And you thought you’d left acne long behind with your teenage years. But, NOOOOOOOOOOOOO… the pimples are back? Well, you’re not alone.

But, why?

Studies presented at the American Academy of Dermatology’s 70th Annual Meeting suggest that adult-onset acne is becoming an increasingly common problem for women in their 20s, 30s, 40s and even 50s.
The studies showed that,
“45 percent of women aged 21-30 had clinical acne, 26 percent of women aged 31-40 had clinical acne, and 12 percent of women aged 41-50 had clinical acne.”

There are several factors that contribute to developing acne as an adult. Stress and bad cosmetics can causes breakouts, and poor diet can also be a major contributor. Contrary to popular belief, chocolate is not one of them! (thank goodness).But of course the major cause is those damn HORMONES.

Hormones can cause excess oil production, which then clogs the pores and forms blackheads and pimples. They also cause skin cells to shed and become abnormally sticky, blocking hair follicles. Hormones may stimulate an overproduction of the acne-causing bacterium, Propionbacterium, as well as inflammation of the skin.

Dos and Don’ts

• DO use a gentle moisturizer and, more importantly, a cleanser. For cleansers, try Neutrogena for sensitive skin or Cetaphil. (both available at Cicks and Dischem)
•  DO go and get a facial- but a proper one! A good beauty therapist will know exactly what your skins needs. A good cleanse, exfoliation, steam, extraction, and couple of face masks.
•  DO see a dermatologist if your breakout continues. He/she may change your pill or prescribe topical creams to use, which may just do the trick.
• DO drink lots of water, and eat healthily.
• DON’T pick or squeeze! (Easier said than done I know.)
• DON’T exfoliate more than once a week.
• DON’T use a steam room, or do Bikram Yoga.

 A possible solution for your adult acne problem could be the ProActive Acne Solution. It can be bought from the brand’s website.

Article by Claire Jowell