Mild cases of adult acne present with whiteheads, blackheads, or papules, and tiny pustules in the jawline area or chin. Severe adult acne is characterized by many papules, pustules & cystic lesions primarily in the lower half of the face and neck. In most cases, only 1-2 red pimples appear around your menses but take longer to settle. However, in the case of underlying PCOD or thyroid abnormalities, pimple breakouts can be more troublesome.

Rosacea or sensitive skin might have a similar presentation, but in rosacea skin tends to get red in bright sun, harsh skincare products lead to breakouts and red papules/pustules are present primarily on cheeks, especially around the nose

Studies mention various reasons for breaking out beyond 25 years of age.

Hormonal imbalance

Because of the changes they generate in the whole body as well as in the environment of the skin, fluctuating or excessive hormones cause adult acne. This can result in a pH imbalance, over keratinisation plugging the pores, variations in circulation, or perhaps an oversupply of oil production (sebum). Hormonal fluctuations can occur due to

• Irregular menstruation
• Pregnancy
• Postpartum period
• Breast feeding
• PCOD
• Insulin resistance
• Thyroid issues
• Oral contraceptive pills
• Hormonal medicines

If you also have menstrual irregularities, hair fall, increased hair growth on the face and body, or weight gain, then you fall in this category. You should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.

Wrong skincare regime

This is the second most common cause of adult acne. Faulty skincare practices include

• using skincare products with comedogenic ingredients
• washing of face many times a day,
• layering many products
• excessive rubbing of the face with the towel
• over-scrubbing of the face
• facials in parlous

You should follow a skincare routine for acne-prone skin that aims to remove excess oils from your skin, yet not make it overdry.

Contact irritation

Anything which irritates the skin might decrease its defences and trigger a defensive response that results in inflammation and might trigger acne.

Emotional Stress

Emotional stress causes biochemical changes inside the body that can contribute to many of the aforementioned adult acne factors.

When you are terrified, apprehensive, or under strain, your adrenal glands produce more of the anxiety hormone called cortisol, causing an imbalance in your skin.

Physical stress

Physical stress could also result in hormonal changes, lowered immunity, & inflammation. It might result from:

• lack of sleep
• illness
• extreme weather
• dehydration
• exposure to environmental irritants
• extreme air pollution

Pore clogging

Excess oils along with the use of thick occlusive products or multiple layering of products or daily use of thick makeup could clog pores. Acne is frequently the end effect in these situations. Our dermatologist-recommended acne skincare routine can come to your rescue in such cases.

Runs in your family

If your parents had acne at a later age or your siblings were also breaking out, then your acne tendency is inherited.

Bodybuilders acne

Whey protein, excessive intake of proteins, and anabolic steroids can lead to pimples especially at the chest and at the back in young males.

Frictional acne

Use of high necks, scarves or even supporting your face with hands can lead to acne in the lower half of your face.

Drug-induced acne

Certain drugs most commonly steroids, oral contraceptive pills, phenytoin, danazol, isoniazid, lithium, Vitamin B12, iodides, and bromides can lead to pimples, but the good news is that pimples usually fade once the medicine is stopped.

Occupational acne

Handling greasy products like greases, tar, heavy oils, etc. can lead to acne.

Hot and humid weather

Acne can also be precipitated due to heat and humidity, especially, in females, who have to cook in hot and humid weather.

Treating adult acne

Adult acne can be treated with a variety of methods, such as home remedies for acne, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, & prescriptions.

Because therapy outcomes differ from individual to individual, some people prefer to test 1 or 2 at a time to see which works best. OTC treatments may work fast for some people, but if they do not produce the results you are looking for, a doctor might help you assess whether a prescription could be a better option.

Home remedies

There are various effective home remedies for acne, including

• aloe vera
• tea tree oil
• green tea extract
• apple cider vinegar
• neem
• multani mitti
• lemon
• honey

Here are a few dermatologist-recommended home remedies for acne that you should try:

• Aloe vera and tea tree oil moisturizer for full face twice a day
• Anti-acne face pack once a week
• Acne spot treatment is to be applied only to red or pus-filled pimples at night
• Home remedy for acne scar for fresh red scars