Acne is often regarded as a problem that is exclusive to adolescents, but the truth is that it can persist into adulthood. In fact, up to 50% of women report acne at some point in their 20s, 30s, or 40s. Men can also face this issue. What causes adult acne, and what can you do if you are struggling with repeated breakouts as an adult? This blog post explains.

Possible Causes of Adult Acne

Understanding the causes of adult acne is an essential step in addressing this frustrating condition. While the reasons vary from person to person, several common factors can contribute to breakouts:

• Fluctuating hormone levels, particularly during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause.
• Stress, which can lead to increased production of cortisol and subsequent oil production in the skin.
• Use of certain medications, including steroids and hormonal contraceptives.
• Poor skincare habits, such as failing to remove makeup or using pore-clogging products.
• Dietary factors, including high-glycemic foods or dairy products that may trigger inflammation.
• Genetic predisposition to acne, inherited from family members.
• Environmental factors, such as pollution or humid climates, which can clog pores.
• Underlying health conditions, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Possible Solutions for Adult Acne

Addressing adult acne effectively may require a combination of targeted solutions tailored to your unique skin concerns. Here is an overview of some things that might help:

Lifestyle Changes

Certain adjustments to your daily routine have the potential to significantly reduce the frequency and severity of breakouts:

• Adopt a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, while avoiding high-glycemic and processed foods.
• Minimize stress through activities such as exercise, yoga, or mindfulness practices, which help to regulate cortisol levels.
• Improve sleep hygiene by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and ensuring you get adequate rest each night.
• Keep your hands away from your face to reduce the transfer of dirt and oil to your skin.
• Regularly clean any items that touch your face, such as your smartphone, pillowcases, and makeup brushes.

Prescription Medications

If lifestyle changes are insufficient, consulting a dermatologist can provide access to prescription treatments tailored to your needs. For example, you might benefit from:

• Oral antibiotics to reduce inflammation and bacterial growth in more severe cases.
• Oral contraceptives to regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to acne.
• Isotretinoin for persistent or cystic acne that has not responded to other treatments.

Topical Skincare Treatments

A consistent and effective skincare regimen can make a significant difference in managing adult acne. You might try the following:

• Use of topical retinoids to unclog pores and encourage cellular turnover.
• Application of benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Incorporation of non-comedogenic moisturizers to maintain hydration without clogging pores.

Professional Skin Treatments in a Med Spa

Med spas often offer advanced treatments that can help with adult acne. For example, you might find out if you are a candidate for:

• Chemical peels to exfoliate dead skin cells and promote smoother, clearer skin.
• Microneedling to improve skin texture and reduce acne scars.
• Laser therapy to target acne-causing bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• HydraFacials to cleanse, hydrate, and rejuvenate the skin.

Adult acne is not always easy to solve! Hopefully, you can find a treatment that helps you enjoy clearer, healthier skin.

Meet the Practice

Under the leadership of board-certified plastic surgeon Irvin M. Wiesman, our med spa team offers a range of skin rejuvenation services, including microneedling, HydraFacials, chemical peels, and more. If you are struggling with adult acne, we are ready to assist you. Contact our Chicago office at 312-981-1291.