Adult Acne: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Table of Contents

• What Causes Adult Acne?
• Is Adult Acne Different From Teenager Acne?
• What Impact Does Acne Have on Confidence And Mental Health?
• What Steps Can Someone Take to Treat Acne?
• Effective Advice To Combat Adult Acne

What Causes Adult Acne?

Acne develops when small openings on the skin, referred to as hair follicles, become clogged. There are many reasons why adults get acne.

Hormonal Changes

In women hormonal changes can be a major contributing factor, especially around the time when women are menstruating, going through menopause or pregnant.

Stress

Adults are likely to get acne through stress. The science behind the reasoning is varied, however, research has demonstrated that there is a correlation between increased stress levels and acne. A common theory is that stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that helps the body deal with stress. Excess cortisol caused by increased stress levels stimulate the sebaceous glands in your skin to produce more sebum, a natural oil that lubricates your skin. Sebum protects the skin keeping it moist and acts as a protective barrier. However, an overproduction of sebum can clog pores and create an environment for bacteria associated with acne to grow. Increased stress levels can also have a negative impact on the quality of your sleep and your diet. This can compromise your immune system and lead to breakouts.

Genetics

Genetics also play a role in adult acne. Whilst there is no specific gene linked to acne, certain genetic mutations can increase your chances of getting acne as an adult, for example, your immune system may not respond well to dealing with bacteria associated with acne or you may have inherited an oily skin type making you prone to getting acne or you may be genetically predisposed to hormone imbalances that can cause acne.

Using Certain Medications or Cosmetics

Certain medication or cosmetic skin care products can also be the cause of acne. Birth control pills, steroids and lithium used in the treatment of bipolar disorder are all notorious for causing acne. Certain skin care products that make your skin too oily or too dry (dry skin encourages the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum) can also contribute to adult acne. There may be certain ingredients contained in products that you’re using that your skin may react to, causing acne.

Is Adult Acne Different From Teenager Acne?

Adult acne and teenage acne both stem from similar biological processes, primarily involving hormonal fluctuations that lead to increased oil production. However, the triggers and persistence of acne can differ significantly between adults and teenagers.

In teenagers, acne is commonly linked to the surge in testosterone that occurs during puberty. This hormone surge is crucial as it aids in the development of male secondary sexual characteristics such as the growth of the penis and testicles and is also involved in maintaining muscle and bone strength in females. The heightened levels of testosterone make the sebaceous glands more sensitive, causing them to produce an excess amount of sebum, which is more than what the skin actually requires. This overproduction can clog pores and lead to acne.

Adult acne, on the other hand, can be influenced by additional lifestyle and environmental factors. Ultimately, although they are based on similar biological mechanisms, adult acne often requires different management strategies due to the broader range of potential triggers.

What Impact Does Acne Have on Confidence And Mental Health?

Having acne leads to developing blackheads and pimples on the skin. However, for many people, acne doesn’t just affect their skin. Severe acne tends to have a negative impact on your mental well-being. Numerous studies that have looked at the effects of acne on mental well-being, have highlighted links between acne and mental health issues such as depression, low self-esteem and anxiety. This is especially worse for patients who have tried to do everything they can to get rid of their acne, but it won’t go away. It can change the way you think that others see you, which can in turn, change the way you see yourself. This in itself can be the start of a vicious cycle causing social phobia, anxiety, depression and loss of confidence.

What Steps Can Someone Take to Treat Acne?

Over the years, extensive research such as studies, articles, blogs, and conversations with thousands of people affected by acne, has provided valuable insights. Among the countless products available and various lifestyle changes used to treat acne, the reality is that finding what works is highly individual. Some products can help restore moisture for dry skin or reduce excess oil for oily skin, but since everyone’s skin condition is different, what works for one person may not work for another. As frustrating as it can be, managing acne often involves a process of trial and error. 

Although pimples and whiteheads can be uncomfortable and may cause low confidence, it is important that you do not squeeze acne lesions as this can worsen your acne, causing scarring, infection, inflammation and discolouration. Using harsh cleansers or scrubbing will also make acne worse.

Effective Advice To Combat Adult Acne

Know Your Skin Type and Deal with it Accordingly

Those who suffer from oily skin would benefit from a product that reduces excess oil produced by the skin. Be careful to ensure that you use such products in intervals to avoid drying your skin which can have a reverse effect and also cause acne. The same advice applies to people that suffer from dry skin (but the other way round). Don’t be afraid to try home remedies such as turmeric and apple cider vinegar as treatments for adult acne. Some natural ingredients may actually prove to work better than cosmetic products and won’t contain any of the unnecessary nasties that are potentially unkind to skin.

Use a Cleanser on Your Skin Twice a Day

You should try to look for cleansing products that are hypoallergenic and free from fragrances. Cleansing your skin can help to get rid of bacteria and dirt associated with causing acne. You should apply the most appropriate cream to your face, depending on your skin type. 

It’s best to steer clear of harsh, aggressive cleansers, for dry or sensitive skin, a creamy cleanser may be better as it is often gentler and more soothing. If you have oily skin, a mild foaming cleanser can be more effective. For those dealing with blackheads, a cleanser containing salicylic acid can help by targeting oil and clearing clogged pores. Benzoyl peroxide is another good option, as it fights bacteria and helps slough off dead skin cells.

For more information regarding acne of the face, take a look at our dedicated 'Acne Face Map' or 'Face & Body Acne' guides.

See Your GP or Pharmacist

Adult acne can be caused as a side-effect of medication you are taking, or could be a result of a hormone imbalance. Your GP or pharmacist can offer advice and support you in making clinical decisions that are better for your skin. You can also be prescribed acne treatment that can help. 

Retinoids are ingredients that regulate skin turnover, so that dead skin cells do not clog pores. It also serves as an anti-inflammatory, reducing swelling and redness caused by acne. 

Products such as Differin and Epiduo are effective and you should speak to your doctor if your acne is getting worse.

There are also antibiotic creams that are available on prescription such as Duac gel, Zineryt or Treclin. These creams contain antibiotics along with another ingredient such as a retinoid or an anti-inflammatory agent that can help to clear acne. If your acne is caused by a hormone imbalance, your doctor may prescribe you with a certain contraceptive pill, which can bring your hormones back into sync and improve your acne. You should make an appointment with your GP to discuss treatment options.

Make Lifestyle Changes

Regularly washing your face can improve acne. Furthermore, tweaking your diet to include more water, vegetables and less sugar could help to improve your skin. Clinical research has suggested that certain foods which cause a spike in insulin levels, such as sugar, white rice, white bread can lead to acne. Research has also demonstrated that foods high in saturated and trans fats and dairy products, can stimulate an over production of hormones that can contribute to acne. Limiting your intake of these foods and increasing your consumption of foods that are “kinder” to skin such as lentils, quinoa and slow releasing carbs (sweet potatoes, brown rice) may help to improve your skin. Getting a good night’s sleep and managing stress levels can keep your immune system healthy and also help in reducing acne. Research also suggests that smoking can contribute to adult acne, and you should try to stop smoking if you do.

For additional acne resources relating to other areas of the body that acne might affect, why not take a look at our guides that focus on 'How To Get Rid Of Back Acne' and 'How To Get Rid Of Chest Acne'.

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.