Beyond Makeup: Understanding Hormonal Triggers Behind Adult Acne
Up to 50 million people in the United States develop acne each year. Shifting hormones can work behind the scenes, influencing everything from oil production to skin inflammation. The good news is that understanding what's triggering your breakouts can help you find solutions that actually work.
Visit our dermatology specialists at Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey in Old Bridge, Union, Toms River, or Freehold, New Jersey, for a personalized acne treatment plan.
Below is an explanation of hormonal factors linked to adult acne and what you can do to keep flare-ups in check.
Acne 101
Acne is a skin condition that develops when hair follicles get plugged with dead skin cells and oil, which can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples. It’s common among teenagers, but many adults also experience acne flare-ups.
While not a cause for concern, you might not like how acne affects your skin, and severe acne can lead to long-term scarring. Below are hormonal triggers behind adult acne and treatments that can help you achieve flawless skin.
Hormonal causes of adult acne
While teenage acne is common, hormones can also trigger adult-onset acne. Hormonal acne affects both men and women due to changing hormone levels, but most adult acne cases appear in women.
In fact, about 25% of women in their 40s and approximately 50% of women in their 20s develop hormonal acne. It causes excess sebum production, boosting the risk of clogged pores, acne flare-ups, and skin irritation.
Hormonal triggers you can control
You can’t always control your hormone levels without treatment. However, risk factors for hormonal acne that you can sometimes take charge of include:
- Sleep
- Stress levels
- Diet
- Skin and other beauty products
- Hair care products
Products containing oils or other pore-clogging ingredients can lead to breakouts. Ask your dermatology specialist which products are best suited for your skin type.
Hormonal acne triggers you can not always control
The following factors may increase your risk of adult acne flare-ups:
- Menstruation
- Pregnancy
- Menopause
- Discontinuing birth control
- Testosterone treatment
- Genetics
- Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)
- Some medications
- Family history of acne
- Metabolic conditions
- Stress (high cortisol)
- High humidity
- Food cravings
Eating high amounts of carbs and refined sugars, as well as squeezing pimples, are things to avoid to lower your risk of acne and its complications.
Ways to reduce adult acne
Eliminating adult acne depends on its cause, but your treatment plan might include:
- Topical treatments
- Oral medications
- Hormonal therapy
- Chemical peels
- Facials
- Skincare routine changes
- Dietary modifications
However, there are some acne medications you should avoid while pregnant. Make sure to tell your Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey provider if you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant while being treated for acne.
Your specialist can help you choose an adult acne treatment that’s safe and effective based on your specific needs and goals.
Schedule an acne evaluation at Dermatology Associates of Central New Jersey by calling our office or booking a consultation online today.
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