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We understand that skin problems effect almost everyone growing up, but the fact that some of us experience acne in our mid-to-late 20's, 30's, 40's and even 50's or perhaps never fully outgrow acne breakouts, is hard to accept. It is estimated that over 30% of women and more than 20% of men ages 20 to 60 (and beyond) are troubled by acne. Over 60 million people suffer from acne in the USA alone, and another 70 million experience acne related breakouts in Canada and Europe.
What Causes Adult Acne?
Adult acne is caused by an over production of sebum, an oily substance produced by the skin's sebaceous glands. Sebum clogs pores, which can support bacterial growth and inflammation. For some adults, acne breakouts are a result of a hypersensitivity to or over production of androgens (male hormones). This is a prevailing cause of acne in men and athletes of both genders as androgens are powerful stimulators of sebaceous glands. Both women and men produce testosterone, estrogen and progesterone; the difference is how much and what really is needed for different genders. It should be noted that an imbalance in both male and female hormones (estrogen) can also cause breakouts. For women, this can happen during pregnancy, perimenopause and menopause. Some medications, such as corticosteroids, and cosmetics can also contribute to the development of acne.
Myths Regarding Adult Acne
With the Promise of Clear Skin,
Dr. A