What Is Adult Acne?
Adult acne refers to pimples and breakouts that occur in adults, typically after age 25. Unlike teenage acne, which often clears up with age, adult acne can persist for years—or even begin for the first time in adulthood. It may appear as blackheads, whiteheads, red bumps, or painful cysts.
Adult acne is most common on the lower face, jawline, neck, chest, and back, and it can affect all genders—though it’s especially common in women due to hormonal changes.
Key Characteristics
Texture: Oily, with clogged pores or inflamed bumps
Type: Can include blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, or cysts
Location: Jawline, chin, cheeks, neck, chest, and back
Severity: Ranges from mild (occasional breakouts) to severe (persistent cystic acne)
Sensation: May be tender, painful, or itchy
Acne can cause both physical discomfort and emotional distress. It may also lead to dark marks or scarring if not properly managed.
What Causes It?
Adult acne is usually triggered by a combination of internal and external factors, such as:
Hormonal fluctuations: Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, or conditions like PCOS
Stress: Increases cortisol, which can stimulate oil production
Skincare or hair products: Ingredients that clog pores (comedogenic)
Diet: Some people report breakouts linked to dairy or high-glycemic foods
Medications: Such as corticosteroids or certain birth control pills
Genetics: Family history can play a role
Unlike teenage acne, adult acne is less about excess oil and more about inflammation, hormonal changes, and barrier disruption.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you're dealing with persistent or painful breakouts, or if over-the-counter treatments aren’t working, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist—especially if you notice:
Cystic or nodular acne that is deep and painful
Frequent breakouts that don’t improve after 6–8 weeks of treatment
Post-acne dark spots or scarring
Signs of a possible hormonal imbalance (like irregular periods, excess hair growth)
A dermatologist can diagnose the type of acne and suggest a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment for adult acne often involves a combination of topical, oral, and lifestyle strategies. Options include:
Topical treatments: Retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or azelaic acid
Oral medications: Hormonal therapies (like birth control or spironolactone), antibiotics, or isotretinoin for severe cases
In-office procedures: Chemical peels, laser therapy, or corticosteroid injections for cysts
Consistency is key—many treatments take several weeks to show improvement.
Living With Adult Acne
Adult acne is common and manageable, but it can be frustrating—especially when it affects confidence. Building a gentle skincare routine, managing stress, and working with a dermatologist can make a big difference.
Remember: acne is a medical condition, not a reflection of hygiene or self-care. With the right approach, most people see significant improvement over time.
If you have further questions about Acne or would like to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist please give us a call at 865-545-0900 or schedule online via book my appointment. If you have any questions, fill out our appointment request and we’ll reach out to you within a business day.
