Acne is one of the most common skin diseases worldwide. Almost 85% of all people have had to deal with pimples, blemishes and blackheads – especially during puberty. When acne occurs after the age of 25, we speak of adult acne, adult acne or acne tarda. Every fourth woman between 25 and 45 knows them. You can treat mild acne yourself: we reveal where skin blemishes come from in adulthood and which skin care mistakes you should avoid.
How do pimples form?
Acne occurs when the skin’s pores become clogged – by sebum, dead skin cells or bacteria. During puberty, sex and growth hormones cause the sebaceous glands to become overactive. The cells in the sebum duct produce more horny material, which clogs the duct. The sebum can no longer drain off, and blackheads develop. If bacteria settle there, the area can become inflamed, and a pimple can develop. Juvenile acne occurs mainly in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).
It’s different in adulthood: Late acne appears mainly around the mouth, on the cheeks and the neck. The skin is now drier, and it forms more pimples and inflammation than blackheads. Sometimes acne doesn’t get better on its own and can even leave scars.
Acne in adults: the causes
- Hormones: Not only puberty but also adulthood can bring hormonal changes. For example, when weaning off the pill or with menopause.
- Stress: Mental stress affects our body. They can promote the development of acne.
- Diet: In some people, certain foods can affect the appearance of their skin (e.g., short-chain carbohydrates in cereal and candy bars, high-saturated fats in french fries and mayonnaise).
- Medications: Some medicines can cause acne. These include antibiotics, antidepressants, cortisone, B vitamins and neuroleptics.
Seven typical mistakes in late acne
1st error: squeezing or nudging
Granted, it’s tempting. However, dermatologists advise against squeezing out pimples and blackheads yourself. This allows sebum to penetrate the adjacent tissue. Bacteria can get deeper into the skin. The result: it takes even longer to heal.
2nd fault: hands-on face
Every time you touch your face with your fingers, there are many stowaways – bacteria, dirt or grease. If you need to scratch your chin or brush a strand of hair out of your face, that’s okay. But don’t forget to wash your hands regularly.
3. Mistake: Unclean mask
Mouth and nose masks help curb the spread of the coronavirus. Unfortunately, your cover can also cause pimples if there is insufficient hygiene. Sweat and make-up residue accumulate in the mask’s fabric: a paradise for bacteria. It is best to soak your fabric mask in boiling water for 10 minutes after wearing it for a long time. To prevent skin blemishes, wash your towels and bed linen more frequently.
4th mistake: treat with toothpaste
A persistent rumour is that toothpaste dries up pimples. While some toothpaste contains anti-inflammatory zinc, fluoride is more likely to stimulate inflammation. Toothpaste also removes too much oil from the skin – and this can worsen the symptoms.
Mistake 5: Too much makeup
Conceal pimples with plenty of concealers: At first glance, this seems to be the best solution. But it’s not because make-up can clog the pores. Use products that are as light and fat-free as possible – for example, a mineral powder or a water-based day cream.
6. Mistake: Too aggressive cleaning
Wash your face every morning and evening – that’s enough. Washing more frequently can make acne worse as it irritates sensitive skin. Use a mild cleaning product without alcohol:
- Wet your face with lukewarm water.
- Apply the cleansing effect in circular motions with your fingers.
- Wash off the product thoroughly and pat your face dry instead of rubbing it.
7. Mistake: Skipping moisturizer
Impure skin also needs moisture – especially if you have adult combination skin with dry patches and use cleansing products to combat acne. Make sure the skincare product is oil and fragrance-free. Oils and fragrances can irritate your skin and stimulate sebum production.
