Healing is skin deep and it's easier to fix than you might think. Have you survived the awkward teenage years but are still getting acne in your 30s? Here are the reasons why and what you can do about it.
Many of us spent our teen years plagued by acne-ridden skin, cursing the dreaded hormones that were causing us to break out. Yet more people than ever are also experiencing acne well into their thirties, and are left wondering just why this could be. Surely once the dreaded puberty is out the way, our skin should also get the memo?
According to the International Dermal Institute, "54% of women older than the age of 25 have some form of facial acne” and it’s important this is acknowledged and the correct treatments sought sooner rather than later to combat it. Acne in your 30s doesn't need to be an issue and here we explore what you can do to combat it once and for all.
Your hormones
As with your adolescent acne being caused by a surge of hormones, your thirties are also a time when your body is going through hormonal changes. High levels of hormones and changes in your levels increase the amount of oil your skin produces, clogging your pores and resulting in acne.
You could have an underlying condition such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) or you might have a hormonal balance due to going on or coming off a certain type of birth control. If you are worried about the above, it’s a good idea to speak to your healthcare provider who can run tests on your hormone levels and let you know if this is the cause.
Your stress levels
As we get older, the amount of stress we have in our lives increases, causing havoc to our skin. Stress can have an impact on your hormone levels, throwing them off balance and also impacting your immune system.
This can lead to an increased production of oil and clogged pores.
When you are stressed you're also more likely to play around with your skin, picking at spots or running your hand on your face which can transfer oil and dirt to the skin. At a time when you’re making pivotal life choices such as starting a family, moving house, or at a high point in your career, you can find you’re experiencing more stress than ever before.
Your genetics
Genetics is another factor that contributes to adult acne. If your parents and grandparents suffered from acne as they were older, then, unfortunately, the chances are that you will too. Some genes can influence the function and activity of your sebaceous glands, some might also mean you have enlarged pores and others might cause you to have a hormonal condition that means you're more acne prone. Genetics can play a variety of roles in the cause of your acne.
How can you sort acne in your 30s?
While acne, as you progress later in life, can be a nuisance, the good news is that it doesn’t have to be permanent and there are many things you can do to combat it.
Have a dedicated skincare routine
There are many products on the market that are dedicated to acne-prone skin and these can be a great place to start when it comes to combating acne in your 30s. When you have acne, you want to implement a gentle skincare routine with products that are designed for sensitive skin. Be careful not to use water that is too hot or to rub your face vigorously as these can all cause it to become more inflamed. Use a lightweight moisturizer that won’t block the pores and don’t be afraid to try a few different products and techniques until you find the best one for your skin. It can take a few weeks for the effects of a product and routine to take effect, so don’t be too hasty in switching up what you do.
Look into anti-inflammatory/acne-targeted treatments
There are a host of anti-inflammatory treatments on the market designed to treat your skin. Our AC clearing kit, for example, is designed with acne-prone skin in mind and features an array of products designed to heal your skin from within. Our Jet Microcurrent Dual Facial Mask is a lightweight, fast-absorbing microcurrent facial mask clinically proven to tighten and tone skin, reducing puffiness, wrinkles, and fine lines. Our wet Enriching Facial Mask is soothing and restoring, ideal for helping inflamed acne-ridden skin, and will also work to boost collagen production. This in turn can reduce the look of pores, decrease red or dark spots and improve acne scars. Finish off your skincare routine with our Everyday Essence Face Serum that provides lightweight hydration and is gentle to your skin, ideal for those suffering from spots.
The AC Clearing Kit
Speak to a dermatologist
Dermatologists are trained to recognize and help treat a host of skin issues, including adult acne. They will take a look at your skin and your lifestyle before working out a plan tailored specifically for you. This could include a treatment plan, dedicated skincare products, or referring you to a specialist.
Modify your lifestyle (diet and stress)
As well as the above changes dedicated to your skin itself, it’s a good idea to try and remedy it from within. Making changes to your lifestyle can give your body the best chance at fighting off acne and while it might not eradicate it, could help you to see an improvement.
Try and incorporate plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to give your skin the vitamins and nutrients you need. Also, look at areas of your life that might be causing you stress and see what you can do to minimize this. Perhaps you can change your job or speak to a manager about lessening your workload;
if you are stressed about other factors in your life, find someone such as a friend, family member, or a therapist to speak to and help get your mental health back on track.
If you have acne in your 30's, you aren’t alone. The above should help you to recognize why you might experience it and what you can do to remedy it.
Take a look at some of our skincare products for acne-prone skin here.
skincare products for acne-prone skin