Adult Acne: Why It Happens and How We Treat It
If you thought acne was something you left behind in your teenage years, you’re not alone. Adult acne is incredibly common, and often more frustrating, because it tends to be persistent, painful, and harder to treat.
Why Does Adult Acne Happen?
Adult acne isn’t caused by poor hygiene or “dirty skin.” In most cases, it’s the result of a combination of internal and external factors.
1. Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations are one of the biggest triggers of adult acne, especially in women. Changes related to:
Coming off hormonal contraception
Menstrual cycles
Pregnancy or postpartum
Perimenopause
can stimulate oil production, leading to clogged pores and inflammation, often appearing on the chin, jawline, and lower cheeks.
2. Stress & Cortisol
Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which in turn can:
Increase oil production
Trigger inflammation
Disrupt the skin barrier
This often results in breakouts that are deeper, more inflamed, and slower to heal.
3. Incorrect Skincare
Using products that are too harsh, stripping, or not suited to your skin type can actually worsen acne. Over-exfoliating, skipping moisturiser, or using trendy products without guidance often leads to:
Compromised skin barrier
Increased oil production
More frequent breakouts
4. Lifestyle & Diet
While acne isn’t caused by diet alone, factors such as:
High sugar intake
Highly processed foods
Poor gut health
can contribute to inflammation and hormonal imbalance, which may reflect in the skin.
How Adult Acne Is Different from Teenage Acne
Adult acne is often:
More inflammatory and cystic
Concentrated around the jawline and chin
Slower to heal
More likely to cause pigmentation or scarring
This is why generic acne treatments often don’t work, adult acne requires a more strategic, personalised approach.
How We Treat Adult Acne
At our clinic, we don’t just treat the breakout, we treat the cause.
1. In-Depth Skin Consultation
Every acne journey starts with a thorough consultation where we assess:
Skin type and condition
Acne triggers
Current skincare routine
Lifestyle and hormonal factors
This allows us to create a customised treatment plan, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
2. Professional Acne Treatments
Depending on your skin, we may recommend:
Targeted acne facials
LED Light Therapy to reduce inflammation and bacteria
Skin needling (once active acne is controlled)
Gentle chemical exfoliation to prevent congestion
All treatments are chosen carefully to avoid over-stimulating or damaging the skin.
3. Corrective Home Skincare
Professional-grade skincare is essential for long-term results. Your routine may include:
Barrier-supporting cleansers
Acne-safe actives such as salicylic acid or retinoids
Calming, anti-inflammatory products
Daily SPF to prevent post-acne pigmentation
Consistency is key, acne doesn’t clear overnight, but with the right routine, real change happens.
4. Education & Ongoing Support
We guide you through:
What to avoid
How to use your products correctly
When to expect improvements
How to manage flare-ups long term
Our goal isn’t just clear skin, it’s confidence and control over your skin.
You’re Not “Too Old” for Acne, and You’re Not Stuck With It
Adult acne is extremely common, but it’s also highly treatable with the right professional support. If you’re tired of trying everything with no results, it’s time for a tailored, results-driven approach.
Clear skin is possible, at any age.