Acne has become infamous for marring the most perfect occasions with its unsightly appearance. Primarily attributed to the hormonal changes which occur during adolescence, acne usually strikes young adults when they are in their teens. These hormonal changes can cause an imbalance in the sebum and moisture levels of the skin, which can result in acne breakouts. For most adults, this phase naturally eases out as they approach their early 20s, but for some unlucky ones, acne continues to rear its ugly head much later into adulthood, sometimes as late as even the 40s and 50s.
When pimples meet wrinkles, it is not always a pretty sight. Coming to terms with adult acne can be difficult, but if it is any consolation, we want you to know that there are many other adults who face a similar issue, and it is normal. Before we look at the treatment options available in Melbourne, let us look at what causes these untimely zits.
Common causes of adult acne
- Fluctuating hormones
Hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of aging, and excessive male or female hormones can lead to a pH imbalance and inflammation in the skin which can result in cystic break-outs around the chin, neck and back. For women, these fluctuations can also be triggered by menstruation, pregnancy, post-partum and breast-feeding.
- Stress
Both emotional and physical stress can create biological reactions within the body that can trigger causes of adult acne. When you are scared, anxious, depressed or in a high-pressure environment, or even when you are not getting a sufficient quota of sleep, your adrenal glands release the stress hormone cortisol, which stimulates oil glands and cause adult acne.
- Exposure to pollution and irritants
Environmental pollutants and exposure to pollution can cause irritation, inflammation, pigmentation and acne due to clogged pores. This, coupled with a rapid turnover of skin cells can result in backed up hair follicles. Pollution also triggers free radicals that increase inflammation, and aggravate acne.
- Diet and Medication
Diet also plays an important role in the health of our skin. While experts are divided on this, there are quite a few who believe that certain foods can trigger acne – like fast food, chocolate, caffeine, nuts, dairy and sugar rich foods.
Certain medications like corticosteroids and antidepressants are also said to trigger adult acne.
Adult acne treatment options in Melbourne
Adult acne, unlike teen acne is different in its appearance and type. Depending upon the actual cause of acne, there are many acne and acne scarring treatments available at the Victorian Laser & Skin Clinic. Each treatment option works in its own unique ways to stimulate skin renewal and rejuvenation. Some of the most effective treatment options we offer are:
- Chemical Peels
This is a simple, popular and non-surgical way to rejuvenate the skin. There are a variety of chemical peels that work to mildly exfoliate skin, and help it to regenerate. All peels use some acid to break down the top layer of the skin and reduce the incidence of fine lines, wrinkles and even acne. The strength of the peels is chosen as per the intensity of acne – your cosmetic doctor can select a mild or a penetrative peel accordingly.
- Skin Needling
Skin needling is a wonderful way to trigger the skin’s natural healing process. This entails the use of very fine needles to create microscopic punctures in the skin. This stimulates collagen production to repair and heal the skin, resulting in new skin growth to replace inflamed, acne infected skin. Apart from adult acne, this is also a good treatment for treating the acne scars left behind.
- Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion a non-invasive treatment that is extremely effective to improve circulation and stimulate collagen and elastin production. Using a diamond studded tip on a small handheld device, the skin is gently abraded and refined, to instantly reveal smoother skin underneath. This non-surgical procedure is great to treat stubborn acne scars, and also signs of ageing, and requires no downtime.
Apart from these treatments, all of which have proven effective in treating severe conditions of adult acne, the Victorian Laser & Skin Clinic also offers the very advanced DMK Enzyme Therapy to promote optimum functioning of the skin, and to restore it to its natural beauty. To know more about this, or any of our other treatments, feel free to reach out to one of our experts for a no-obligation consultation.
