Many people think of acne as a problem for teenagers. While acne is practically a right passage for young people, it can also occur in adults. Indeed, according to Yale Medicine, roughly 25% of women and 12% of men suffer acne in their 40s. The causes of adult acne can differ a bit with adults, so it’s important to consider treatment options as they may differ. Dr. Flint, Dr. Dean, and Mark Pulver, PA, can assist with adult acne at Millcreek Dermatology in Salt Lake City, UT.
Understanding Acne in Adults
Hormones often influence acne in teenagers, as hormonal changes can increase the amount of oil your skin produces. This, in turn, can encourage acne. Ultimately, acne is caused by clogged pores, and excessive oil, among other things, can clog pores.
It should be noted that adults can also go through periods of heightened hormonal change. For example, if you’re pregnant, your hormones may swing wildly. It should come as no surprise that acne is quite common among pregnant individuals, with more than 40% experiencing it. Stress, aging, and various other things can also impact hormones and, thus, acne.
Adult acne may be related to many other things. Certain types of makeup are known for making acne outbreaks more likely and more severe. Stress, anxiety, and many other things can also encourage outbreaks and may make them more severe.
Some people are also genetically predisposed to adult acne, but even with genetically impacted acne, there are still many treatment options available. If you need help with adult acne in Salt Lake City, UT, see Dr. Flint, Dr. Dean, and Mark Pulver, PA, immediately. The sooner you start treatment, the quicker the acne can be cleared.
How to Treat Acne in Adults
The right course of treatment will depend on your specific condition. With mild cases of acne, simple over-the-counter face washes, including those with salicylic acid, may be enough. A dermatologist can help you select the best OTC treatments for your acne.
However, it’s often wise to use prescription washes and medications in severe cases as they are more potent. Also, if you need to get acne cleared up more quickly, say for a photo shoot or wedding, prescription medication can go a long way.
Topical retinoids, antibiotics, and other prescription-strength medications may be needed for the best results. Antibiotics may be needed to bring bacteria under control. Unfortunately, bacteria can clog up pores, making acne outbreaks more likely and especially severe. Changing the make-up you use may also be recommended, among other things.
Dr. Flint, Dr. Dean, and Mark Pulver, PA, of Millcreek Dermatology can provide prescription treatments for adult acne in Salt Lake City, UT. To schedule an appointment, simply dial 801-262 3600.
