When does acne stop? It may be later than you think

Acne, that pesky skin condition that causes pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and other breakouts, is often associated with those fraught teenage years. But a recent survey by the company Advanced Dermatology has shed light on a surprising reality: Adult acne, also known as “adult-onset acne,” is more common than you might think, affecting millions of people in their 30s and beyond. 

The survey polled more than 1,000 Americans, with an average age of 36. The results revealed 41% of participants in their 30s were currently experiencing acne, and half of them were surprised to be dealing with this skin issue at their age.

Almost 20% of respondents didn’t realize before turning 30 themselves that adults could have acne in their 30s and older.

The findings challenge the belief many people hold at 15 that they will be looking at acne in the rearview mirror in another 15 years.

The impact of adult acne goes beyond just physical appearance, with 1 in 2 Americans reporting their acne affects their emotional well-being.

To combat adult acne, Advanced Dermatology, a company with offices in more than a dozen states, recommends developing a gentle skin care routine.

The first step is washing your face daily with a cleanser and lukewarm water, and moisturizing daily. Products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or adapalene are also recommended for unclogging pores and reducing inflammation.

If the problem is stubborn or it makes you self-conscious, you might want to seek the help of a dermatologist who can create a personalized treatment plan, diagnose the specific type of acne, identify underlying causes and suggest advanced treatment options, like light therapy.

Allison K. Truong, a dermatologist in Beverly Hills, California, emphasized in an interview with Health magazine the importance of seeking professional help when dealing with new or worsening skin issues.

“If something is new for you, it’s not common and it’s worsening, I think that’s an important time to visit your [health care provider] just to make sure it is what you think it is,” she said.

“Because if you’re treating it with the wrong thing, you could potentially make it worse.”