Adult acne, or post-adolescent acne, is a condition that occurs after age 25, affecting many with significant emotional distress. This type of acne is caused by the same factors seen in adolescent acne: excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. The root causes of acne breakouts in adults are multifaceted and require a comprehensive approach to treatment.
One common condition related to adult acne is sebaceous hyperplasia, where natural body oils or sebum become trapped inside the gland, causing swelling and a bump under the skin. This condition is more prominent with age, particularly on the face.
Acne’s location can also provide clues to its underlying causes. For instance, chin acne, often hormonal, is common in adult female acne. This acne around the mouth and along the jawline can indicate hormonal imbalances.
In teenagers and young adults, acne is primarily caused by inflammation in the pilosebaceous unit, which contains the hair follicle and sebaceous gland. The gland produces sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin.
Simple acne treatments include maintaining clean skin to promote shedding of old skin cells. Washing the face daily with warm water and mild soap, keeping hair free of oily products, and using over-the-counter medications like benzoyl peroxide can be effective.
Furthermore, diet can play a role in acne development. Foods that promote inflammation or alter hormone levels, like milk and high-sugar foods, can potentially exacerbate acne by affecting insulin levels.
Understanding and addressing these various factors is key to effectively managing adult acne.
For more information on body acne, visit Northwell Health, and to learn about the underlying causes and treatments for adult acne, see the insights from Harvard Health and UAB News. For a broader understanding of acne causes and treatments, refer to Harvard Health, UC Davis Health, and University of Rochester Medical Center. To explore the connection between diet and adult acne, read more at Harvard Health.
