Acne has always been something to dread, especially by teens as it is one of the biggest blight that can make them look ugly. Once they cross their teenage, they think that they are over and done with the problem of acne, but it is not so! Even among women who are on the other side of 40 have started experiencing this trouble that they beloved have been left behind. Acne is no longer restricted to teenagers; rather it can occur in any age, whether a person is in 30s, 40s or 50s.
A survey was conducted by dermatologists at Birmingham based University of Alabama. The results of this study proved that 26.3 percent women and 12 percent men experiences acne when in their 40s. The numbers clearly denote that women suffer more from acne in comparison to men. There may be several reasons behind this fact. It can be due to age, hormonal troubles or fluctuation in menstrual cycles resulting in breakouts.
Teen acne versus adult acne
There is a marked difference between teen acne and adult acne as far its appearance and its treatment is concerned. In teenagers, one can see mostly hundreds of blackheads, tiny bumps or whiteheads marring the beauty of the skin of the face. It is usually more on the forehead with some seen at the back and the chest. The reason behind such severe breakouts is teenager’s skin being a little stickier. In case of adults, clogged pores are the major reason and problem. Also, in case of adults, lower portion of the face, like jaw line and mouth witnesses more acne in comparison to other part of the face or the body. They are more in the form of red papules or deeper nodules. Acne bumps are highly uncommon in adults but common in teens.
Possible treatment for adult acne
If a person suffers from occasional acne breakouts, the first and foremost thing that needs to be kept in mind is avoiding self treatment lest the situation worsens further. Many people try over the counter medicines, lotions and creams available easily at local pharmacy stores. It is not recommended to use any of these before consulting a dermatologist. Most of these over the counter products come with benzoyl peroxide and salicyclic acid which are suitable for treating pustules whiteheads but not suitable for treating deep seated adult acne. It is best to visit a dermatologist and take treatment as per his or her recommendations.
There are several options available for acne treatments experienced in 40s. These options are
- Retenoid containing prescription creams. These are obtained from Vitamin A and helps in unplugging follicles.
- Gel with 5% dapsone. It helps in fighting inflammation commonly seen in acne.
- Combination creams that blends antibiotics like clindamycin and benzoyl peroxide, a cleansing agent.
- Yaz and other birth control pills can help in the regulation of hormonal fluctuations triggering breakouts.
- Oral antibiotics that also act as anti-inflammatories.
- Spironolactone, a popular blood pressure medication, frequently used to treat acne.
