Adult Acne – Causes and Treatments

Although acne is considered to be a teenage affliction, a number of adults also struggle with the same. According to some medical reports, almost 50 percent of all adults and 25 percent of all adult men encounter the problem of acne during some time in their adult lives.

Actually, the term “adult acne” had coined because of this very interesting fact. Adult acne generally afflicts people after their 30s and 40s. Acne can be very hard to cope at all ages. Adult acne can have a number of psychological effects such as depression and social fretfulness. Adult acne is generally caused due to hormonal imbalance and most times it can be cured easily.

Causes

Similar to normal Acne, adult acne also have some driving factors such as contact with oily substances like mineral oil, vegetable oil or petroleum oil. Adult acne may also be caused due to medications and steroids. Nevertheless, the main reason behind adult acne is secretion of androgens. Poor dietary habits and lack of exercise can also contribute to adult acne.

Let’s talk about androgens which are the main reason behind adult acne. Androgens are male sex hormones but they are secreted by females also. Androgens incite the production of oil from the skin’s oil glands.

Because of overproduction of oil and contact of dust, the oil glands get blogged resulting in adult acne. If there is more production of oil, the acne gets swelled. The condition may worsen if this engorged gland is attacked by bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes).

The bacteria may lead to further inflammation and production of pus. This can be a painful situation and if the acne gets burst on the skin, it may lead to formation of bothering cysts.

Adult Acne Treatments

Adult acne can be treated with prescription products, over-the-counter products, homeopathic and herbal remedies. Benzoyl peroxide is considered to be one of the best adult acne treatments.

It has some extremely effective and strong properties which can help in treating and curing adult acne. Nevertheless, it should not be used if adult acne has symptoms of redness and dryness.

Derivatives of vitamin A can also be used for treating adult acne. If the condition is severe, it is a good idea to seek medical help.