Common Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments of Acne in Adulthood

young man examining his skin in the bathroom mirror

Acne is often thought of as a problem that only teenagers deal with, but the truth is that millions of adults suffer from acne each year. Adult acne can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance in the workplace and in social settings, but a dermatologist can provide options to treat acne, even in adulthood. Continue reading for an overview of what causes acne in adulthood and what can be done to treat it.

Symptoms

Acne can take a few different forms, each of which causes different symptoms. Blackheads are open clogged pores that look like black dots, while whiteheads are closed clogged pores that take on an enlarged, whitish appearance. Papules are small red bumps, which can be classified as pimples if they become filled with pus. Nodules are another type of acne and form large lumps beneath the surface of the skin, while cystic acne lesions are lumps that are filled with pus.

Causes

Hormonal fluctuations and excessive levels of androgen hormones are common causes of acne. Excess production of oil on the skin is another common cause, along with follicles that become clogged with dead skin cells and oil. Finally, bacteria on the surface of the skin can make its way into the pores, resulting in acne breakouts.

Treatments

The best treatment option for your acne will depend on the symptoms you experience. Your dermatologist will be able to diagnose the cause of your acne and recommend appropriate treatment options. Common treatments include topical medications that are applied to the affected skin, oral medications to treat cystic acne and nodules, and skin treatments performed by your dermatologist. Photodynamic therapy, facial treatments, and skin peels are common procedures used to treat adult acne.

Don’t let adult acne make you feel uncomfortable in your own skin. At Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology, we offer a range of effective acne treatments, including topical treatments, prescription medications, and photodynamic therapy. We also offer treatments for acne scars. To schedule a consultation, call our Salt Lake City dermatologists’ office at 801-266-8841 today.