Acne that persists beyond the age of 25 is called "persistent acne," and new cases of acne outbreaks in previously acne-free adults are known as "late-onset acne." Acne affects nearly every adult at some time in later life. Other skin diseases, often confused with acne due to similar symptoms, can develop or recur during adulthood.
Acne
Drug reactions, hormonal changes, stress and allergic reactions all contribute to adult acne, but the exact cause of most acne skin disorders is unknown. Acne treatment commonly involves topical over-the-counter and prescription gels, lotions and creams. In severe cases, doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics such as erythromycin, tetracycline, doxycycline and minocycline. Adult treatment, notes the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), frequently includes "...oral contraceptives, spironolactone, and hormone replacement therapy" for women, and application of a topical retinoid for both sexes.
Pityriasis Rosea
Roseas are skin rashes. Pityriasis rosea is a skin disorder that persists for "several weeks to several months," usually during the spring and fall seasons, according to the AAD. The rash takes various forms including small pink skin patches, but the disorder can also involve extensive areas or large, swollen, red patches. Studies speculate that the rosea is linked to a virus, but its exact cause is unknown. The rash usually disappears without treatment, but in half of cases, according to the AAD, the person requires prescription medication to reduce the itching.
Fish Scale Disease
Fish scale disease is easily identified by the thick layers of skin, usually the lower legs, elbows and shins. This genetic disease usually appears in early childhood and may disappear for decades. People with severe cases in childhood typically experience a recurrence as they age. The "tile-like scales that are small, polygonal in shape," according to the Mayo Clinic, range in color from white to shades of gray and brown. Extreme cases involve skin cracking and disfigurement. The cause of this skin disorder is unknown, and there is no known cure.
Sweet Syndrome
Sweet syndrome is a skin disorder that creates open sores on the body, usually on the back, face, neck and arms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Anyone may exhibit the disease, but middle-aged women are affected in larger numbers than others. Cancer, blood disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, pregnancy, anti-inflammatory drugs and inflammatory bowel disease are all linked to this skin disorder. The condition usually heals without treatment, but application of prescription-strength prednisone can lessen the duration of the outbreak, as well as minimize potential skin scaring.
Graves' Dermopathy
Graves' dermopathy is identified by the orange-peel skin scaling that occurs on the tops of the feet and shins. The scales turn the skin red and swollen. The disorder is related to Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Graves' dermopathy typically occurs after age 20, according to the Mayo Clinic. Treatment involves application of cool compresses and cortisone creams to relieve pain from the swelling. There is no known cure and, as the disease progresses, the outbreaks become more severe.
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