What causes acne in adults?
While most people associate acne with adolescence, many adults continue to experience active acne from their 20s through to their 50s. Acne is a skin condition common in adulthood, often affecting both men and women.
Acne can develop from a combination of factors including overactive oil glands, clogged pores, bacterial growth, and skin inflammation. Although hormonal changes play a significant role in influencing the factors above, it is not the sole cause but only one part of the picture.
What is acne?
In simple terms, acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles are blocked with oil and dead skin cells. This blockage can lead to common forms of acne such as blackheads, whiteheads, papules, or deeper lumps like cysts. Acne often appears on the face, chest, and back as these areas tend to have a high concentration of oil glands. However, it can also appear on other parts of the body such as the shoulders, neck, or even the buttocks, since oil glands are present there too.
Breaking down the cause of acne.
According to Professor Greg Goodman AM, acne can be compared to a plumbing issue. When hair follicles become clogged, oil builds up and creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. This process leads to inflammation and the formation of a pimple.
There are several things that happen in the skin at once when acne develops.
Oil glands produce too much oil. The excess oil and dead skin cells clog the pores.
Blocked pores trap bacteria Cutibacterium acnes, which is a type of bacteria that naturally lives on our skin and is usually harmless.
When Cutibacterium acnes is trapped in a blocked pore, it multiplies and triggers an immune response in the body.
The body reacts with inflammation, which is what causes redness and swollen pimples.
Diagram of a clogged pore.
What other factors cause acne?
The main cause of acne comes down to how the skin regulates oil production. In acne prone skin, there is an issue with how oil is regulated, causing your skin to produce an excess amount of oil.
So, what exactly causes our skin to produce more oil? Several factors can play a role including genetics, hormonal fluctuations, stress, diet, skincare habits, and certain medications. These influences can disrupt the natural balance of the skin, leading to increased oiliness and a higher likelihood of breakouts.
How do your hormones play a role in this?
When hormone levels fluctuate, they can cause the skin to produce more oil which can clog pores and lead to skin breakouts. Hormonal changes are often the leading cause of adult acne, especially in women. Fluctuations can occur around the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause, after stopping birth control, or in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which cause an increase in androgens (male hormones).
What acne treatment options are available?
Acne treatments vary based on breakout severity. Understanding what skincare ingredients help improve acne and incorporating them into your routine can help. Ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, niacinamide, or topical retinoids can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation. If your skin doesn’t improve despite consistent use, it’s time to seek professional advice for more targeted treatment.
A dermatologist can recommend the next-step of treatments which may include topical therapies, oral medications, or a combination approach. Additional supportive treatments include:
Kleresca® - designed to reduce inflammation and target acne-causing bacteria.
Chemical peels - help exfoliate and unclog pores while improving skin texture.
LED light therapy - blue light targets acne-causing bacteria and soothes inflammation.
Photodynamic Therapy - combines light and a topical agent to treat severe acne.
When should you see a dermatologist?
While mild acne may improve with the use of skincare, hormonal or more severe acne often requires a tailored and medical approach. You should consult a dermatologist if:
Your acne isn’t improving with over-the-counter skincare products.
You have painful, deep, or cystic acne. These types of breakouts often don’t respond to topical treatments alone and can lead to scarring if left untreated.
Your acne is affecting your self-esteem or mental wellbeing.
You’ve identified a hormonal pattern of breakouts occurring around your menstrual cycle.
You’ve made lifestyle changes, but nothing’s working.
Acne isn’t just about clogged pores, it’s about how your skin functions, how your body responds to inflammation, and how these factors interact with your daily routine. A professional can assess the underlying causes of your acne and recommend a personalised treatment plan.
Our team is here to help you better understand your skin and reduce breakouts. Schedule a consultation with us to find the right treatment for you. Click here to learn more about acne.