The Secrets To Clearing Up Adult Acne

If you have adult acne (hello!), then you know it's a totally different monster than the pimples you zapped as a teen. While teenage acne is primarily caused by oily skin and hormones, adult acne has distinct origins and needs a different treatment plan.

Here’s everything you need to know about why you’re breaking out now, and what to do about it.

Causes for adult acne

This is usually due to hormonal imbalances, certain medications, diet, stress and more, says Alpana Mohta, a certified dermatologist and medical advisor for BetterGoods, an independent organization that analyzes the ingredients in skincare, beauty and personal care. Hormonal imbalances when you’re approaching menopause can cause an increase in sebum production, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts, while certain medications such as corticosteroids, hormonal pills and Vitamin B12 supplements can also cause breakouts, Mohta says. Diet — anything rich in sugar and dairy products — along with stress, can also play a role.

Differences between adult breakouts and teen acne

When you’re an adult, the breakouts tend to be more deep-rooted and persistent than teen breakouts. “While teenage acne is characterized by blackheads and whiteheads, adult breakouts take the form of painful cystic acne, which can discharge pus,” Mohta says. Adult acne can also be more difficult to treat, and tends to leave deep acne scars and hyperpigmentation.

Where adult acne occurs

It’s more likely to be found on the lower half of the face, while teen acne is usually on the forehead, nose and chin, says Harikiran Chekuri, a certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon.

If you experienced a lot of pimples as a teen, are you more likely to breakout as an adult?

Some research has shown that people who had acne as teens are more likely to experience adult acne, likely due to the fact that the underlying causes of acne — such as the growth of acne-causing bacteria, hormonal imbalances and certain medications — can persist into adulthood. But even if you never had a pimple as a teen, you may still breakout as an adult.

Ingredients you should look for to tackle adult acne

Retinoids, azelaic acid, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, Mohta says. Retinoids can help exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Azelaic acid will reduce inflammation and kill acne-causing bacteria while clearing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Salicylic acid can help to exfoliate the skin, dissolve sebum and unclog pores. Benzoyl peroxide can help kill acne-causing bacteria.

But, Chekuri says, it’s important to find an approach that works for you. And please always contact a doctor or dermatologist to help with a treatment plan.

“What works for one person may not work for another, so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find something that helps,” she says.

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