When you mention the word acne, it normally conjures up images of spotty, hormonal teenagers, when in fact adult acne is a very real skin condition that can be hugely detrimental to one’s lifestyle.

Some adults can get acne well into their grown-up lives, even if they never suffered from it as a teenager. It is termed “adult-onset acne” and is particular common amongst women, due to fluctuating hormone levels in the body.

Acne is not just confined to the face, with the back, chest and neck being susceptible to the skin condition too.

Other causes linked to the appearance of adult acne are

• Stress

Stress is directly linked to break outs of the skin, with acne being the most severe outcome. The body reacts to stress in different ways, but if skin is a problem it is because of the over-production of stress hormones such as cortisol. Elevated levels of this extremely destructive hormone cause an increase in blood sugar and an increased inflammation in the body.

• Use of cosmetics

Modern day living can see a barrage of products such as cleansers, toners and exfoliants used on the skin which can strip the skin of its natural moisture barrier. There is a tendency on the part of acne sufferers to use overly-harsh products in an attempt to feel ‘clean’ which strip the skin and lead to an overproduction of sebum-the very problem they need to eliminate.

• Genetics

A hereditary predisposition to acne can mean an increased chance of suffering from acne at some point in life. It may be difficult to avoid the inevitable, but the good news is that there are a number of solutions available to reduce the impact acne can have on appearance.

Tips when dealing with adult acne

• Treat skin correctly and avoid any alcohol-based products or grainy exfoliators.
• Use oil-free moisturisers so as to minimize the amount of oil on the skin’s surface
• Avoid self-medication – seek treatment from a medical professional or treatment practitioner
• Any changes in beauty regimes will take a number of weeks to take effect so don’t lose hope if results don’t happen immediately
• Wash hands regularly so as to avoid transferring bacteria to the acne-prone area
• Don’t pick spots as infection and scarring are more likely otherwise
• Wear sun protection to avoid UV rays damaging skin further

Get Rid of Acne at CosmeticDoctor

Treatment of adult acne varies from non-drug changes to lifestyle, topical treatments such as prescription creams or medications, and there are also procedures available to reduce acne scarring and the number of outbreaks.

At Cosmetic Doctor, Dr. Lisa Fay can help evaluate and treat your acne effectively. As an MD she can write prescriptions for topical solutions with proven efficacy like Benzoyl Peroxide , as well as applying high-strength acid peels.

To book your appointment call 01 685 3100 or enter your details into the consultation form (above right).