Although acne is commonly associated with adolescence, it can affect individuals throughout life. It is a frequent reason for dermatological visits and self-esteem issues among adults. Approximately 1 in 5 women between the ages of 25 and 40 years of age suffer from adult acne, in addition to post-menopausal women who suffer from hormonal imbalance break-outs.

So, what exactly causes Adult Acne?

Adult acne is caused by sebum, an oily substance produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands. Sebum clogs pores, which attract bacteria and become inflamed. For most adults, breakouts are a result of hypersensitivity to androgens (male hormones). But an imbalance in both male and female hormones (estrogen) can also cause breakouts. For women, this can happen during pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. Some medications, such as corticosteroids, and cosmetics are also triggers.

The most frequent question I get from my adult female patients is:

Q. ‘How can I have acne and wrinkles?!’

Although it is frustrating dealing with aging skin that is prone to break-outs there are some simple solutions. See a board certified dermatologist who may prescribe a treatment plan similar to this:

1. Use a non-soap cleanser, preferably one with glycolic acid such as Vivite’s Daily Facial Cleanser.

2. Apply a topical antibiotic lotion, again one with glycolic & salicylic acid, such as La Roche Posay’s Conditioning Solution or products with benzoyl peroxide and/or retinol creams such as Skin Medica’s TNS Retinol Complex.

3. In some persistent cases, oral antibiotics may be prescribed for a specific amount of time. Accutane is another safe and effective treatment for resistant cases. Blood tests are required for the typical 5 month course of accutane therapy.

Every case is unique, therefore it is best to see your dermatologist for the most effective long-lasting results.

Debunking Common Acne Myths

TANNING OR SUN EXPOSURE CAN CURE ACNE

Fact: Getting a tan or getting exposed under the sunlight may cause the skin to become darker, thus temporarily concealing the redness of the acne. But once the tan disappears, the acne is still there.

Also, tanning or sunbathing may cause dryness and irritation to the skin. And worse, it can increase the risk of premature aging and cancer of the skin. Instead, use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, and one that will not clog pores. Such sunscreen is referred to as nonacnegenic or noncomedogenic.

EATING FRIED, OILY AND FATTY FOODS CAN CAUSE ACNE

Fact: There is actually no scientific basis on the belief that a greasy diet, including French fries, pizza, or chocolates, can be a cause of acne. However, there are certain foods that worsen, but not cause, acne. Such foods include those that have high Calcium content (milk) or high Iodine content (seafood).

ACNE IS BROUGHT ABOUT BY POOR HYGIENE

Fact: Skin infections may be related to acne in some ways. But poor hygiene is actually not the cause for the outbreaks of acne. Oil combines with dead cells, producing acne. And this combination occurs beneath the surface of the skin where it is impossible to reach and clean away.

YOU HAVE TO LET ACNE RUN ITS COURSE

Fact: Acne can be cleared up. If the Over the Counter acne products you have tried haven’t worked, consider seeing a board certified dermatologist. With the treatments available today, there is no reason why someone has to endure acne or get acne scars.