Adult acne

"Why do I have acne even when I have crossed the teenage phase?" Patients frequently ask us this question. Acne that persists throughout adulthood is not uncommon. Although acne is generally associated with puberty, it can affect people of all ages.

In terms of both causes and treatments, adult acne is very similar to adolescent acne. Adult acne, on the other hand, has certain distinct characteristics.

What causes acne in adults?

Adult acne, often known as post-adolescent acne, affects anyone above the age of 25.
Adult acne is largely caused by the same variables that produce acne in teenagers. Excess oil production, pores becoming clogged by "sticky" skin cells, bacteria, and inflammation are the four causes that directly contribute to acne.
There are also some indirect factors that influence the direct factors described above, such as
Hormones, tension, and the menstrual cycle are all factors that might affect oil production in women.
Makeup, hair products, and skin care items can all block pores.
Diet, which can have an impact on inflammation all over the body.
Acne can also be caused by some dr-ugs.

Acne is just one example of a skin disorder that might be a window into a systemic problem. Hair loss, excessive hair growth, abnormal menstrual cycles, quick weight gain or loss in addition to acne, or rapid development of acne with no prior history of acne, for example, can all be red flags of an underlying disease such polycystic ovarian syndrome or other endocrine problems. If you have any additional symptoms, tell your doctor; he or she may recommend further testing.

A high-sugar diet mixed with milk consumption, according to the study, causes an increase in circulating insulin levels. As a result, cell formation is stimulated while cell death is inhibited, increasing inflammation and the development of acne. Furthermore, an increase in insulin stimulates the production of hormones that create sebum, which can lead to acne.

Insulin is a hormone produced by our pancreas to regulate blood glucose levels. It would seem reasonable that a high-sugar or processed-food diet would impact insulin levels and other hormones in our systems, some of which appear to govern acne.

Dairy has its own hormones, estrogens, progesterones, and possibly even testosterone (as even human females generate testo), which are likely worsening our own endogenous hormones and raising the chances of a breakout.

Participants in the study who said they had current acne drank much more milk, sugary beverages, milk chocolate, and fast food than those who said they had never had acne. In addition, the acne-prone group consumed much less meat, veggies, and dark chocolate.

What can I do to avoid breakouts?

Acne, like most things in life, is not always under one's control. However, there are a few essential suggestions we may make to assist prevent breakouts:

Makeup should never be worn to bed

Always seek for the terms "non-comedogenic," "oil-free," or "won't clog pores" on labels when selecting cosmetics and skincare products.

Oil-based face oils and hair products should be avoided.

Some acne patches are post-inflammatory pigment changes from earlier acne lesions or picking at acne or pimples, rather than acne. To avoid deepening of these spots, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ every day, rain or shine.

Specific dietary adjustments may help lessen the risk of acne, according to some studies. One meta-analysis of 14 observational studies involving over 80,000 children, adolescents, and young adults, for example, found a relationship between dairy products and increased acne risk. In addition, high-glycemic-index foods (those that cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly) have been related to acne in several studies.

With that said, it's critical to be aware of nutrition and skin misconceptions. We want scientifically accurate and data-driven knowledge as clinicians, and the research on the link between nutrition and acne is just beginning to bloom. Dietary effects on acne may be more known in the future.

What therapy choices are the most effective?

The treatment options for acne are numerous and vary depending on the type and severity of the acne. Topical tretinoin, which prevents clogged pores by speeding up the turnover of skin cells, is a must-have in any acne treatment routine. It also helps with small wrinkles and evens out and brightens skin tone. Iso-tretinoin (Accutane, various brands) is used to treat severe acne and is the closest approach to a "cure" for acne that exists. Isotretinoin should be avoided by women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant since it can harm the fetus.

A medicine called spir-onolactone, which keeps testo in check, can be administered for women with hormonally driven acne that flares up throughout their menstrual cycle. Oral tabs can also aid in the regulation of hormones that cause acne.

Photo-dynamic therapy, for example, is a type of light-based treatment that can be used in the office. Chemical peels, which are also performed in-office, may aid in the treatment of acne and the fading of post-inflammatory pigment changes.

Anyone with acne should use simple, non-irritating skin care products. Choose products that are soft and safe for acne-prone skin, and avoid harsh products that can aggravate the problem. It's also crucial to avoid squeezing or picking at acne spots, as this can exacerbate discolouration and scarring.

Take Away

Almost all cases of acne can be successfully treated with adequate examination by a board-certified dermatologist and devotion to a treatment programme. Adulthood is difficult enough without having to deal with breakouts!