Acne is seen as an unavoidable part of the teenage years, but it’s not expected to continue into adulthood, but unfortunately there are times when it does. Acne can cause the same amount of embarrassment for adults, as it does for teens. It’s therefore important to know what causes adult acne, and how to treat it.
Causes of Adult Acne
Adult acne is often caused by hormonal imbalance, as is the case with teenage acne. This imbalance can prompt an excess production of sebum by the sebaceous glands, and when there is too much sebum, it can clog the pores of the skin. The clogged pores often become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, leading to inflammation and break outs.
Increased sebum production can also be triggered by birth control pills. High levels of stress, certain medications, and environmental factors, can also contribute to adult acne.
How to Treat Adult Acne
Adult acne is usually treated with over-the-counter drugs and topical antibiotics. However, there are times when these solutions are not adequate, and alternative treatments such as chemical peels or Photodynamic Therapy are recommended.
Chemical Peels involve the use of acidic solutions to exfoliate the outer layer of skin cells. This process accelerates cell turnover, and helps to unclog pores.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) is often used to relieve severe cases of acne. A topical solution or photosensitizing agent is applied to the skin, and this makes the skin more receptive to the subsequent light treatment. The photosensitizing agent is removed before the light treatment begins. The powerful light rays penetrate the pores of the skin, and kill the acne-causing bacteria.
PDT is available in Brooklyn, NY at Khrom Dermatology & Aesthetics. To find out more about this and other treatment options for adult acne, or to schedule a consultation please call 1-866-489-6524.
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