Common factors that can trigger adult acne

Hello everyone!

It is not uncommon for teenagers to develop acne due to the hormonal changes they face during this period. I suffered from it myself, and that's the main reason why I started writing this blog. While most people stop experiencing this skin condition as they age, not everyone does. Research indicates that acne among adult women worldwide has increased by 10%, which is quite concerning. Fortunately, you can avoid this by understanding the common factors that trigger acne and how to prevent them. Here are a few you can consider to reduce your risks. 

Hair products 

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While this may seem surprising, your hair products can cause your skin to break out. This condition is often called pomade acne due to its trigger. Indeed, this happens when your hair-styling products sit on your skin for too long. While they may not directly influence sebum production, they can build up on your skin and mix with dead cells, clogging your pores and triggering acne. You can tell pomade acne apart from other forms due to its appearance on your scalp, hairline, or forehead. 

You should also note that pomade acne will not improve until you eliminate the trigger, which is your hair products. Therefore, experts recommend knowing the proper technique to apply them; use a little amount on your hairline and apply them to the tips and middle of your tresses so they don’t touch your scalp. Water-based products can also prevent clogged pores, so keep this in mind. 

Hormonal imbalances 

Another common trigger of adult acne is hormonal imbalances. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly in women, can trigger adult acne. Hormonal imbalances during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores, resulting in acne flare-ups. Unfortunately, sebum mixes with dead skin cells and bacteria in your hair follicles, triggering breakouts. Conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome and increased androgen can also contribute to the issue. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can also throw your body off balance and cause your hormone production to be out of control, so keep this in mind. 

You can spot hormonal acne on your neck, face, shoulders, chest, and back. They can also appear as blackheads, papules, pustules, whiteheads, and cysts. Fortunately, if you can restore your hormonal balance, this form of acne will go away. You can achieve this by understanding the cause of the problem in the first place. For instance, hormone replacement therapy will be ideal if you have extremely low levels of these substances. 

Your diet 

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The term "you are what you eat" is applicable in this instance: Your diet can trigger severe acne outbreaks due to its composition. Various studies show a link between processed food and body inflammation, which causes acne, although more research is needed on this case. Likewise, smoking and excess alcohol consumption are also risk factors. To be on the safe side, you can change your diet by incorporating healthy options into your menu. Lean proteins, fruit and veggies, water, and the like, can work well. While at it, try to give up smoking and drinking as much as possible. 

Stress

Managing stress levels is crucial when it comes to controlling adult acne. Stress-reducing activities such as exercise, yoga, meditation, or hobbies can help regulate hormone levels and reduce sebum production. Additionally, getting enough sleep and practising good sleep hygiene can support healthy skin. Self-care can eliminate stress and restore balance. 

Remember, managing adult acne takes time and patience. If over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes aren't providing sufficient results, it may be beneficial to consult a dermatologist. They can assess your specific situation and recommend prescription medications or procedures that can effectively target adult acne.

Talk soon,