Adult Female Acne: Hormonal Acne, Causes and Home Remedies

Adult female acne can have significant negative psychological effects and social impacts.

Acne is a common skin condition; especially in teenage, but adult female acne is also becoming increasingly common. Though it is not a serious problem, researchers found that acne in women can affect their quality of life. It is associated with increased risks of anxiety and depression.

In adults, acne can appear in the form of clogged pores or inflamed pus-filled bumps or deep-seated cysts. This can also make the skin scarred, uneven, and pigmented. Though these issues do not have a direct impact on the person’s health, it severely impacts their self-esteem and confidence. 

What is adult female acne?

Adult female acne looks very similar to teenage acne, and they are mostly caused by triggering factors like hormonal imbalance, stress, and diet. Acne due to hormonal disturbances are common during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause. The hormone stimulates oil production within the skin which promotes the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

Stress too can increase the production of androgen hormones that activate the oil glands within the skin. Research also found that a family history of adult acne can also increase your risk. In addition to this, hair and skin care products and certain medications can also result in clogged pores and acne flares. Foods with a high Glycaemic index like bread, chips, white potatoes, or sugary drinks can also result in acne flares.

Consequences of adult female acne 

Acne is a cause of emotional distress, but the extent of this distress varies depending on the severity of acne and acne scars. Acne scarring can be disfiguring as it may leave pits and scars changing your skin texture permanently. This can significantly impact a woman’s self-esteem, self-perception, and self-confidence. 

Researchers also found that women with acne are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. This can negatively affect their quality of life and impact their professional pursuits as well as personal relationships.

Natural ways to deal with adult acne

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an excellent remedy for acne. It aids in decreasing inflammation that causes acne. Dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil before use. Add about one or two drops of tea tree oil to 12 drops of carrier oil. Also, do not forget to do a patch test before using the diluted tea tree essential oil. 

Green tea

Green tea is known for combating inflammation and soothing the itchiness of acne. Researchers found that both oral and topical use of green tea can be effective in treating acne. You can dip a bag of green tea in cold ice and apply it to the affected area. 

Aloe vera

The cool and soothing natural Aloe Vera gel is a great antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent. It can aid in reducing the appearance of acne and prevent acne breakouts. Aloe Vera can also help in reducing acne scars and marks.

Few more tips to combat adult acne

Avoid touching the acne, scrubbing, or over-washing your face.

Do not use chemical ladened cosmetics or soaps on your skin.

Change your pillowcase frequently if you are suffering from acne. The oil from your hair and face gets absorbed into the pillowcase which makes your pillowcase a breeding house of bacteria.

Cleanse your face twice a day with a very gentle herbal soap.

Be diligent about your skincare routine and do not try different things that will aggravate your skin issues. 

Take care of your stress with relaxation techniques, meditation, pranayama, and massage.

Make sure to get uninterrupted sleep for 7 to 8 hours every night. Unhealthy sleep patterns can also aggravate your acne.

Stay away from fried, processed, and unhealthy food. The ama accumulated from such foods can also result in acne. 

Your Takeaway

Adult acne is a common problem, more common among women than men, because of hormonal issues. Though acne does not possess a severe health threat, it does impact your self-esteem and confidence. With the scars, spots, and acne marks, it can become a constant distraction that can impact your performance, mood, and quality of life. The good thing is you can treat adult acne naturally with simple home remedies. Try the above-mentioned tips and consider consulting an Ayurvedic doctor if you suffer from severe acne issues.