Acne is a common skin condition affecting both young and adults. It usually starts around puberty when the body experiences a surge of hormones that speed up the development of parts needed in maturity. These fluctuating levels result in a lot of changes, which include the activity of your skin.
Acne forms when the pores of your skin are blocked by hair, sebum, or dead skin cells. As these build up, they become grounds for bacterial growth, resulting in the painful zits that pop up on the surface of your skin. These can take the form of whiteheads, blackheads, and nodules which are often sore to the touch.
Most people hope to grow out of acne once they reach a certain. But the thing with this skin issue is that it can go on even into adulthood. As many can attest, it’s one of those problems that just never seem to end.
Acne isn’t life-threatening, but it is inconvenient and a source of insecurity for many. Sometimes, it can cause infection and scarring when mishandled. Luckily, there are ways to manage it. You may browse around here to learn what some of the most effective ones are.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about acne in adults:
Who Is Affected The Most By Acne?
Acne is prevalent among teenagers and young adults. Some individuals still deal with the skin condition well into their 20s and beyond. A person who has never had acne in their youth can still get it in adulthood.
Where Is Acne Likely To Develop?
Acne is prominently found on the face, forehead, upper back, shoulders, and chest. While almost all parts of the body have oil glands, these areas tend to be exposed regularly, making them prime spots for developing acne.
What Causes Adult Acne?
Although acne is common for adolescents, some people in their 20s and beyond still get it. Here are some of the usual causes of adult acne:
- Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in the amount of hormones in the body typically result in acne breakouts. This is the explanation for why it usually happens among teenagers. Similarly, things like pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, and using hormonal contraception, which affect hormonal balance, can cause acne.
- Family history: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to the condition. If an immediate family member, such as a parent, has acne, the likelihood of also getting acne is high.
- Stress: When a person experiences stress, their body produces more androgen, which stimulates the oil glands in the skin, increasing the risk of acne formation.
- Skin and hair care products: Certain skin care products contain ingredients that may aggravate acne formation, especially for sensitive skin. Using oil-free, non-comedogenic products that do not clog pores may help. But that ultimately depends on your skin type and level of sensitivity. It’s best to consult a dermatologist to figure out which products may be triggering breakouts and find the best replacements and solutions.
- Side effects of medications: Similar to beauty products, certain medications can also trigger acne. These include antidepressants, hormone regulation drugs, and B vitamins.
The root cause of acne varies from person to person. Occasionally, it’s a mix of these factors. Therefore, an effective plan for treating and managing your acne ultimately depends on your unique circumstances. For that, you can always turn to professional help.
What Are The Treatment Options?
In most cases, the management of adult acne is similar for younger people. It usually includes using topical anti-acne medications while assessing potential triggers. A dermatologist may recommend over-the-counter products that contain salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids. Prescription-grade retinoids such as oral isotretinoin or topical tretinoin may be recommended for more serious cases.
It can take between 4-6 weeks for the treatments to produce any visible effects. Some people even have to wait months for their acne to subside and their skin to clear. Consistency and regular investment are crucial to make the treatments a success.
How Can You Reduce Breakouts?
Aside from medical products, there are more practical ways to manage adult acne. Combining them is vital to ensure the best results. These include avoiding potential triggers and maintaining a skincare routine.
Here are some tips to keep in mind to minimize acne breakouts:
- Cleansing your face properly, ideally twice a day and after bouts of sweating profusely.
- Avoid popping any pimples.
- Choose products that are mild or gentle on the skin.
- Avoid scrubbing your skin since this will cause irritation.
Above all, you need to work with a professional dermatologist to get the results you need.
One Zit At A Time
The struggle against acne may feel like it will never end. But figuring out your triggers, learning about your risks, and creating a custom skincare plan can save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Don’t let adult acne keep you from looking and feeling at your best. Talk to a professional and get started now.
Having completed my Bachelor’s degree in medicine and currently pursuing a house job at a well reputed hospital in California, I decided to utilize my spare time in sharing knowledge with others through my blog. Apart from my time spent in the medical field, I love to read fiction novels and go on long drives.