The majority of people believe that acne is a sign of aging that disappears once they reach adulthood. Some people have to live with adult acne, which may be frustrating, unpleasant, and very puzzling. When they are in their 30s and 40s, some people experience active acne. Acne is a widespread problem among adults and can persist throughout a person’s entire life. What factors contribute to its occurrence, and what measures can be taken to prevent it from occurring?
What Is Acne in Adults?
Adult acne can affect people over 25. Acne can start in adulthood or persist from childhood. Men can also contract it, but women are more likely to be affected. Acne in adults primarily affects the cheeks, chin, and neck, whereas acne in teenagers typically affects the forehead and chin.
Changes in hormones, choices about how to live, stress, and skin care habits may all make adult acne worse, but the exact reasons are still being researched. Itching, breakouts, and clogged pores can last for weeks or months.
It’s not your fault that you have acne in your 30s or 40s, and you’re not the only one. Acne breakouts in adults happen more often than most people think. Why is there a skin war all the time, and how do you stop it?
Common Causes of Adult Acne
Mood changes are a primary reason why adults get acne. During menstruation, pregnancy, and the time before menopause, women’s skin oil glands can become too active. This leads to acne and clogged pores. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may change hormone levels, which can lead to acne.
Stress
Many people get acne when they are under a lot of stress. In many cases, the hormone cortisol, commonly known as the “stress hormone,” stimulates the production of sebum, a type of oil, on the skin’s surface, including the face. Acne can occur when pores become clogged, typically due to excessive oil production or the accumulation of too many dead skin cells. Researchers have also found that worry can weaken the immune system, making it harder to fight the microorganisms that cause acne.
Food and Nutrition
Some foods can exacerbate adult acne, but that’s not the only factor that affects it. High-glycemic foods, such as sugary snacks, refined carbohydrates, and fast food, can cause blood sugar levels to rise, disrupt hormone balance, and contribute to the accumulation of body fat. Milk proteins may produce chemicals that exacerbate acne, potentially contributing to its formation.
Skin Care Items
Although it may seem counterintuitive, the skin care products you use can contribute to adult acne. Comedogenic products or products that are excessively harsh can clog pores and make acne worse. However, creams that are too moisturizing or too oily can also exacerbate acne, especially on sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Genetics
Your genes can also affect how much acne you get as an adult. If one of your parents suffered from acne or greasy skin, you’re more likely to too. Genes influence the size of pores, oil production, and the response of bacteria that cause acne.
Managing and Treating Adult Acne
When dealing with adult acne, though it can be difficult, you can follow guidelines to reduce its severity and improve your complexion. Check out these therapies and changes to your living that may help:
1. Use Non-Comedogenic Skincare Products
Pick a treatment that is “non-comedogenic” to keep acne from getting worse. Cosmetics, moisturizers, and face cleansers are some examples. Non-comedogenic treatments allow your skin to breathe and stay clear without exacerbating acne.
2. Consider Topical Treatments
All of these substances are retinoids, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, over-the-counter medications that can be applied to the skin to clear pores and reduce redness. These items can help you control acne breakouts by clearing out clogged pores. To prevent irritation, these treatments should be introduced gradually.
3. Talk to a Skincare Professional
Visit a dermatologist or another qualified skin care professional if over-the-counter medications do not provide relief. A physician may prescribe oral antibiotics or hormone therapy, and Laser treatment could be available to acne sufferers, depending on the severity of the issue. Professional therapists can also provide treatment for skin problems that cause acne.
4. Manage Stress Effectively
Adults with acne should properly manage their stress, as it may aggravate their condition. Among other techniques, yoga, job, and deep breathing can help lower cortisol levels and boost general health. After you unwind, your skin and mental state will seem healthier.
5. Adopt a Healthy Diet
A well-balanced diet that includes sufficient fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats helps regulate hormone levels and reduce inflammation. Your skin will stay fresh and clean if you avoid sugar and dairy and drink lots of water. Because they reduce inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids in salmon may help alleviate skin issues associated with acne.
6. Don’t Touch or Pick at Your Skin
Although it feels good to pick at acne, doing so can introduce bacteria into the pores, exacerbate the redness, and lead to scarring. If you touch or pop a pimple, it will take longer to heal and make the problem worse.
7. Be Patient
Taking care of adult acne takes time. Because acne treatments take time to work, it’s essential to stick to your skincare routine. Changing your makeup frequently can irritate your face and lead to breakouts.
You Can Have Healthy Skin at Any Age
Adult acne is more common than most people realize, and there are several effective treatments available. You can eliminate acne and improve your skin’s appearance with skincare products, professional treatments, or lifestyle adjustments. At any age, acne doesn’t make someone beautiful. Having faith in yourself starts inside, and getting rid of acne is just the first step.
You don’t have to live with bad acne forever if you’re in your 30s or 40s and still experience it. You can see benefits and feel better about your skin if you get the right treatments and take care of yourself.
One Face Clinic – Dr David Ng Cheow Hua
1 Tras Link
#02-01 Orchid Hotel
Singapore 078867
Tel: +65 6222 2262
Whatsapp: +65 9822 2989
