Acne is generally associated with teenage years however, many adults can develop it. Adult acne can be due to different reasons and is often very stressful, affecting physical appearance and at times one’s self-esteem. There are adult acne treatment options that can be explored for the management of acne.
What is Adult Acne?
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition and is one of the eight most common skin diseases worldwide. It occurs due to the buildup of bacteria inside the pores, leading to damage to the skin, which results in the formation of acne lesions.
Acne varies in forms, including whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and nodules, and different people experience different types. It’s possible to have mild, consistent acne, occasional outbreaks, or severe cases, also affecting larger body areas. Adult acne treatment options vary depending on the type of acne and its severity.
– Mild acne may consist of blackheads, whiteheads, or small pustules.
– Moderate adult acne might include papules covering an area of the face or body.
– Severe adult acne often involves extreme redness or discolouration, irritation, and scars.
What are the causes of acne?
Acne usually occurs due to bacteria building up inside the pores of the skin. However, hormone fluctuations, stress, diet, and skincare can all be contributing causes of acne.
Hormonal Fluctuations
In adult acne, hormonal changes play a significant role. Females may experience fluctuating hormones during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, and after starting or stopping birth control pills. Males may experience fluctuating hormones during phases of high testosterone (puberty) or andropause (menopause). These hormonal changes can result in acne.
Stress
There has been research conducted that has found a correlation between stress and acne flare-ups. The body produces cortisol in response to chronic stress. This hormone can stimulate oil glands and lead to increased sebum production. Excessive sebum can clog pores, contributing to the development of acne.
Diet
The relationship between diet and acne is complex, and certain foods high in sugar and dairy products may exacerbate acne in some individuals; hence, it is important to be attentive to the diet’s potential impact on skin.
Skincare/Makeup products
Individuals need to understand their skin type and find appropriate skincare that suits their acne-prone skin. It could be dry skin or skin that produces excess oil, in which acne products need to be oil-free or have active ingredients to avoid making acne worse.
Using pore-clogging skincare or makeup can contribute to developing acne. It is important that non-comedogenic, oil-free, non-acnegenic products are used so pores are not left blocked.
Medication side effect
Acne can be a side effect of certain medications. If you believe the medicine is triggering your acne or making it worse, continue taking the medicine, but talk to the doctor about your concerns. The medication can be changed, or acne treatment could be recommended.
Adult Acne Treatments
There are many reasons that acne may occur, and treating adult acne isn’t always a one-product fix-all solution. It requires a combination of factors to combine to create a regime for better skin results.
Maintaining a proper skin care routine can prevent inflammation and acne scarring. This includes daily face washing, sunscreen use, makeup removal before bed, and a balanced diet with exercise for healthy skin.
Topical treatments
There are over-the-counter or even prescription topical treatments containing ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoid, which can help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and promote skin cell turnover.
Oral Medications
In certain cases, oral medications such as antibiotics, hormonal therapies (birth control pills for women), or isotretinoin are prescribed. These are for severe or persistent cases of adult acne. Discuss with health care professionals about the treatment plan, the side effects, and the other factors that need to be altered to manage acne effectively.
Lifestyle changes
A healthy lifestyle can contribute to managing adult acne, including a balanced diet, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and avoiding sun exposure. Individuals should ensure they drink enough water, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep, as they too can make a difference.
Professional procedures and consistent skin care
Procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy can be effective in treating adult acne by promoting skin renewal and reducing inflammation.
Establishing a consistent skincare routine is crucial for managing adult acne. Cleansing the face regularly, using skin care products, and avoiding picking/squeezing pimples to prevent scarring.
Consult a doctor
If you are beginning your acne treatment journey or are already receiving treatment for it, a thorough discussion with a doctor is important at every stage. If topical therapies have failed, the current regimen is causing concern, or is not effective, it is best to speak to a health care professional.
