The Reason You're Still Getting Spots As An Adult.

Acne is a type of inflammatory skin condition influenced by genetics, it can be triggered by oil production and fluctuating hormones such as pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, PCOD and stress. Adult set acne can also be caused by certain medications such as antiseizure, corticosteroids and lithium to name a few.

How does adult acne differ from teenage acne?

There are no established guidelines for clinical diagnosis that differentiates adolescent versus adult acne. While it is widely accepted that the onset of adult acne is defined from the ages of 20 - 25, this can be preceded by years of teenage acne that persisted into adulthood. However, some studies have shown that adult acne generally is more inflammatory and cystic with a predisposition along the jawline and lower face.

How can I get rid of my adult acne?

Unfortunately there no overnight remedy for adult acne, however cleansing the face twice daily is key. Try using spot treatment products which contain sulfur and prescription medications such as the oral contraceptive pill, prescription retinoids, antibiotics, aldactone, or isotretinoin can be used to treat adult acne too. LED treatments, blue light, lasers and peels can also be used in bespoke treatment patterns to keep skin clear and most importantly my advice would be NOT to pop pimples.

I also would recommend a diet with a low glycemic index. Recent studies have shown diets with a low GI (low in refined carbohydrates) saw a significant decrease in acne lesions. Oil production can be triggered by hormones released with raised insulin levels.

I would also recommend trying to potentially avoiding too much dairy by either switching to a low fat milk or non - dairy nut milk.

What products should I use?

Try to buy skin care and haircare products that are non comedogenic and oil free. Using product with benzoyl peroxide: comedolytic, antibacterial topical or ingested antibiotics to combat P.Acnes bacteria to decrease acne lesions.

Retinols: compounds derived from Vit A to help reduce to the development of microcomodones and decrease sebum production

Products you to avoid

I would try to avoid thick moisturisers, products which contain too much oil and certain sunscreens, as these are known to block pores and creating a breeding ground for acne.