Why Do I Have Adult Acne?

Battling unexpected breakouts decades past puberty can feel frustrating and unfair. It’s a common problem — for example, over 30% of women in their 30s deal with adult acne. Understanding why it happens is the first step to clearer skin.

At The MD Aesthetics, our team offers expert acne management for patients in and around El Dorado Hills, California. We help you uncover the root cause behind your breakouts and find solutions that fit your life.

Wondering why you have acne as an adult? Those stubborn blemishes may be your body trying to tell you something. Let’s explore what they could mean.

Hormonal fluctuations

Just like in your teens, hormones are often the primary cause of adult acne. After puberty, your hormone levels continue to fluctuate throughout adulthood.

An increase in androgenic hormones, such as testosterone, stimulates oil glands in the skin to produce more sebum (oil). Excess sebum then mixes with dead skin cells and other debris, leading to clogged pores where acne-causing bacteria thrive.

For women, hormonal changes linked to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and perimenopause are often behind adult breakouts. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause persistent hormonal acne due to ongoing imbalances.

While you usually hear about hormonal acne in women, men also experience it. However, fluctuations in androgen activity tend to be more individual in men, rather than following a regular cycle.

The impact of stress

Androgens aren’t the only hormones that can contribute to acne. Stress hormones, like cortisol, also influence sebum production.

Stress causes inflammation throughout the body, creating the perfect breeding ground for breakouts. Short periods of stress or worry may cause temporary flare-ups, while ongoing, chronic stress keeps your skin vulnerable, leading to persistent issues with acne.

Finding healthy ways to cope with stress can make a big difference for your complexion. Try yoga, meditation, or relaxing activities you enjoy, such as crafting, gardening, or nature walks. 

Connections to your diet and lifestyle

According to one study, adults with a diet high in unhealthy fats and refined sugars are over 50% more likely to have acne. Some people may find that dairy products exacerbate their breakouts.

To support clear skin, focus on a balanced diet full of colorful produce, whole grains, and lean sources of protein. Drinking enough water hydrates your skin, helping to maintain the skin’s protective moisture barrier and prevent excess sebum.

Beyond what’s on your plate, environmental factors and daily habits matter. Exposure to pollution, friction from masks or athletic gear, and insufficient or poor quality sleep can contribute to acne. 

Your skin care habits and product choices

The products you use in hopes of clearing your skin may contribute to breakouts. Over-cleansing or using harsh stripping formulas can disrupt your moisture barrier, leaving it irritated and more susceptible to issues.

Also, some popular moisturizing products contain comedogenic ingredients — substances that block pores. Look for labels that say noncomedogenic or formulated for acne-prone skin. The right products and a gentle, consistent routine are key to a healthy, beautiful complexion.

Our team assesses your skin and recommends professional-grade products or medications according to your needs. We also offer advanced treatments that target acne and the scars it leaves behind, including chemical peels, Hydrafacial®, microneedling, and laser therapy.

Ready to stop guessing and start seeing clearer skin? Call or click to schedule a consultation at The MD Aesthetics for expert guidance on managing adult acne.