Causes of Adult Acne

Adult acne can feel frustrating and persistent, showing up long after you thought your teenage breakouts were behind you. Whether it's an occasional flare-up or a daily struggle, understanding the root causes is key to finding relief. From hormones to stress and even environmental factors, adult acne has a range of triggers. But the good news is that with the right approach and professional dermatological care, you can greatly ease the burden of adult acne to something you can live with. 

With the expert insight at Altitude Dermatology, here is a comprehensive guide to the causes of adult acne and how to address them. 

Hormonal Imbalance

One of the most common causes of adult acne is hormonal fluctuations. These imbalances often result in excess oil production, which clogs pores and leads to breakouts. For women, hormonal acne frequently appears during specific life events like menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also contribute to persistent acne. For men, changes in testosterone levels can trigger breakouts as well. While hormonal acne can be stubborn, it’s treatable with targeted skincare solutions and medical interventions, often requiring a dermatologist’s expertise to balance the skin.

Stress

Stress is another significant factor that can lead to adult acne. When you're stressed, your body produces more cortisol, a hormone that signals your sebaceous glands to produce more oil. This excess oil clogs pores, creating an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive. Stress can also cause inflammation, which may worsen existing acne. Unfortunately, stress-related breakouts often become part of a frustrating cycle, as acne can increase stress levels, leading to further breakouts. Finding effective ways to manage stress is crucial, but professional skincare treatments can also help break this breakout cycle.

Diet and Nutrition

The foods you eat can play a significant role in the development of adult acne. Diets high in processed sugars, dairy products, and refined carbohydrates have been linked to an increase in acne breakouts. These foods can cause inflammation and trigger spikes in insulin levels, leading to increased oil production and clogged pores. Incorporating whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins may help improve skin health. For more personalized advice, a consultation with a dermatologist can help identify specific dietary triggers for your skin.

Skincare Products and Routines

The skincare products you use and how you apply them can be a link to adult acne. Many people unknowingly choose products that are too harsh, stripping the skin of its natural oils and causing an overproduction of sebum, leading to breakouts. Non-comedogenic products are essential as they don’t clog pores. It’s also important to avoid excessive scrubbing or exfoliating, which can irritate the skin and worsen acne. A gentle, consistent routine focused on cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection is key. 

Additionally, active ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can target acne but should be used under professional guidance. Consulting a dermatologist helps tailor a skincare regimen suited for your specific skin type and concerns.

Environmental Factors

Environmental elements have the ability to encourage the development of acne. Pollution, humidity, and exposure to harsh weather can clog pores and irritate the skin, leading to breakouts. This can be exacerbated when working in environments with excessive heat or oil, such as kitchens or workshops. Sweat buildup from outdoor activities or wearing tight clothing can also trap dirt and bacteria against the skin, promoting inflammation. Managing these environmental triggers through proper cleansing and protection is an important step in minimizing their impact on your skin health.

Genetic Factors

Genetics can significantly influence your susceptibility to adult acne. If you have a family history of acne, you may inherit traits like excess sebum production or more sensitive skin, both of which can lead to breakouts. Hormonal imbalances, as previously discussed, are often driven by your genetic makeup and can also trigger persistent acne that’s hard to control with over-the-counter treatments. This predisposition makes it essential to adopt a skincare routine tailored to your specific skin type. While you can't change your genetic makeup, professional dermatological treatments can help manage and reduce the severity of acne. Altitude Dermatology offers personalized solutions to address these underlying causes. 

When to Seek Professional Help

While many cases of adult acne can be managed with over-the-counter treatments, there are situations where professional help is essential for effective care:

• Persistent Breakouts: If your acne doesn't improve after several months of using common treatments, it may be time to consult a dermatologist for a more targeted approach.
• Painful or Cystic Acne: Large, painful cysts or nodules often require specialized treatment such as prescription medications or procedures to prevent scarring.
• Scarring and Dark Spots: If acne is leaving behind scars or hyperpigmentation, professional intervention can help improve skin texture and tone.
• Emotional Distress: Acne can take a toll on your self-esteem and mental health. If it’s affecting your quality of life, seeking professional help can provide both physical and emotional relief.

Altitude Dermatology is your trusted acne treatment dermatologist in Fort Collins and Johnstown. We’re here to provide expert care and customized treatments when acne becomes difficult to manage. Give our team a call right away to schedule an appointment or to learn more about why our clients love working with us!