Acne is not something we only experience in our teenage years. For some, it can pop up in their adult lives too. Dermatologist Dr Matete Mathobela shares a few ways how to prevent acne as an adult woman.
Dr Mathobela, who helped to establish the online skincare store MD DermOutlet, says that acne is estimated to affect 15% of the adult women population, with some studies stating involvement of up to 40% of adult females. “Of this, most cases are due to persistent acne, with only 18.4% of the cases being acne that started for the first time after 25.”
What causes adult acne?
“The causes are similar to acne in adolescents which include inflammation, over-production and abnormalities of sebum, colonisation of the skin by virulent forms of acne bacteria and other bacteria and follicular hyperkeratinisation in patients who are genetically predisposed to having acne,” explains Dr Mathobela to BONA.
She adds that trigger factors in adults include chronic stress, smoking, diet, poor quality of sleep, cosmetics including makeup, excessive washing of the skin and exfoliation, certain medications, and some endocrine deficiencies. “Hormonal dysfunction also plays a role in some of the patients who will either have hirsutism, menstrual irregularities or PCOS.”
What can be done to prevent adult acne?
Dr Mathobela states that it is best to see a dermatologist for a proper evaluation and medical treatment. While waiting for the appointment, if they are not allergic to it, acne sufferers can also try spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide.
The doctor also shares other methods of prevention such as using over-the-counter retinoids like retinaldehyde or retinal palmitate, using spearmint tea if you suspect to be having hormonal imbalances, minimising stress when possible, getting enough sleep, having a healthy, balanced diet with minimal sugar intake, little to no milk and dairy, minimal fatty foods and carbohydrates, and an increased intake of fruits and vegetables.
“Proper skin care is mandatory,” states Dr Mathobela. “Use less irritating cleansers and moisturisers, and incorporate products that support skin barrier function like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamides.”
Adding to the list of methods, Dr Mathobela shares that anti-oxidants like vitamin C support skin healing while minimising pigmentation and signs of ageing.”
She concludes, “No skincare routine is complete without usage of broad-spectrum sunscreen.”
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