If you thought acne was something you left behind in high school, you're not alone. The truth is, adult acne is far more common than many people realize and it can affect your confidence just as much as it did during your teenage years.
According to Dr. Christine Sickles of Dermio Dermatology, adult acne refers to acne that develops after the teenage years, often appearing for the first time in a person's 20s or later. In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology estimates that more than half of adults experience acne, with women being affected more frequently than men.
Unlike teenage acne, adult breakouts are often influenced by hormonal changes. Pregnancy, stopping birth control, perimenopause, menopause, stress, certain medications, and even supplements containing whey protein can all contribute to flare-ups. Women commonly experience breakouts along the jawline and lower face, while men often see acne on the face and back.
While maintaining a consistent skincare routine is important, it isn't always enough. Dr. Sickles recommends cleansing the skin twice daily, removing makeup before bed, and eating a balanced diet while limiting high-glycemic foods that may increase oil production and inflammation. "Patients should seek treatment from a dermatologist as soon as possible," she explains, noting that prescription treatments can take 8 to 12 weeks to reach their full effectiveness, making early intervention especially important.
Over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide or alpha and beta hydroxy acids may help mild acne, but persistent breakouts often require a personalized treatment plan. At Dermio Dermatology, providers evaluate each patient's skin type, acne severity, medical history, hormone status, and lifestyle before recommending a customized combination of skincare products, prescription medications, or oral therapies. As Dr. Sickles emphasizes, "A one size fits all treatment plan does not take these factors into consideration."
For patients dealing with acne scars or stubborn congestion, cosmetic treatments can also play an important role. "Microneedling can help with acne scarring, and we usually recommend a series of four treatments to start," says Jenni Losacco, Aesthetician at Dermio Dermatology. "Chemical peels can help with acne, and a series of three is usually recommended to start."
The biggest misconception? Expecting acne to disappear overnight. Successful treatment takes consistency, patience, and expert guidance. The sooner acne is addressed, the better the chances of preventing permanent scarring and restoring healthy, confident skin. If adult acne is interfering with your daily life or affecting your confidence, scheduling an evaluation with a dermatologist is the best first step toward clearer skin.
