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The Differences Between Adult & Teen Acne

 How Acnes Form  Both teen and adult acne form the same way. Oil on skin’s surface mixes with dead skin cells and clog the pores and cause different types of acne. Normal skin bacteria known as cutibacterium acnes then use this environment to grow and cause acne inflammation. However,  the most common acne causing factors are different for adults and teens.

According to research, more teenagers suffer from acne than adults (93% over 73.3%). However, most of the articles are talking about adult acne and less articles are talking about teen acne or the differences between the two.

How Acnes Form

Both teen and adult acne form the same way. Oil on skin’s surface mixes with dead skin cells and clog the pores and cause different types of acne. Normal skin bacteria known as cutibacterium acnes then use this environment to grow and cause acne inflammation. However,  the most common acne causing factors are different for adults and teens.

Most Common Teen Acne Factors

  • Puberty hormones. More androgen hormones during puberty(like testosterone) and increase the production of oil on your skin and make clogged pores more likely.
  • Genetics. Genetics appear to partly explain why acne is worse in some people than others.
  • Foods with a high glycemic (GI) load. Adolescence is the main consumer of fast food restaurants.These are foods that are higher in sugar and carbohydrates like french fries, soda, and pasta. 

Most Common Adult Acne Factors

  • Hormonal fluctuations including menstruation and stress can contribute to acne flare-ups. 70% of women report worsening of acne right before they have their periods. 
  • Hair products, skin care products, and makeup that clog pores.
  • Medications such as steroids, lithium, and anticonvulsants might cause acne as a side effect.

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Common Acne Treatments

Acne treatments for adults and teens are pretty much the same depending on the type of acne and the causation of it. Here are a few examples of medications your dermatologists might recommend:

  • Benzoyl peroxide
  • Azelaic acid
  • Topical retinoids
  • Topical antibiotics
  • Hormonal therapies. 

Best way to care for your acne prone skin:

  • Avoid “picking” or “squeezing” breakouts at home, which can result in more breakouts, scarring or redness. 
  • Learn and maintain a good skin care routine focusing on cleansing and oil control, e.g wash your face twice a day. There are some personal acne treatments available from your dermatologists.
  • Avoid pore-clogging ingredients like Lanolin and Mineral Oil; Stripping ingredients such as alcohol that causes skin to produce more oil.
  • Look for ingredients like Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid to help remove dead skin cells, excess oil and dirt.
  • Never sleep with your makeup on.
  • Follow your healthcare provider’s individualized treatment plan..

The bottom line

Teen and adult acne might be caused by different factors, but acne can have a real impact on emotional well-being and mental health on both adults and teens. Talk to your healthcare provider about your treatment options as well as any emotional problems you are having from your acne.

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NannoPad® may not be able to help with your pimples, but it's definitely a must-have for a healthier period. Super thin and absorbent, NannoPad is developed to help with your menstrual discomfort in a holistic and effective way. See reviews here. 

NOTE: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Nannocare. Nannocare is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the author of this article, or any of its subsidiaries or its affiliates. 



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