Get the Facts About Adult Acne | Swinyer Woseth Dermatology

Doctor checking a women patient

The teen years are an emotionally turbulent time and the onset of acne certainly doesn’t help. But when acne persists long past one’s adolescence, it can be especially frustrating. Adult acne is quite common, although it isn’t necessarily treated in the same way as teen acne. To find the most effective acne treatment regimen for your skin, you’ll need to work with a dermatologist.

Types

There are different types of acne lesions. A clogged pore that stays under the skin forms a whitehead, whereas a clogged pore that opens up above the skin’s surface is a blackhead. The dark color of blackheads occurs as the oil interacts with the air. Pustules contain pus. They have a reddened base. More serious types of acne lesions are nodules and cysts, which are deeper in the skin, tend to be painful, and tend to cause scarring. Adults who get acne have a tendency to get the deeper, inflamed pimples and cysts. They may also get acne rosacea, which is characterized by facial redness, flushing, pimples, and visible blood vessels.

Causes

There are many factors that can contribute to adult acne. Women tend to get acne more than men because of fluctuating hormone levels, including the hormonal changes of menstruation, pregnancy, birth control pills, perimenopause, and menopause. Some medications can even contribute to acne formation, including medicines used to treat depression and epilepsy. Certain makeup and skin care products can also make the problem worse.

Treatments

When you visit a dermatologist, he or she will ask you some questions about your typical skin care routine and history of acne formation. Then, your dermatologist will recommend a personalized acne treatment plan, which may include oral antibiotics or topical medications. Your dermatologist can also help you develop a good skin care routine by recommending cleansers, lotions, and sunscreen products that won’t clog your pores.

Residents of the Salt Lake City area can find personalized acne treatments at Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology. Our dermatologists are dedicated to working closely with each patient to help him or she achieve cosmetic goals. Contact us today at 801-266-8841 and let us know how we can help you.