Acne is one of the most frequent aesthetic concerns during adolescence. The hormonal changes associated with this age cause bothersome pimples and blackheads to appear on the face, neck and, even on the chest and back of young people. We often believe it is another stage we must go through and that, as we age, everything will go back to normal.
Even though this is true in most cases, it is not always the case, and there are an increasing percentage of adults that suffer from acne in their adult years.
What causes adult acne?
There are several causes of adult acne. In most cases, the cause is excess skin oil that blocks the pores in the skin; however is it also caused by hormonal changes. In women, acne breakouts are relatively common during pregnancy and some women can see a re-emergence of acne when they reach menopause. The strong hormonal changes in some women prior to menstruation may also cause breakouts prior to their period. Some medications may also cause acne, which is why it is recommended that you take a list of all of the medications you are taking with you when you visit your dermatologist. Stress is another frequent cause of acne, as stress increases the amount of cortisol in the body, a hormone that works in a similar way to the androgens that cause premenstrual acne, for example. It is important to see a dermatologist. We do not often consider acne to be an illness, only a problem associated with a certain skin type. However, for example, acne could be a symptom of diabetes in a person that never had it before. Not to mention, if left untreated, acne flare-ups could become increasingly worse and cause scarring, which would have a strong aesthetic impact, and as a result, a psychological impact on patients with it.
How should acne be treated once it has appeared?
If you have acne, the first step is to see a dermatologist.The skin specialist will analyse each case and recommend a treatment. Since all acne does not have the same origin and each person’s skin is different, personalised treatments are necessary. Patients should also know that in addition to treatments for acne breakouts, there are also cosmetic treatments that can help to erase the scars caused by acne on the skin. If you have acne scars, a cosmetic dermatology clinic can help to improve these scars or remove them completely. Is it possible to prevent acne breakouts? When prone to acne breakouts, special skin care must be taken, as far as possible, to prevent new breakouts. The following are some of the basic recommendations for maintaining skin in the best condition: Proper hygiene. It is important to cleanse your skin in the mornings and, especially at night after a day of exposure to dirt, pollution and cosmetic products. Be sure to use the correct products for your skin. Your dermatologist can recommend the right cleansing products for you. Use cosmetics that allow your skin to breathe. You can apply makeup to skin with acne or acne-prone skin, but always with the right products, which must be kept clean. Be sure to always use products that contain sunscreen, something that should be taken into consideration by all, but especially by those with sensitive skin. The sun can also darken the scars caused by acne. Do not squeeze your pimples. Squeezing your pimples will only cause your appearance to worsen and increase the possibility of infection.
Dermatologist and Medical Director at the Amparo Rodriguez Dermatological Centre
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