Acne, the umbrella term for blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples, develops when the sebaceous glands under the skin produce excess oil. While this condition is most prevalent among teenagers, it can also affect adults. The staff at Kailua Dermatology Associates, a dermatology clinic in Kailua, HI, answer common questions about adult acne for your benefit.

4 FAQs About Adult Acne

1. Who Is Likely to Have Adult Acne?

In general, women are more prone to acne than men because they experience hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. They also more often use foundation and other makeup products that clog pores.

2. What Are the Best Ways to Treat Adult Acne?

The good news is that several options for treating adult acne are available. The type of treatment your dermatologist suggests will depend on the type of acne you have. For example, if you have blackheads or whiteheads, you may find success with over-the-counter cleansers that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. If you have cysts, you may require a prescription drug like isotretinoin from a dermatology clinic to clear up your skin.

3. Should I Stop Wearing Makeup If I Have Acne?

Wearing makeup is fine as long as the products are suited for your individual skin type. For example, if you have oily skin, don’t wear foundation designed for people with dry skin. In addition, choose non-comedogenic and oil-free makeup products so they don’t clog your pores.

4. Can My Diet Affect My Acne?

If you want to keep acne at bay, you should eat foods that fight inflammation, like fatty fish, dark green vegetables, walnuts, and berries. Try to limit your consumption of simple carbohydrates, like white bread, pasta, and white rice, as they can raise your blood sugar and cause your body to release excess insulin. Too much insulin in your blood can make your skin produce more oil and lead to acne.

If you are having trouble treating your acne, you should consult a reliable dermatology clinic like Kailua Dermatology Associates. These skin care professionals help their patients look their best with treatments for everything from acne to eczema. Call (808) 261-6133 or visit their website to find out more about their services.