While many associate acne and blemishes with the turbulent teenage years, the reality is that many adults continue to grapple with breakouts well into their 20s, 30s, and beyond. In this article, we're exploring the ins and outs of adult acne, uncovering its causes and providing tangible advice to help balance, counteract, and calm the reaction.
The causes of adult acne
Adult acne can emerge due to a variety of factors that linger long after the teenage years. It manifests in different forms – from blackheads and whiteheads to painful cysts – and can significantly impact our comfort and confidence. It's important to note that other medical conditions can resemble adult acne, such as rosacea, keratosis pilaris, perioral dermatitis, and PCOS. If you suspect that your breakouts are a symptom of another underlying issue, always consult a doctor or dermatologist for tailored treatment.
Hormonal fluctuations
One of the most significant factors in adult acne is hormonal imbalance. For women, fluctuations during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to increased oil production, clogging pores and resulting in breakouts. Men, too, can experience hormonal changes in the skin leading to the occurrence of blemishes and breakouts.
Stress and emotional imbalance
When we experience stress, our bodies produce cortisol, a hormone that can ramp up oil production in the skin. The result? An uptick in acne flare-ups. Your skin can mirror an imbalance going on inside. Read more about how stress can affect your skin and how to avoid it in our blogpost: How stress affects your skin and how to avoid it.
Using the wrong self-care products
Oil-based hair care and skincare products can contribute to acne breakouts, especially for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. If your skin is breakout-prone, opt for non-comedogenic oils or completely oil-free products. By being mindful of your products' ingredient lists, you can effectively care for your hair and skin while keeping breakouts at bay. Other factors like medication, bacteria, environmental factors, and dietary habits can also play a role.
How to counteract adult acne
Topical treatments: Meet Blemish Control Clarifying Gel
Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against unwanted breakouts. Our Blemish Control Clarifying Gel is a lightweight facial gel infused with a potent breakout-controlling duo of 3% SeboClear and Actibiome, effectively regulating oil production, calming signs of inflammation, and addressing breakouts and blemishes. The addition of Actibiome supports a healthy skin microbiome, while linoleic acid helps strengthen the skin barrier. The infusion of hyaluronic acid provides weightless, non-clogging hydration for a supple, well-hydrated finish.
More products worth adding to your routine
If you're looking to build out your routine further, our Skin Perfector 2% BHA gently exfoliates the skin's surface, unclogs pores, and reduces the appearance of blemishes over time. Our Skin Perfector SeboClear works with a similar goal in mind – regulating oil production and calming breakouts, while also brightening the look of dark spots left behind. Pair either with our Daily Foaming Cleanser to gently remove impurities without stripping the skin.
Medication may be necessary
For more severe or persistent cases of adult acne, dermatologists may prescribe medications that provide more systematic treatment. Medical treatments will depend on your skin's condition – meaning not everything will work for everyone.
Keep it simple, keep it effective
A 12-step routine honestly isn't helping anyone. A protective sunscreen, hydrating facial gel, and cleanser is the foundation of any great skincare routine, supplied by one or a few treating products with active, high-performance ingredients. When using actives, starting slow and continuity is key – introduce one product at a time and allow it to take full effect on your skin before introducing another. Your skin is doing everything it can to find balance and protect you. Even though it doesn't always seem like it, it's always on your side.