Adult Acne: Why It Happens
Adult acne is common and can appear even if your skin was relatively clear during your teenage years. It usually happens because several factors—oil production, clogged pores, inflammation, hormones, and genetics—interact.
Common causes
- Hormonal fluctuations: Changes in androgen levels can increase oil production and make pores more likely to clog. Menstrual-cycle changes, pregnancy, and some hormonal contraceptives can influence breakouts.
- Stress: Stress can affect hormone signaling and inflammation, potentially making existing acne worse.
- Skincare and cosmetics: Heavy or pore-clogging products may contribute to breakouts in some people.
- Medications: Certain medicines can trigger or worsen acne.
- Genetics: Having close family members with persistent acne can increase your likelihood of developing it.
- Lifestyle and environment: Sweat, friction, humidity, and occlusive clothing or equipment can sometimes aggravate acne.
Where does adult acne appear?
Adult acne often affects the lower face, chin, and jawline, but it can also occur on the forehead, cheeks, chest, and back.
Why does it seem different from teenage acne?
Adult acne is often more persistent and inflammatory, with tender papules, pustules, or deeper nodules. Skin may also become drier or more sensitive with age, so treatments that worked during adolescence may no longer be ideal.
What can help?
A simple routine can be a good starting point: gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic moisturizer, daily sunscreen, and an evidence-based acne treatment such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Introduce active ingredients gradually to minimize irritation.
If acne is painful, severe, suddenly appearing, or causing scars or dark marks, a dermatologist can help identify the cause and choose treatment appropriate for your skin.
