Acne In Adulthood: The Real Causes, And How To Deal With Them

We all faced skin problems at the age of 10-14 years, but then it was easy to explain persistent acne: adolescence and the associated hormonal changes that affect the face are a common story. But if the years go by, and the acne does not want to part with you, or every now and then comes back, the situation becomes more complicated.

You can turn to the help of numerous lotions, serums and creams without going into a serious analysis of the problems that have arisen, but this approach does not guarantee their elimination. In order to effectively fight acne in adulthood, it is very important to first calculate the real factors that provoked the development of the disease, and only then start treatment. Together with dermatologist and Bioderm brand expert Igor Patrin, we understand the most important aspects of fighting acne in adulthood.

How does the rash appear?

Clogged pores are a direct road to acne and the most overlooked point. The pores surround each hair follicle and are an important part of the structure of the skin, since it is in them that the sebaceous glands are located. The latter secrete sebum (sebum), which protects the skin and makes it soft. If a pore becomes clogged due to accumulated dirt, dead cells, excess fat and bacteria, then a pimple is more likely to occur in this area.

Sometimes, regular and deep cleansing may be sufficient for quality prevention of acne. But in most cases, it can be difficult to determine where a local rash ends and acne begins, that is, chronic inflammation of the skin, and the appropriate treatment does not start on time. It is also worth considering the fact that identifying the causes of acne in adulthood is not so easy.

“The classic course of acne is characterized by the appearance of the first rashes at the time of the onset of puberty, most often between the ages of 9 and 13,” says Igor Patrin. - This is due to the peculiarities of the hormonal background and inherited genetically increased sensitivity of the sebaceous glands of the skin. As you grow older, the level of sex hormones returns to normal, but the skin's increased sensitivity to them remains. By the age of 20, as a rule, the disease goes away on its own or in a milder form, but the tendency to develop acne persists."

Causes of acne in adulthood

Factors that can cause acne exacerbation in an adult include:

1. Improper home skin care

This refers to the use of low-quality cosmetics that can cause clogged pores. When choosing care products, it is advisable to give preference to products marked "non-comedogenic". When choosing a cream, it is advisable to give preference to light (fluid) textures.

A fairly common cause of acne exacerbation is the use of vegetable oils to moisturize the skin, especially during massage. Some sunscreens can also cause inflammation.

2. Improper professional skin care

Aggressive chemical peels and mechanical face cleansing can exacerbate acne. Therefore, before going to a salon procedure, it is very important to determine how it suits your skin.

3. Sunbathing

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation leads to a change in the composition of sebum and reduces the local immunity of the skin. In the first stage, exposure to the sun creates a feeling of improvement in the condition of the skin, but after, as a rule, an aggravation follows.

4. Nutrition

Eating fatty foods, fried foods, dairy products and foods with a high glycemic index can affect the composition of sebum and the activity of the sebaceous glands, causing an exacerbation of the disease (see also: "Foods that cause acne"). Vegetable fats and seafood are preferred.

6. Unhealthy lifestyle

Smoking aggravates the course of acne, and stress, disturbed sleep and wakefulness patterns cause fluctuations in the hormone cortisol, which indirectly affects the activity of the sebaceous glands.

Sometimes acne in adults can occur due to contact with certain chemicals (chlorine, bromine, iodine), taking medications (steroids, lithium preparations), as well as from wearing tight, non-breathable clothing.

Also often the cause is hormonal imbalance resulting from concomitant diseases. Acne in adults requires a doctor's consultation to rule out diseases of the endocrine system.

Prevention and treatment of acne in adulthood

1. Products with anti-acne ingredients

The first and most important step if you decide to say goodbye to acne is to choose the right skin care products. Effective anti-acne ingredients are salicylic, glycolic, polyhydroxyl, azelaic acids, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide and others.

2. Exfoliators

Exfoliation is an important step in a skincare ritual that should be taken into account if you are struggling with acne or want to provide comprehensive prevention of skin problems. Which exfoliant to choose - chemical or physical - it is better to discuss this question with a dermatologist in order to ensure the most delicate cleansing. It will free up the pores of the skin and prevent inflammation. Experts advise paying special attention to glycolic acid - the ideal component in many chemical exfoliants, and preferring masks to conventional cleansers - that is, those products that will remain on your skin for a while. An important point: stick to the regimen and do not exfoliate the skin too often, so as not to dry out the skin.

3. Spot treatment

Spot prevention and treatment of acne is one of the most effective methods that helps neutralize harmful bacteria that cause acne. An excellent option would be products with benzoyl peroxide (see also: "25 effective remedies to fight acne").

4. Oral drugs

Depending on the severity of your acne, you may find that the topical medications are not working, and then it makes sense to consult a specialist and get treatment with special medications. For example, hormonal acne causes processes in the body that cannot be prevented by external drugs.