Thrive Medical Spa, has two convenient downtown locations in Lakeview and the Gold Coast. Thrive is the leading medical spa and rejuvenation center in Chicago ( and Thrive Laser Training School) and is dedicated to providing clients with the highest quality of care and state of the art treatments for cosmetic and skin rejuvenation .

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