Why Adult Acne Happens (And How to Finally Get Rid of It)

Acne isn’t just a teenage rite of passage, far from it. Millions of adults in India and worldwide experience persistent breakouts well into their 20s, 30s, 40s, and even 50s. In fact, recent research finds that up to 25% of men and 50% of women will struggle with acne at some point in adulthood.

The reality? Adult acne is common, but with smart skincare, medical insight, and lifestyle tweaks, it’s absolutely possible to get clearer skin (and regain self-confidence).

Why Does Adult Acne Happen?

Unlike teenage acne, which is mostly fuelled by puberty’s hormone surges, adult acne is often set off by a complex mix of factors:

1. Hormones & Menstrual Cycles

Fluctuating hormone levels, especially androgens, can trigger excess oil (sebum) production, clog pores, and cause breakouts. For women, acne often flares before periods, during pregnancy, or with conditions like PCOS.

2. Stress

Life stress and irregular sleep increase “stress hormones” like cortisol, which spike inflammation and push oil glands into overdrive. It’s a major but often-overlooked adult acne culprit.

3. Skincare/Cosmetics Habits

New comedogenic (pore-clogging) makeup, sunscreen, or hair products can trigger breakouts, especially if formulas are heavy or unsuitable for Indian climates. Over-scrubbing and harsh actives can also backfire, stripping skin and worsening irritation.

4. Diet & Gut Health

Mounting evidence links high-sugar, high-fat eating patterns (think milk, mithai, chocolate, fried snacks) to more breakouts in adults. Gut imbalances, like with antibiotics, may also play a role.

5. Other Triggers

• Genetics: A family history of adult acne increases risk.
• Medical conditions: PCOS, thyroid, and some medications can make adults more acne-prone.
  
• Smoking and urban pollution: Both worsen inflammation and slow skin healing.
  

How Adult Acne is Different From Teen Acne

• Location: Adult acne often appears on the lower face, jawline, neck, and even upper back. Teens typically see more forehead, nose, and cheek pimples.
• Type: Deeper, painful cysts and nodules are more common in adults, often accompanied by red marks and scarring.
  
• Persistence: Adult acne can be more stubborn, with cycles of flare-up and clearing that last for months or years.
  

Types of Adult Acne & How to Recognize Them

• Comedonal Acne: Blackheads and whiteheads (clogged, non-inflamed pores)
  
• Inflammatory Acne: Papules and pustules (red or white “pimples”)
  
• Cystic/Nodular Acne: Deep, painful lumps that may scar
  
• Hormonal Acne: Large, sore pimples often on the jawline, especially right before periods.

Skincare Routine: Your First Step to Clearer Skin

Keep it gentle, consistent, and tailored to adult skin needs:

• Double Cleanse (PM): Remove makeup and heavy mineral based sunscreen first with an oil-based cleanser, then follow with a mild foaming/gel cleanser.
  
• Chemical Exfoliation (2x/week): Salicylic acid (BHA) or glycolic/lactic acid (AHA) removes dead skin and unclogs pores without harsh scrubbing.
• Light Moisturiser: Non-comedogenic gels or emulsions balance hydration. Don’t skip moisturiser even if you have oily skin.
  
• Actives: Layer in serums or spot gels with niacinamide (to regulate oil), azelaic acid, or a gentle retinol serum as tolerated.
• Sunscreen: Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily. UV rays worsen post-acne pigmentation, especially for Indian skin.

Explore Dr Su’s Skincare Range, gentle, non-comedogenic formulas made for Indian skin and climates.

Medical & In-Clinic Treatments

If over-the-counter skincare isn’t enough, dermatologists offer prescription based, effective options:

• Topical Retinoids: Stimulate cell renewal, prevent clogged pores (adapalene, tretinoin, or retinal creams).
• Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Azelaic Acid: Key actives to reduce inflammation and bacteria.
  
• Oral Medications: Antibiotics (short-term only), hormonal therapy (birth control pills, spironolactone for women), and isotretinoin if needed for very resistant acne only under strict dermat supervision.
• Chemical Peels: Medical-grade peels with salicylic, glycolic, or mandelic acids speed up skin turnover and fade marks.
  
• Laser & Light Therapies: Target p-acnes bacteria, shrink sebaceous glands, and improve stubborn scars.

Healthy Habits for Lifelong Clear Skin

• Stress management: Yoga, meditation, or even a relaxing walk can calm cortisol levels and skin.
  
• Sleep 7–8 hours nightly: Poor sleep is an underappreciated trigger of adult breakouts.
• Change pillowcases & towels frequently.
  
• Remove all makeup before bed.
  
• Clean mobile screens, hats, and anything that touches your face.
  

Diet & Lifestyle: Does Food Cause Adult Acne?

• High glycaemic foods, sugary drinks, fried snacks, and dairy are linked to higher adult acne rates in studies.
• Anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, leafy greens, omega-3s (walnuts, flaxseed), and plenty of water can support skin healing and overall balance.
  
• Watch for triggers: Not everyone is affected by food, but consider a four-week “reset” to spot your personal sensitivities.
  

Adult Acne Myths vs. Facts

• “You’ll outgrow it.” Many adults can still develop acne decades after their teenage years.
  
• “Acne = dirty skin or bad hygiene.” Not true. Hormones, stress, and genetics matter much more.
  
• “Scrubbing harder helps.” In fact, aggressive washing or too many activities can make things worse.
• “Chocolate always causes acne.” Triggers are individual. Focus on balanced nutrition, not deprivation.
  

Final Thoughts: Clearer Skin

Adult acne can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that it’s a common skin concern and nothing to feel singled out about. With the right information, gentle care, and consistency, healthier skin is achievable at any age.

Key takeaways:

• Identify your personal triggers (hormones, stress, products, food).
  
• Build a gentle, science-backed routine and follow it regularly.
  
• Consult a professional if breakouts persist or lead to marks or scarring.
  

Looking for dermatologist-designed products made for Indian skin? Explore Dr. Su’s Acne Solutions Collection. With the right approach and guidance, managing adult acne becomes much more effective and straightforward.