Acne can strike at any age. Adult acne shares some similarities with its adolescent counterpart, but treating either one effectively requires an understanding of some key differences. Here’s a glimpse at how adult acne differs from adolescent acne and how you can resolve these troublesome conditions.
A Quick Rundown of Adolescent Acne
Adolescent acne is primarily a hormonal condition in which the sebaceous glands produce more sebum than the skin can handle. The combination of excess sebum and dead skin cells blocks hair follicles, causing pimples.
Adolescent acne often manifests as a mix of blackheads, whiteheads, and inflamed papules and pustules. It primarily affects the face but can also extend to the back and chest. Many adolescents experience acne on their foreheads, noses, and chins because these are the oiliest parts of the face.
What Is Adult Acne?
Adult acne functions differently. Adults face more inflammatory lesions characterized by redness, swelling, and tenderness. These types of lesions can be more painful, and they take a longer time to heal compared to acne that younger individuals often experience. Adults are also more likely to see acne spots on the lower region of the face, including the jawline and neck. This region-specific difference in distribution is reflective of the underlying hormonal patterns that drive acne in adults.
As you age, acne is more likely to cause hyperpigmentation and scarring. This isn’t a common concern for adolescents because their symptoms are transient and rarely produce long-term results.
Causes of Adult Acne
Hormonal Fluctuations
Women often face more hormone fluctuations than men. Nevertheless, both sexes can experience acne breakouts as adults due to hormone fluctuations.
Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels during the menstrual cycle can worsen acne symptoms in women. Androgen levels may also increase during perimenopause and menopause, leading to more sebum production and potential acne breakouts.
Meanwhile, elevated testosterone levels in men may lead to increased sebum production and exacerbated skin issues. Men’s testosterone levels are relatively stable throughout adulthood, but even the slightest change could cause breakouts.
Stressful Lifestyle
Self-care isn’t just important for your mental well-being; the way you care for your mind and body also affects your skin. Adults with fast-paced, stressful lifestyles are more prone to acne. Inadequate sleep patterns, constant emotional burdens, and lack of leisure can easily disrupt hormones, increase inflammation, and result in acne.
Skin-Care Habits
Many adults find themselves testing new products left and right. Whether they want to combat the signs of aging, treat hyperpigmentation, or aggressively treat acne spots, the options seem endless. However, it’s valuable to know there are potential consequences of applying a plethora of skin-care products. Many products contain active ingredients that could damage the skin’s barrier and have the opposite intended effect.
How To Resolve Adult Acne
Adolescent acne differs from adult acne. That’s why you must try diverse approaches to treat the condition. Rather than manage acne after the fact, act preventatively. It’s time to find a skin-care routine that actively reduces your chances of developing acne. Jil Goorman Beauty’s skin-care kits for acne are designed for both the face and body. With products including a cleanser, toner, exfoliant, moisturizer, and more, you’ll finally see the results you want.