Why Do I Keep Getting Acne?

Along with high school and teenage angst, you said goodbye to acne. Or did you? What happens when pesky breakouts persist well into adulthood? About 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 experience acne, which can persist into a person's 30s and 40s. This is especially true for women, 15% of whom suffer acne breakouts in adulthood.

At North Pacific Dermatology, we treat acne with revolutionary therapies, including AviClear®. This laser therapy uses heat energy to selectively target the sebaceous glands, which produce the oil that's a leading cause of acne. We can also get you to understand why you're still breaking out and adjust lifestyle behaviors to minimize adult acne.

Read on to learn why you're still vulnerable to acne as an adult and how we can help. 

Hormone fluctuations

Hormonal fluctuations wreak havoc on your skin at any age. This is why adult women often experience acne flare-ups during their menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or perimenopause. 

Hormonal imbalances stimulate oil production, clog pores, and lead to breakouts. Stress is another reason your hormones are off balance, so your skin might reflect that when life gets overwhelming.

Skincare routine

Your skincare routine may be partially to blame for continuing acne breakouts. As you age, your skin changes, and using the same products that worked in your teenage years might not be suitable anymore. 

Harsh cleansers or heavy moisturizers can clog pores and contribute to acne. Look for non-comedogenic products that won't block your pores, and avoid over-washing or scrubbing your face, as they can strip away essential oils and disrupt the skin's natural balance.

Diet and lifestyle

Consuming a diet high in processed foods, refined sugars, and dairy products can trigger inflammation and contribute to breakouts. Research links dairy to increased acne breakouts in people prone to the condition. 

Smoking, lack of sleep, and not drinking enough water can also impact your skin's health.

Treatments for adult acne

There are practical steps you can take to manage and treat acne. Consult with our office, and we'll provide personalized recommendations. Along with prescription medications, topical treatments, or hormonal therapies, we offer state-of-the-art, noninvasive AviClear to ease outbreaks and prevent future ones. 

AviClear is an easy office treatment and doesn't cause many of the side effects associated with some prescription acne creams and oral medications. Talk to us about AviClear and determine if a series of treatments will help your acne.

We can also recommend a gentle and consistent skincare routine, with products suited for your skin type, to help you maintain smooth skin and minimize outbreaks. Eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and minimize processed and sugary foods. Stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and prioritize quality sleep. Do your best to reduce stress, too.

Clear skin takes time and patience. We're here to help you deal with acne at any age. Call North Pacific Dermatology today or use this website to set up your consultation at any of our offices in Arcata or Crescent City, California. We want to help you get clear, acne-free skin.