Do Adults Suffer from Acne?

In spite of popular belief, acne is not specifically an adolescent problem.  In fact, adult acne is also a very common problem, one which seems to be on the rise.   While adult females are more at risk of coming down with really bad acne, it is the males who often suffer more long-term damage from scarring.

It is also proven that acne is not caused by poor hygiene, but rather it is a combination of physiological processes that lead to its appearance. The three main things that can trigger acne are oily skin, blocked hair follicles, and bacterial infections.

This is the same for both adults and teenagers, these three factors are the primary reasons for acne in people of all ages. At the start of acne formation, dead skin or fatty tissue blocks a hair duct.  If the duct is already open a blackhead forms.

If the duct is closed, you get what is referred to as a whitehead.  It is the closed blocked duct, or the whitehead, that causes adult acne when it bursts open, causing infection and acne.

Adults do not suddenly get acne because they eat chocolate, or eat oily food. Neither is it caused by stress, although stress does play a part in aggravating acne. Some acne is brought about by medications or chemicals.

Other myths surrounding acne include advice that says washing your face vigorously a few times a day will heal acne, or sitting with your face in the sun will speed up your recovery. In fact, neither of these things will help at all.

If you find yourself with adult acne, remember first of all that you are not an isolated case. There are many adults who struggle to overcome adult acne. Fortunately, by consulting with a health provider or doctor, you should also be able to get an anti acne cream that will help alleviate your acne.

photo credit: Caitlinator