Brief
Dermatologists explain why adult acne persists and how to treat it
Doctors outline hormonal, genetic and lifestyle factors behind adult breakouts and advise against picking pimples.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Adult acne can linger for years, affecting confidence and skin health, according to dermatologists featured in a recent Independent feature.
What happened
The article follows Gillian Maegan Montalbo, a marketer in the Philippines, who describes a resurgence of facial acne after her teenage years. She says the breakouts on her cheeks and chin made her avoid eye contact at work. The piece then presents expert commentary on the condition.
What the reports add
Dr. Crystal Aguh, director of the Ethnic Skin Program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, explains that adult acne often stems from hormonal fluctuations, especially in women, and can appear along the jawline and chin. She adds that steroids and certain diets, such as high dairy consumption, may trigger flare‑ups. Dr. Lauren Fine, founder of Fine Dermatology in Chicago, warns that picking or squeezing pimples typically worsens inflammation and can lead to scarring, particularly for darker‑skinned individuals who may develop longer‑lasting pigment changes.
What was said
“It really took a toll on my self‑esteem,” Montalbo told the Independent.
“We know how to treat acne. We know the cause of it. So don’t suffer alone,” Dr. Aguh said.
“Everyone wants to pick and squeeze. That will almost always make things worse,” Dr. Fine added.
How it came about
The article notes that acne forms when pores become clogged with oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, a process that can persist for weeks or months. It highlights that genetics, hormones, environment and diet all play roles, and that body acne (including back acne, or “bacne”) follows similar mechanisms. Over‑the‑counter creams and prescription medications are presented as treatment options, with dermatologists noting that facial acne is generally easier to manage than body acne because of higher sweat gland activity on the face.
Key facts
- Adult acne can be triggered by hormones, steroids, genetics, environment and diet. (independent.co.uk)
- Dermatologists advise against picking pimples as it can cause scarring and pigment changes. (independent.co.uk)
- Dr. Crystal Aguh leads the Ethnic Skin Program at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. (independent.co.uk)
- Dr. Lauren Fine runs Fine Dermatology in Chicago. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “The real reason you have acne as an adult – and how best to tackle it”
