Facing Adult Onset Acne

For many adults, acne has become a growing pain that continues to grow with them. In fact, “…there appears to be an increase in post-adolescent acne, and that the disease is lasting longer and is requiring treatment well into the mid forties,” according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Regardless of what age you are coping with acne, the physicians of Knoxville Dermatology Group can help.

Adult acne affects 25% of adult men and half of all adult women at some time in their adult lives. These statistics may not be surprising, especially since dermatologists are seeing more patients in their 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond with this condition. Dermatologists call acne that does not clear by one’s mid-20s, persistent acne.  Most common in women, this acne tends to form on the lower face around the mouth and jaw line. Late-onset acne can occur when people who have not had acne for years. People can develop deep-seated, inflamed pimples and nodules, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Causes of Adult Acne
Acne develops when excess sebum (oil that our bodies produce naturally), skin cells, and bacteria build up. The triggers of adult acne are wide, but often relate to hormones, cosmetics, and stress.  Here are several causes:

• Family history– Researchers have found that half of adults with acne share the condition with a first-degree relative. Some people have a genetic predisposition to acne.
• Stress– The body responds to stress by producing more androgens, hormones that can cause flare-ups.
• Hormones– Acne flares up any time hormones fluctuate. In particular, hormones related to premenstrual flares can cause skin problems for women. Moreover, acne becomes problematic during menopause.
• Taking/ Discontinuing certain medications– Acne can occur as a side effect of medications.  These include anticonvulsants, corticosteroids, and sobriety drugs.  If you experience a flare-up as a result of a medication, discuss alternative medications with your doctor. Furthermore, birth control pills that contain estrogen and progestin often help control acne.
• Hair and Skin Products– If a product used for hair and/or skin is heavy or greasy, then it can cause acne cosmetica. Dermatologists recommend products labeled “non-comedogenic” or “non-acnegenic.”

Treatment of Adult Acne
There is a never ending list of acne-fighting products on the market, and it can be overwhelming. But the best solution for adult acne cannot be bought; it is the advice from your dermatologist. Upon visiting the dermatologist, he or she can assess your skin and design a customized routine, including recommended skin products to combat your condition.

Knoxville Dermatology Group understands that not all acne is the same; but the difficulty of treating them is common. Schedule a consultation today with one of our board certified physicians to learn more about your condition and continue your adulthood with healthy, clear skin!