TEEN VS ADULT ACNE

UNDERSTANDING TEEN ACNE

Teen acne is a common skin condition characterized by the appearance of papules, pustules, blackheads, whiteheads or comedones.

During puberty, the body produces more of the hormones called estrogen (females) and testosterone (an androgen, males), which stimulates the skin's oil glands to increase sebum production. This oily substance can trap dead skin cells, dirt and other debris in the pores, clogging them and leading to acne breakouts.

WHAT ABOUT ADULT ACNE?

Unlike its teen counterpart, this condition can emerge at any stage of adult life and is usually caused by stress, hormone changes or even medications.

It usually appears on the lower part of the face, specifically along the jawline, and can present as deep, painful cysts. This type of acne tends to be stubborn, has a slower healing time and is prone to causing skin discoloration or scarring. 

Moisturizers that stimulate collagen, like our Resurfacing Night Cream, can help to reduce pigmentation and heal the skin.

CAUSES OF TEEN AND ADULT ACNE

Along with hormonal changes, here are some of the other causes of acne in adults and teens. 

COSMETICS

Using oil-based cosmetics can lead to acne in both adults and teenagers. Many products contain comedogenic ingredients, which are known to block pores by inflaming the skin and penetrating the follicles. 

DIET

Consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugars and unhealthy fats can contribute to breakouts. These foods can cause inflammation and insulin fluctuations, which can further exacerbate acne. Salt-heavy foods or ingredients containing androgen can also contribute to acne flare-ups.

ENVIRONMENT

Exposure to environmental pollutants like smoke, smog and dust can create a layer of grime that blocks pores and cause teen and adult acne. Humidity can also trigger acne by causing the stratum corneum to swell up, possibly impacting the follicle.

GENETICS

Genetics plays a significant role in the development of adult and teen acne. If your client's parents had acne, your client is more likely to have it too.

MENSTRUAL CYCLE

Hormonal fluctuations corresponding to a woman's menstrual cycle can trigger acne breakouts. The rise in progesterone after ovulation can stimulate an increase in sebum production, making the skin more acne-prone. Plus, any cravings for salty foods can exacerbate pre-existing acne.

MEDICATION

Certain medications can cause acne in people of all ages. These can include corticosteroids, lithium and medicines that affect hormone levels like birth control pills.

POOR HYGIENE

Neglecting regular cleansing to remove dirt and excess oil can lead to blocked pores, which in turn can result in breakouts.

STRESS

Stress is a major contributor to acne. It can interrupt the body’s healing process, which compromises the immune system and increases hormones, especially cortisol. By triggering the body's adrenal glands to produce more cortisol, stress often leads to an overproduction of sebum and consequently, acne.

TREATMENT APPROACHES FOR TEEN ACNE

When it comes to treating teen acne, it's crucial to select age-appropriate treatments that won't harm or overly dry your client’s sensitive skin.

Topical products are often the first line of defense against teen acne. They work by reducing oil and bacteria and promoting skin cell turnover. Look for products that contain ingredients like retinol, mandelic acid, benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid and retinol. Benzoyl peroxide will diminish bacteria and fatty acids, while salicylic acid will break down the bonds holding dead cells together. One of our best acne products, Serious Action Masque, utilizes the benefits of salicylic acid to fight this skin condition.

If a teen's acne is severe or not responding to topical treatments, a healthcare provider might recommend oral medications. These could be antibiotics to reduce bacteria and fight inflammation.

TAILORING TREATMENTS FOR ADULT ACNE

Treating adult acne poses a unique set of challenges. Unlike teen acne, which often subsides with time, this condition in adults can be stubborn and persistent.

Topical creams and lotions containing retinoids, salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide can be effective in treating adult acne. However, since adult skin also comes with aging concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, it's crucial to also focus on hydration and anti-aging care.

To combat stubborn acne while avoiding dry skin, you’ll need to work with your client’s immune system to achieve a balance. Avoid products that are too harsh and abrasive. Look for gentler, oil-free formulations with lower concentrations of salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.

You can find products that target acne as well as other common skin concerns in adults, like our Retinol Rejuvenation Serum. This product utilizes retinol, a synthetic form of Vitamin A, to enhance collagen production. This vitamin not only diminishes the appearance of acne but also fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.

Adult acne often comes with unique skin conditions and needs. As you work with your clients, make sure to consider the differences in skin types and lifestyle. A personalized skincare regimen that addresses an adult client’s specific concerns will more likely provide them with their ideal outcome.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR BOTH AGE GROUPS

While it's essential to tackle existing acne, preventive measures are key to help reduce future breakouts.

• Cleaning and Moisturizing: Advise your clients to cleanse their skin twice daily with products like our Idyllic Cleanser that won't strip away the skin's natural oils. Without these natural oils, the skin will produce more sebum to compensate, which can trigger breakouts. After cleansing, moisturize to protect against dryness or irritation.
• Diet: Educate your clients on the types of food they should avoid. This includes processed foods, sugary drinks and unhealthy fats, which all contain iodides. Instead, have them incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into their diet, and drink eight glasses of water every day.
• Regular Clinical Treatments: Ensure your clients consistently come in for exfoliation treatments that include AHAs, retinol or enzymes. To maintain control over acne, it is recommended to alternate treatments and prevent any resistance. When needed, steam can be used, but make sure to extract properly. 
• Stress Management: Learning to manage stress through activities like yoga or meditation can help reduce the risk of acne flare-ups.
• Sun Protection: Acne-prone skin is more vulnerable to sun damage due to its weaker skin barrier. The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays quicken the aging process, resulting in wrinkles and age spots. They also create inflammation and thicken the outer layer of the skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Applying sunscreen like our Oil-Free Protective Moisturizer SPF 30 will keep your skin clear and youthful.

Using products that proactively fight against acne can help streamline any preventive measures your client needs to take for their teen or adult acne. GlyMed offers webinars, online courses and more to help you provide professional service and personalized care to your clients.

Take a look at our Acne Management Manual for more in-depth knowledge on how to offer the best skincare possible.