Why Do I Still Get Acne and How Can I Get Rid of It?

Roy Stern Seidenberg, M.D. Blog Why Do I Still Get Acne and How Can I Get Rid of It?

Acne is just a problem for teenagers, right? Unfortunately, no. 

Most people think of acne as a skin condition that primarily develops during puberty. While that may be true, acne can affect your skin well into adulthood. In fact, adult acne can sometimes be more painful than the pimples you got as a teenager.

As a board-certified dermatologist with a top-rated practice in the Manhattan borough of New York City, Roy Seidenberg, MD, takes a whole-body approach to acne treatment. He’s committed to helping you figure out why you still get acne, and how you can get rid of it for good.

Adult acne falls into 3 different categories: Which type do you have?

Adult acne falls into three different categories. Each type has distinct characteristics, and understanding which category your acne fits into is critical to finding the right treatment.

Persistent acne

This type continues into adulthood without ever fully clearing up. It's often linked to factors such as hormonal imbalances, genetics, or lifestyle choices.

Late-onset acne

Late-onset acne typically begins after the age of 25, triggered by hormonal shifts, stress, or lifestyle changes. Women are more likely to experience this type, especially during major life changes such as pregnancy or menopause.

Relapsing acne

This type refers to acne that clears up for a time, only to return later. It can happen after successful treatment, but the acne reappears due to factors such as stress, changes in skincare routines, or hormonal fluctuations.

Adult acne is especially common among women: Up to 15% still experience it

Many men and women experience acne through their 30s and 40s, but it’s far more common in the latter group. Women inherently have risk factors for adult acne that aren’t as prevalent in men, such as:

Understanding the root cause of acne is the first step in banishing future breakouts, especially if they’re the result of hormonal changes. As estrogen levels decrease with age, male hormones like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can have a stronger impact on women especially.

This hormonal imbalance may cause your skin to produce more oil, which can be thicker and more prone to clogging pores. These changes often contribute to the development of adult acne, particularly in areas like the jawline and chin.

Treatments that worked in the past might not now

As we age, our skin becomes more sensitive and less resilient to harsh treatments. Products that once worked for you may now cause irritation or dryness, especially if they contain strong ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Adult skin also regenerates more slowly, making it harder to heal from breakouts and leading to more persistent acne.

Here’s how to adjust your approach to treating adult acne:

Switch to gentler skincare

Use noncomedogenic cleansers and moisturizers that hydrate without irritating your skin. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can make acne worse.

Consider professional treatments

Chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser therapy can help address acne while improving skin texture and reducing scarring.

Try oral treatments

Medications like antibiotics or hormonal therapies may be necessary for more persistent acne, especially if it's related to hormonal imbalances.

Manage stress

Regular exercise, meditation, and sleep can help lower stress levels and prevent breakouts caused by high cortisol. Psychosomatic dermatology, which examines the connection between emotional stress and skin conditions, can also be a helpful framework for understanding how mental health impacts your skin.

Regulate hormones

For women, addressing hormonal fluctuations through diet, sleep, and medications like spironolactone can help manage acne.

By adjusting your treatments and incorporating lifestyle changes, you can keep your skin clear and healthy as you age.

Get rid of acne with a board-certified dermatologist in NYC

With Dr. Seidenberg’s care, you can put acne in the past. Call his Manhattan office at 212-421-7546 or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment today.