Adult acne: causes and treatments

Many women are surprised (and lament the fact) that they continue or start to get acne after the age of 25, and we understand. However, acne is not restricted to teenagers and can continue into adulthood. Fortunately, between cosmetic and dermatological treatments, there are solutions. No ladies, the nightmare will not start again!

OILY, BLEMISH-PRONE AND ACNE-PRONE SKIN

What is adult female acne?

Acne is quite common in women. Approximately 2 out of 5 women between the ages of 25 and 45 consult a doctor for this reason. It\’s therefore not an isolated situation, although it is a subject that is still not discussed enough. Female acne can initially be "persistent": in this case, it’s a continuation or a relapse of the disease from their adolescence. But it can also appear late in life and develop for the first time in adulthood. 

How does female acne manifest itself?

While the process of acne is always the same (with excessive sebum secretion, obstruction of the follicular canal and proliferation of microbial agents), the form it takes in women differs fromjuvenile acne.. First of all, it appears mainly on the lower part of the face, around the jawline and the chin (this is called U-shaped acne). It can also affect the neckline. Then, in general, it’s characterised by mainly inflammatory lesions, sometimes with nodules on the chin, but also microcysts that can leave residual pigmentation and atrophic scars.

When I was 22, I had a sudden acne breakout with very large pimples (the horror). I went to see a dermatologist and he sent me straight to a gynaecologist to prescribe me a new pill that helps acne. But I have to wait three months to see the first effects, it seems so long...

Anaïs, 22 years old

What causes female acne?

Several triggers have been highlighted:

  • Heredity is a factor of course, but that’s not all. 
  • Stress has been identified as a factor in acne breakouts. 
  • Hormonal fluctuations also play a role. The progesterone produced before a woman’s period stimulates the activity of the sebaceous glands. Certain oral contraceptives or IUDs containing hormones can also promote acne in adult women. 
  • Certain unsuitable cosmetic products can also be incriminated (some with essential oils, etc.). 

An obvious psychological impact

Being affected by acne when you thought it was only a teenager's problem... This feeling of going backwards and the way others look at you naturally has an impact on everyday life. Most of the women affected say they are "stressed", "frustrated" or "embarrassed" by their pimples. Appropriate treatment is therefore essential. 

Regain your self-confidence!

What is the treatment for female acne?

Clinical aspect, stage of progression, risk factors... Your acne is different from that of a teenager. Your treatment should be just as different and should be personalised, because certain localised treatments are not always well tolerated. Your dermatologist will be your ally in this quest for an effective solution. He or she will be able to prescribe the right oral or topical treatment (to be applied to the skin) or certain dermatological procedures such as peels... 

Discover our tips for taking care of your skin 

Hygiene for acne-prone skin: the essential rules

Taking care of your skin by using suitable dermo-cosmetic products is also essential. For your daily skin care, choose gentle, soap-free products so as not to irritate your skin, moisturising products to compensate for the skin dryness caused by certain treatments, "non-comedogenic" products so as to prevent new blackheads from forming... and, generally speaking, products specifically designed for acne-prone skin.

Discover our advice

Our answers to your questions

To sort the true from the false: that's what we're here for.

Make-up can be your best ally if you choose it well and use it well. It improves self-esteem by providing an immediate result and can prevent you from popping your pimples, which can cause scarring. Choose specific and adapted non-greasy, non-comedogenic formulas.

This is true, at least for some. Some pills do indeed improve acne. Others, on the other hand, can make it worse. This is why it’s important to discuss this with your dermatologist, gynaecologist or GP.

It’s quite common. The hormonal changes at the beginning of pregnancy are conducive to acne breakouts. Rest assured, acne tends to diminish throughout pregnancy. In the meantime, cleanse and moisturise your skin with products suitable for acne-prone skin. And of course, protect yourself from the sun.

Our solutions specially designed for adult women

Our Cleanance WOMEN skin care products are designed to reconcile you with your skin
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