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Updated by Umbrella Health Care Systems on Feb 13, 2024
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Adult Acne: Popular Questions and Answers

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages.

Effective acne treatments are available, but acne can be persistent. The pimples and bumps heal slowly, and when one begins to go away, others seem to crop up.

Depending on its severity, acne can cause emotional distress and scar the skin. The earlier you start treatment, the lower your risk of such problems.
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1

Why do I still have acne in my late 20s?

Why do I still have acne in my late 20s?

At its root, adult acne is caused by the same things that cause teen acne: excess skin oil and bacteria. Any changes in hormones, including those brought on by pregnancy and menstruation, can trigger excess oil. Women who smoke also seem to be more prone to acne.

Acne tends to run in families, so if a parent had adult acne, you're at higher risk. People can get acne into their 40s and beyond.
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2

I wash a lot but still get blackheads. Why?

I wash a lot but still get blackheads. Why?

Washing your skin can't get rid of blackheads or acne. Why? Blackheads form below the skin's surface, when oil, also called sebum, reacts with air in a partially clogged pore. When the pore is totally blocked, you get a whitehead.

Wash your face twice a day and after sweating, using a mild cleanser and warm water -- not hot water. Do not scrub your skin as that can worsen acne.
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3

Could my makeup cause my acne?

Could my makeup cause my acne?

Yes. In fact, anything you put on your face has the potential to clog pores. Look for oil-free makeup, sunscreens, and other skin products. Non-comedogenic and nonacnegenic products can be better for acne-prone skin.

You might also try using powder cosmetics instead of cream foundations. If you do want to use foundation, some dermatologists recommend oil-free liquid silicone matte foundations, such as those containing dimethicone or cyclomethicone.
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4

What’s the truth about chocolate and acne?

What’s the truth about chocolate and acne?

There's no scientific proof that eating chocolate, sugar, or greasy food causes acne. However, if it seems that certain foods trigger breakouts, avoid them.

Sugary or greasy foods hinder your health in other ways, contributing to diabetes and heart disease. Reach for fresh food for better overall health.

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5

What is deep-cyst acne?

What is deep-cyst acne?

Deep-cyst acne can be painful and frustrating to treat. Follicles are clogged deep beneath the skin's surface. Your doctor may choose to treat this severe form of acne with antibiotic pills for a short time. Injectable corticosteroids may calm the inflammation. Topical creams with retinoids may also help.

Never pick, poke, or pop lesions. That can worsen acne and cause scars.
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6

What other kinds of acne are there?

What other kinds of acne are there?

There are two general kinds of acne:

  • Comedones -- blackheads and white heads.
  • Inflammatory lesions -- papules (pimple), pustules, or nodules or cysts. A dermatologist can work with you to develop a treatment plan for your acne and unique skin type.
7

Could my acne be related to anemia?

Could my acne be related to anemia?

The link between anemia, low iron, and acne is not proven. A few studies have shown a small connection. However, scientists believe anemia's probably not the real cause of acne. Instead, taking too much zinc to treat acne may cause anemia. There is limited scientific evidence that zinc works to treat acne.
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8

What's the best way to treat acne?

What's the best way to treat acne?

Medicated creams with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alpha-hydroxy acid are the first treatments to try. You can get them over the counter or by prescription. Retinoids -- vitamin A-based creams -- also work to unclog hair follicles.

Your doctor can prescribe stronger creams, or other medications that help, such as antibiotics, oral retinoids, androgen blockers, and low-dose birth control pills.
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9

What's the best way to prevent acne?

What's the best way to prevent acne?

First, avoid touching your face. Touching your face can increase oiliness, irritate your skin, and encourage the growth of bacteria. Develop a hands-off policy.

Second, keep oily hair off your skin. And look for oil-free hair products. Oily hair care products can get on your face and clog pores.

Third, be gentle with your skin. Use your fingertips (not a washcloth or sponge) to wash your face with a non-abrasive cleanser. Use mild skin care products.
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