Like angst and popularity, acne was supposed to be a relic of adolescence. You anticipated acne would resolve itself right after your age lost the teen suffix. So what’s the deal with it hanging around well past then?
Whether you know it or not, adult acne is real and extremely common. Even if you never had acne in your teen years, it can start in adulthood. (Even more so if you are a woman, hooray.) Knowing the causes of adult acne is the first step to understanding why it occurs and how best to prevent and treat it.
Hormones
With adult acne, hormones are often the culprit. Particularly for women. Menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, menopause, and going on or off birth control often affects the skin due to an imbalance of hormones.
Genetics
Like hair color or body type, research suggests that if members of your family had adult acne, you are more susceptible to it as well. No you can’t get around genetics, but dermatologists can prescribe treatments to help.
Products
Skincare and hair products may contribute to adult acne. Verify your products are non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic, and oil free. If so, it’s possible you may be allergic to an ingredient. Our bodies are constantly changing it’s possible to develop an allergy even if you had no prior history.
Medication
Various medications have side effects that contribute to adult acne. Check side effects of your medications or ingredients they contain to narrow down or rule out if this is a cause.
Diet
“You are what you eat” isn’t completely true however, what you eat can cause adult acne. Foods with a high glycemic index produce excess insulin (ie packaged foods) and hormone heavy foods (dairy or meats) contribute excess hormones, which may prevent your chances of clearer skin.
Environment
All types of pollution, smoke, dirt, chemicals in the air increase the risk of adult acne. Varying temperatures can cause your skin to produce more sweat or oil to compensate, increasing chances of clogged pores.
Stress
A lack of chill in your life might earn you adult acne. Anytime you have a looming deadline or complication and start to feel stressed, your body releases cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that increases inflammation and oil production in your skin.
Of the many potential contributors to adult acne, one factor that’s always involved in breakouts is inflammation. While it’s not a prescription for your condition, to diminish swelling and redness Soon’s Biocellulose Firming Face Mask can help. Purslane has regenerative effects on the cellular level and is rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. White mulberry, fig, and pomegranate have anti-inflammatory benefits and gingko promotes elimination of surface cells for a renewed texture and fresh faced complexion.
