Although it’s common to experience pimples and blemishes later in life, many adults feel uneasy about how they affect their appearances. If you have adult acne, get familiar with the causes of this condition so that you can find an effective acne treatment. Here are a few reasons why you may have this condition in adulthood.

How Adults Get Acne

1. Genetics

If you have a close family member with adult acne, you’re predisposed to have it as well. Genetics impact the size and visibility of your pores, along with your sebum production. Sebum is an oily substance produced just below the skin to lubricate and waterproof it. Too much sebum in the follicles creates a hardened plug in the pore, resulting in acne.

2. Skin Care Products

Some products can irritate your skin, stimulate excess oil production, or clog pores. Products with cocoa butter, shea butter, and coconut oil contain high levels of fatty acids, which accumulate in the pores and trap dirt.

Look for sunscreen, acne treatment products, and makeup that’s labeled as oil-free, non-acnegenic, water-based, or non-comedogenic. These terms mean the product is designed so that it doesn’t clog pores or stimulate oil production.

3. Hormone Fluctuations

Hormone-induced acne is common among women since their hormone levels tend to fluctuate. When estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate upward, they stimulate oil glands and produce more sebum, blocking the pores. You may notice a breakout around the time you menstruate, during pregnancy, when changing birth control methods, and near menopause.

4. Medications

Your skin may experience acne from using certain medications, such as steroid inhalers and birth control. Bring a list of all the medication you’re using to help your dermatologist understand what may be affecting your body. This will allow them to create an effective acne treatment plan so that you can better manage visible blemishes.

If you’d like help regulating your adult acne, contact the skilled team at Kailua Dermatology Associates in Hawaii. This practice is led by Dr. Phillip Hellreich, MD. He and his team use state-of-the-art industry equipment to achieve effective, lasting results. To schedule an acne treatment appointment, contact the team online, or call (808) 261-6133.