Acne is supposed to be a problem more generally associated with teens and it strikes a majority of people with onset of puberty. But in US alone roughly 20% of cases of acne reported are of Adult Acne. For majority of people when this teenage affliction continues or strikes again in adulthood it can become a real nuisance to deal with. For some of the people this problem is a continuation from their teens into their adulthood while for others its something that comes back again in their twenties after a break.
Nearly 75% or more of teenagers and preteens develop acne to some extent. However this is a problem that transcends the boundaries of age or sex or race. It affects almost everybody and some of the people continue to fight with it even after their teens. Boys normally tend to suffer from more severe forms of acne and they are more likely to carry it into their adulthood as compared to their female counterpart. However chances of acne breaking out again is more in females as compared to males.
Causes of Adult Acne
There can be a number of causes of adult acne like:
Metabolic conditions
Hormonal imbalances is always the leading cause of adult acne and more
so in women. Hormonal imbalance in women can occur at the time of pregnancy or during periods and they often result in acne breakout. Hormonal abnormalities can also take place in men and may result in acne.
Medication
Medication can also induce adult acne as it can effect hormonal balance. Medications that include anabolic steroids, anti-epileptic medication or tuberculosis drug may
lead to acne.
Cosmetics
Greasy or oily Cosmetics that can clog pores resulting in entrapped bacteria and dirt and oil can lead to acne. If you are suffering from acne then using makeup to cover it can be a very bad idea.
Physical stress on the skin.
Chronic physical stress on skin like that from the straps of a backpack if you are carrying it for a long time can also result in acne.
Some prevention tips for adult acne
Eating habits
Avoid caffeine as in coffee and tea. It promotes product of Cortisol or stress hormone that may lead to hormonal imbalance.
Stress
Although hard to practice, avoid stress. When under stress our brain our central nervous system becomes more activated, that increases secretions from both adrenal gland and sebaceous gland. This can lead to acne because of hormonal imbalance and fatty secretions.
Smoking
Avoid smoking, it releases chemicals that decrease the skin's capacity of self healing and regeneration..
Products related to adult acne treatment
Surgery:
Doctors may use surgery but only in moderate to severe cases of acne. The effects
are immediate and effective in reducing the acne scars.
Acupuncture:
Acupuncture performed on stress points on the face may help treating adult acne.
It is better to take professional service for this.
Over the counter products
You can have a visit to the acne product section to look at the range of products
available.
You can further read about the adult acne and tips to prevent and stop it on message
boards and forums.