How Is Adult Acne Different from Teen Acne?

Why Adult Acne Is Different.

Acne isn’t just for teens. Many adults suffer from acne, especially women. It doesn’t mean adolescence is still hounding you. It just means you have a common form of acne that frequently plagues adults. However, you might find the same treatments you used as a teen, no longer work as an adult. This is because adult acne is a little different.

How Does Adult Acne Differ?

The biggest problem with adult acne is the skin doesn’t renew itself as fast as it did when you were a teenager. This means blemishes take longer to heal. It also means gentler treatments are needed to prevent inflammation or skin irritation.

Adults also have the not so wonderful privilege of additional forms of acne beyond the basic blackheads, whiteheads and simple pimples. For instance, rosacea and cystic acne typically only start to appear in your early 20s, though some may experience both during their late teens. Adults are also prone to senile acne, which is a stubborn form of blackhead that’s much more difficult to eliminate.

Some adults may not even realize they have adult acne. They often think it’s a reaction to skin care products. The acne sometimes occurs as a large bump without a head, which doesn’t resemble typical teen acne.

Regardless of the type, adult acne is typically caused by the same thing as teen acne – hormones and dirty pores. This also explains why more women experience the adult version than men.

What Treatments Are Available For Adults?

Teens are able to use higher doses of medication than adults because their skin can handle it. Adults need more gentle versions. The best OTC treatments for adults include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and tea tree oil. However, it’s important to avoid high strength, non-buffered benzoyl peroxide as it can damage the skin.

Instead, opt for lower strength versions such as 3% or less (or use the buffered kind – I like Jan Marini 10% as a spot treatment and it doesn’t irritate my skin at all). Salicylic acid is ideal as it’s better for sensitive skin and also helps reduce redness. Tea tree oil is commonly seen in natural acne treatments, but should only be used in small doses to avoid drying out the skin.

Most adults can find relief for their acne by using an acne system that contains both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. For rosacea and cystic acne, it’s best to consult a doctor as these often require prescription strength medications such as antibiotics and pills.

Adults should avoid harsh exfoliating washes as these only irritate the skin and cause further breakouts. Instead, cleanse the skin twice a day with a gentle acne wash or cream skin cleanser. Apply an all over treatment cream or gel. If your acne is only spotty, use a spot treatment instead. Finally, use a light weight moisturizer that doesn’t clog your pores. This combination helps reduce acne and prevent scarring.

Adult acne can be treated. You may need to experiment to find the right products for you. Try each product for at least a month to see how well it works.