Acne is a representation of youth, and is usually more prone to young skin. Or is it?

Adults do get acne too
In reality, mature skin is equally prone to acne. Triggered by hormones, acne can occur at any stage of a person’s lifespan. While it has many causes, emotionally, psychologically and externally, the primary aggravating factor leading to adult acne is stress. This psychological condition increases the levels of hormones such as testosterone and cortisol, resulting in an increase in sebaceous gland activity and oil production, which in turn leads to continued flare ups and acne breakouts. Cortisol also triggers hyperpigmentation, the darkening of skin due to increased melanin levels. Coupled with the tendency to ‘pick’ or ‘squeeze’ acne, more acne-causing bacteria will infect the affected area and worsen the condition.

Other triggers that create the perfect breeding ground for the formation of adult acne include heredity, hormone fluctuations, medication, cosmetics containing skin irritants as well as environmental pollutants such as dust and smoke. Changes or discontinuation of contraceptive pills, pregnancy, breast feeding, post partum phase of pregnancy can also lead to more breakouts.

Adult acne heal slower
For adult acne to fester, skin may not necessarily be oily or acne prone. Even a typical combination skin type with dry cheeks and an oily T-zone is also vulnerable. Compared to acne in youths, adult acne is more inflammatory with persistent redness and increased sensitivity. With fewer comedones or blackheads than teenage acne, lesions are predominantly located around the mouth, chin, top of the neck and the jaw line. In contrast, teen breakouts, which are caused by a wave of puberty hormones in the body that trigger excess sebum production, are located mostly on the chin, nose, cheeks, forehead, chest and neck.

Unfortunately, adult acne is often more persistent than teenage acne, which can be particularly frustrating for those who were spared outbreaks when they were young. With a slower cell renewal rate, acne on mature skin heals more slowly.

Take control of adult acne
The good news is that adult acne can be controlled, by influencing four main contributing factors.
•    Inhibit the activity of overactive sebaceous glands to eliminate the food source for the bacteria and reduce oily secretion
•    Control cell accumulation that leads to congested pores, by exfoliating to remove surface cells that have not been shed. This stops comedone formation at an early stage and prevents it from developing further
•    Control bacteria on the skin’s surface and in the follicle, effectively eliminating the source of fatty acids that contribute to irritation
•    Keep inflammation adult acne under control, by using products that help the healing process and soothe inflamed skin

Balance and hydration fight adult acne
General acne products that treat acne are too drying for mature skin, as they target acne formation by reducing excessive oil production. Mature skin is drier than younger skin, and do not produce much oil. Using the right skincare that fights acne and provides a nourishing hydration with a soothing effect is the way to go.

The first step to keep acne off mature skin is to have a basic skincare regime that fits the right skin type. This provides the right foundation for cleansed, moisturized and protected skin, while keeping acne formation at bay.

Adult acne is a reflection of our lifestyle, and understanding the trigger factors is a first step to controlling it.