Adult Acne: Understanding the Root Causes and Effective Treatments
Acne, often associated with teenage years, can persist into adulthood, causing distress and
discomfort for many individuals. While it’s commonly believed that acne disappears once puberty
ends, adult acne is a reality for countless people. Unlike the occasional blemish, adult acne tends to
be deeper, more persistent, and can leave lasting marks. In this blog, we’ll delve into the various
factors contributing to adult acne and offer effective treatment options to combat it.
Understanding the Causes:
Adult acne can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from genetics to lifestyle choices and
environmental factors. Let’s explore some of the key contributors:
Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in determining one’s susceptibility to acne.
If your parents or siblings experienced acne well into adulthood, there’s a higher likelihood that you
may also struggle with it.
Diet: Poor dietary choices, such as consuming sugary, processed foods, can exacerbate acne.
These foods can spike insulin levels, leading to increased oil production and inflammation in the
skin, both of which contribute to acne formation.
Environmental Factors: Low air quality, pollution, and exposure to harsh chemicals can clog
pores and irritate the skin, triggering acne breakouts, particularly in urban areas with high pollution
levels.
Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in hormone levels, especially among women, can
contribute to adult acne. Hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can
stimulate oil production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Stress: Modern lifestyles, especially for women juggling multiple responsibilities, can be
incredibly stressful. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which in turn can exacerbate acne by
promoting inflammation and oil production.
Treatment Options:
Managing adult acne requires a multifaceted approach that addresses its underlying causes while
providing effective skincare solutions. Here are some recommended treatment options:
Daily Skincare Routine: Consistent cleansing and skincare are essential for managing acneprone skin. Use gentle, non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturisers suitable for your skin type, and
avoid harsh products that can strip the skin of its natural oils.
Healthy Diet: Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean
proteins can support skin health and reduce inflammation. Minimise consumption of sugary,
processed foods and dairy products, which have been linked to acne flare-ups.
Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or
deep breathing exercises into your daily routine to help lower cortisol levels and promote overall
well-being.
Hygiene Practices: Change pillowcases, bedsheets, and facial towels regularly to prevent the
buildup of bacteria and oils that can contribute to acne. Avoid touching your face with unwashed
hands to minimise the risk of transferring bacteria.
Hormonal Evaluation: Consult with a healthcare professional to assess hormone levels and
explore potential hormonal imbalances that may be contributing to acne. Hormonal treatments or
contraceptives may be recommended in some cases.
Professional Treatments We Offer:
In addition to at-home skincare practices, seeking professional treatments from a reputable skincare
clinic can provide targeted solutions for stubborn adult acne. At E&G Skin Clinic Edinburgh, we
offer a range of advanced treatments tailored to address acne concerns:
Acne-Clearing Facials: Customised facials designed to deep clean pores, exfoliate dead skin
cells, and reduce inflammation, promoting clearer, healthier skin.
Chemical Peels: Chemical peels help to exfoliate the skin’s surface, unclog pores, and
stimulate cell turnover, revealing smoother, more radiant skin while reducing acne breakouts.
Radio Frequency Therapy: Radio frequency treatments utilise energy waves to target acnecausing bacteria and shrink oil glands, effectively reducing acne inflammation and preventing
future breakouts.
Micro-needling: Micro needling involves the use of fine needles to create controlled microinjuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving acne scars and texture
irregularities.
Adult acne can be a frustrating and persistent condition, but with the right approach, it can be
effectively managed and treated. By addressing underlying causes such as genetics, diet,
environmental factors, hormonal imbalances, and stress, while incorporating proper skincare
practices and professional treatments, individuals can achieve clearer, healthier skin and regain their
confidence. If you’re struggling with adult acne, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from skincare
experts here at E&G Skin Care Clinic, we can provide personalised solutions to suit your needs
