If you’re beyond your teenage years and still coping with acne, you’re not alone. Many people continue to struggle with acne well into adulthood. In fact, some people experience their first acne breakouts as adults. Want to know more about adult acne? Read on to find 7 truths and myths about this common skin condition.
1. Only Teenagers Get Acne.
Myth. In many cases, especially for teens, acne can be caused by fluctuation of hormones. But this isn’t the only time in life where your body is at the mercy of your hormonal system: Pregnancy and menopause are common culprits when it comes to adult acne. Medical professionals call acne that starts in your teens and continues into adulthood “persistent acne.” Late-onset acne starts after age 25. Both are common.
2. Your Diet Can Affect Your Breakouts.
Truth. Research has suggested that foods high in sugar and dairy products can aggravate acne. If you’re facing breakout after breakout, opting for foods with a low glycemic index and passing on milk and cheese might help.
3. Popping A Pimple Will Help It Heal Faster.
Myth. Popping, picking, or scratching a pimple is like sending out an open invitation for bacteria and infection. All of these actions can lead to skin damage and scarring, so it’s best to take a hands-off approach to pimples and adult acne breakouts.
4. Oily Or Acne-Prone Skin Doesn’t Need A Moisturizer.
Myth. Moisturizer is an essential part of a heathy skin care regime, as it helps provide a protective barrier. Cleansing your skin twice a day, using a lightweight non-comedogenic moisturizer and exfoliating with a retinoid can help you fight clogged pores, pimples and inflammation.
5. Acne Is Genetic.
Truth. Your family history can show up on your face. If a blood relative has struggled with adult acne, you might be predisposed to the condition.
6. Facial Scrubs Will Help You Beat Acne.
Myth. While facial scrubs and exfoliating cleansers can help slough away pore-clogging dead skin cells, they can also leave can leave tiny cuts that can lead to inflammation and make skin vulnerable to infection. This can lead to discoloration and scarring.
7. You Must Avoid Makeup If You’re Breaking Out.
Myth. There’s no need to avoid makeup if you have adult acne. In fact, camouflaging your breakout with concealer or foundation can boost your self-confidence. Just make sure that your products are labeled as “oil-free and non-comedogenic,” as these products lack the skin-clogging ingredients that can make your breakouts worse.
Adult acne doesn’t have to part of your life. If breakouts are an ongoing issue for you, consider making an appointment with Dr. Doppelt to learn more about acne treatment in Knoxville, TN. With medical guidance and a little bit of patience, adult acne can be controlled.
