What Causes Adult Acne and How to Fight It

You’re not a teenager anymore, so why do you experience acne flair-ups? There could be a myriad of reasons. Like teens, adult acne can sometimes be related to changing hormones. However, this isn’t the only cause of pesky pimples. From stress to pore-clogging makeup and skin care products, there are many reasons why blemishes remain into our adult years. The good news is you don’t have to live with adult acne. By changing your skin care routine and targeting the cause of the problem, you can better manage your breakouts and achieve a clearer complexion.

Top Causes of Adult Acne

The causes of adult acne can be hard to pinpoint. In some cases, the cause is a medical condition that may require some intervention from a professional. Other times, adult acne comes down to poor skin hygiene. Some of the most common causes of adult acne include:

• Stress – Being an adult is hard. Juggling work, marriage, and children can be tough on the mind and body, resulting in mountains of stress. Excess stress can lead to the production of androgen hormones and cortisol. Both of these things can activate the sebaceous glands which in turn produces excess sebum (oil).
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome – Many women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (POS) struggle with their hormones which can have side effects like acne. Talk to your doctor about managing your POS and add an acne-fighting skin care product to your daily skin care regimen to help keep skin clearer.
• Medications – Certain medications can cause your skin to breakout. Some of the biggest culprits include psychiatric medications like lithium and chemotherapy drugs. Others include hormonal medications and seizure drugs.
• Menopause – If you are at the age where you may be experiencing the onset of menopause, you can expect certain changes triggered by hormonal imbalances. Often times, acne can occur.

How to Manage Adult Acne

Controlling adult acne is not always easy. It may take some time to see what works and what doesn’t for your skin. Ideally, you want to stay away from anti-acne products targeted towards teens. Most adults have drier skin types so these acne washes and medications can be too harsh on the skin. 

Next, be sure to add an oil-free moisturizer to your daily skin care regimen. Many adults avoid using moisturizers due to the misconception that extra moisture will cause more pimples. This isn’t true and your skin needs the extra hydration. Opt for a moisturizer that is suitable for acne-prone skin types, such as the Deep Hydrating Moisturizer by Dr. Sylvia Skin Care. This oil-free moisturizer restores moisture to the skin without clogging pores.

If your acne is problemsome, consider a medical-grade facial as well. The Clarifying Medical-Grade Facial with Sapphire at the Cutis Medical Laser Clinics helps clear congested skin by removing dead skin cells and killing harmful bacteria that can lead to breakouts. 

Fighting Your Adult Acne

Still not sure of the best way to approach your adult acne? Speak with our Harvard-trained doctor Dr. Sylvia Ramirez about our anti-acne products and procedures.