Adult acne in men can be frustrating. Once thought to disappear after high school, acne often surprisingly returns in the adult years, due to lifestyle habits. Suddenly, clear skin is not just a teen’s dream, but an ongoing struggle for many men to strike a balance between work, life, and self-care. From stubborn pimples on the jaw line to annoying bumps after shaving, adult acne doesn’t care about age. And while it’s common, managing it requires more than soap and water – a combination of skin care understanding and lifestyle changes can help keep it under control. We checked in with an expert to understand the best way to treat adult acne and blemishes.
Are adult acne and blemishes bothering you? Here’s an expert guide to dealing with stubborn breakouts
causes of adult acne
If anyone can point the finger at adult acne, it’s your hormones. Testosterone plays the role of the main villain, often increasing oil production, clogging pores and inviting breakouts. Then comes tension. Cortisol, the “stress hormone,” causes oil to rise, making that deadline feel like it’s written on your forehead. Diet doesn’t help either. “Dairy and processed sugars in particular can promote inflammation and acne,” Dr. Stuti Khare Shukla, dermatologist and founder of Elements of Aesthetics, explains. Skin care habits, or lack thereof, are also major factors. “Comedogenic beauty products, poor skin care practices, and exposure to pollution can worsen skin problems,” Dr. Shukla says. Skipping moisturizer or using harsh cleansers can irritate the skin and trigger even more oil. And let’s not forget shaving mistakes—Wrong razor and technique cause skin irritation, resulting in rashes.
Ultimately, adult acne is a mixture of factors. “Understanding these causes is important to design a personalized treatment plan that suits each patient’s skin type and lifestyle,” Dr. Shukla says, highlighting the value of a tailored approach.
Ways to avoid acne in adult life
Preventing adult acne doesn’t require a miracle cure. “Good skin care practices, managing stress and living a healthy lifestyle are essential to keeping adults away from acne.” Dr. Stuti Khare Shukla says. She recommends a consistent routine that includes a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt, followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer. sunscreen For hydrated, protected skin.
Diet also matters: Stay away from processed sugars and oily foods, which can cause breakouts. “A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids reduces inflammation, while stress-relieving activities like exercise, meditation and adequate sleep help regulate hormones and prevent flare-ups.” Dr. Shukla explains.
Exfoliating weekly to remove dead skin cells also helps, and for frequent shavers, a fresh razor and alcohol-free shaving gel is important to minimize irritation. “Practice good hygiene, like washing hands first skin care And avoiding touching the face reduces the risk of breakouts. “Men should also avoid heavy oils or skin-irritating products that clog pores.” Dr. Shukla says.
How to avoid stains
“The first step is to resist the urge to pop or squeeze pimples, which can push bacteria deeper in and increase irritation, ultimately increasing the risk of scarring.” Dr. Shukla says. “Instead, use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to clear away excess oil and dirt without further damaging the skin.”
