If you're like many women, you might have thought that after getting through puberty, you'd have smooth, clear skin. It's frustrating to still deal with skin issues long after braces and school dances are behind you.
If this sounds familiar, you're not alone—acne isn't just a teenage issue. Adults can experience it too, with women being more prone to adult acne than men.
Is adult acne different from teenage acne?
Adult acne is essentially the same as the acne we associate with our teenage years. It can also appear in adulthood and is quite common. Typically, when we imagine a pimple, we think of a raised, pink, inflamed bump, but that's just one form. "Acne" is a broad term that includes pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, and more severe types like nodulocystic acne.
What causes acne?
For women, acne may be triggered by hormonal changes. As we age, estrogen levels often decrease, while male hormones like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, present in everyone, increase. With fewer female hormones to counterbalance the male hormones, their effects become more pronounced. This can lead to increased oil production, with the facial oil becoming thicker, and pores appearing larger, resulting in clogged pores and more acne.
Stress also plays a role. It can raise certain hormones, such as cortisol, leading to more inflammation, which can trigger and worsen acne.
How is acne treated?
Regular cleansing twice a day along with facial treatment is ideal for removing old layers and old oil and makeup. I often recommend a mild peel to unclog pores and exfoliate the skin, which helps heal the skin faster.
Topical anti-inflammatories, like sulfur, can also reduce acne. blue light therapies can also help if you want to clear up acne more quickly.
What should you look for in a cleanser?
Generally, avoid overly aggressive and harsh cleansers, especially if you're already using a prescription topical ingredient. For dry and sensitive skin, a creamy cleanser may be better. For oily skin, a gentle, foaming cleanser might be preferable. If someone has many blackheads, a product with glycolic acid can be beneficial because it targets oil and unclogs pores. Dermalogica Glycolic Cleanser is excellent for this condition.
How can you modify your diet to improve acne?
Avoid excessive sugar, desserts, and sodas.
Regarding healthy foods, leafy greens and a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C and beta-carotene can be beneficial due to their anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, some studies suggest that certain dairy products might be linked to acne.
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