Acne might be common, but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating. From those surprise pimples before a big event to ongoing, stubborn breakouts that just won’t quit, acne can take a real toll on your confidence. And spoiler alert: it’s not just a “teen thing.” In fact, many adults experience acne well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. If you’ve ever wondered why your skin is acting out or how to finally get it under control, this post is for you.
Why Is Acne Even a Thing?
Acne forms when hair follicles (aka pores) become clogged with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. This creates an ideal environment for inflammation and breakouts. While clogged pores are the basic culprit, a lot of other factors play a role in how and why acne shows up on your skin.
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Hormones: Hormonal shifts, especially during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and stress, are huge acne triggers. That’s why adult women often experience hormonal breakouts around the jawline and chin.
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Skincare & Makeup: Using products that are too heavy, not right for your skin type, or not fully removed can make things worse. Look for “non-comedogenic” on skincare labels.
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Diet: While it’s not the cause, high glycemic foods (like sugary snacks and white bread) may contribute to inflammation and worsen acne in some people.
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Stress: Yep, even your mood can affect your skin. Stress increases cortisol, which stimulates oil glands and inflammation.
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Genetics: If your parents struggled with acne, there’s a higher chance you might, too.
What Can You Do at Home?
While acne can come in many forms, there are a few tried-and-true remedies you can try at home to calm things down and support your skin’s healing process.
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Whiteheads & Blackheads: Try a gentle exfoliant with salicylic acid to help unclog pores and keep dead skin cells from building up. A clay mask once or twice a week can also help draw out impurities.
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Papules & Pustules: These inflamed bumps benefit from spot-treating with benzoyl peroxide or a sulfur-based treatment to reduce bacteria and redness. Keep your skincare routine simple, no harsh scrubs or drying toners.
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Nodules & Cysts: These deeper breakouts are trickier, but you can try applying a warm compress for a few minutes each day to ease inflammation. Tea tree oil, when properly diluted, may also help with bacteria and inflammation. Be patient and avoid picking, these need time and TLC.
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General Tips for All Types:
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Wash your face twice daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser.
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Keep your pillowcases clean and avoid touching your face during the day.
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Moisturize! Even oily skin needs hydration (just make sure it’s oil-free).
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Stay consistent: most remedies take a few weeks to show results.
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Home care won’t cure everything overnight, but with consistency and care, it can make a big difference for mild to moderate acne. And if things don’t improve? That’s when a little extra support from a pro can take your skincare to the next level.
When It’s Time to Call in Backup
You’ve tried the drugstore cleansers, the social media hacks, maybe even switched your pillowcases and stopped eating chocolate or cheese, but nothing’s working. Sound familiar? If your acne is persistent, painful, or impacting your mental well-being, it’s time to get professional support. At Skin and Cancer Center of Arizona, we’re here to help!
Your Dermatologist can:
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Identify your acne type
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Rule out other skin conditions that look like acne (like rosacea or folliculitis)
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Build a customized treatment plan using options like:
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Prescription-strength topicals (like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide)
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Oral medications (like antibiotics, birth control, or spironolactone)
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In-office aesthetic treatments (like chemical peels and laser treatments)
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You don’t have to struggle through trial and error alone. There is a solution that will work for your skin, and we’re here to help you find it. Call today to book with one of our board-certified dermatologists.
Want more?
480-899-7546