Are you using the same skincare routine for acne that started appearing in adulthood as you did during your teenage years?
Acne occurs when pores become clogged, leading to sebum buildup and inflammation. While the mechanism of acne formation is the same in both adolescence and adulthood, the underlying causes of clogged pores differ between adolescence and adulthood.
Most cases of acne during puberty are caused by excessive sebum production. Increased hormonal activity leads to excessive sebum secretion, which clogs pores and makes them more susceptible to dirt buildup. This then allows acne bacteria to multiply, causing acne. Because the cause is clear, adolescent acne can be prevented to some extent by frequent face washing and maintaining good hygiene. On the other hand, adult acne, which is caused by lifestyle habits, often has multiple causes, making treatment more complex.
An unbalanced diet, lack of sleep, stress, dryness, constipation, and poor metabolism... all of these are linked to the causes of adult acne. First, review your overall lifestyle and restore your skin's natural regeneration rhythm.
Women need to be especially careful because hormonal imbalances can cause acne. In particular, from after ovulation to before menstruation, progesterone, one of the female hormones, increases, promoting sebum secretion. This makes pores more prone to clogging, leading to acne. Before your period, try to avoid greasy foods and make sure you're getting plenty of vitamins. Knowing your menstrual cycle and using that knowledge to your advantage in skincare will help.