What should I do if I'm over 30 and still have acne?

I am 33 years old and frequently suffer from acne, which causes pain and dark scars. I have tried many skincare methods suggested on TikTok but nothing has helped. What should I do? (Thu Thảo, Nghệ An )

Reply

Acne in adult women is largely hormonal. A 2008 study showed that approximately 50% of women aged 20-29 and 25% of women aged 40-49 suffer from acne. Women are more prone to acne before and after childbirth, during perimenopause, menopause, or during their menstrual cycle. These are periods when the body undergoes certain changes that disrupt hormones, leading to hormonal acne.

Typically, hormonal acne appears around the jawline, chin, and neck. The lesions are mainly pustules, cysts, and comedones, though these are less common. Other signs that may accompany hormonal acne include hirsutism, increased sebum production, menstrual cycle irregularities, and precocious puberty.

Hormonal acne forms because the oil glands in the skin are sensitive to the androgen hormones. Androgens promote increased oil production on the skin, leading to acne. Both men and women experience increased levels of androgens during puberty. Some women are more sensitive to androgens than others, and hormone sensitivity also changes as we age.

Women with oily, acne-prone skin in their 20s and 30s often continue to experience acne even after menopause. Sometimes, lifestyle habits can worsen hormonal acne. Using too many skincare products can cause irritation, leading to redness and often triggering acne breakouts.

Acne breakouts around a woman's cheeks and jawline. Photo: Freepik — Acne breakouts around a woman's cheeks and jawline. Photo: *Freepik*

There are many ways to treat and prevent hormonal acne.

First and foremost, simplify your skincare routine. Many people on social media platforms like TikTok share complex skincare routines with long lists of products. However, improper skincare and overuse of products can cause irritation and worsen acne. Therefore, people should only use basic skincare products such as cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.

Many over-the-counter products are available to treat acne, but patients should avoid using multiple treatments simultaneously. They might start by using a 2% salicylic acid cream for a few weeks to see if their skin improves. Other commonly used acne treatments include: benzoyl peroxide; adapalene, or Differin gel, azelaic acid, beta hydroxy acids, etc.

If acne significantly impacts your quality of life and reduces your self-confidence, you should see a dermatologist and develop a treatment plan to completely resolve the condition.

MSc. Dr. Vu Thi Thuy Trang
Department of Dermatology and Cosmetic Dermatology, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City

Source link