If you are struggling with adult acne, you are not alone. It’s important to note the following:
• Nearly 25% of adults between the ages of 25-40 have an acne recurrence and struggle to cope. Although acne strikes adult women at a greater rate than men, men tend to have more severe and longer lasting breakouts than women; because of higher levels of testosterone that men have.
• Adult acne is no indication of poor hygiene. The acne is a result of sebum, an oily substance produced by fat glands, which gets trapped in the hair follicle.
• Adult acne should be treated differently than teenage acne. Adult skin is more fragile and dry and cannot handle the harsh cleansing agents contained in teenage products.
What are the causes of adult acne?
1. Stress: Scientific research indicates that "increased acne severity" is significantly associated with increased stress levels. It’s important to find ways to cope with stress, to prevent a hormonal imbalance which may lead to outbreaks.
2. Bad cosmetics: Watch out for cleansers, moisturizers, makeup, and hair care products that are not acne-friendly. Certain products, especially those with an oil-base, can block pores and create an impaction within the follicle. Avoid oily products and throw out old brushes.
3. Hormones: Adult onset acne most commonly affects women. Sharp hormonal fluctuations often occur during ovulation and menstruation, pregnancy, pre-menopause, and menopause. It can also be caused by using certain birth control medications. Women may see their acne suddenly develop, or worsen, during these periods of life.
4. Heredity: The tendency to develop acne runs in families. A family history of acne is associated with an earlier occurrence of acne and an increased number of acne lesions
5. Medications and conditions- The use of steroids, certain birth control treatments, hormone therapies and other medications can also cause acne breakouts.
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