Why Am I Getting Adult Acne?

What You Need to Know About Adult Acne

• The causes of adult acne
• Acne: A multi-faceted skin condition

The causes of adult acne

Adult acne often shares some of the same causes of that seen in adolescence, although this isn’t always the case. The four main reasons it occurs are: 

• Excessive oil production within the skin
• Clogged pores
• Bacteria
• Inflammation

There are also underlying reasons that can exacerbate these four factors, including hormones, stress, cosmetics, and diet. Some medications can be a trigger for adult acne.

Many people mistakenly think that having the condition means you have poor skin hygiene. However, this almost certainly isn’t the case. In fact, those who’re prone to outbreaks are likely to have sensitive skin, meaning that aggressive cleaning will exacerbate the condition, rather than reduce it.

Acne: A multi-faceted skin condition 

Acne has many guises. Different types of spots are known by a variety of names, such as:

• Papules: Red, swollen, and often sore to touch, these are caused by clogged and inflamed pores.
• Pustules: Similar to papules, but filled with pus, giving them a classic ‘whitehead’ appearance.
• Blackheads: Spots with a black appearance to the tip. They’re caused by clogging of the skin beneath the surface. As the clogged elements meet the air inside the skin pore, they oxidize and turn black.
• Cysts and nodules: Large, painful bumps that remain for extended periods. They are the most severe kind of acne and can often lead to scarring.

Effective Treatment for Adult Acne  

• Treating adult acne: the most common skin condition
• The link between hormones, stress, medications, cosmetics, and acne

Treating adult acne: the most common skin condition

There are many ways that a dermatologist can treat adult acne. The severity of the condition will guide the treatment plan. From oral medication, such as Accutane, to topical treatments, hormonal options, and light-based therapy, your skincare provider will determine a stepwise process. This will begin with the least invasive to find out which one or combination best improves your condition.

Another important aspect is to only use gentle, non-irritating skin care products specifically designed for sensitive skin.

The link between hormones, stress, medications, cosmetics, and acne

There are many indirect causes that can further worsen the skin condition. 

• Hormones are often the culprit. With women, menstruation, pregnancy, and the menopause may all play a part.
• Overly high stress levels can have a systemic effect that can cause hormones to fluctuate. In turn, this can cause flare ups of acne in both men and women.
• Medications, such as steroids or lithium, are known to cause acne. Herbal supplements can also be a culprit, so be sure to tell your dermatologist about any you might be taking.
• Oil-based cosmetics are no friend to anyone’s skin. For those who have excessive skin oil production, these should be avoided as they can add to the issue of clogged pores. If you suffer from acne, choose all cosmetics with care, ensuring that they are labeled ‘non-comedogenic’. If you wear makeup, be sure to use that which is mineral-based and be sure to remove it before going to bed.

Living with Adult Acne? Get Professional Help Today at Bayou City Dermatology

Adult acne can have a severe impact on your self-esteem. Thankfully, there are many advanced treatments that can help reduce the symptoms and ease you towards the touchable skin you long for. The expert dermatologists at Bayou City Dermatology offer the latest treatments—even for the most severe forms of acne.

Don’t suffer for a single day longer. Schedule your personalized appointment today at

https://www.bayoucitydermatology.com/clinical/acne-treatment