Hormonal changes, genetics, certain skincare products, medications, and other factors can contribute to adult acne breakouts. Researchers have also investigated whether cigarette smoking plays a role.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found an association between smoking and a particular form of adult acne in women. Here’s what that research suggests, what else can contribute to adult acne, and which treatments may help.
Is Smoking Linked to Adult Acne?
Some research suggests that cigarette smoking is associated with adult acne, particularly comedonal acne, which is characterized by clogged pores and blackheads or whiteheads. However, studies have produced mixed results, and researchers have not established that smoking directly causes acne.
A 2010 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology examined 226 women with adult acne. Researchers found that 72.9% of women with comedonal post-adolescent acne were smokers, compared with 29.4% of women with predominantly inflammatory acne.
More recent research has provided additional evidence of a possible connection. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis found an association between smoking and acne in adults, although the overall findings across age groups were not statistically significant. The researchers also identified differences between populations and emphasized the need for further study.
While smoking’s precise role in acne development remains uncertain, avoiding tobacco is beneficial for skin health and overall health.
What Else Causes Adult Acne?
Several factors can contribute to acne breakouts or make existing acne worse:
| Contributing Factor | How It May Affect Adult Acne |
|---|---|
| Hormonal changes | Fluctuations associated with menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause, or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can contribute to breakouts. |
| Genetics | A family history of acne may increase the likelihood of developing it. |
| Stress | Stress may aggravate existing acne by influencing hormones and inflammation. |
| Skin care and cosmetic products | Certain makeup, moisturizers, and hair products can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. |
| Medications | Some medications, including corticosteroids, lithium, and certain hormonal treatments, can trigger or worsen acne. |
| Friction and pressure | Repeated rubbing or pressure from helmets, masks, or tight clothing can contribute to breakouts in affected areas. |
Because adult acne can have multiple contributing factors, identifying potential triggers is an important part of developing an effective treatment plan.
What Treatments Can Help Adult Acne?
The treatment for adult acne depends on your skin type, the severity of your breakouts, and your skin’s individual needs. Options range from targeted skincare products and prescription medications to professional treatments that may help improve clogged pores and skin texture.
Common approaches include:
- Topical acne treatments: Products containing ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids can help unclog pores, reduce breakouts, and manage inflammation.
- Prescription medications: For persistent or more severe acne, a dermatologist may recommend prescription topical treatments, oral medications, or hormonal therapies, depending on the underlying concerns.
- Professional skin care: A personalized regimen incorporating appropriate cleansers, moisturizers, and evidence-based acne treatments can help manage acne-prone skin. Jade MediSpa offers skincare products tailored to individual skin concerns.
- Chemical peels: Some studies suggest that superficial chemical peels containing salicylic or glycolic acid may help improve certain types of acne. However, evidence of their effectiveness remains limited, and they are generally considered a complementary option rather than a first-line treatment.
For persistent, painful, or scarring acne, evaluation by a dermatologist is important. Once active breakouts are controlled, additional treatments may help improve lingering acne scars.
How Can You Reduce the Appearance of Acne Scars?
You can reduce the appearance of acne scars with treatments that improve skin texture and stimulate collagen production. Although treatments can make scars less noticeable, they generally cannot eliminate them completely.
Laser resurfacing treatments, such as Fraxel®, can improve certain acne scars by stimulating collagen production and encouraging skin remodeling. Other options may include radiofrequency (RF) microneedling, which combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production, or dermal fillers to improve certain depressed scars.
The most effective approach depends on the type and depth of your scars, your skin type, and your treatment goals, so a personalized treatment plan is important. Active acne should generally be brought under control before beginning scar-focused treatments to help prevent new scars from developing.
Find the Right Approach for Your Skin
Whether you’re dealing with persistent breakouts, lingering acne scars, or both, understanding your skin’s needs is the first step toward improvement. At Jade MediSpa at The Wall Center in Shreveport, our team can evaluate your concerns and recommend appropriate skincare products and aesthetic treatments to help you work toward healthier-looking skin.
To explore your options, request a consultation online or call (318) 795-0801 to schedule an appointment.