Pimples & General

Adult Acne

Adult acne is becoming more common and it occurs more often in women than men. One of the main causes of acne in

adulthood is the fluctuations of hormones and the increase in sensitivity of oil glands to androgen hormones. This results in

more oil released and clogged pores. A study in the Clinical Endocrinology journal showed that LH hormone stimulates

production of testosterone and that adult men with acne have higher levels than those without acne. When you age, the skin

loses its elasticity and doesn't exfoliate as efficiently. The accumulation of dead cells can clog pores.

Acne Cosmetica

Adult acne appears to be more common in women than men. One of the reason is the use of pore clogging comedogenic

cosmetics. Many women may not associate their cosmetics with acne since formation of comedones usually occurs a couple of

months after applying it.

Some of the most offending ingredients in cosmetics are butyl stearate, lauryl alcohol, oleic acid, isopropyl myristate, lanolin

and laureth-4. Learn to read labels carefully. Look for products labelled "non-comedogenic" and "oil free".

Acne and Menstruation

Research has noticed a correlation between acne flare-ups just prior to

a women's menstrual period. It is thought that some women produce

higher levels of androgen hormones at this time which results in

increased oil production and clogged pores. Many women with adult

acne will have the problem for years and sometimes through

menopause. Therefore the treatment goal is long term. About 60% of

women do not respond to the standard treatment of topical therapy

and oral antibiotics. Hormonal acne is usually controlled by anti-

androgen drugs and low dose birth control pills like Tri-Cyclen. Oral

contraceptives help regulate the menstrual cycle and this may be

enough to prevent adult acne.

Stress

Stress plays an important part in acne breakouts whether it's physical,

emotional or job related. And it seems to be more common in working

adults. But not all stress is job related. It can occur from too much

noise, crowded conditions as in traffic jams or busy mall, an infection or

inflammation in the body, lack of sleep, loneliness etc.

Some stress is beneficial (like moderate exercise) but if the body is under constant or prolonged stress then the body releases

cortisol which stimulates production of other hormones that overstimulate oil glands. Studies have shown phosphatidylserine

can block the rise in cortisol. There are a lot of good resources and information on how to effectively deal with stress. Theanine

found in green tea has shown some promise in having a relaxing effect. It also blunts the effects of caffeine in the tea

somewhat.

Workplace Acne

Adult acne is commonly found in cooks at restaurants who are exposed to grease and oils which find their way onto the skin

and clog pores. The same situation can occur in auto mechanics and those handling chemicals and pesticides. Treatment

consists of wearing protective clothing, face mask and good personal hygiene such as regular face washing with a mild

cleanser.

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