Actually, adult acne is a fairly common condition and has the same underlying cause as teenage acne—an overabundance of sebum, skin cells becoming trapped within the pores and causing blockages (comedones), and a proliferation of the Propioni bacterium.
Your skin changes during adulthood, and you could have acne triggers as an adult that you might not have had when you were younger—medications for a medical condition, oral contraceptives, cosmetics, exposure to skin irritants, stress, and more.
If you suddenly develop an acne-like rash or begin getting pimples for the first time in your life, you should see your doctor or a dermatologist. Certain skin conditions can look just like acne. Getting the correct diagnosis is an important first step in successfully treating your skin.
Men and women are both susceptible to adult acne, but women are more likely to develop adult acne than men. Sometimes women can have deep-seated cysts under the skin, most commonly around the jawline.
Treatments for acne can be a little different for women than men. And strategies for covering up acne, such as makeup or growing a beard, can differ too.
Be sure to pay attention to whether things like cosmetics and facial hair are helping or exacerbating your acne. And when you talk to your doctor about the best ways to treat your acne, make sure to mention these aspects of how you like to present your facial appearance.
While teenage skin tends to be super oily, chances are your skin today is less oily. Products geared toward teen acne may be too drying. And you may have other skin issues you’d like to manage too, like sun damage or aging. Tailoring your skin care routine and acne treatments for your skin as it is today will give you the results you’re looking for.
Even with careful care, you may develop some sort of scarring. This is especially true if you get severe inflamed breakouts or cystic acne. Talk to your dermatologist for advice on how to best treat your acne scars.
If you have acne or another skin condition, rest assured—there are excellent treatment options. Take care of your skin by seeing your doctor.
