Acne Isn't Just for Kids
Whether you've had acne before or not, few beauty problems are as frustrating as blemishes on adult skin. Sometimes women actually begin breaking out in their 30s and 40s. This may be a result of hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, menstrual cycle or menopause. It can also be a result of an overproduction of androgens, male-type hormones that cause increased oil production. Other causes include outbreaks that come from removing facial hair or using makeup.
Treating adult acne is similar to treating acne developed in earlier years. Use a mild cleanser, a nonoily sunscreen and noncomedogenic cosmetics, as well as an oil-free moisturizer .
Over-the-counter remedies containing benzoyl peroxide or alpha and beta hydroxy acids (such as salicylic acid) may be helpful. If these don't work, consult a dermatologist, who may suggest antibiotics or other drugs such as Retin-A or Azelaic acid. If the doctor suspects the flare-up is caused by hormones, then birth control pills may be recommended for premenopausal women, and estrogen (hormone replacement therapy) may be recommended for menopausal women.
