Why Am I Getting Acne After 40?

Whether it’s the continuation of a decades-long struggle or a brand new challenge, adult acne is more common than you may think. Millions of Americans — over 25% of women and 12% of men — experience acne in their 40s.

If you’re wondering why you’re getting acne later in life, find answers and solutions at Cascade MedSpa and Laser Centre in Baxter, Minnesota. Our team offers effective acne treatments for all skin types, including microdermabrasion, laser resurfacing, and Diamond Glow® Dermalinfusion.

Keep reading to learn why breakouts happen after 40 and how to achieve clear, healthy skin at any age.

Hormones and adult acne

Hormones are the primary cause behind teenage acne, and they don’t just disappear when you get older. For women, the decline in estrogen during perimenopause and menopause can trigger increased sebum (oil) production, leading to clogged pores and adult acne. 

Men naturally produce more sebum due to their higher testosterone levels. Although their hormone levels are generally more stable, certain factors can cause testosterone to spike, making acne more likely.

Your daily habits and lifestyle

As you get older, your skin’s sensitivity can change, and things that never used to cause breakouts may start to trigger them now. Here are some common lifestyle factors that may contribute to adult acne:

Stress

Do you notice skin changes around stressful events, like a big deadline or family argument? Stress affects your hormonal responses, leading to increased sebum production and breakouts. Chronic stress keeps those hormones elevated, making your skin consistently more prone to acne.

Diet

Studies suggest that a diet high in fatty and sugary foods can make acne worse for some people. However, everyone’s skin reacts differently. Keeping a food diary can help you pinpoint the specific foods that may bother your skin, so you can avoid them.

Skincare

The makeup, skincare, and even hair products you use matter when it comes to maintaining clear skin. Products with comedogenic ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and lanolin can clog pores and worsen acne. 

Over-exfoliating can also irritate your skin, leading to inflammation and breakouts. Our team can help you create a gentle, yet effective home skincare routine that addresses your unique needs.

Environmental pollutants

Daily exposure to pollutants like smog, dust, and even secondhand smoke irritate the skin, worsening acne by clogging pores and triggering inflammation. Deep cleansing treatments and incorporating antioxidants into your daily skincare routine can help protect against these environmental stressors.

Addressing acne after age 40

Your skin goes through changes as you get older, and what worked for acne in your teens may not cut it anymore. Adult skin tends to be more sensitive, more prone to dryness, and needs a different kind of care.

Our aestheticians begin by evaluating your skin — we consider your skin type, sensitivity, and the factors contributing to your breakouts. Based on this assessment, we develop a customized treatment plan that may include recommendations for suitable skincare products and in-office procedures.

Don’t let adult acne keep you from feeling like your best self. Schedule a consultation at Cascade MedSpa and Laser Centre online or call us today.