Skin Care Articles

Can This Be Acne-At My Age? Hormonal Acne Is For Adults Too!

When you are a teenager, you expect to have to deal with acne. It's almost a rite of passage. But what about when you are in your 20s or 30s and suddenly you start having pimples break out - everywhere?

You've tried every acne product in the drug store and nothing gets rid of your red, bumpy itchy skin and those awful breakouts. What's worse is by using the same kind of acne products that are designed to treat adolescent skin with its excess oil, now you have dry patches that make your face even more difficult to clear up. What is going on?

This type of acne is known as hormonal acne and it can be one of the toughest types of acne to treat. It can also be emotionally devastating. If you have been dealing with hormonal acne, you know that it can really be depressing. It's particularly tough because people have a difficult time understanding why "a couple of pimples" are such a big deal. You know that it's a lot more than just a couple of pimples. It's real breakouts and red blotches and acne scars and it is a big deal. It's frustrating and it's embarrassing and you just really want to find a way to get rid of it.

What is hormonal acne?

Hormonal acne typically begins in the early to mid-20s and can last for years. Women who experience hormonal acne may have been dealing with it since they were teenagers or they may not have had any real acne problems at all when they were younger. It's caused by the same hormone, androgen that was responsible for all those tears in adolescence. There are times when acne breakouts in adulthood can be a symptom of any one of many other conditions - some of which are quite serious. Its always wise to inform your doctor about your acne issues if you are also experiencing other concerns such as irregular periods, diabetes, obesity or infertility so that she can make sure you have no underlying health issues. Far more common is an acne problem that is independent of any other problems. In fact, almost 50% of women experience acne flare-ups and oily skin in the week before they menstruate.

Some women experience acne problems when they are pregnant. It is important to check with your doctor before using any type of treatment, even over-the-counter products - to be certain the ingredients are safe for the baby. Many common acne medications are absorbed through the skin and can be harmful to the developing fetus, so always check with your doctor first.

There are also many post-menopausal women who have acne problems. It is also important that this group of women check carefully before they use acne products. As we age, our skin gets drier and thinner and so harsh medications and cleansers can be particularly damaging.

How do I treat my hormonal acne?

When you are dealing with hormonal acne, you want to get the best skin care products that you can. This is not to say that the most expensive skin care products are the best products. There are products that are considered acne skin care, rather than simply acne treatments. You are much better off to find good acne skin care with all-natural ingredients that are gentle and yet effective at getting rid of the acne while leaving your skin looking clean and fresh.