The pimples, blackheads and whiteheads associated with acne are supposed to be a teenager's problem--so why do you have them as an adult? While many believe acne is a burden for the young, the truth is it's a problem that affects more than 50 percent of American adults, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Several different causes behind this condition exist, including your lifestyle as well as genetic makeup.
Identification
Adult acne looks different than teenage acne. Teenagers tend to overproduce oil, making the skin all over their bodies appear more oily. A larger number of blackheads and whiteheads also are commonly associated with teenage acne. However, adults often experience less oiliness and their acne is limited to their faces, necks and jaws. Instead of whiteheads or blackheads, adult acne sufferers more often have red bumps or cysts that can be painful--and longer lasting.
Causes
Adult acne can be triggered both by a person's lifestyle and simple biology. For example, adults who tend to experience significant bouts of stress often have more acne than those who do not. Also, the products adults use on their faces, such as heavy makeup, anti-wrinkle products or other lotions may clog the pores and cause acne. Another lifestyle-related cause includes consuming too much processed sugar. Genetic or other related factors include hormonal fluctuations, such as when a woman is approaching her menstrual cycle or menopause.
Time Frame
Cases of adult acne can last up to a person's 40s. However, they are most common in a person's 20s and 30s, according to the Acne Resource Center Online. Because adult acne can in some ways be harder to treat than teenage acne, it is a good idea for adult acne sufferers, especially those who are having increasing acne breakouts and flare-ups as they age, to seek a physician's consultation on hormone levels.
Treatments
Adult acne can be controlled with the proper precautions and treatments. Utilizing relaxation methods such as meditation, deep breathing and exercise to reduce stress can help while reducing the amount of sugar in one's diet can as well. Because adults may experience acne bumps, yet also have dry skin, it's important to refrain from using acne products that can be too drying on the face. Therefore, over-the-counter products, such as a salicyclic acid face wash or a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment, may prove helpful in reducing acne's overall appearance.
Expert Insight
Sometimes adult acne does not respond well to over-the-counter medications. When this occurs, a physician may be able to prescribe a stronger treatment, such as a retinoid or topical antibiotic. Some women who take birth control pills also may experience reduced acne symptoms as the birth control pills help to regulate hormones while suppressing oil-stimulating glands. However, it is important to receive treatment for adult acne, as failure to do so can result in facial scarring.
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