What Causes Persistent Acne Into Adulthood
Many people think acne is just a teenage problem, but it often sticks around into adulthood for reasons that go beyond puberty. The main culprit is hormones, especially androgens, which are male hormones present in everyone that ramp up oil production in the skin[1][2][3]. These hormones make sebaceous glands work overtime, producing extra sebum that clogs pores and leads to pimples, blackheads, and inflammation[1][4].
In women, who face adult acne more often than men, breakouts typically show up along the jawline, chin, and lower cheeks, hinting at a hormonal shift[2][4]. Things like monthly menstrual cycles cause hormone ups and downs that trigger flare-ups right before a period[1]. Pregnancy brings hormone surges that boost oil, while postpartum drops can do the same[1]. As women approach menopause around age 51, falling estrogen lets androgens take over, drying out skin but also sparking acne in some cases[3].
Health conditions play a big role too. Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, raises androgen levels, leading to stubborn jawline acne along with symptoms like irregular periods and extra facial hair[1][2][6]. Other issues, such as hypothyroidism or adrenal problems, can bump up androgens and worsen breakouts[1]. Even starting or stopping birth control pills or using certain IUDs can throw hormones off balance[2].
Stress adds fuel to the fire by releasing cortisol, a hormone that indirectly increases oil and inflammation[1][2][4]. Poor sleep makes it worse by messing with hormone regulation[2]. Diet matters as well. Foods high in sugar, like sodas and pastries, or dairy products spike insulin and androgens, prompting more sebum[1][2]. Whey protein shakes are another common trigger[2].
Skincare habits can keep acne going strong. Washing the face too much strips natural oils, causing skin to overproduce sebum as a rebound effect[2][5]. Heavy makeup or the wrong products clog pores further[2][5]. Adult skin is often drier and more sensitive than teen skin, so harsh routines irritate it and lead to more pimples[4].
Genetics and a weakened immune system from things like nutritional gaps can make skin more prone to these issues[3]. Unlike teen acne focused on the forehead and nose from puberty oil surges, adult versions linger due to these ongoing life factors[4].
Sources
https://www.medicaldaily.com/hormonal-acne-adults-acne-causes-skin-hormones-explained-474128
https://www.tuftsmedicine.org/about-us/news/acne-over-30
https://www.draliabadi.com/menopause/perimenopause-and-acne/
https://www.chevychasedermatology.com/blog/acne-treatments/adult-acne-vs-teen-acne-why-breakouts-dont-always-end-after-high-school
https://fashionmagazine.com/beauty-grooming/adult-acne-causes-treatments/
https://drsambunting.com/en-us/blogs/sam-bunting/how-to-fix-adult-acne
