Acne Over 40
Acne is a growing concern for adults and teenagers alike. For most people, acne tends to go away by the time they reach their thirties; however, some people in their forties and fifties continue to have this skin problem. It is the most common skin condition that people experience. Severe acne can lead to permanent scarring and although acne is usually not a serious health threat, it can be a source of significant emotional distress.
Acne Causes
The basic acne lesion is simply an enlarged and plugged hair follicle. Acne can appear as any of the following; congested pores, whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, pustules, or cysts (deep pimples). Acne customarily occurs on the face, neck, shoulders, chest and back because the oily glands are most prolific in these locations.
The primary cause of acne begins when hair follicles get plugged, but oil (sebum) production continues, eventually rupturing and causing the oil & dead cells to spread to the surrounding skin, which causes inflammation. If the inflammation is deep in the skin, the pimple may form into a painful cyst.
Some things can make acne worse. Changing hormone levels in teenage girls and adult women 2 to 7 days before their period starts. Pressure and rubbing from backpacks, heavy purses or tight collars. Squeezing or picking at pimples or hard scrubbing of the skin.
A common myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and other acne lesions are not caused by dirt. Stress also doesn't cause acne, but research suggests that for people who have acne, stress can make it worse.
Treatment
There are many different types of acne treatment that people can use. Acne treatments work by reducing oil production, speeding up skin cell turnover, fighting bacterial infection or doing all three. Doctors usually recommend an OTC or prescription topical medicine for people with mild signs of acne. People with moderate to severe inflammatory acne may be treated with prescription topical or oral medicines, alone or in combination.
Treatment of acne is a continuing process if the disorder is to be controlled successfully. Prolonged treatment with oral antibiotics may be necessary to achieve the desired results. The condition generally responds well to treatment after a few weeks, but may flare up from time to time.
Birth control pills can sometimes help clear up acne in women. A small amount of sun exposure may also help improve acne. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, you should always consult your doctor.
Here is a link to some reviews of a product that has worked great on adult acne. It isn't cheap...but it works well!