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Hormones play a big role in acne. When the levels of androgens (sex hormones) such as testosterone fluctuate, it can cause the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. In women, hormonal changes linked to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy or menopause can affect the skin. The disease polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also lead to acne in adult women.
Stress can make acne worse by increasing the production of cortisol, a stress hormone that makes the sebaceous glands work harder. Several studies show that there is a clear connection between high stress levels and more acne.
Pollutants in the air, such as particles and chemicals, can affect the skin by clogging pores and causing inflammation. Exposure to exhaust fumes and other pollutants in the air has been linked to more skin problems, including acne. Cities and industrial areas contribute to our exposure to such pollution.
Researchers have looked at the connection between what we eat and acne. Foods with a high glycemic index, such as sugar and white flour, can raise insulin levels and cause the sebaceous glands to produce more fat. Dairy products have also been discussed as a possible cause of acne in some people.
We are exposed to chemicals in everyday products such as plastics, make-up and cleaning agents that can disrupt the body's hormones. These substances can affect our hormonal system and contribute to skin problems such as acne.
Heredity also plays a role in the risk of getting acne. If one or both parents have had acne, the risk is greater that the children will also get it. Genes can affect the size and activity of the sebaceous glands as well as the skin's ability to deal with inflammation.
Research in skin diseases gives us a better understanding of why adult acne occurs:
The role of inflammation: Studies show that acne is not only caused by clogged pores but is also an inflammatory disease. Long-term, low-level inflammation can contribute to the development of acne in adults.
The skin's microbiome: Researchers have highlighted how important it is to have a good balance in the skin's bacterial flora, the microbiome. An imbalance in the skin's bacteria, especially if the bacterium Cutibacterium acnes grows too much, can be a contributing factor.
Hormonal treatment: New treatments focus on hormones, especially in women with hormone-related acne. Drugs that block androgens have been shown to reduce acne breakouts.
Characteristics of adult acne
Adult acne can differ from the acne you get as a teenager, both in how it looks and where on the body it appears.
Occurs when the skin's natural process of getting rid of dead skin cells does not work as it should, causing the pores to become blocked without always causing inflammation. More common in adults and manifests as clogged pores leading to white and blackheads.
Often appears along the jawline, on the chin and around the mouth.
Adults can get deeper, more inflamed nodules that can be painful and lead to scarring.
Dealing with adult acne is about taking care of the whole lifestyle, combining changes in everyday life, proper skin care and sometimes professional treatment.
If you have severe or long-term acne, it is important to seek professional help. A dermatologist can prescribe medications such as retinoid creams, which help reduce clogged pores and inflammation. It may also be relevant to use antibiotics, either as a cream or tablets, to reduce bacteria and inflammation. For women, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or other drugs that affect hormones can be effective.
Choose products that do not clog pores, so-called non-comedogenic. Look for ingredients like zinc, retinol or azelaic acid, these can help reduce inflammation, loosen congestion and reduce bacterial growth. Remember that even if the skin is oily and prone to acne, the skin needs moisture. Therefore, choose a moisturizer that is suitable for acne-prone skin and wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and oil. But be careful, don't wash too much; excessive cleaning can irritate the skin, so wash preferably only once a day and preferably in the evening.
Managing stress is important. Methods such as meditation, yoga and regular exercise can help reduce stress levels. Also, make sure you get enough sleep, as it is important for skin recovery and hormone balance. It can be good to reduce the intake of sugar, dairy products and processed food, and instead eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grain products that are good for the skin.
Squeezing pimples can make the inflammation worse and lead to scarring. Let the skin heal on its own or seek professional help if you need to remove blackheads or pimples.
Too much sun can make acne worse by damaging the skin and causing inflammation. Use a sunscreen designed for oily and acne-prone skin to protect against UV rays that can make acne worse and cause dark spots.
Adult acne is a complex skin condition that becomes more common due to things like stress or hormonal changes. By understanding the causes, you can take steps to reduce the problems, but keep in mind that this may take time and require patience. If the acne affects your daily life, it is important to seek professional help to get a treatment that is right for you.
