Adult ACNE CAN HAPPEN AT ANY AGE. HERE’S HOW TO DEAL

Of all the things you may miss about adolescence, acne probably isn’t one of them. So if you’re an adult male who is dealing with breakouts, it’s no wonder you may feel frustrated and embarrassed. But consider the bright side: Now that you have the determination and maturity of an adult, you’re up to the challenge of following a treatment plan so that your acne can be a short-term problem. This Read  cites 9 things you ought to know about adult acne.

"You’re up to the challenge of following a treatment plan so that your acne can be a short-term problem.”

What is Adult Acne? 

Adult acne, or post-adolescent acne, is acne that occurs after age 25. For the most part, the same factors that cause acne in adolescents are at play in adult acne. The four factors that directly contribute to acne are: excess oil production, pores becoming clogged by "sticky" skin cells, bacteria, and inflammation.  Adult acne is characterized by: acne around the cheeks and jawline blackheads, whiteheads, or cysts oily skin inflammation sensitivity

Understand the Causes of Acne

Knowing what causes acne should help you treat it right—and get better results. While women can sometimes blame their fluctuating monthly hormones for acne, men might find other triggers including: Family history - Hair or skin products, especially if they contain pore-clogging oil - Medication - Stress - Undiagnosed medical condition. Talk with your healthcare provider to see if you can “connect the dots” between your acne and an underlying cause. It may unfortunate side effect of medication you’re taking for a diagnosed medical condition or one that hasn’t yet been identified.


Can You Clear Up Adult Acne Without Taking Medication for It?

Incorporating a diet that limits refined sugar and alcohol, managing stress, getting restful sleep, and a acne focused skincare routine may help manage hormonal acne. However, this isn’t always enough. For many, stubborn hormonal acne often requires prescribed topical creams, such as retinoids, or medication, such as spironolactone.

"For many males, breakouts diminish over time but never completely go away. For others, acne appears for the first time during adulthood. Dermatologists call this “adult-onset acne.” 

Take Care of Your Skin

Acne isn’t caused by a dirty face. But a good (mild) skincare routine will help get your acne treatments on track.

  • Wash your face once a day, as well as after exercising, with a mild cleanser and luke warm water.
  • Do not use abrasive scrubs, instead, use a gentle, leave-on exfoliant.
  • Moisturize after showering or shaving. 
  • Apply sunscreen before going outdoors.

Acne can make shaving difficult and often painful. So take extra care when shaving. Don’t shave off the tops of pimples, and shave carefully over blemishes. If your razor is irritating your skin, try switching to an electric one. 

Sometimes what men think is acne is actually folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicle) or pseudofolliculitis (ingrown hairs). Guys with curly hair in the beard area are more prone to pseudofolliculitis because the hair tends to curl under the skin. Letting the hair grow a bit longer can help.


Consider Treatment Options

There are many acne treatment options available today. You might see some improvement after using an over-the-counter product if your acne is mild (meaning some light pimples and blackheads). Stubborn acne will respond better to prescription medication. Isotretinoin might be an option. Used properly, this medication can clear up severe cases of acne, even acne that hasn’t improved with other treatments.


Treat Body Acne

Acne can show up on other places besides your face. Many men deal with back and body acne, too. Body washes made specifically for body breakouts are available at many drug stores. The most effective ones contain benzoyl peroxide.


See a Dermatologist

A dermatologist may be better suited to help you clear up your acne than your regular healthcare provider. A dermatologist is trained to diagnose and treat skin conditions. Plus, dermatologists’ expertise goes more than “skin deep.” They understand that acne can shake someone’s confidence and make them feel self-conscious. So if you’re underwhelmed by one dermatologist, keep looking until you find one who is willing to talk about the emotional issues that acne can trigger. Compassionate ones are out there.


‘‘ There is some good news here: Almost every case of acne can be cleared up with the right treatment."

Be Patient

Acne treatments take time to work, so try not to get discouraged or give up. Skin is a resilient organ, but it can also be stubborn. It may take up to three or four months before you notice a difference in your skin. Expect to stick with a treatment for at least that long. As you set expectations, expect to develop new pimples during the initial weeks of treatment as your skin adapts to change. This doesn’t mean your treatment isn’t working. Give it time, and direct any questions to your dermatologist.


Don’t Let Acne Drag You Down

Although it may be hard to admit, acne can affect your self-confidence. It can make you feel self-conscious, anxious, and depressed. Don’t be too hard on yourself; you’re not being shallow or vain. Many people feel this way. There is some good news here: Almost every case of acne can be cleared up with the right treatment.  So get on a treatment plan. Just feeling like you have some control over your skin can give you a boost.

THE ADULT ACNE SELECTION

A selection of the most gentle and effective products for acne-prone skin,  balancing your skins pH levels and supporting a healthier skin barrier.

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Taking care of your skin is so much more than just a face cream you put on your face. We love to share our knowledge with you. The Read is our way of showing you we care about your skin, body and mind