Adult-onset acne is the cherry on the top of an already stressful life, it seems. Although it can be embarrassing and annoying, you are not alone. If you have had acne most of your life, you can get acne well into your 50’s. You can also get it for the first time as an adult even if you didn’t have it in your younger years, yippee.
Causes
Without knowing the causes, we will never learn how to manage adult-onset acne. Fair warning though, not all causes are something you can treat. Don’t be discouraged, because there are still things you can do at home, and with the help of a dermatologist, to control most kinds of acne. Some examples that cause acne are:
- Hormones-The hormone androgen causes the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum, which can clog the pores. Pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and oral contraceptives are examples of things that can increase sebum production.
- Genetics-If your parents had acne, you have a predisposition for it.
- Greasy or Oily Substances- Topical lotions that contain too much oil, pore-clogging makeup, and grease in a work area such as frying vats.
How to Manage
Managing acne takes patience to find what works for you. Here are a few simple tips to make managing those acne breakouts simpler.
- Non-Pore Clogging Products- Oil-free, non-comedogenic, and non-acnegenic, are what you want to look for in the skin products you buy; Anything that will not clog the pores.
- Manage Stress- Stress does not cause acne, but it can certainly worsen it. Find a technique that works for you and stick with it.
- Sayonara Sweet Tooth- There are conflicting facts about certain diets that are better or worse to combat acne, but one thing is constant. Sweets. Eating fewer sweets can reduce acne breakouts and is also better for your overall body in the long run.
- Acne-Fighting Ingredients- Salicylic acid, benzol peroxide, sulfur, glycolic acid, and retinol. These all fight acne in different ways, and whether you need to have some spot treatments on hand, or you need an everyday preventative, these ingredients are what you need to look for.
If you find that nothing is helping to clear your acne on your own, or if acne runs in your family, it is time to see a dermatologist. At Texas Dermatology, we specialize in various procedures for even the most stubborn acne. Our dermatologists will conduct a thorough evaluation of your skin to determine what treatment options are best for you. With a little patience, most cases of acne can be controlled.
If you or someone you know is struggling with acne, Texas Dermatology has clinical research studies for those suffering from acne. Qualified candidates who participate may receive compensation for time and travel. To learn more and see how you or someone you know may qualify for our acne clinical studies, click HERE to learn more.
References:
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/adult-acne
