How to get rid of pimples–if this question is plaguing you in your adulthood then it’s time to do a deep dive into your skincare and lifestyle. Adult acne is the unexpected zit-uation that keeps popping up, even when you thought those teenage years were behind you. In fact, you probably thought pimples were a teenage problem, but here they are, tagging along in your 20s, 30s, and beyond. It’s like your skin has a grudge or something. Adult acne is caused by a mix of stress, hormones, and lifestyle choices like poor diet or a little too much face-touching. Toss in shaving irritation, and you’ve got a breakout cocktail. Unlike youthful zits, adult acne can be more stubborn, with flare-ups often on the jawline or neck. The good news? With the right care, you can send these uninvited guests packing for good.
The root cause of adult acne
In men, adult acne has a long list of culprits. Stress? Check. Hormonal fluctuations? Double check. Toss in greasy burgers and that occasional “forgot to wash my face” moment, and you’ve got a cocktail. Add daily shaving, which can irritate the skin, and sweat from the gym marinating on your face, and suddenly, those pimples think they’ve found paradise. Even your phone screen’s in on the action, smearing oil and grime onto your jawline. According to Harvard Health Publishing by Harvard Health School, the four factors that directly contribute to acne are: excess oil production, pores becoming clogged by “sticky” skin cells, bacteria, and inflammation. On top of that, some medications might trigger acne as a side effect, as Dr Trishna Gupte, founder and owner of the Cosmo-Square clinic, ISCA Institute, points out. “If you have a family history of acne, genetics could be making you more prone to it,” she says, adding, “And let’s not forget about environmental factors like pollution and humidity, which can clog pores and lead to more flare-ups.” While teenage acne was bad, adult acne has an arsenal of causes that sneak up when you least expect it.
Here are 7 dermatologist-approved ways on how to get rid of pimples in your adult life
1. Establish a skincare routine specifically for your skin
A solid routine that fits your skin type helps keep oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells in check, which are the trio behind most breakouts. According to Dr Gupte, salicylic acid is a necessary chemical for acne-prone skin. “It penetrates deeply into the pores to exfoliate and unclog them, minimising outbreaks,” she explains, adding that benzoyl peroxide is another potent chemical that kills acne-causing germs and reduces inflammation. “Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is an excellent supplement to any skincare routine for regulating oil production and soothing inflamed skin. Retinoids, produced from vitamin A, are particularly effective in stimulating cell turnover, avoiding clogged pores, and reducing acne scars,” she says. Consistency is key. By regularly following a routine, your skin becomes less prone to the surprises of hormonal changes, stress, and the daily grime that typically trigger adult acne.
2. Have a balanced diet
It’s possible to eat your way to a better, clearer skin. “Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts, have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe acne-prone skin. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and almonds help fight oxidative stress, which can lead to acne. Zinc-rich foods, such as pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and seafood, promote skin healing and lessen acne severity,” Dr Gupte suggests. Staying hydrated is also key, as it helps flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated. “Drinking green tea can also help prevent breakouts because it contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory qualities,” says Dr Gupte.
3. Make note of your shaving habits
Using the right shaving technique and products can make a world of difference. Start by choosing a razor that suits your skin—single-blade razors are less likely to irritate compared to multi-blade ones. “To avoid irritation, shave with a sharp razor and shaving cream made for sensitive skin, and try spot treatments with chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide to combat breakouts,” says Dr Gupte. After shaving, apply a soothing, alcohol-free aftershave to keep your skin calm and acne-free. If over-the-counter remedies are insufficient, Dr Gupte advices to consult a dermatologist who can enable access to prescription medications such as retinoids or antibiotics, which are more effective in treating stubborn acne.
4. Manage your stress levels
According to Harvard Health Publication by Harvard Medical School, genetic factors, pollution, smoking, and unsurprisingly, stress have also been suggested as causes or contributors to acne. When men are stressed, the body releases cortisol, a hormone that kicks oil production into overdrive, clogging pores and triggering breakouts. Managing stress effectively can keep this hormonal havoc in check and reduce adult acne flare-ups. Try incorporating stress-busters like exercise, meditation, or even a hobby you love to unwind. The more you keep stress at bay, the less likely it is to show up on your face.
5. Change your beddings and towels regularly
Here’s the logic behind changing your beddings and towels regularly: over time, pillowcases and towels collect oil, sweat, bacteria, and dead skin cells—all of which love to clog pores and invite breakouts. For men who are prone to adult acne, sleeping on dirty pillow cases or drying off with a used towel is basically rolling out the red carpet for pimples. By washing your bedding and towels weekly, you can reduce the chances of bacteria transferring to your skin, keeping your face clearer and acne-free.
6. Stop touching your face
Every time you touch your face, your hands transfer oil, dirt, and bacteria directly to your pores, increasing the risk of breakouts. This habit can be a major culprit behind persistent pimples. By keeping your hands off your face, you are minimising the transfer of contaminants that can clog pores and irritate the skin. It’s a small change with big benefits—just remember to wash your hands regularly and resist the urge to touch your face, especially if you’re prone to random breakouts.
7. Seek out a professional
Dermatologists offer personalised advice and treatments that go beyond over-the-counter options or your Google searches. They can prescribe medications and chemicals that target deeper acne issues and tailor a skincare routine suited to your specific needs. Plus, professionals can help identify underlying causes such as hormonal imbalances or persistent skin conditions that might be fueling your breakouts.
