Home > News > Is Your Adult Acne Keeping You In Hiding?

When you think of acne you may recall your high school days as you awaited the prom – hoping you wouldn’t have a breakout. Those are fond memories, for sure!

These days, the face of acne is changing…and it may look more like the adult you. In fact, many women in their 40’s and 50’s regularly battle acne breakouts.

In adults, Acne Vulgaris (it’s technical name) has some common triggers…here are a few:

Hormones: When your body experiences a spike in “male” hormones such as testosterone, oil production increases, and that can cause clogged pores where acne bacteria grows. This leads to inflammation and pimples. This male hormone spike may occur more frequently during peri-menopause, but it also happens just before your period. Women over the age of 33 are more likely to get pre-menstrual pimples than younger women are.
High Testosterone Levels or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): Conditions with a hormonal component, such as high testosterone levels or polycystic ovarian syndrome, are often-overlooked causes of acne. PCOS affects 5% to 10% of women, and many suffer for years without realizing they have it. If your acne is accompanied by excessive hair growth or irregular periods, let us know.
Diet: Greasy foods don’t cause greasy skin, but the items listed below may make your acne worse:
Stress: Experts say stress can lead to acne by signaling the release of cortisol, a hormone that tells your body to produce more pore-clogging oil.
Dairy: Several studies have shown a link between dairy products and pimples, perhaps because of the hormones that are present in these foods. Buying organic can help.
Sugar and Carbs: Any food that leads to a spike in your blood sugar, such as pasta, bread, and sweets, can trigger skin’s inflammatory response and provoke a breakout.

We specialize in treating acne with Glycol Peels, the Smoothbeam® laser or Photodynamic Therapy. Call for a consultation and let us help you get your adult acne in control. Get the smoother, clearer skin you want for the New Year!