The prevalence of adult acne is rising sharply, particularly among women in their 20s and 30s. Recent insights from dermatologists, supported by social media discussions, indicate that factors such as hormonal changes, stress, and environmental influences may contribute to this growing concern. Dr. Mamina Turegano, a triple board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, highlighted these issues in a viral TikTok video that has garnered over 122,000 views since its release in September 2023.
Dr. Turegano stated, “Adult acne is different from teenage acne, and it’s so common. Fifty percent of women, especially in their 20s, have experienced adult acne, and 35 percent of people overall face this issue.” This statement aligns with data from the American Academy of Dermatology, which reveals that adult acne affects up to 15 percent of women.
Understanding the Rise in Adult Acne
While acne is often associated with adolescence, dermatologists note an increasing number of adult patients, especially women. Dr. Shamsa Kanwal, a board-certified dermatologist with over a decade of clinical experience, supports this observation. She remarked, “In my practice and in conversations with colleagues, adult acne absolutely feels more common, especially in women in their 20s through 40s.”
The rise in adult acne may be linked to various factors. Hormonal fluctuations, chronic stress, poor sleep, and diets high in ultra-processed foods are all cited as contributing elements. Environmental chemicals that disrupt endocrine function also play a significant role. According to Dr. Turegano, “We’re also seeing rises in infertility, hair loss, PCOS, thyroid disorders, and other endocrine issues, which makes me wonder whether environmental factors could be playing a role.”
This shift in the demographic experiencing acne has led to changes in treatment protocols. Unlike teenage acne, which tends to manifest during puberty, adult acne primarily appears on the lower face, chin, and jawline, often presenting with more significant inflammation.
Treatment Approaches for Adult Acne
Dr. Turegano emphasized that acne treatment should extend beyond mere symptom management. “Those treatments are often limited to addressing symptoms,” she explained. “Looking at internal, lifestyle, and environmental factors can help address the root causes as well.”
Common triggers for adult acne include friction from helmets or tight masks, as well as heavy layering of skincare products. To combat these issues, dermatologists often recommend a combination of treatments. Dr. Kanwal suggests using a retinoid at night, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid on breakout-prone areas, and sometimes topical antibiotics or azelaic acid to address redness and pigmentation.
Dr. Turegano advocates for a holistic approach to skin health. She advises starting with a simple skincare routine: “A gentle cleanser, a non-comedogenic moisturizer, and sunscreen every morning. From there, ingredients like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and azelaic acid can make a big difference.”
Furthermore, she encourages a broader perspective on skin health, stating, “Ultimately, I want people to start thinking about acne through a broader lens and consider how our modern environment might be impacting both our skin and our overall health.”
As the conversation around adult acne continues to evolve, both healthcare professionals and patients are urged to consider systemic health and environmental factors as integral to understanding and treating this increasingly common condition.
